Autumn brings crisp air, colorful leaves and plenty of spooky fun to Summit County. Whether you’re a thrill seeker, a family searching for festive outings, a history buff chasing ghost stories or someone who simply loves the cozy vibes of pumpkin spice season, Summit County has something for you.
For the Brave – Haunted Houses
For those who crave heart-pounding thrills, Summit County delivers with one of Ohio’s most legendary haunted attractions, The Akron Haunted Schoolhouse & Laboratory. This experience has been scaring visitors for decades, combining eerie classrooms and winding hallways with the chilling scenes of a science lab gone wrong. It’s an unforgettable night out for anyone looking to test their courage this spooky season.
Family-Friendly Fun – Farms, Zoos & Trick-or-Treating
Families will find no shortage of festive fun throughout the county, and one of the best spots to soak in the season is Szalay’s Farm & Market in the heart of the Cuyahoga Valley, where rows of bright pumpkins, a giant corn maze, hayrides and warm cider create the perfect fall outing. Luther’s Farm Market in Richfield offers another family-friendly corn maze and farm treats, while Heritage Farms in Peninsula invites visitors to pick pumpkins, take wagon rides and wander through its charming fields. Akron Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo adds a touch of Halloween magic with candy stations, costumed fun and animal encounters that are more delightful than frightening. Don’t miss the 4th Annual Downtown Akron Fall Fest, a Halloween-themed celebration bigger and better than ever with trick-or-treat stations along Main Street, photo ops with beloved characters, a kid-friendly spooky train ride, tasty food and drink and live music from Wishgarden. Families can also circle their calendars for Akron’s official trick-or-treat, held the last Saturday in October from 5–7 p.m. Together, these events make Summit County the perfect place for families to celebrate the spooky season.
Eerie Evenings – Ghost Walks & Haunted History
Spooky season in Summit County isn’t just about thrills in haunted houses, it’s also about uncovering the mysteries woven into the area’s history. A quiet evening stroll through Glendale Cemetery can be haunting. This historic cemetery is filled with mausoleums, Victorian monuments and winding paths that feel especially eerie under the glow of fall moonlight. While there are no official tours here, the atmosphere alone is enough to send a chill down your spine.
For those who prefer guided ghostly experiences, the Perkins Stone Mansion offers special ghost tours during the Halloween season. Guests can explore the historic home of Akron’s founding family while learning about its past. Stories of strange happenings and unexplained sounds make the mansion a must-visit for anyone intrigued by the paranormal. Pair this with an Akron Ghost Tour, which leads visitors through downtown streets and historic spots while sharing spooky tales tied to the city’s past, and you’ve got the recipe for an unforgettable, eerie evening.
Cozy but Spooky Vibes – Brews & Pumpkin Spice
Summit County’s brewery and coffee scenes pour seasonal magic into every sip. In Akron, Lock 15 Brewing Co. serves Kraut Balls Oktoberfest as a seasonal release. Over in Barberton, Ignite Brewing Co. highlights their Oktoberfest Märzen (5.5% ABV, 25 IBU) in their “Beer of the Month” lineup, a classic malt style that’s perfect for crisp autumn nights. And for something bold and unmistakably fall, Hoppin’ Frog Brewery pours Frog’s Hollow Double Pumpkin Ale (8.4% ABV), bursting with spice, plus a barrel-aged version that adds oak and bourbon depth.
On the cozier side, Porchlight Coffee Co. rolls out seasonal favorites like their Pumpkin Pie Latte, made with house-made pumpkin spice syrup. Kavé Coffee Bar shines with its seasonal drink flights, letting you sample multiple festive lattes or teas in one visit. And Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea anchors the lineup with their Seasonal Brew Bar Menu featuring fall favorites like Salted Brown Sugar Maple Latte, Golden Chai, and Holiday Spiced Crimson Berry Tea. Whether you’re sipping a Märzen at Ignite, a pumpkin ale at Hoppin’ Frog or a layered latte flight downtown, these local spots have the cozy, flavorful energy of spooky season.
From haunted houses that thrill, to family festivals filled with pumpkins and candy, to historic tours under streetlights and cafés serving up the flavors of fall, Summit County offers endless ways to celebrate the season. This October, embrace the spooky spirit and discover why autumn here is truly unforgettable.