The best things to do in Akron

“Turkeyfoot Golf Course Maintenance is the Portage Lakes public track locals actually brag about, with tree-lined fairways, tidy greens, and 18 holes that have been in the game since 1925. It drains fast so play stays on when other courses are soggy, plus there are leagues and lessons to keep you sharp.”

From the Akron newsletter, September 22, 2026

“1950s-era drive-in movie theater with 2 digital screens & a concession stand for snacks.”

“Whether you're chasing league nights, open play with the kids, or a no-stress party, Kent Lanes-11th Frame keeps it fun with upgraded lanes and friendly staff. When the weather cooperates, hit SPIKERS sand courts and the tiki bar, refuel with wings and burgers, and even stash this spot for team banquets or fundraisers.”

From the Akron newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Roses Run Country Club delivers a laid-back, public 18 along the Cuyahoga River, plus a Tudor clubhouse that hosts leagues, outings, and weddings when you’re off the tee. Feels like a private club, minus the initiation and the awkward blazer.”

From the Akron newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Silver Lake Country Club brings the good stuff close to home with an 18-hole Packard and Wadsworth-designed course that keeps golfers honest, then dining and a pool scene when you're off the fairway. Family-friendly vibes, resort-level service, no plane ticket required this week.”

From the Stow newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Memphis Kiddie Park, America’s oldest kiddieland and a Cleveland landmark, has been celebrating kids since 1952 with pint-sized rides they can actually ride, mini golf for bragging rights, classic concessions, plus birthdays and group outings welcome.”

From the Cleveland newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Swap the couch this week for a quick wander through the rainforest, kid-friendly interactive zones, and animal encounters at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, then refuel at dining spots or poke around the gift shop. Perfect midweek reset... basically a mini escape without the I-480 traffic.”

From the Parma newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Fin Fest is on through August 11, so Greater Cleveland Aquarium is an easy win this week... wander the walk-through experience, check out the mock research vessel, and get face time with stingrays and other locals of the deep without leaving town.”

From the Cleveland newsletter, September 16, 2026

“From the storied South to the North and modern Fazio, Firestone Country Club serves up championship golf with tour-level practice and elevated dining. If your swing needs a pep talk, their facilities and history might be the nudge to get out this week.”

From the Akron newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Playhouse Square is Cleveland’s home for the big stuff, from touring Broadway hits and opera to stand-up, dance and those jaw-dropper set pieces you can feel in your seat. The Lion King is roaring right now through August 16, so snag a night and treat your inner theater kid.”

From the Cleveland newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Step into 1938 vibes at Highland Square Theatre where refreshed art deco style meets a big screen, crisp digital projection, and a new sound system. Grab popcorn, nachos, candy, plus beer or wine, then make it your easy win this week.”

From the Akron newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Family-friendly place featuring optical illusions, holograms and interactive exhibits, plus gift shop.”

“Downtown Splash Pad is an automated water feature right in downtown, perfect for a fast kid-energy reset or a breezy post-errand cool-down. Pro tip, the water kicks on when you push the button in the middle of the pad, so the littles can literally start the fun.”

From the Cuyahoga Falls newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Whether you’re sneaking in nine after work or settling in for eighteen with friends, J. E Good Park Golf Course keeps it simple and well-groomed. Electric carts, a legit on-site restaurant, and a patio overlooking the 9th green make the post-round stories taste even better.”

From the Akron newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Capitol Theatre keeps the calendar stacked with buzzy studio releases, under-the-radar indies, and the occasional cult chaos, all inside a lovingly restored neighborhood landmark. It’s the kind of place where film feels like an event... perfect for a midweek reset or low-key date night.”

From the Cleveland newsletter, August 30, 2026

“From a 1930s Eliot Ness investigation to a fantasy quest and a sneaky clockwork heist, Perplexity Games Escape Room - Cleveland builds multi-room adventures that actually feel like adventures.”

From the Cleveland newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Little Met Golf Course is Cleveland Metroparks first course, a 1925 classic tucked in Rocky River Reservation with a straightforward mix of par-3s and par-4s plus a par-5. It’s perfect when you want a relaxed walk, league night vibes, and tree-lined fairways that keep your swing honest.”

From the Cleveland newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Craving something other than booming blockbusters? The Nightlight is a snug spot for independent films that actually spark conversation, plus gourmet snacks, coffee, and a beer or cocktail... easygoing vibe, zero fuss, and a perfect low key plan when you want screen time that matters.”

“Cleveland Cinemas lines up fresh releases alongside special screenings, including The Metropolitan Opera and other stage productions on the big screen, so your queue feels classy without any extra effort. Feeling extra this week, you can even rent a whole theater and make it your own.”

From the Euclid newsletter, August 26, 2026

“This classic, long-running mini-golf course features a range of whimsical obstacles & a drive hole.”

“Brunswick folks, Fairlawn Country Club is Akron’s premier country club with PGA-pro-led golf, a TrackMan indoor studio for winter swings, five Har-Tru tennis courts plus four dedicated pickleball courts, and a legit family pool scene.”

From the Akron newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Smashing sessions for bottles, TVs, printers and other household items amid friendly staff.”

“If you’ve been meaning to catch a buzzy new release or something a little artsier this week, Atlas Cinemas Shaker Square 6 has you covered with first-run hits, indie and foreign picks, plus the occasional local film fest. All in an art deco setting that makes movie night feel special without trying too hard.”

From the Cleveland newsletter, August 12, 2026

“Mud Run Golf Course & Driving Range is a 9-hole gem by designer Craig Schreiner that plays like a slice of North Carolina low country right here. Sneak in a quick loop or groove the swing at the range, then claim bragging rights until Friday.”

From the Akron newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Towpath Trail Mural turns Cleveland’s Canal Basin Park bridge into a color splashed homage to the Ohio & Erie Canal, mapping the Towpath’s past and future. There’s even a 15 foot tall illustrated trail map and themes of water, work, and change... a solid little adventure from Warren.”

From the Warren newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Mastick Woods Golf Course serves up a relaxed, executive length loop with an Appalachian forest feel, perfect for new golfers, juniors, or anyone who just wants trees and sky with their swings this week. Or skip the sticks and play FootGolf, then remember this spot when snow arrives for sledding.”

From the Cleveland newsletter, August 14, 2026

“From tee times to tennis rallies to pool days, Portage Country Club blends rich Akron tradition with a focus on today’s members and families, plus lively dining and social events, weddings, and junior programs. If you’re a member or tagging along as a guest, make it your go-to this week.”

From the Akron newsletter, August 11, 2026

“Chenoweth Golf Course & Banquet Facility pairs a challenging 18-hole track with scenic surrounds, an extensive menu, and a full bar, so you can turn a quick nine into an actual hang. Join a league or tee it up this week, then start scheming that reunion or wedding.”

From the Akron newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Whether you're corralling kids or getting in some exercise in the deep end, Water Works Family Aquatic Center delivers summer brain-off bliss with a lazy river and exhilarating slides. Perfect quick fix when the humidity hits and the couch feels sticky.”

From the Cuyahoga Falls newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Downview Sports Center keeps it low-key and fun with an 18-hole mini-golf course, batting cages, a skate park, and a driving range that stays workable in chilly months thanks to covered and heated tees. Perfect for a quick tune-up or an easy night with friends.”

From the Cuyahoga Falls newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Cleveland Clinic/Akron General Challenge Golf Course turns golf into a genuinely accessible game with a purpose-built, wheelchair-friendly course, a 12-acre range, and an indoor learning center, plus PGA-led classes for all abilities. Perfect for Akronites rebuilding their swing, their confidence, or both this week.”

From the Akron newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Since 1925, Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links has delivered scenic Portage Lakes views, tree-lined fairways, and well manicured greens that locals love. Known for staying playable when others are soggy, it’s the Akron-area go-to when you’re craving a proper, confidence-boosting eighteen.”

From the Akron newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Lake 8 Movies keeps it simple with first-run flicks, clean auditoriums, comfy seats, and the kind of friendly crew that remembers your extra butter order. Check showtimes, rack up perks with their loyalty program, even use their app to plan your night so you slide right in.”

From the Akron newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Painted with Ohio City neighbors and a nod to the Browns palette, the Greetings from Cleveland Mural packs local landmarks, RTA love, and big postcard vibes. Quick stop this week for that instantly cheerful shot and a reminder of why Northeast Ohio still hits you right in the heart.”

From the Lorain newsletter, August 23, 2026