Have you been craving a break from the chaotic cacophony of your routine life? Do you want to visit a place that boasts a rustic small-town charm while providing you with all modern amenities? Wouldn’t it be great if your holiday destination also featured sprightly nightlife and a treasure trove of culinary attractions?
Did you just nod your head in agreement with any of the above questions? Then it’s high time you start planning a trip to Akron.
When you think of traveling to Ohio, you’re likely imagining its vibrant cities, such as Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Columbus. While these cities have their fair share of tourist attractions, they might be way too mainstream for your liking.
If you’re looking to explore a more offbeat side of Ohio, Akron is just the destination you need to visit.
Why Akron Deserves Your Attention
Famously known as the “Rubber Capital of the World”, Akron used to be a thriving center of tire manufacturing. In the 1950s, the city became famous for its “Jazz Corridor”, which was frequented by the likes of Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald.
While much has changed in Akron since then, the city has managed to preserve its signature vintage charm. You’ll still find striking remnants of its yesteryears as your walk the streets of downtown Akron, dine at its historic eateries, catch a movie at the iconic Highland Theater, and visit the Akron Art Museum.
The best part about Akron is that the city has something to offer for all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway with your partner or a fun-filled family vacation, Akron won’t disappoint you.
When Should You Visit Akron?
First things first - there’s no wrong time to visit Akron. The weather in Akron is at its best during the summer months between June and September. The days are warm and bright with partly cloudy skies.
But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit Akron at any other time of the year. In fact, if you visit Akron during the off-peak season, you can grab some great deals on accommodation and flights. Also, most tourist attractions are going to be sparsely crowded during these months.
You’ll just have to be prepared to deal with overcast skies and the occasional chances of rainfall and snow. It’s a good idea to check the weather radar for Akron, Ohio before deciding your itinerary.
Make sure you check the precise weather forecasts for all the local attractions you intend to visit. Also, take a look at the hourly temperature and precipitation breakdowns to better plan your day excursions.
Reaching Akron and Moving Around
The Akron-Canton Regional Airport is connected by direct flights to major cities, including New York, Chicago, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Denver, and Detroit. You can board a bus from the airport to reach the main city. Also, Akron is easily accessible by road from nearby Ohio cities, including Cleveland.
When it comes to getting around in Akron, your best bet is to rent a private car. Certain areas, such as downtown Akron, are easily walkable too. If you’re looking to use public transportation, you’ll find a few bus routes that take you around the city.
Top Attractions in Akron
Akron is one of those cities that appeals to all types of travelers, from nature and wildlife enthusiasts to hardcore foodies. It packs an impressive assortment of tourist attractions, including the Akron Zoo, Civic Theater, Akron Art Museum, and Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.
Downtown Akron is filled with gorgeous sculptures and murals that’ll delight any art aficionado. It’s also the place where you’ll find iconic Akron eateries, including Nuevo Mexican and Tequila Bar.
Take your holiday up a notch with a visit to the spectacular Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Set on a sprawling 33,000 acres along the Cuyahoga River, it’s the only national park in Ohio. You can enjoy a thrilling train ride amidst lush greenery, or choose to drive along the picture-perfect roads. You could even enjoy the adrenaline rush of kayaking in the river.
Your visit to Akron would be incomplete without exploring the city’s legendary nightlife. Ditch the upscale pubs and head to the underrated Blu Jazz instead. The vintage bar is a testament to Akron’s 100-year old jazz legacy.
And if you’re a cinephile, make sure you catch a show at Nightlight Cinema. Funded by Kickstarters campaigns, the indie movie theater showcases rare gems from the world of fiction and non-fiction films.
The next time you feel like breaking away from the shackles of your daily life, pack your bags and head straight to Akron. Between its stellar nightlife and picturesque natural wonders, you will find plenty of ways to spend a joyous time in the city.
