Speakeasies offer something a little different from your typical neighborhood bar. In Summit County, some of the best nights out begin with a little mystery, from hidden entrances and intimate rooms to vintage decor and carefully crafted cocktails. 

The Greater Akron area has its own twist on the concept. Hidden bars in Summit County range from polished cocktail lounges to underground rooms tucked inside unexpected places. 

Whether you’re planning a date night, meeting friends or simply looking for unique nightlife experiences in Summit County, these five spots are worth a visit. 

The Watson 

Tucked along Front Street in Cuyahoga Falls, The Watson leans into the sophisticated side of the area’s speakeasy experience. Its intimate setting makes it a romantic choice for a date night or an evening where the cocktails are the stars of the show. 

Bourbon lovers will find plenty to sample. The cocktail menu includes its own take on the classic Old Fashioned crafted with bourbon infused with vanilla bean, orange, allspice, house bitters and more. Drinks are built around house infusions, unexpected flavor combinations and theatrical touches. 

Oak & Olive 

At Oak & Olive, the secret is hiding in plain sight. This Cuyahoga Falls speakeasy is accessed through Mattioli’s Pizza Shop, creating an unexpected transition from casual pizza stop to dark and cozy cocktail destination. 

Drinks are only one part of the experience. Order from a full Italian menu while exploring an extensive spirits selection, specialty cocktails and espresso martini flights. When dinner and drinks are both on the agenda, this timeless staple makes it easy to settle in for the whole evening. 

Vacancy 

A glowing red "Vacancy" sign hints at what’s waiting inside this Cuyahoga Falls concept bar. Also located on Front Street, the intimate space feels like a step back in time with vintage decor and themed experiences that make each visit different from the last. 

Its cocktail program is especially inventive, with an extensive menu of margarita variations and a creative espresso martini lineup that has included flavors like s’mores, tiramisu and Mexican hot chocolate. Come here when you’re in the mood to try something a little outside the usual cocktail menu. 

The Speakeazy  

While you wouldn’t necessarily expect to find a 1920s-inspired cocktail lounge inside The Workz, a Cuyahoga Falls entertainment complex with arcade games and duckpin bowling, that’s part of the fun. Ask for The Speakeazy, and discover a hidden space filled with vintage touches and a jazz-inspired atmosphere. 

Mixologists serve classic and creative cocktails alongside small plates, making it an easy stop for groups who want to pair drinks with an evening of entertainment. Low lighting and intimate seating create a more relaxed atmosphere, adding another layer to the Summit County nightlife scene with a tucked-away spot where visitors can linger over a carefully-crafted drink. 

Northside Speakeasy  

In downtown Akron’s Northside District, Northside Speakeasy delivers a more traditional Prohibition-era atmosphere. Hidden entrances, dark velvet curtains and plush seating create a secluded lounge inside the Courtyard by Marriott Akron Downtown, where the bar’s focus is on handcrafted cocktails and whiskey. 

It’s an excellent choice for cocktail enthusiasts who want to slow down and settle into the low-key neighborhood vibe. Try a classic or explore one of the bar’s more inventive creations while soaking up the intimate setting. 

Make a Night of It 

If you’re looking for a night out that’s memorable and rooted in tradition, Summit County speakeasies will transport you to a different era. From hidden entrances and vintage-inspired rooms to inventive cocktails and cozy places to linger, each spot offers its own take on the speakeasy experience. 

Pick the atmosphere that fits your plans, then make a night of it by exploring more of Summit County’s food, drink and nightlife scene.