With the holidays quickly approaching, parents are looking for fun ways to keep their little ones entertained. Luckily, Summit County is chock-full of adventures perfect for curious minds and tiny explorers. From hands-on experiences that spark imagination to only-in-Akron holiday traditions, there are endless ways to make magical memories together this season.
1. Akron Children’s Museum
Kick off holiday break with big smiles at the Akron Children’s Museum! This playground of imagination invites kids to climb, create, pretend and explore to their heart’s content. From small playhouses to hands-on science fun, every corner sparks a “Wow!” moment. It’s the perfect place to let your little adventurer run wild while you sit back and enjoy.
2. Akron Fossils & Science Center
Step into a world of wonder at the Akron Fossils & Science Center, where your little one can dig for fossils, explore hands-on science stations and choose their own creation story to follow. Whether they’re team dinosaurs, team design or simply team “Let me touch everything,” this spot lets kids shape their own adventure. With tons of interactive exhibits and discovery zones, it’s the perfect place for curious minds to explore big ideas.
3. Sky Zone & Urban Air Adventure Park
If your child is bursting with energy this holiday break, Sky Zone and Urban Air Adventure Park are the ultimate places to bounce it out! These indoor adventure hubs are packed with wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, climbing walls, ninja courses and kid-friendly obstacle challenges. It’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon when the weather outside says “stay in” but your kids say “let’s go!”
4. Wild Lights at the Akron Zoo
Get ready for a magical holiday experience at Wild Lights at the Akron Zoo! As the sun sets, the entire zoo transforms into a sparkly holiday playground filled with glowing animal displays and shimmering pathways. Kids can enjoy seasonal treats, meet friendly characters and see their favorite animals in a whole new light. It’s the perfect combination of holiday excitement and animal fun!
5. Topgolf Akron
Swing into holiday break fun at Topgolf Akron! With kid-friendly clubs, warm heated bays and games for every skill level, this spot turns golfing into a family competition. It’s the perfect place to grab dinner, bundle up in a cozy bay and let the kids take their best swings.
6. The Workz in Cuyahoga Falls
If you’re looking for a place where everyone in the family can play, The Workz in Cuyahoga Falls is the perfect pick. This arcade and entertainment hub is packed with games, VR experiences, duckpin bowling and plenty of kid-approved fun. Little ones can hop from game to game, rack up tickets and even grab a bite to eat. The Workz makes it easy to turn a simple outing into a full-on holiday break adventure.
7. Spins Bowl & Station 300
Strike up some holiday fun at Spins Bowl and Station 300! These family-friendly bowling alleys are perfect for those that love big celebrations and the thrill of knocking down pins. With bumpers, lightweight balls, arcade games and tasty food, both spots make it easy for kids to feel like bowling superstars. Whether you're cheering on a lucky strike or laughing through a gutter ball, it’s a guaranteed good time for the whole family.
8. Lock 3 Park – Ice Skating, Bumper Cars & More
Turn downtown Akron into your family’s winter playground at Lock 3! Kids and adults can glide across the ice rink, spin and laugh on the ice bumper cars and explore a whole lineup of seasonal fun. Whether you're bundled up for skating, enjoying the bumper car chaos or soaking in the festive atmosphere, it’s a can’t-miss stop during holiday break.
9. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
End your holiday adventures with a cozy ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, especially during North Pole Adventure. Climb aboard the festively decorated train as it chugs through the snowy national park, complete with holiday cheer, cookies, stories and a visit from Santa himself. Whether your child is a train lover or just excited to meet the big guy in red, the North Pole Adventure is a memory they’ll hold onto long after the holidays end.
Holiday break is the perfect time to make memories, try something new and explore all the fun tucked into every corner of Summit County. Whether the kids are bouncing, skating, creating, discovering or simply soaking in the magic of the season, these nine stops offer endless ways to celebrate together. Bundle up, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to make this holiday break one your family will remember long after the lights come down.