Inn Walden

Inn Walden, located in Aurora, Ohio, which is about 30 miles from Akron, is the perfect destination for both couples and families. It’s a high-end hotel that has spacious suites and elegant guest rooms, along with five-star dining locations. The service is top-notch for everyone who stays at the property.

If you have some extra time while you’re there, book a service at the Walden Spa. Custom-designed suites have their own personal steam rooms, Swiss showers, and Kohler Bubble Massage tubs. You can use your assigned suite for up to an hour following your service. Couples traveling to the resort will love the romantic feel of the room where couples’ massages are given. There is also a scenic golf course on the property, and your kids can participate in junior golf, swimming, and tennis activities. The cost of a suite includes evening hors d’oeuvres and daily breakfast.

First Night Akron

If you want to have a staycation in your hometown of Akron for New Year’s Eve with your kids, check out First Night, a fun event hosted in cities throughout the state. Your children will love the face painting, balloon twisting, music, live entertainment, fireworks, and much more. You can ring in the new year together as a family and make memories together without going too far from home.

Hocking Hills

Throughout the winter, visitors flock to Hocking Hills to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking natural rock formations and caves. As the snow settles on bare trees, water from the melt forms enormous icicles that spread out across the state park. You can also participate in holiday-themed events at the park or visit in January for the annual winter hike. The park is in Logan, Ohio, located about 160 miles southeast of Akron.

Reserve a cabin at the nearby Glenlaurel Inn & Spa for a relaxing spot to rest after your hike through the park. Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, make sure to eat a meal there since you’ll get to dine on a six- or seven-course meal while being serenaded by a bagpipe player on the weekend.

Chicago

If the big city atmosphere is more of your thing, check out Chicago during the winter months. It’s about a six-hour drive from Akron and there is a lot to see and do, so plan to spend at least the weekend there. There are two outdoor ice skating rinks in the city so bring your skates and have an enjoyable outing with your family or friends. Don’t forget to take pictures at the iconic “Bean” sculpture and grab some deep-dish pizza as you walk the streets.

As the weather turns cold outside, make a plan to visit one of these fun winter getaway destinations and enjoy time with your loved ones.