Akron and Summit County are bustling with arts and history that date back to 19th-century life in the Western Reserve. First settled in 1810, the history of Akron begins with a small village along the Little Cuyahoga River as part of a growing Ohio and Erie Canal. Fast-forward to the 1910s and Akron doubles in population as the nation’s fastest-growing city.
Today, Akron’s deep-rooted history is shaped by its rubber and tire manufacturing industry, which gave Akron the nickname “Rubber Capital of the World.” It was also a thriving hub for airship development. Besides its rich industrial past, Akron is also home to a variety of historic institutions, cultural landmarks, and tours that pay homage to the area’s legacy.
With a diverse array of historic mansions, museums, and hidden gems, it’s easy to spend a weekend exploring Summit County and its storied history. From Akron historical sites to scenic parks with a historic twist, this itinerary spotlights the best that Akron and Summit County have to offer.
Historic Mansions in Akron & Summit County
Throughout the greater Akron area stand stately colonial homes of the past that now welcome visitors with tours and educational programs. Perkins Stone Mansion is the former home of state senator Colonel Simon Perkins Jr., built in 1837 and defined by its Greek Revival architecture.
As the nation’s sixth largest private home open to the public, Stan Hywet Halls & Gardens is a 65-room Tudor Revival manor with stunning grounds where you can reminisce of bygone eras. Hower House, completed in 1871, is a Second Empire Italianate home filled with treasures and furnishings collected from around the world by three generations of the Hower family. Today, it’s part of the University of Akron and features tours, events, and programs throughout the year.
History Centers and Museums
Connecting past to present are numerous history centers and museums throughout Akron and Summit County that each offer something unique. The Center for the History of Psychology captures the story of human sciences with artifacts, documents, films, and photographs. The Akron History Center houses relics of Akron’s past with exhibitions, activities, and events.
Visit a replica of the cave where Jesus was born at Bethlehem Cave and Nativity Museum, or head over to John Brown House, managed by The Summit County Historical Society of Akron, Ohio, to learn about the famous abolitionist. While you're there, explore the Society’s other nearby historic properties, rotating exhibits, and engaging programs that bring the region’s rich past to life. At Cuyahoga Valley Historical Museum you’ll find featured items on display from Major League Baseball player Scotty Ingerton, the Peninsula Gold Hunt of 1945, PVC inventor Waldo Semon, and the Flood of 1913.
Let’s expand upon The Summit County Historical Society of Akron, Ohio.
Historic Cemeteries and Memorials
Pay respect to Akron’s forefathers at Glendale Cemetery, listed on the National Register of Historic Landscapes and home to tranquil, peaceful grounds to honor those who are no longer here. Ohio Veterans’ Memorial Park features the longest free-standing memorial in the country, which memorializes the names of Ohioans who gave their lives in service to the nation.
Oakwood Cemetery in Cuyahoga Falls, established in 1834, is the final resting place of many of the city’s founders and early settlers. Be sure to visit the beautifully preserved Oakwood Cemetery Chapel, dedicated in 1898 and adorned with 12 stunning stained glass windows — each donated by local families and civic groups — which continues to stand as a historic symbol of community and remembrance.
Cultural Landmarks and Hidden Gems
MAPS Air Museum celebrates aviation history with nearly 60 different military and civilian aircraft, plus three display rooms with artifacts from the War of 1812 to current military conflicts. Dr. Bob’s Home pays homage to the founder of Alcoholics Anonymous with exhibits dedicated to his life and studies. Hale Farm & Village offers a glimpse of life in the Western Reserve during the 19th century with blacksmiths, candlestick makers, and cooks at work in their respective dwellings.
Tallmadge Circle Park stands as a unique historic district centered around one of Ohio’s oldest planned town circles, framed by picturesque churches and preserved buildings dating back to the early 1800s. In Barberton, the historic Anna Dean Farm — once a massive experimental agricultural estate built by industrialist O.C. Barber — welcomes visitors to explore its restored buildings and iconic mansion, once hailed as the finest between New York and Chicago.