Akron, Not Just for College Students!

Akron, Ohio is home to Kent State University and other colleges as well as the corporate headquarters of Goodyear Tire. Yet this Midwest town has a lot to offer beyond academic classes and rubber tires. From the culture of their terrific museums to the unique food available till 4 am, it's a place with something to offer everyone!

This historic hotel in downtown Akron is a must see. Because it's operated by a national chain, you can expect the same amenities you've become accustomed to but as it's also historic to the city of Akron, it has a few special aspects you won't find anywhere else! It's also so centrally located, you can walk to almost all of Akron's be... More >
This historic hotel in downtown Akron is a must see. Because it's operated by a national chain, you can expect the same amenities you've become accustomed to but as it's also historic to the city of Akron, it has a few special aspects you won't find anywhere else! It's also so centrally located, you can walk to almost all of Akron's best places to eat and things to do!
Said to have the best waffles in town, this is the place to go for breakfast in Akron. You may fight the college student crowd if you roll in at brunch time, but get there early and you'll be first in line for melt in your mouth breakfast goodness in a true hometown dive.
This Italian dive has the best baked spaghetti you'll find in America, an ambiance that has to be experienced to believe and is generally the best place to wind down after an evening enjoying Akron's finest pubs.
The Akron Art Museum has very recently been updated and restored. It's larger and more modern wing plays host to a well curated mix that represents the best in art and photography. The historic wing houses their older exhibits which are still more than worth the price of admission. The building alone is a work of art!
Stan Hywet is a place bustling with activity year round. From flower festivals to drama productions, there is always something going on. This beautiful historic home is a great place for a tour, long walk in a themed garden, gourmet lunch in their cafe or even a photography session. It's a can't miss in the Akron area!
Normally a late night hangout for the hip and cool in Akron, I think the best time to go is for lunch. If you're there in the winter, the ice skating rink is next to Lockview - grab a grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup after a few rounds on the rink. They have an extensive beer menu but the gourmet list of 12 different grilled che... More >
Normally a late night hangout for the hip and cool in Akron, I think the best time to go is for lunch. If you're there in the winter, the ice skating rink is next to Lockview - grab a grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup after a few rounds on the rink. They have an extensive beer menu but the gourmet list of 12 different grilled cheese sandwiches and out of this world tater tots is the real draw of this Akron staple.
You may fight the college student crowd if you roll in at brunch time, but get there early and you'll be first in line for melt in your mouth breakfast goodness in a true hometown dive.
Chrissie Hynde (of The Pretenders) fame, who is an Akron native - opened and still owns this vegetarian restaurant. If meat isn't for you, there's still an excellent option for gourmet, healthy food in Akron. Since Chrissie occasionally pops in, you might enjoy a celebrity sighting with your meal or even a spontaneous performance!
Don Drumm is the place to shop in Akron. This studio, now gift shop started as the home of The Don Drumm but has evolved into a rambling collection of stores that combined seem to sell everything anyone could ever want for themselves or a friend. Whether you are buying a postcard or a Christmas card, this is a place you cannot miss. Do... More >
Don Drumm is the place to shop in Akron. This studio, now gift shop started as the home of The Don Drumm but has evolved into a rambling collection of stores that combined seem to sell everything anyone could ever want for themselves or a friend. Whether you are buying a postcard or a Christmas card, this is a place you cannot miss. Don't forget to ask for the gift wrapping, it's truly unique!
Blossom is a top notch music venue located just outside the Akron city limits but considered to area residents as an Akron venue. From international acts like Sarah McLachlan to locals like the Cleveland Symphony - this amphitheater is the place to catch a live performance in NE Ohio. More
Blossom is a top notch music venue located just outside the Akron city limits but considered to area residents as an Akron venue. From international acts like Sarah McLachlan to locals like the Cleveland Symphony - this amphitheater is the place to catch a live performance in NE Ohio.
CRAVE is the best place in Akron for dessert, their warm bread pudding with ice cream will change your life. However, this bar also has an extensive drink list and wonderfully organized tapas style menu. Try the steak bites if you aren't a vegetarian, you won't regret it! More
CRAVE is the best place in Akron for dessert, their warm bread pudding with ice cream will change your life. However, this bar also has an extensive drink list and wonderfully organized tapas style menu. Try the steak bites if you aren't a vegetarian, you won't regret it!
This Akron institution is open till 4 am and its late night crowd is its best. From policemen to professors to young couples you see it all late night at Luigis. This Italian dive has the best baked spaghetti you'll find in America, an ambiance that has to be experienced to believe and is generally the best place to wind down after an ... More >
This Akron institution is open till 4 am and its late night crowd is its best. From policemen to professors to young couples you see it all late night at Luigis. This Italian dive has the best baked spaghetti you'll find in America, an ambiance that has to be experienced to believe and is generally the best place to wind down after an evening enjoying Akron's finest pubs. If you go during the regular dinner rush, there are toy trains and all manner of automated gadgets to entertain the kids!
Since Chrissie occasionally pops in, you might enjoy a celebrity sighting with your meal or even a spontaneous performance!
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About the Author

Kirsten Alana
Kirsten Alana
pro photographer / traveler / writer / aid worker / music lover / book devourer / social media consultant / teacher and public speaker / adventurer / foodie / francophile

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