Family Attractions in Akron, Ohio

Located in the northeast portion of Ohio, the city of Akron was once one of the most powerful industrial cities in the United States. Although it still has some of that industry, it is also full of interesting and intriguing family attractions. From museums to zoos, this beautiful little Ohio city has a lot to offer any member of the family.

Akron Art Museum

Originally opened in 1922, the Akron Art Museum has seen its share of trials and tribulations (the originally building was the victim of a devastating fire,) but has now become one of the best art museums in Ohio. The museum houses a substantial number of American art pieces, including a number of artwork dating back to the 1800s, with especially strong collections of art produced by Ohio artists. However, they do have pieces from some well-known artists, including a piece by famed artist Andy Warhol.

The Akron Art Museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 11 A.M. to 5 P.M. and on Thursday from 11 A.M. to 9 P.M. Admission is $7 for adults, with decreasing rates for children and seniors.

Akron Zoo

Fully accredited by the American Zoological Association, the Akron Zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals from all over the world. Highlights of the zoo's animal collection include the African Lion, the American Bald Eagle, the Andean Condor, the Komodo Dragon, the North American River Otter, the Snow Leopard, and the Sumatran Tiger.

Admission to the Akron Zoo is $10 for adults, with slightly lower rates for children and seniors, making it an affordable family attraction in Akron. The hours of the zoo vary depending on the season, so it's best to check their website for the most current zoo hours.

Pan African Center for Community Studies

For those interested in the history of African history and culture, the Pan African Culture and Research Center is the ideal family attraction. Housed at the University of Akron, the Center seeks to blend both the academic and social/community worlds, and offers a number of opportunities for visitors to discover more about African culture, as well as Akron's African American past. The Center also hosts a number of lecture series that invite renowned speakers to campus for lectures.

Clearly, the city of Akron is full of interesting and fun activities for every member of the family. Whether you're interested in art, animals, or history, this lovely city in the northeast of Ohio has something to offer you. What's more, many of the places are also quite affordable, making Akron an ideal vacation spot for families who might be traveling on a budget. All in all, Akron has a little bit of something for everyone.