Eco-Tourism & Sustainable Travel Destinations in Akron, Ohio, United States
1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Experience pristine wilderness along the Cuyahoga River, with numerous hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and historic sites.
- Nature Preservation: Protects diverse ecosystems and wildlife habitats
- Historical Significance: Offers insights into the region's industrial past and cultural heritage
- Outdoor Recreation: Provides opportunities for hiking, biking, and paddling
2. Hale Farm & Village
Step back in time at this living history farm with restored 19th-century buildings, demonstrations of traditional crafts and trades, and interactive exhibits.
- Cultural Education: Preserves and shares the region's agricultural and cultural history
- Sustainable Practices: Employs environmentally friendly farming methods
- Interactive Experience: Offers visitors hands-on learning opportunities
3. Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail
Discover the historic Ohio & Erie Canal on this scenic trail, which runs through Akron and offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
- Historic Preservation: Protects an important piece of the region's industrial heritage
- Natural Beauty: Provides stunning views of forests, wetlands, and waterways
- Active Transportation: Supports sustainable travel by offering a car-free transportation option
4. Akron Art Museum
Explore contemporary and modern art in this award-winning museum, featuring works by regional, national, and international artists.
- Artistic Expression: Showcases a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums
- Community Engagement: Provides educational programs for visitors of all ages
- Sustainable Practices: Employs eco-friendly practices in its operations
5. Lock 3 Park
Relax by the waterfront at this urban park, featuring a large fountain, green spaces, and events throughout the year.
- Urban Renewal: Transforms a former industrial site into a vibrant public space
- Waterfront Access: Offers scenic views of the Ohio & Erie Canal and downtown Akron
- Community Gathering Space: Hosts events, concerts, and farmers markets throughout the year
6. John S. Knight Center
Experience world-class performances at this multi-purpose arena, which hosts concerts, shows, and events throughout the year.
- Entertainment Venue: Offers a diverse lineup of live entertainment options
- Sustainable Design: Employs energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials
- Community Engagement: Provides educational programs and outreach initiatives
7. Akron Zoo
Meet over 1,000 animals from around the world at this modern zoo, which prioritizes conservation and education.
- Wildlife Conservation: Supports global wildlife conservation efforts
- Educational Programs: Offers interactive exhibits and programs to educate visitors about conservation issues
- Sustainable Practices: Employs eco-friendly practices in its operations
8. Fashion's Gateway Museum
Discover the history of the American fashion industry in this unique museum, which showcases over 10,000 pieces of clothing and accessories.
- Cultural Education: Preserves and shares the region's fashion history
- Sustainable Practices: Employs eco-friendly practices in its exhibits and operations
- Interactive Experience: Offers hands-on learning opportunities for visitors
9. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens
Explore the opulent estate of a former Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company president, featuring historic buildings, lush gardens, and educational programs.
- Historical Preservation: Protects an important piece of the region's industrial heritage
- Garden Beauty: Features over 70 acres of gardens, including formal English and Italian-style gardens
- Educational Programs: Offers programs focused on the estate's history, architecture, and gardening
10. Blossom Music Center
Enjoy outdoor concerts at this renowned amphitheater, which hosts world-class acts and offers a variety of dining options.
- Entertainment Venue: Offers a diverse lineup of live music performances
- Sustainable Design: Employs energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials
- Community Gathering Space: Hosts events and concerts throughout the year, bringing together music lovers from around the region
11. Summit Lake Nature & Wildlife Preserve
Explore a former landfill transformed into a thriving wildlife preserve, with hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and educational programs.
- Environmental Restoration: Demonstrates the potential for reclamation of degraded lands
- Wildlife Habitat: Provides a habitat for a variety of native plant and animal species
- Educational Programs: Offers programs focused on the preserve's ecology, conservation, and restoration efforts
12. Akron Metropolitan Park District
Explore over 40 parks and recreation areas maintained by the Akron Metropolitan Park District, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and more.
- Nature Preservation: Protects diverse ecosystems and wildlife habitats
- Active Recreation: Offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy
- Community Gathering Spaces: Provides spaces for community gatherings, events, and athletic competitions
13. Tower City Center
Experience shopping, dining, and entertainment at this historic building in downtown Akron, which features a green roof and sustainable design.
- Urban Renewal: Transforms a former industrial site into a vibrant mixed-use development
- Sustainable Design: Employs energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials
- Community Gathering Space: Hosts events, concerts, and farmers markets throughout the year
14. Akron Artwalk
Discover public art installations throughout downtown Akron during this self-guided walking tour, which showcases the city's creative spirit.
- Cultural Education: Highlights the region's artistic talent and cultural heritage
- Sustainable Practices: Promotes eco-friendly practices by utilizing existing infrastructure
- Accessibility: Makes the city's cultural offerings accessible to a wide audience through a self-guided tour format
15. Lockview Park & Canalside Green
Relax by the waterfront at this urban park, featuring a promenade, green spaces, and views of the Ohio & Erie Canal.
- Urban Renewal: Transforms a former industrial site into a vibrant public space
- Waterfront Access: Offers scenic views of the Ohio & Erie Canal and downtown Akron
- Community Gathering Space: Hosts events, concerts, and farmers markets throughout the year