When you’re looking for the best Akron parks, there are a few things the parks need to have. Your kids need to be entertained, the party must go off without a hitch, or you need a hiking trail that’s really going to excite you. Sound familiar? The best Akron Parks need to have a great picnic spot, large walking trails, playgrounds, green areas, and more to make it all worth it. Thankfully, Akron delivers! There are plenty of spaces to choose from.
Whether you need an Akron park for your dog or for your kids, there’s something for everyone in this city. No more sitting around bored, not sure what it is you want to do–these parks are sure to check off the fun items on your list. From the beautiful scenery to clean, well-kept areas, you’ll be glad that you came to check them out! Keep reading for our list of the greatest places in Akron to have a fun outdoor day.
Hardesty Park – Home of Akron’s Art Expo
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Hardesty Park is one of the most well known parks in Akron. This is because every year, they hold the Akron Arts Expo Weekend at this park. It’s when many local artists from the state of Ohio get together and sell their art. Not only is it fun to attend, but you get to support local artists. It’s a very popular event that Hardesty Park is known for.
But, the fun doesn’t stop there. Hardesty Park has a playground, picnic area that’s available to rent, a baseball field, soccer field, and it even allows pets. With grills and picnic tables, many people come here to have parties and celebrations thanks to the covered shelter that this park offers. You can find many young families playing on the playground on a daily basis, and it’s the best summer hangout you could ask for on a warm day!
Hardesty Park, 1615 W Market St, Akron, OH 44313
Cascade Valley Metro Park – Akron’s Best Hike & Fish Park
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Ohio is known for its wonderful hiking, fishing, and trails. Cascade Valley Metro Park is the best place to go if you want to hike or go fishing. You can spend a full day here thanks to the picnic areas and bathrooms, so take your family and friends to enjoy the beautiful wildlife. With a creek running through the area, there are plenty of native fish to look at and catch. If you don’t want to fish, you should check out the big walking trails.
There are a few different popular hiking trails. One of them, Chuckery Trail, is a 2.4 mile loop known for viewing the river. It’s pretty easy enough for kids to do as well, making it a great family activity. Another must-do hike is the Overlook Trail. This is really short, only 0.5 miles, and it ends with a wonderful view. If you’re interested in seeing the trees and river, definitely look at this trail. Plus, it’s even ADA accessible!
Cascade Valley Metro Park, 837 Cuyahoga St., Akron, OH 44313
Goodyear Heights Metro Park – Plan to Spend a Day
Perhaps one of the best parks in Akron that has been kept a secret, the Goodyear Heights Metro Park is a stunning piece of land with over 400 acres to explore. Here at this park, you can hike, fish, walk, picnic, and even sled! This is the perfect spot to go in both the summer and wintertime because the marsh attracts wildlife. It’s exciting for all ages to see the different animals that show up.
Most years, there is also ice skating. Other people cross-country ski in this terrain, though it’s only recommended if you’re skilled in cross-country skiing. There’s something for everyone at this Akron park, and it’s something you can’t miss if you’re a local. Whatever you do, plan on spending a full day here with so much to see.
Goodyear Heights Metro Park, 2077 Newton St, Akron, OH 44305
Hampton Hills Metro Park – Gorgeous Park in Akron
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Though there may not be a playground at this park, it’s still one of the most popular parks in Akron. It makes up for the lack of structure with gorgeous hiking trails and scenery. Plus, if you like to mountain bike, you’re in for a treat. There are multiple mountain biking trails that amount to about seven miles! On top of that, there is also an archery course that people can come and use.
There are two different hiking trails in the park and a viewpoint where you can look out at the different foliage and below. All of these are easily accessible and pet friendly, so you can bring your kids and your furry friends too! There are picnic areas and restrooms, which allows you to stay all day long. Though this park remains open around the year, most people will go during the summer when they can enjoy the many trails.
Hampton Hills Metro Park, 2925 Akron Peninsula Rd, Akron, OH 44313
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm – Small But Popular
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm is a park in Akron that is also part of the metro park areas. Though this one is smaller, it’s still very popular amongst the locals. There are three large walking trails and hikes that families can take. One is called Cherry Lane Trail, which is just 0.6 miles long into a deep ravine. Another is Fernwood Loop, which is 0.9 miles long into the same deep ravine. Seneca Trail is the most difficult and is 1.4 miles long. On this trail, you’ll see pines, forest, and an open prairie. Some parts of it can be a bit strenuous.
With restrooms, picnic areas, and a visitors center, it’s possible to make this park a day activity. Because there’s a chance for snow in the winter, this park is mostly a spring, summer, and fall-type park. The trails can get wet and slippery with rain or snow, so be aware before you go!
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Rd, Akron, OH 44313
Sand Run Metro Park – Ski & Ice Skate
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Sand Run Metro Park is open both during the summer and winter months. In the winter, there is cross country skiing and ice skating. This is a great activity to do with kids because there is plenty of wildlife in the area. Many Akron parks are not accessible in the winter, but this one encourages it! They also have some great sledding hills, making it the best Akron park to head to in the winter.
In the summer, you can enjoy one of the many hiking trails and enjoy the views. All of the trails are pet friendly, and they range from 1.4 miles to 6 miles long. There is also a soccer field, which is where schools and recreation leagues hold games. Covered shelter, picnic areas, restrooms, and biking trails make this park a home run for anyone looking for something fun to do.
Sand Run Metro Park, 1300 Sand Run Road, Akron, OH 44313
Map of Akron OH Parks
There are lots of great parks in Akron, but these ones are the famously reviewed ones that all locals love. From playgrounds to hiking trails, you can’t go wrong with any. If you’re looking for a playground for the kids, we’d recommend Hardesty Park. But if you’re an adventurer, you can’t miss out on Hampton Hills Metro Park. Akron parks are just one reason to move there, and if you’re relocating, give Krupp Moving a call. We know the city inside and out, and we’ll make the whole process easy!
