There are plenty of ways to experience Summit County, but this time, we’re letting the numbers do the talking. From outdoor adventures and local attractions to places to sip and explore, we’re counting our way through the destination from one to 10. Follow along as we break down Summit County by the numbers and discover what each one has to offer.
1 — Ohio’s Only National Park
There’s only one national park in Ohio, and Summit County is lucky to call it home. Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers more than 33,000 acres to explore, with hiking trails, waterfalls, scenic overlooks and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Visitors can explore places like the Ledges, Beaver Marsh and the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, making it easy to spend anything from a few hours to an entire day exploring.
2 — Two Indoor Climbing Gyms
Take your Summit County adventure to new heights at two indoor climbing gyms. Rock Mill Climbing, Yoga & Fitness in Akron offers bouldering, top rope and lead climbing, while Kendall Cliffs Climbing Gym in Peninsula features 7,000 square feet of climbing surface and walls reaching up to 35 feet high. Both offer a fun way for beginners and experienced climbers to get active indoors.
3 — Three Akron Marathon Race Series Events
Lace up for three events that make up the Akron Marathon Race Series. The season kicks off with the National Interstate 8k & 1 Mile, followed by the Goodyear Half Marathon & 10k and wraps up with the FirstEnergy Akron Marathon, Half Marathon & Team Relay. From shorter distances to the full 26.2 miles, the series gives runners plenty of ways to experience the excitement of race day in Akron.
4 — Four Community-Driven Trails
Four community-driven trails offer a fun way to explore local businesses throughout Summit County. Grab a craft beer along the Summit Brew Path, visit local coffee shops on the Drip Drive, satisfy your sweet tooth with the Summit Sweet Stroll or hunt for secondhand finds along the Treasure Trail. Each trail encourages you to explore different communities while supporting the local businesses that call Summit County home.
5 — Five Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Stops
See Summit County from the rails with Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, which has five stops throughout the county. Riders can hop on or off at Akron Northside, Botzum, Indigo Lake, Peninsula Depot and Boston Mill Visitor Center. From exploring nearby trails to spending time in different communities, each stop offers a new way to experience the area.
6 — Six Wineries
Raise a glass at six wineries found throughout Summit County. Take in the views at The Winery at Wolf Creek, enjoy a waterfront setting at Nauti Vine Winery or settle in at the warm Prime Vine Winery. Michael Angelo’s Winery pairs wine with an expansive food menu, Sarah’s Vineyard brings together wine and art and The Wine Mill offers plenty to sip alongside live music. Each brings something different to Summit County’s wine scene.
7 — Seven Sections of the Akron Zoo
The Akron Zoo is made up of seven unique sections, each bringing something different to the experience. The Welcome Center, Komodo Kingdom, Legends of the Wild, Grizzly Ridge, Pride of Africa, Zoo Gardens and Wild Asia feature a mix of animal habitats, gardens and spaces to explore. Together, these seven sections create an experience filled with wildlife, discovery and plenty to see around every corner.
8 — Eight Hikes to Complete the Fall Hiking Spree
Fall is a great time to hit the trails in Summit County, and the annual Fall Hiking Spree gives you even more reason to get outside. Organized by Summit Metro Parks, participants complete at least eight hikes on designated trails between Sept. 1 - Nov. 30 to earn a hiking staff and annual shield. With trails found throughout the county, the challenge is a fun way to explore Summit County while taking in the colors of the season.
9 — Nine Innings of RubberDucks Baseball
Nine innings of baseball make for a fun outing in downtown Akron with the Akron RubberDucks. Catch a game at 7 17 Credit Union Park and enjoy Minor League Baseball alongside delicious food options, between-inning entertainment and plenty of fun throughout the ballpark. From the first pitch to the final out, a RubberDucks game is a summertime staple in Summit County.
10 — Ten Historic Gardens at Stan Hywet
The countdown ends at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, where 10 unique garden and landscape areas showcase the beauty of the historic estate. Explore the Birch Tree Allée and Vista, Breakfast Room Garden, The Dell, English Garden, Grape Arbor, Great Garden, Great Meadow, Japanese Garden, The Lagoon and West Terrace and Overlook. From colorful blooms and peaceful waterways to sweeping views and carefully restored landscapes, each space offers something different to discover.
From one to 10, the numbers tell just part of the story of what makes Summit County worth exploring. Whether you’re hitting the trails, catching a live show, sipping local wine or discovering somewhere new, there’s always more to experience. No matter what number catches your attention, a Summit County adventure is waiting.