Since its founding in 1825, Akron has been a hub of industry and social advancement. As the birthplace and current home of Goodyear Tire, the city has earned the nickname "Rubber Capital of the World."

In the early 2000s, the city also became a national center for polymer research and the heart of the Polymer Valley. As a diverse and progressive city, Akron has hosted famous civil rights movements such as Sojourner Truth's "Ain't I a Woman?" speech and a W. E. B. Dubois presentation in 1920. The country's conventional K-12 school system and Alcoholics Anonymous got their start here. Today, the nearly 200,000 people who live here work in manufacturing, education, healthcare, and biomedical research.

There's also plenty of leisure time activities and attractions, historic sights and museums. The most popular? Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, a historic 65-room manor with over 70 acres of artfully landscaped grounds and gardens. Akron's oldest National Historic Landmark offers walking tours for history buffs and nature-lovers. The Akron Zoo is the perfect destination for families with young children. There's also the F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, where you can enjoy 400 acres of nature trails through forests, landscaped gardens, and wildlife feeding areas. Akron Art Museum has an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art. Main Street downtown boasts venues such as the Akron Civic Theatre and Lock 3, which host concerts, festivals, and community events. The downtown area also offers a bustling nightlife, with a variety of clubs and food spots.

For the local music-lover, BLU Jazz+ is a live jazz venue with a retro mid-century feel, lounge seating, and a full bar with signature cocktails. Restaurants such as Crave, Dante Boccuzzi, and D'Agnese's Trattoria and Cafe cater to those looking for a fine-dining experience.

Whatever you like to do in your free time, Akron has a place for you. But it can be hard to enjoy all Akron has to offer when you spend your weekends doing yard work. After walking through the curated gardens at Stan Hywet, you don't want to come home to an overgrown or unhealthy landscape. That's where LawnStarter can help. While you're out exploring the city, LawnStarter's professionals can build you a custom hardscape, complete with water features. We also install artful plant beds, and add fresh color to your garden each season. Just download the LawnStarter app onto your computer or phone, enter your zip code and the services that interest you. LawnStarter's pros can transform your landscape into another beautiful Akron attraction.