
Winter Wonderland Destinations in Akron, Ohio, United States
1. Akron Fashion Square
Large indoor shopping mall offering a variety of stores and restaurants, perfect for winter shopping sprees.
- Wide Selection: Houses over 120 retailers, ensuring there's something for everyone.
- Indoor Attraction: Offers a climate-controlled environment, making it ideal for winter visits.
- Dining Options: Features several dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants.
2. Lock 3 Park Ice Rink
Outdoor ice skating rink in the heart of downtown Akron during winter months.
- Ice Skating: Provides an enjoyable winter activity with skate rentals available.
- Scenic Views: Surrounded by the beautiful Lock 3 Park and downtown Akron skyline.
- Holiday Events: Hosts special events like skating with Santa during the holiday season.
3. Akron Zoo's WinterLights
Annual light display at the Akron Zoo featuring over a million lights and animal-themed displays.
- Animal Themes: Showcases various animal-inspired light sculptures.
- Holiday Music: Synchronized with holiday music for an immersive experience.
- Food and Beverages: Offers warm beverages, snacks, and treats throughout the event.
4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Natural beauty of a national park with winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
- Wildlife Viewing: Provides opportunities to spot wildlife such as deer, foxes, and eagles.
- Scenic Winter Landscapes: Offers breathtaking winter landscapes with frozen waterfalls and snow-covered trails.
- Recreational Activities: Provides facilities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding.
5. Akron Art Museum
Modern art museum with rotating exhibits and a stunning winter garden.
- Rotating Exhibits: Presents a variety of contemporary art from around the world.
- Winter Garden: A glass-enclosed atrium featuring live plants and seasonal decorations.
- Educational Programs: Offers workshops, lectures, and guided tours for visitors of all ages.
6. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens
Historic estate with beautiful gardens and a winter holiday festival.
- Historical Estate: Features the former home of Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company founder, F.A. Seiberling.
- Winter Holiday Festival: Celebrates the holiday season with lights, decorations, and live music.
- Estate Tours: Offers guided tours of the historic estate during the festival.
7. Blossom Music Center
Outdoor amphitheater transformed into a winter ice-skating rink.
- Ice Skating: Provides an enjoyable winter activity with skate rentals available.
- Scenic Views: Offers beautiful views of the surrounding park and occasional performances.
- Holiday Events: Hosts special events like skating with Santa during the holiday season.
8. Summit MetroParks Snowmobile Trails
Designated snowmobile trails within the Summit MetroParks for winter enthusiasts.
- Winter Recreation: Offers a unique way to explore the parks during the winter months.
- Natural Scenery: Provides opportunities to appreciate the beauty of the park's winter landscapes.
- Adventure Seekers: Ideal for adventure seekers looking for a thrilling winter experience.
9. Akron Children's Museum
Interactive museum designed for children with various exhibits and winter activities.
- Children's Activities: Offers hands-on learning experiences and age-appropriate activities.
- Seasonal Events: Hosts special events during the winter season, like holiday-themed activities.
- Educational Programs: Provides workshops and interactive exhibits that promote learning through play.
10. John S. Knight Center
Performing arts center hosting winter concerts and shows.
- Performing Arts: Presents a variety of performances, including music, dance, and theater.
- Holiday Shows: Offers holiday-themed shows during the winter season.
- Community Events: Hosts events for local organizations and community groups.
11. Akron Art Walk
Outdoor gallery showcasing public art installations throughout downtown Akron.
- Public Art: Features various sculptures, murals, and installations by local and international artists.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours of the art walk throughout the year.
- Urban Exploration: Encourages exploration and appreciation of public art in an urban setting.
12. Akron Symphony Orchestra
Local symphony orchestra performing winter concerts.
- Classical Music: Presents a wide variety of classical music compositions.
- Holiday Performances: Offers holiday-themed concerts during the winter season.
- Community Engagement: Provides educational programs and community engagement opportunities.
13. Firestone Park Ice Rink
Outdoor ice skating rink in Firestone Park during the winter months.
- Ice Skating: Provides an enjoyable winter activity with skate rentals available.
- Scenic Views: Surrounded by the beautiful Firestone Park and historic homes.
- Holiday Events: Hosts special events like skating with Santa during the holiday season.
14. Akron Holiday Lights Trolley Tour
Tour of Akron's most festively decorated homes and landmarks during the holiday season.
- Holiday Spirit: Celebrates the holiday season with a tour of beautifully lit homes.
- Historic Sites: Visits historic sites and landmarks adorned with holiday decorations.
- Warm Transportation: Travel in comfort aboard a heated trolley.
15. John S. Knight Natatorium
Indoor swimming pool open year-round, offering swim lessons and winter recreational activities.
- Swimming Activities: Offers a variety of swimming opportunities for all ages and abilities.
- Swim Lessons: Provides swim lessons for beginners to advanced swimmers.
- Warm Indoor Environment: Ideal for winter swimming and recreational activities.