When it’s summer in Summit County, it’s time to enjoy some fun in the sun. There are tons of exciting outdoor activities to do in Akron, Ohio, like river fun, hiking trails and a full lineup of music festivals. Don’t forget to pack some sunscreen on these adventures!
Tubing on the River
There’s no better way to cool off than taking a dip in Akron’s rivers. Gather your friends and rent a tube from Float the River in Cuyahoga Falls. Take in the scenic views while exploring the Cuyahoga River and surrounding areas. They offer a variety of water activities to choose from to suit different levels of thrill seekers. Bonus: FTR will shuttle you back to your vehicle after your one- to two-hour ride.
Paddle Your Own Way
Want a little more of a workout on your watery outing? Look no further than Burning River Adventures. This outfitter rents out kayaks (single or tandem) and rafts for 2-, 4.5- and 6.5-mile, self-guided paddling excursions along the Cuyahoga River.
Hit the Links
Chase birdies on one of the many public golf courses in Summit County: J.E. Good Park Golf Course, Ellsworth Meadows Golf Club, Brookledge Golf Club and Chenoweth Golf Course are just as beautiful as they are challenging. The Firestone Country Club, though private, has a 9-hole course and two restaurants that are open to the public.
Need some pointers? Practice your swing at Westlawn Golf Range or Fox Den Golf Course, where PGA professionals are on-hand for lessons, and a junior league offers a great entry point for younger players.
Have little ones tagging along? Get putting at the two 18-hole mini golf courses at Fun ‘n’ Stuff, one pirate-themed and the other outfitted with animatronic dinosaurs. Or head to Downview Sports Center where they not only have mini golf, but also a driving range, batting cages and a skate park.
Take A Hike
Lace up your boots to explore the lush landscapes of Akron and Summit County, where oak- and maple-lined hiking trails offer a welcome escape into nature.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a popular option thanks to its 125 miles of trails that twist through woodlands, wetlands and more. The historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail (once used to tow canal boats by mule) is mostly level and accessible to all, while the Ledges Trail is a moderate loop that takes hikers to a stunning valley overlook.
Summit Metro Parks cover 15,000 acres across 16 parks, bringing you access to more than 150 miles of trails close to the city, like the 3.7-mile Nuthatch Trail.
Catch A Show
Nothing says summer like open-air concerts and live music. Blossom Music Center, Summit County’s outdoor amphitheater, hosts musical acts like the Cleveland Orchestra and Neil Young throughout the season. The Akron Summer Concert Series hosts shows at local parks all summer long, while regional acts take center stage at the neighborhood PorchROKR festival. And, of course, don’t miss the busy calendar of al fresco entertainment lined up at the newly renovated Lock 3.
Plan Your Next Summer Adventure
Summer is the perfect time to explore Greater Akron’s union of urban excitement and natural beauty. Each summer you’ll find plenty of things to do near Akron, Ohio, and throughout Summit County whether you’re traveling as a family, seeking heart-pumping adventures or want to groove to a favorite band with a cold beer in hand. Start planning your trip now.