While you’re here visiting us at BMW of Akron, take a moment to experience all the fifth-largest city in the state of Ohio has to offer. Whether it’s a simple walk in a picturesque park, a delectable meal or the opportunity to view world-class art, the city once dubbed the “Rubber Capital of the World” has everything to entertain and delight you. Visit one or more of the following sites and experience diversity, history and a whole lot of fun!
Canal Park300 S. Main St. Akron
There is nothing like a quiet walk in the park, either before dinner or after, and this city-owned park — home to the Akron Rubber Ducks, is the perfect destination, no matter how busy. Opened in 1997, the $30 million, 8,500 seat baseball stadium on a site bounded by Main Street, Exchange Street and the Ohio & Erie National Heritage Corridor, the park takes its name from the Ohio and Erie Canal that runs beyond the outfield of the ballpark. The park’s unique design, courtesy of Populous, the same architectural firm that designed the Cleveland Indians’ Progressive Field, features a single deck with the concourse at top. The large concourse makes for a beautiful walk, even when the park is crowded.
There is a gift shop to browse and merchandise that reflects the park’s history — right down to the $6 Duck Bubble Gum which is in the image of a Rubber Duck’s head. The stadium design, which was done by themed concessions along that concourse are a draw to young and old and not your typical fare. There are unusual and unique offerings like build-your-own steak sandwich and turkey legs, among others. Canal Park also boasts a “kid’s zone,” a Tiki bar and a series of luxury boxes.
Comfortable, clean and well-maintained, this park is a perfect stop for families and definitely worth the trip!
Akron Zoo 500 Edgewood Avenue Akron
This 50-acre non-profit zoo located just west of downtown Akron is home to over 700 animals representing 100 different species. Its popularity is made clear in its over 400,000 annual visitors who flock to the 35 acres of exhibits and guest amenities. Considered the most visited attraction in Summit County, the zoo works to not only connect its visitors to wildlife but inspire lifelong learning and conservation action. With a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s, the Akron Zoo has developed beautifully over the years, including expanded exhibits that house animals from around the world and capital projects that have resulted in world-class attractions.
Experience the themed areas that the park offers, modeled after specific regions of the globe. There are also a number of special events that the Zoo offers year round, like wine tastings, safaris, a Honey Harvest Festival and much, much more.
Summit Mall 3265 W. Market Street Fairlawn
This mall in the Akron suburb of Fairlawn opened in 1965 and is considered a premiere shopping center featuring one-of-a-kind stores as well as fashion-industry staples. From clothing and shoes to accessories and home decor, the mall is home to it all. A Simon Property Group property that was originally built by Edward J. DeBartolo Sr.’s DeBartolo Corporation, the mall features over 100 stores and a food court. Its anchor stores are the popular Macy’s and Dillards. It had once had Halle Brothers Co. as its original anchor as well as a small movie theater. Today it is home to such familiar names as American Eagle, Eddie Bauer, Gap, Foot Locker, J. Crew, Victoria’s Secret and more.
Diamond Deli378 S. Main St. Akron
Piled-high corned beef and pastrami priced reasonable and fresh each day are just a couple of the draws to this popular Akron designation spot known for fast service in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Dubbed the favorite lunch spot by Akron locals, this deli, established in 1997, is home to the famous Reuben, corned beef and New York style pastrami, served with staples like 1,000 island dressing and sauerkraut. Dishes like Chris’s “Smile for the Camera” featuring ham, provolone and spicy mayo or Debbie’s “Carpe Diem” with Middlefield Swiss, muenster and Colby cheeses are just some of the creative and unique menu choices, all named for the founder’s family members.
A spot for friends to gather and where everyone knows your name, this iconic Akron restaurant also features subs, wraps, grilled cheese and more. There are also amazing homemade baked goods, including brownies, cookies and many more sweet selections.
Luigi’s Restaurant 105 N. Main St. Akron
Family-friendly and a down-home institution offering hearty pies and classic Italian eats, Luigi’s is downtown Akron’s award-winning eatery presented in a friendly and casual atmosphere. Experience a unique Italian dining experience each and every time in what is considered a city tradition since 1949. Not only is the pizza considered the best in town, but menu offerings truly run the gamut, from the best spaghetti and meatballs to low-fat and gluten-free options that appeal to diners across the board. Priced right and therefore perfect for today’s family, Luigi’s is the epitome of an old-school pizza parlor. There is also beer and wine and carryout available. It is important to note this restaurant is cash only, so come prepared.
Family-owned and operated, Luigi’s takes great pride in its recipes, which not only are rooted in history, but have won numerous awards. Satisfied customers often line up out the door for their mouth-watering Italian dishes, which include such favorites as Baked Ravioli Florentine, Rigatoni, Meatball or Sausage Splashes and more! Pizza toppings are vast and delicious, and include staples like pepperoni, sausage and mushrooms as well as fresh garlic, tomato, tuna, olives and anchovies.
Crave 57 E. Market Street Akron
A diverse menu with global influences is presented at Crave, Akron’s contemporary restaurant that is eccentric while surprisingly down to earth. With weekly happy hours featuring expertly prepared craft cocktails and an impressive beer and wine list, Crave is known for amazing food — all the time! From starters like the fried green tomatoes appetizer and perogies of potato, cauliflower and gruyere to entrees like pan roasted filet of beef and smoked gouda mac & cheese, menu offerings are contemporary, diverse and packed with flavor.
Found across East Market Street from the Akron Art Museum and the new Akronym Brewery, Crave is over a dozen years old and noted for a hip atmosphere and dishes rooted in creativity.
With communal seating that accommodates over a dozen, Crave is always abuzz with activity and fun. Definitely a destination spot any day of the week!
Taqueria La Loma 459 Darrow Road Akron
Mexican food made simple — and delicious — is found at this classic joint earning the title of one of the best restaurants in Northeast Ohio. Reminiscent of an old family neighborhood restaurant, La Loma offers traditional flavors that will remind you of offerings on the streets of Mexico. Tacos, fajita’s, daily chef’s specials and vegetarian offerings, the menu is as colorful and creative as murals on the restaurant’s walls. Start off with appetizers like piled-high Nachos Carne, cheese dip with chorizo or tasty guacamole before moving on to a selection of tacos, quesadillas and burritos packed with flavor.
Pastries round out the offerings and fresh baked bread is second to none.
Visit this spot the next time you have a hankering for Mexican, and it will surely satisfy.
Northside Speakeasy 31 Furnace St. Akron
In this discreet location in the Northside district of Akron, a well-crafted secret — and unique night out — is found in the Northside Speakeasy. From handcrafted cocktails to beer, wine and everything in between, the must-see draw to this secluded space is its design, which is a discovery in itself. In addition to the plush seating and dark velvet curtains, it’s the entrance to the cocktail bar that is the neatest part of all. Hidden entrances mixed with the best drink program in town make this Prohibition-era bar a definite stop when in Akron’s Arts and Entertainment District.
Cocktails like “Down the Rabbit Hole” featuring Effen Cucumber vodka or a traditional “Gin Fizz” with freshly squeezed lemon juice and “Whiskey Sour” are served by a knowledgeable staff that treats you like a VIP. This ultra-modern establishment, with a capacity for about 30, is intimate, cool and cozy. Guests enjoy the vintage television that serves to monitor the entrance as well as cozy two-person booths and tinted windows.
Get the speakeasy experience — perhaps your first — right in Akron!
Stan Hywet Manor House 714 Portage Path Akron
A visit to Akron must include one of the finest examples of Tudor Revival architecture in America, the Stan Hywet Manor House, its details and its design second to none. The 64,500 square foot Manor House with its 65 rooms is home to numerous collections of treasures from around the globe. Flanked by 23 fireplaces and over 21,000 panes of glass, the house is opulence galore and a glimpse into the early 20th century. Take a walk through each room, which has its own story to tell. The exhibits are diverse and tours and activities provide for a perfect afternoon.
The grounds of this stately house are also a treat, with about 70 acres of artistically landscaped grounds and formal gardens.
While you’re here with us at BMW of Akron, check out all that is offered in the city we call home. There is something for everyone and for every season. Explore, enjoy and experience Akron, a vital heartland with top attractions that are sure to please!
