ays Festival.Discover Winter Magic in Summit County, Ohio!

Bundle up and get ready to explore, unwind and make unforgettable holiday memories in the Greater Akron area, your perfect winter escape just a short drive away. From sparkling seasonal events to snowy outdoor adventures, Summit County has everything you need for a getaway filled with wonder.

Start with the region’s most dazzling traditions. At Deck the Hall at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, Ohio’s grandest historic estate comes alive with over a million lights, beautifully decorated rooms and outdoor holiday displays that sparkle against the winter sky. Families won’t want to miss Wild Lights at the Akron Zoo, where the zoo is transformed into a glowing wonderland of themed light shows, animated displays and seasonal treats. Step back in time at Hale Farm & Village during the Holiday Lantern Tours, where costumed guides lead you through candlelit scenes and traditions from the 19th century. For a one-of-a-kind experience, hop aboard the North Pole Adventure on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, a magical train ride where children and adults alike are whisked into a festive journey filled with music, storytelling and a special visit from Santa.

Winter fun doesn’t stop there. In downtown Akron, WinterBlast at Lock 3 offers classic cold-weather fun with ice skating, snow tubing and cozy fire pits for warming up between activities. Outdoor adventurers can head to Boston Mills Brandywine for skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing across multiple trails, perfect for both beginners and seasoned snow lovers.

Culture and history shine just as bright in winter. Take in a show at the historic Akron Civic Theatre, one of the few remaining atmospheric theaters in the nation, where performances of music, comedy and theater light up the stage. Explore the galleries of the Akron Art Museum and be sure to experience their special exhibit, Alfred Moore: All This Luck in My Head, now through Feb. 8, 2026. History takes flight at MAPS Air Museum, which showcases military aircraft and aviation history. The Akron History Center invites visitors to learn about the city’s rich past through engaging exhibits, interactive displays and inspiring stories that bring Akron’s heritage to life.

After a day of adventure, warm up with Summit County flavors. Follow The Drip Drive, a coffee trail featuring locally owned cafés full of character or explore the Summit Brew Path to sample craft breweries pouring seasonal favorites. From cozy mom-and-pop restaurants to upscale dining, the culinary scene offers something to satisfy every craving. And don’t forget a little holiday shopping along the Treasure Trail, a curated collection of antique shops, vintage boutiques and locally owned stores that make finding unique gifts a joy. The Summit Sweet Stroll is a delicious new initiative featuring locally owned ice cream shops, candy stores, sweet treats and more across Summit County. From artisan chocolates to gourmet popcorn, it’s the perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth while exploring the area.

Whether you’re celebrating the holidays, hitting the slopes or simply looking for cozy escapes, Summit County is your perfect winter destination.

Plan your getaway today at visitakron-summit.org and check out our Visitors Guide. This season, Savor the Scenic in Summit!