Summit County comes alive in autumn. The timeless fall festivals and scenic hikes surrounded by colorful foliage are stunning. The area also hosts many Halloween-themed events with trick-or-treating for all ages. If you’re looking for kid-friendly fall events or free activities, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list of the top 10 must-do fall activities in Akron and Summit County.
Catch Fall Colors at Cuyahoga Valley National Park
You will be amazed by the show-stopping fall landscape at Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio's only national park. It offers one of Summit County’s best opportunities to witness changing fall foliage. The 33,000-acre park comes alive with stunning shades of red, orange, yellow and green. You can get a glimpse by hiking or biking its scenic and historic Towpath Trail.
Sip a Delicious Fall Latte
As the leaves change, so do the menus at the 28 unique coffee shops featured on Summit County's Drip Drive. While the air gets crisp, you can warm up with a wide array of seasonal beverages and treats. From classic pumpkin spice lattes to creative combinations featuring brown sugar, hazelnut, and toasted marshmallow, there’s a fall flavor for every palate. Grab a coffee, cider, or tea and discover a new favorite treat to savor.
Enjoy Beautiful Weather in Summit Metro Parks
There’s no better time than now to get outside and let Summit Metro Parks work its autumn magic. Crisp air, fiery foliage and winding trails invite you to slow down and savor the season. Bring your favorite sweater, lace up your boots and allow nature’s color show to be the backdrop for your next adventure.
Pick Pumpkins & Get Lost in Corn Mazes at Szalay’s Farm
Wander through rows of pumpkins and let your inner child roam free at Szalay’s Farm & Market. Every size, shape and hue awaits your perfect pick. Then twist and turn your way through the sprawling corn maze (keep an eye out for hidden pumpkins!) and soak in that quintessential autumn magic.
Learn Autumn Traditions at Hale Farm Harvest Festival
October 11-12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Hale Farm & Village is a living history museum where 19th-century America comes to life. Come see interactive exhibits, well-preserved farmsteads and traditional trades and crafts.
Hale Farm Harvest Festival is one of the site’s most beloved traditions. Experience a variety of autumn fun like pumpkin picking, hayrides, apple butter making, seasonal games and craft vendors. Enjoy hands-on experiences that spotlight the hard work of an autumn harvest. You can even get a special visit from Johnny Appleseed (portrayed by local poet and educator Ray McNiece).
Check out the festival's final weekend from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $8 for children and free for museum members and active duty military.
Have a Roaring Good Time at Boo at the Zoo
October 11-26, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Join a Halloween tradition unlike any other at Boo at the Zoo. This Akron Zoo event features six themed areas throughout the property. Enjoy classic fall games, character meet-and-greets, a mini corn maze, warm seasonal snacks and beverages. There is also a trick-or-treating along an enchanted candy trail awaiting guests of all ages. Plus, an Oktoberfest area with craft brews for adult visitors.
Trick-or-Treat Down Main Street at Downtown Akron Fall Fest
October 18, 4-7 p.m.
Celebrate Halloween in style at the third-annual Downtown Akron Fall Fest. This kid-friendly Halloween-themed event features trick-or-treat stations on Main Street. Stop at beloved local businesses as you fill your candy bucket. Sample food and beverages or compete in scary (and not scary) costume contests. You can also enjoy photo opportunities with timeless fictional characters.
Dance the Night Away at the Official Halloween Bar Crawl
October 31 and November 1, 4 p.m.-midnight
Round up your boo crew, because this adults-only bar crawl is the ultimate Halloween party. Don your best costume and head out for a night of creepy cocktails and chills. Go bar-hopping with your favorite Halloween tunes spinning in the background. Tickets include no cover at all bars, exclusive drink specials, food specials at select venues and a spooky after-party.
Explore a Haunted House Near Akron
After you’re done exploring fall festivals in Akron, pump up the adrenaline and pay a visit to one of the nearby haunted houses that offer plenty of screams and frights. Take a journey through the Haunted Schoolhouse and Laboratory, where you’ll discover two haunted attractions, a Monster Midway with photo ops, plus food trucks and axe throwing.