No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, Akron offers plenty of ways to spend the perfect day. From outdoor spaces and local shopping to sports, restaurants and family-friendly attractions, the city is filled with experiences for visitors of all ages. To help plan your next outing, we’ve created three Akron itineraries that each include a place to eat, a local shopping stop and an activity to enjoy along the way. Whether you want to explore the outdoors, catch a game downtown or spend the day with family, each itinerary offers a different way to experience the city.
Itinerary A: Akron Staples
Akron Family Restaurant
Start the day with breakfast at Akron Family Restaurant, a longtime local favorite known for its welcoming atmosphere and classic comfort food. Popular for hearty breakfast plates, pancakes, omelets and homestyle favorites, it’s a great way to fuel up before a full day of exploring. With a relaxed and casual setting, the restaurant has become a go-to spot for both locals and visitors.
Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens
One of the best Akron adventures is Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, Ohio’s largest private historical estate. Built in 1915 for F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, the estate offers a mix of Akron history and beautiful outdoor scenery. Visitors can explore the house, walking paths, gardens and landscaped grounds throughout the 70-acre property. The peaceful outdoor setting makes it an easy place to slow down and enjoy one of Akron’s most well-known landmarks.
Happy Tails Thrift Shop
After spending the morning outdoors, head to Happy Tails Thrift Shop in the Merriman Valley. As a stop along the Treasure Trail, the shop offers an ever-changing selection of clothing, household items, books, décor, and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Whether you're searching for a unique find or simply enjoy the thrill of thriftng, Happy Tails is a fun place to browse and experience Summit County's shopping scene.
Itinerary B: Ballpark and Bites
Akron RubberDucks
Spend the afternoon at 7 17 Credit Union Park, home to the Akron RubberDucks and one of downtown Akron’s most popular entertainment destinations. The ballpark offers a fun and energetic atmosphere whether you’re catching a baseball game, enjoying themed nights or simply taking in the downtown views. Don’t forget about their food either. From five pounds of ice cream with the 98.1 KDD Screamer or the infamous Pineapple TeriyAkron Bowl, they are always getting inventive creating new bites. With affordable tickets, delicious eats and family-friendly entertainment throughout the season, it’s an easy way to experience Akron’s sports scene.
The Peanut Shoppe
Make a stop at The Peanut Shoppe in downtown Akron, a longtime local favorite that has been part of the city for decades. The shop is known for its fresh roasted nuts, chocolates, candies and classic snack mixes that fill the store with a signature aroma as soon as you walk in. Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack before the game or browsing the shelves for your favorite treats, it’s a must-visit stop while exploring downtown Akron.
Lockview
Head to The Lockview in downtown Akron for dinner after a day spent exploring the city. Known for its gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, friendly staff and large craft beer selection, the restaurant has become a favorite downtown dining spot over the years. Its casual atmosphere and comfort food menu make it a popular stop in the heart of downtown Akron.
Itinerary C: Family Fun in Akron
Akron Zoo
Spend the day exploring the Akron Zoo. Home to animals from around the world, the zoo features interactive exhibits, kid-friendly experiences and plenty of opportunities to learn along the way. From visiting penguins and red pandas to exploring the Lehner Family Zoo Gardens, there’s something for all ages to enjoy throughout the park. Seasonal events and daily animal programs also give families even more reasons to visit throughout the year.
Northside Marketplace
After the zoo, head to Northside Marketplace in downtown Akron for a fun and unique shopping stop. With so many different small businesses under one roof, it’s an easy place for families to browse, snack and discover something new together. The welcoming atmosphere and rotating mix of vendors help make every visit feel a little different.
Luigi’s Restaurant
Finish the day with dinner at Luigi’s Restaurant, a longtime Akron favorite known for its pizza and pasta. Serving the community for decades, Luigi’s is a go-to spot for both locals and visitors looking for classic comfort food. From large pizzas to hearty pasta dishes, the menu offers plenty of options that make it an easy crowd-pleaser for the whole family. Its casual atmosphere and longtime Akron history have helped make it one of the city’s most recognizable dining spots.
No matter which itinerary you choose, each one offers a different way to experience Akron’s local attractions, restaurants and small businesses. From outdoor adventures and sports-filled afternoons to family-friendly fun, there’s always something new to discover around the city. Mix and match stops from each itinerary or use them as inspiration to create your own Akron adventure!