
Best Cruise Destinations in Akron, Ohio, United States
1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Experience the natural beauty of Ohio with a riverboat cruise through Cuyahoga Valley National Park, offering wildlife sightings and scenic vistas.
- Natural Beauty: A sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna.
- Historical Significance: Traces the area's rich history, from the Ohio & Erie Canal to the Underground Railroad.
- Peaceful Solitude: Escape the hustle and bustle of city life on a serene cruise.
2. Akron Art Museum
Combine art appreciation with a unique cruise experience at the Akron Art Museum, showcasing American art from the 19th century to the present.
- Artistic Diversity: A collection that spans various styles and media.
- Community Engagement: Offers educational programs and collaborations with local artists.
- Architectural Beauty: Designed by award-winning architect Robert Venturi, it's a work of art itself.
3. Lock 3 Park
Enjoy a cruise alongside Lock 3 Park, home to the Akron RubberDucks baseball team and featuring events year-round.
- Entertainment Hub: Offers live music, festivals, and family-friendly activities.
- Historic Significance: Situated at the site of one of the last functioning flight locks on the Ohio & Erie Canal.
- Convenience: Close proximity to downtown Akron and nearby attractions.
4. Ohio & Erie Towpath Trail
Embark on a scenic cruise along the Ohio & Erie Towpath Trail, following in the footsteps of mule-drawn canal boats.
- Scenic Beauty: Provides breathtaking views of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
- Historical Significance: Part of the National Recreation Trail system, it tells a story of industrial history.
- Active Recreation: Ideal for cycling, hiking, and cross-country skiing.
5. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens
Explore the opulent estate of Stan Hywet Hall, cruising past beautifully manicured gardens and historic architecture.
- Historical Architecture: One of the country's finest examples of Tudor Revival style.
- Garden Variety: Features 70 acres of themed gardens, including Italian, English, and Japanese styles.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers tours, workshops, and special events throughout the year.
6. Akron Zoo
Get up close with wildlife during a cruise past the Akron Zoo, home to over 1,000 animals across diverse exhibits.
- Animal Conservation: Participates in breeding and conservation programs for endangered species.
- Educational Programs: Offers interactive exhibits, workshops, and educational events.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Includes rides, play areas, and animal encounters for children of all ages.
7. Summit Lake State Park
Experience the tranquility of Summit Lake State Park during a relaxing cruise, offering fishing, boating, and picnicking opportunities.
- Natural Beauty: Boasts a picturesque 675-acre lake and wooded surroundings.
- Recreational Opportunities: Ideal for swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking.
- Peaceful Solitude: A serene escape from the bustle of city life.
8. Hale Farm & Village
Step back in time during a cruise past Hale Farm & Village, showcasing life in 19th-century rural Ohio.
- Historical Accuracy: Features over 30 authentic buildings and period artifacts.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers demonstrations of traditional trades, such as blacksmithing and weaving.
- Community Engagement: Hosts events, workshops, and school programs throughout the year.
9. Portage Lakes
Enjoy watersports and lakeside relaxation at Portage Lakes, with four interconnected bodies of water perfect for a cruise.
- Recreational Opportunities: Ideal for boating, fishing, swimming, and waterskiing.
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills.
- Friendly Atmosphere: A welcoming community for boaters, anglers, and families alike.
10. Tangier Cruises
Embark on a unique cruise experience with Tangier Cruises, offering sightseeing tours of Akron's waterways and Lake Erie.
- Scenic Beauty: Provides stunning views of Akron's skyline, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and Lake Erie.
- Informative Guides: Knowledgeable guides share stories and facts about local history and wildlife.
- Flexible Options: Offers private charters, sunset cruises, and custom tours.
11. Firestone Farm
Discover Firestone Farm, a working farm and historic site showcasing the legacy of the Firestone family in Akron.
- Historical Significance: Home to the Firestone family, pioneers in the rubber and tire industry.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers tours, workshops, and demonstrations of farm life and farming techniques.
- Community Engagement: Hosts events and collaborates with local organizations for sustainability initiatives.
12. Lockview Park
Enjoy a leisurely cruise past Lockview Park, offering scenic views of the Ohio & Erie Canal and downtown Akron.
- Scenic Beauty: Boasts panoramic vistas of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
- Historical Significance: Overlooks the historic flight locks of the Ohio & Erie Canal.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible via bike paths, walking trails, and roadways.
13. Lock 29
Experience the engineering marvel of Lock 29 during a cruise, a historic flight lock on the Ohio & Erie Canal.
- Historical Significance: One of the last remaining working locks on the canal.
- Informative Guides: Knowledgeable guides share stories about the lock's role in industrial history.
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by lush forests and picturesque landscapes.
14. Lock 4 Park
Cruise past Lock 4 Park, offering a glimpse into the industrial history of Akron and the Ohio & Erie Canal.
- Historical Significance: Situated at one of the last remaining operational locks on the canal.
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
- Community Engagement: Hosts events, festivals, and community gatherings throughout the year.
15. Ohio Canal Interpretive Center
Gain insights into the history of the Ohio & Erie Canal during a cruise past the Ohio Canal Interpretive Center.
- Historical Accuracy: Offers interactive exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs.
- Community Engagement: Collaborates with local organizations for events and programming.
- Educational Opportunities: Ideal for school groups, history enthusiasts, and families.