C OMMU N I T Y FOCU S Su mmit Co.
By Denise Koeth
Nestled in the heart of Northeast Ohio, Summit County is a dynamic destination that blends the energy of a big city with the charm of small-town life. Whether you’re raising a family there or just visiting for the day, there’s something for everyone: lush parks and scenic trails for nature lovers, interactive museums and play spaces for curious kids, and a thriving arts and culture scene that offers both fun and enrichment.
From the urban charm of Akron to the peaceful beauty of the Cuyahoga Valley, Summit County offers a surprising mix of adventure, learning and relaxation — all in one family-friendly package. Check out these highlights to plan a visit or explore your own backyard further.
URBAN CHARM, FAMILY FUN
Centrally located within Summit County, Akron offers families a big city experience at a budget-friendly price. Compared to larger metro areas, the city offers a lower cost of living while still providing access to quality schools, healthcare and family amenities. From neighborhood festivals like PorchRokr and Taste of Akron, plus outdoor movies and farmers markets, Akron’s tight-knit communities create welcoming spaces where families feel connected.
IN THE DOWNTOWN AREA, FAMILIES CAN ENJOY THE FOLLOWING HOT SPOTS:
The Akron Art Museum (akronartmuseum.org) is a family-friendly gem that offers free admission to children ages 17 and younger, and free admission to all every Thursday. Interactive fun includes drop-in Family Days, Mess Makers, “Art Babes” and creative open-studio stations. With sensory guides, activity bingo, and tactile “Touch Points” throughout, it’s educational, inclusive and endlessly engaging for all ages.
The Akron Children’s Museum (akronkids.org) is a hands-on space that’s perfect for families. With 25+ interactive STEAM exhibits — including Lego derby car races, rocket-launch zones, obstacle courses, sensory rooms, art studios and more — it inspires curiosity, creativity and bonding in a bright, welcoming destination.
The Akron Civic Theatre (akroncivic.com) is a stunning family-friendly destination. Built in 1929 and fashioned after a Moorish castle, the theatre features a twinkling star-lit sky and drifting clouds over its auditorium, offering a magical escape for kids and adults alike. Its live shows, musicals and sensory-rich architecture create a memorable experience for every visitor.
The Akron Zoo (akronzoo.org) offers families an up-close look at wildlife from around the world in a walkable setting. From majestic snow leopards to playful otters, the zoo’s thoughtfully designed habitats spark curiosity and connection. Its manageable size, engaging exhibits and seasonal family events ensure a perfect day out for all ages.
Canal Park, home of the Akron RubberDucks (akronrubberducks.com) — the Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians — offers families a fun and affordable way to enjoy America’s pastime. With kid-friendly activities, lively theme nights and occasional post-game fireworks, it’s more than just baseball — it’s a downtown Akron tradition full of energy and charm.
EJ Thomas Hall (uakron.edu/ej) is Akron’s premier performing arts venue, seating nearly 3,000 and showcasing everything from Broadway tours to symphony concerts in soaring, adjustable-acoustic spaces. Families love it for its diverse, high-quality programming — concerts, lectures, youth orchestra performances and more — that create shared moments of entertainment and inspiration.
Set on the historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath in the middle of downtown, Lock 3 (downtownakron.com) hosts concerts, festivals, outdoor movie nights and lawn games perfect for all ages during the summer. When winter rolls in, the park transforms into a festive wonderland with Ohio’s largest outdoor ice rink, bumper cars, ice bikes and more.
COURTESY OF SUMMIT METRO PARKS
ESCAPE INTO NATURE
Summit County offers families a wealth of opportunities to get outside and explore.
With more than 16 parks and over 150 miles of trails, Summit Metro Parks (summitmetroparks.org) is a highlight for locals and visitors alike. From wooded hikes to playgrounds and picnic shelters, each park has its own unique appeal. Visit the F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm in Akron for interactive exhibits, paved trails, a suspension bridge, and tranquil gardens. For more rugged adventures, try the forested trails at Furnace Run or Cascade Valley, where kids can spot wildlife and explore creeks and ravines. Don’t miss the Fall Hiking Spree, a popular local tradition that encourages families to explore multiple trails and earn a hiking staff or shield.
Just north of Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park (nps.gov/cuva) offers wide-open green space, scenic waterfalls, and miles of trails. Families can hike the Brandywine Gorge Trail or explore the marsh boardwalks at Beaver Marsh, a great spot for birdwatching. The Towpath Trail follows the historic Ohio & Erie Canalway (ohioanderiecanalway.com) and is ideal for walking, biking and spotting turtles sunning themselves on logs.
For fun on the water, head to Portage Lakes State Park (ohiodnr.gov), where families can swim at the beach, rent a paddleboat or kayak, and enjoy lunch at a lakeside picnic table. As temperatures drop, look for local events like fall festivals, nature crafts, and campfire nights hosted in or near the park.
Boston Mills and Brandywine Ski Resorts
Located within Cuyahoga Valley National Park, these neighboring resorts feature 18 trails suitable for all skill levels, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging runs like Boston Mills’ “Tiger,” Ohio’s steepest slope. For beginners, the Ski & Ride School provides group and private lessons for all ages. Equipment rentals are available on-site, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Families also can enjoy the Polar Blast Snow Tubing Park, offering 20 lanes of tubing excitement. bmbw.com
HISTORY & ARTS
Summit County blends rich history with a vibrant arts scene, offering families a variety of ways to learn, explore and be inspired. From historic estates and handson museums to live theater and world-class music, there’s something for every age and interest.
Set in the rolling hills of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Blossom Music Center (blossommusic.com) is the summer home of The Cleveland Orchestra (clevelandorchestra.com) and also hosts popular concerts and festivals. Families can enjoy world-class music under the stars with spacious lawn seating perfect for picnics. The Cleveland Orchestra’s Under 18s Free program makes it a memorable and affordable cultural outing for all ages.
Step back in time at a living history museum in the heart of the Cuyahoga Valley. Hale Farm & Village (halefarm.org) brings the 1800s to life with costumed interpreters, working farm animals, historic buildings, and artisan demonstrations like blacksmithing and candle-making. Seasonal events and hands-on experiences make it a great educational stop for kids.
Located in Barberton, Magical Theatre Company (magicaltheatre.org) specializes in professional live performances for young audiences. The intimate theater setting and age-appropriate productions — from fairy tales to thought-provoking plays for teens — create a welcoming introduction to the performing arts. Educational workshops, summer camps and school matinees are also part of its outreach.
Located at the Akron-Canton Airport, the MAPS Air Museum (mapsairmuseum.org) is a hands-on destination for aviation enthusiasts of all ages where kids can climb into cockpits, view artifacts and experience the stories behind the planes. Families can explore over 50 aircraft, from fighter jets to helicopters, and learn about military history through interactive exhibits and veteran-guided tours.
Built in 1915, Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens (stanhywet.org) is a grand, 65-room Tudor Revival mansion that was once home to Goodyear co-founder F.A. Seiberling. Families can tour the historic home, stroll through 70 acres of lush gardens, and enjoy interactive exhibits in the Gate Lodge. Seasonal events like the fall-themed Ohio Mart and the festive Deck the Hall holiday lights make Stan Hywet a must-see year-round.
A beloved Akron institution, Weathervane Playhouse (weathervaneplayhouse.com) offers a mix of community theater, musicals and youth productions year-round. With a focus on family-friendly programming, it’s a great place to introduce kids to the stage — either from the audience or through classes and camps. Its seasonal shows, including holiday favorites, are local traditions.
- CONTINUED ON PAGE 42 -
Cuyahoga
Valley Scenic Railroad
Ride the rails for a fun and relaxing way to explore Cuyahoga Valley National Park with your family. Hop aboard the National Park Scenic ride for beautiful views and wildlife spotting. During the holiday season, the train gets decked out for the North Pole Adventure, which features Santa, hot cocoa and storytime. Other family favorites include the Family Fun Loop with crafts and themed characters, and the Maple Sugar Express during spring. With rides that combine nature, history and holiday magic, the railroad is a must-do for families year-round. cvsr.org
COURTESY OF AKRON ART MUSEUM
COURTESY OF AKRON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
COURTESY OF AKRON ZOO
COURTESY OF MAGICAL THEATRE COMPANY
COURTESY OF SUMMIT METRO PARKS
COURTESY OF CUYAHOGA VALLEY SCENIC RAILROAD
KID-FOCUSED FUN
When children need to move, bounce, splash or play, Summit County delivers with indoor thrills, outdoor excitement, and plenty of places to burn off energy. Score extra points with your kiddos by planning a stop at one of the following spots:
Akron Fossils & Science Center — Dig into hands-on exhibits, fossil replicas, and even walk a prehistoric “nature trail” at this interactive museum in Copley. akronfossils.org
Fun ‘n’ Stuff — Go-karts, mini golf, laser tag, and arcade games make this indoor-outdoor spot in Macedonia a kid favorite year-round. fun-n-stuff.com
Get Air Trampoline Park — Wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits and a ninja course let kids bounce off energy in the best way at this Akron location. getairsports.com/akron
Magic City Drive-In Theater — During fair weather months, catch a double feature under the stars at this classic drive-in with popcorn, retro vibes and family-friendly flicks. magiccitydrive-in.com
Sky Zone — From dodgeball to freestyle jumps, this trampoline park in Boston Heights delivers high-flying fun for kids and teens alike. skyzone.com
Urban Air — Bounce, climb and soar through obstacle courses, trampolines and a sky rider zip line at this indoor adventure park in Copley. urbanair.com
Water Works Family Aquatic Center — Zoom down waterslides, float the lazy river, or splash in the zero-depth entry pool to achieve summer fun for all ages at this Cuyahoga Falls hot spot. cityofcf.com/places/water-works
Finding a Forever Home in Summit County
By Denise Koeth
For Britt Andrews Petro and her husband, Artie Petro, Summit County offers the perfect combination of family-friendly entertainment, important amenities and a close-knit neighborhood feel.
The couple currently is raising their three children — ages 10, 7 and 4 — in Bath, although they’ve lived in Summit County for 19 years, since graduating from Kent State University.
“We love that we get that small neighborhood feel with the convenience of all of the amenities of Fairlawn just around the corner,” Andrews Petro says. “We have sidewalks, the local primary school is just up the road, we have a great community of neighbors — and yet we are so close to an abundance of shopping, restaurants, grocery stores and more.”
Some of her family’s favorite area hot spots include Szalay’s Farm & Market, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, and the F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm. Strickland’s Frozen Custard and Skyway Drive-In Restaurant are favorite food stops with the kids in tow.
“In downtown Akron, we have enjoyed the Akron Children’s Museum, Stan Hywet Hall’s children’s play area, the kids programming and RubberDucks games, and the Akron Zoo (including the Wild Lights and Boo at the Zoo events),” Andrews Petro says. “During the holiday season, we have enjoyed the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad’s North Pole Adventure train ride and the Nutcracker performance at Akron Civic Theatre.”
Good school ratings, access to parks and top-notch health care have also kept the Petro family in Summit County.
“We appreciate that Akron Children’s Hospital is close and we don’t always need to go to Cleveland for great pediatric care,” Andrews Petro says. “We have had positive experiences with their NICU staff and several specialists.”
Andrews Petro says that first moving to Summit county for her husband’s job nearly two decades ago turned out to be a lucky coincidence: “We weren’t specifically looking to move to this area. We kind of accidentally ended up in this area, but ended up loving it.”
THE PETRO FAMILY, FROM LEFT: ARTIE; HAZEL, 7; EVERETT, 4; WYATT, 10; AND BRITT.
COURTESY OF SKY ZONE