Here are 10 ways you can alleviate stress in the Akron area over the upcoming weekend:
1. Akron Zoo
The Akron Zoo covers 50 acres and is located just west of downtown. When you visit this zoo, you’ll be able to see more than 1,000 animals in eight different themed environments modeled after specific regions of the world. The zoo also offers a train, gardens, and play areas for children.
2. Dr. Bob’s Home
Dr. Bob’s Home is the former home of Dr. Bob Smith, who was the founder of Alcoholics Anonymous. Hundreds of men and women began their journey to recovery from addiction in this home and the surrounding neighborhood. Dr. Bob’s Home is open for tours every day of the week from noon to 3 p.m. [inline_cta_four]
3. Portage Lakes State Park
Located just outside of Akron in New Franklin, Ohio, Portage Lakes State Park covers 411 acres of natural landscape, including the Portage Lakes themselves. This attraction offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreational activities, including boating, fishing, hiking, and swimming.
4. Cascade Valley Park
Cascade Valley Park is a branch of the Summit County Metro Parks System located inside Akron. This park offers plenty of trails and natural landscape, offering the perfect weekend retreat. Whether you want to take a short hike or spend the whole day surrounded by nature, you can find what you need at Cascade Valley Park.
5. Indian Signal Tree
Inside Cascade Valley Park, you’ll find the Indian Signal Tree. This tree is an attraction unto itself, having once been used by Native Americans as a landmark and point of reference for the northernmost part of the Portage Trail. The burr oak tree is 300 years old and impressive to behold.
6. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens
The oldest National Historic Landmark in all of Akron, Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens offers peace and serenity. The Manor House on this property is the former home of the co-founder of the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. It was built in 1915 and features 65 rooms. In addition to touring the home, you can also enjoy the beauty of 70 acres of landscaped gardens. This attraction is open from April to December.
7. Springfield Bog
For a quiet day surrounded by nature, you cannot beat a trip to Springfield Bog. This park is only 20 minutes outside of Akron. It offers an easy 1.6-mile trail that leads through a thriving prairie, where you can enjoy a variety of wildflowers and local animals, including quail. Springfield Bog also offers two observation decks that can be used to view the wetlands.
8. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
The F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm is located on Smith Road in Akron. This park is another part of the Summit Metro Parks System that offers three scenic trails for hiking. The difficulty on these trails varies to serve beginners and advanced hikers alike. Picnic tables and a visitors center are available as well.
9. Chapel Hill Mall
If you enjoy a good shopping trip, you can find a variety of stores all in one location at Chapel Hill Mall. The mall offers department stores, as well as smaller boutiques. Several restaurants are also available inside Chapel Hill Mall if you want to make a day of it.
10. Picnic In The Park
Plenty of parks are available in the Akron area, and any of these parks can be the perfect location for an afternoon or evening picnic. Pack your own healthy meal and enjoy some time in a local park with family or friends.
Relaxing and relieving stress are important components of self-care. Although there are plenty of activities to help you unwind in Akron, professional mental health care is available. Learn more by contacting The Bluffs today.
