Where the Locals Go
Photo: Malinda Oakes
Akron Zoo
500 Edgewood Ave.
Akron, Ohio 44307
330-375-2550
The Akron Zoo is touted to be the most popular tourist attraction in Summit County. The zoo is divided into six sections symbolic of different parts of the globe. Special exhibits include The Legends of the Wild, The Komodo Kingdom, Jellies Rhythm, Journey to the Reef, Penguin Point, and Tiger Valley.
Blossom Music Center
1145 W. Steels Corners Rd.
Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio 44223
330-916-6068
This well-known and loved amphitheater is one of northeast Ohio's favorite outdoor concert venues. Amenities include a covered seating area and additional lawn seating, picnic areas, restaurant, art gallery, and beautiful gardens. Concerts happen rain or shine, so purchase tickets with that in mind.
Boston Mills and Brandywine Ski Resorts
Boston Mills
7100 Riverview Rd.
Peninsula, Ohio 44264
Brandywine
1146 W. Highland Rd.
Sagamore, Ohio 44067
800-875-4241
Boston Mills and Brandywine are two separate ski areas owned and operated by Vail Resorts. Polar Blast Snow Tubing Park is located next to Brandywine, and the two share a driveway entrance.
The resorts are located approximately five minutes apart by car, and your lift tickets and season passes are valid at both Boston Mills and Brandywine.
Vertical drop: 264 feet
Skiable acres: 88
Snowmaking coverage: 100%
Lifts: 16 (one conveyor, four surface tows, two double, seven triple, two quad)
Trails: 18 (4 beginner, 5 intermediate, 6 advanced
Terrain parks: Three
Skill Level: 27% Beginner, 27% Intermediate, 46% Advanced
Canal Park – Home of the Akron RubberDucks
300 S. Main St.
Akron, Ohio 44308
330-253-5151
Akron RubberDucks are a Minor League Baseball team, and they provide fun for the entire family. They are the Eastern League Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Weekend games often feature fireworks.
Cleveland Metropark Zoo
3900 Wildlife Way
Cleveland, Ohio 44109
216-661-6500
Northeast Ohio's most visited year-round attraction, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo's 183 rolling, wooded acres feature countless opportunities for guests to connect with wildlife. Exhibits include the African Elephant Crossing, African Savanna, Asian Highlands, Australian Adventure, Primate, Cat, Waterfowl Lake, Aquatics, and the Rain Forest (a local favorite). Their Asian Lantern Festival runs July through October. More than 1,000 lanterns in 70 beautiful displays captivate the viewer. Cultural shows are entertaining and educational. Their Boo at the Zoo event in October is a fun, costume, trick-or-treat event for the entire family.
Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
714 N. Portage Path
Akron, Ohio 44303
888-836-5533
This is the former estate of F. A. Seiberling, co-founder of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. Guided tours of the manor house, self-guided tour of the gardens, Gate Lodge, and Corbin Conservatory available. The gardens are exquisite in the spring!
The Polar Express Train Ride
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
Runs November and December – 7:00 p.m.
Departure Depots:
Akron Northside
27 Ridge St.
Akron, Ohio
Rockside Station
7900 Old Rockside Rd.
Independence, Ohio
330-439-5708
Experience the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack and the reading of The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg. Upon arrival at The North Pole, elves eagerly wave to families. Santa greets the guest on the return trip to the depot.
Tip:
"The Polar Express Train Ride always sells out! Be sure to plan ahead and get your tickets early!" – Jack P.