SUMMIT COUNTY
County Offices
175 South Main Street
Akron 330-643-2725
https://co.summitoh.net
Chamber of Commerce
One Cascade Plaza
Akron 330-376-5550
www.greaterakronchamber.org
Services
Encompassing everything from the major metropolitan center to sleepy villages and growing suburban towns, Summit County enjoys an ideal location in Northeast Ohio. A comprehensive network of Interstates and major thoroughfares combine with the convenience of the Metro Regional Transit Authority for a convenient lifestyle. The region even boasts its own commercial airport with several major carriers.
State-of-the-art healthcare facilities and services include the highly respected Akron Children’s Hospital, Akron General Medical Center, Barberton Citizens Hospital, Cuyahoga Falls General Hospital, and the Edwin Shaw Hospital for Rehabilitation. Throughout the area, a strong network of specialized resources combine with family practice clinics, medical office centers, same-day surgical centers, health and wellness programs, and a complete array of physicians and dentists who represent every major specialty.
An impressive selection of private schools complements the quality public school system. Summit County is also home to the University of Akron, an integral part of Ohio’s state university system. The main campus is located in the heart of Akron on 180 acres. Important landmarks associated with the university include the high-tech Goodyear Polymer Center, the renowned E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall, and the stately Buchtel Hall. The university not only offers a wide range of degree programs on undergraduate and graduate levels including several law degrees, it enriches the entire region with a calendar of special events and premier cultural resources.
Lifestyle
Newcomers to Summit County and the Greater Akron region will discover a bustling metropolitan center surrounded by modern suburbs, lush countryside, and hometown friendliness. Sports fans can enjoy minor-league baseball at the new state-of-the-art Canal Park, one of the finest facilities of its type in the nation. Akron also plays host to the PGA Tour’s NEC World Golf Championship and the All-American Soap Box Derby. Historical train rides, intriguing museums, fine galleries, and leisurely river cruises combine with hundreds of restaurants and night spots for day and night entertainment.
Those who appreciate the cultural arts will find world-class theatre, ballet, opera, musical concerts, symphony, and chorus groups as well as national and international talent. Lush and lovely, Blossom Music Center features stellar entertainment and serves as the summer home of the Cleveland Orchestra. The nation’s largest professional dinner, the Carousel Dinner Theatre, theater shines with first-rate Broadway musical shows.
Recreational amenities and outdoor adventures are abundant, from ski resorts to horse and harness racing tracks. Golfers can choose from a number of top-rated fairways, while families can enjoy nature centers and a local zoo. Shoppers will find a selection of modern malls, unique districts, specialty shops, and wonderful flea markets. Geauga Lake Amusement Park is nearby for exciting thrill rides or refreshing water slides on warm summer days. Summit County is also located in an epicenter for halls of fame, National Inventors Hall of Fame in Akron, Canton’s Pro Football Hall of Fame, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame & Museum in Cleveland.
Newcomers can choose from historic homes in long-established neighborhoods, horse properties in sprawling townships, charming villages, and modern suburbs filled with quality new construction. With its ideal location, superlative services, and welcoming communities, Summit County remains “at the top” of desirable places to call home.
Akron
Municipal Offices
330-375-2345
www.akronohio.gov
Chamber of Commerce
330-376-5550
www.greaterakronchamber.org
Home to nearly a quarter of a million people, Akron manages to preserve the friendliness and accessibility of a small town within close-knit neighborhoods. Just 35 miles south of Cleveland, the city offers handsome suburban developments as well as cozy bungalows and magnificent century homes. In some areas, 30-year-old ranches blend with multi-family developments. From its genesis as a hub of tire manufacturers, Akron has developed thriving polymer and service industries. Regional cultural centers, sprawling malls, shopping districts, lively entertainment centers, the University of Akron, and a warm hometown spirit add to the quality of life. Exceptional recreational sites close to home include Firestone and Goodyear Metropolitan Parks, the famous Firestone Golf Course, and scores of public sports facilities and private clubs.
NOTABLE NEIGHBORHOODS
Chapel Hill
This northeast neighborhood borders Cuyahoga Falls to the north and Tallmadge to the east. South of Tallmadge Avenue is primarily commercial with a commercial and retail mix on the Tallmadge Avenue corridor. North of the avenue, tranquil streets blend single-family homes and multi-family developments. Home Avenue, Brittain Road, and Howe Road expand the retail development in this area, crowned by Chapel Hill Mall. Two interchanges provide easy access to Route 8.
Downtown
Residential development in this area includes the conversion of the YMCA into contemporary apartments and new condominiums at the Landings at Canal Park. Renovation of historic structures have produced such attractions as Canal Place on South Main Street and combine with modern additions like the Canal Park baseball stadium, Knight Convention Center, Inventor’s Hall of Fame, and a new library. The historic Ohio and Erie Canal provides business, recreational, and unique residential opportunities.
East Akron
Kelly Avenue is the pivotal landmark in East Akron, with industrial and commercial development east of the street and single-family housing to the west. South Arlington Street appears to be the virtual “Main Street” of East Akron, with the sprawling East Akron Community House serving as a “town hall.” Residents of this area enjoy excellent highway access in a location south of Interstate 76 and east of Interstate 77. The University of Akron is a quick commute, although Kent State University is also a few minutes from home.
Fairlawn Heights
This attractive neighborhood is located in Northwest Akron, bordered by Fairlawn. Residents enjoy easy access to Interstate 77. Fairlawn Heights is characterized as a desirable suburban enclave where single-family housing dominates. Many of these handsome homes are set on generous lots that provide the charm and tranquility of a country setting within minutes of bustling urban amenities. West Market Street is the only concentration of retail, office, and multi-family development in this area.
Firestone Park
Bordering Coventry Township, the unique neighborhood of Firestone Park is an historic landmark community designed and built for employees of the Firestone Rubber Company. Nestled in South Akron, the area enjoys easy access to Interstate 77 and US 224-227. The centerpiece of the neighborhood is Firestone Park, a public facility shaped like the original Firestone shield emblem. The park is surrounded by amenities like churches, a school, a community center, a new library, and a small but thriving business district.
Goodyear Heights
At the far eastern edge of the city, Goodyear Heights is a model of early 20th-century industrial community development. This planned community was originally built by the founder of Goodyear Tire & Rubber to offer affordable housing to employees. Single-family homes predominate in this area, and neighborhood retail conveniences are available at Six Corners. Eastwood Avenue near Darrow borders suburban strip shopping centers. The Goodyear Heights Metropolitan Park provides a wide range of recreational activities.
Highland Square
Originally developed as a neighborhood of large, sturdy homes for industrial leaders of the 19th century, Highland Square remains a lively urban village west of downtown. The heart of this pedestrian-oriented neighborhood is the business district along the West Market Street corridor between North Portage Path and Rhodes Avenue. This commercial corridor features retail and specialty shops, restaurants, services, and offices. The housing mix blends single-family homes, multi-family developments, and the largest collection of multi-story apartments in the city.
Merriman Valley
The picturesque and affluent Merriman Valley area in Northwest Akron provides a range of housing sizes, styles, and price ranges. Single-family homes blend with large-scale condominiums and apartments. Retail and office development is clustered around the intersection of Portage Path and Merriman Road, including restaurants, theatre, convenient services, and retail development. Much of the Cuyahoga River Valley is lush parkland, adding abundant recreational opportunities to an attractive suburban setting.
Middlebury, University Park
Surrounding the University of Akron is the University Park area, a dynamic mix of campus greenery, grand architecture, student housing, established neighborhoods, and eclectic retail shops and services. Well-served by Route 8 and Interstate 76, the Middlebury neighborhood is east of the University of Akron and blends a good selection of housing with major healthcare and corporate centers. This village on the Little Cuyahoga River was the first settlement in what is now the city of Akron. Along East Market Street, commercial and service development predominates. Mason Park provides first-rate recreational opportunities close to home.
North Hill
The plateau at the top of North Hill developed rapidly after it was connected with the downtown district in 1922 by a viaduct over the Cascade Valley of the Little Cuyahoga River. This area is bordered by two lush parks: the Cascade Valley Metropark to the north and Gorge Metropark to the east. The well-developed suburban community of Cuyahoga Falls lies to the north. Retail and commercial corridors serving this area are along North Main Street, East Cuyahoga Falls Avenue, Tallmadge Avenue, and Home Avenue.
Northwest Akron
The popular area of Northwest Akron has preserved its country flavor by a strong tradition of single-family homes set on large lots. Multi-family developments in this area are clustered around Portage Path, in the valley, and in the North Hawkins area. West Market Street serves as the primary commercial corridor. Magnificent homes are available in the Portage Path and Merriman Road areas. Expansive Sand Run Metropolitan Park, Hardesty Park, and the Northwest Community Center create outstanding recreational opportunities.
West Akron
Welcoming neighborhoods of single-family homes predominate in this area, where residents enjoy easy access to shopping and an amazing array of recreational activities. Erie Island Park, the Good Park Municipal Golf Course, Schneider Park, Forest Lodge, Hawkins Park, the Lawton Street Community Center, and Perkins Park with the Akron Zoo are among the highlights. Retail opportunities are available at a shopping center and clustered around the intersection of Hawkins Avenue and Odom Boulevard. Friendly neighborhood services are also available on Copley Road.
Barberton, Clinton Village
Barberton Offices
330-753-6611
www.cityofbarberton.com
Clinton Village Offices
330-882-4782
http://clintonvillageohio.com
Chamber of Commerce
330-745-3141
www.southsummitchamber.org
“The Magic City” took its nickname from The Magical Theater in the Alexander Square historic district, one of the nation’s few remaining residence theaters dedicated to children and family productions. Wonderful parks and supervised summer programs combine with an exceptional community center that offers many of the quality facilities associated with private fitness clubs. Barberton boasts one of the loveliest “town lakes” in Ohio, surrounded by lush park, a gazebo, and brilliant gardens. Nestled in the heart of the city, Lake Anna Park offers swimming, paddle boating, fishing, summer concerts — and the reflection of fireworks on the Fourth of July. Sturdy older homes in well-established neighborhoods with a strong community spirit are the rule, although executive homes and fine condominiums can also be found. Not far from Barberton, historic Clinton Village features canal-era architecture with notable examples of Gothic Revival, Italianate, and Queen Anne styles. The towpath trail runs directly through this village, which retains its original 1832 street plan.
Bath
Municipal Offices
330-666-4007
www.bathtownship.org
Chamber of Commerce
330-376-5550
www.greaterakronchamber.org
Located on the western edge of Summit County, the township of Bath is approximately 20 minutes south of Cleveland. It is ideally neighboring Akron, which offers a complete array of cultural, employment, educational, retail, and entertainment advantages. Lovely contemporary construction and beautifully preserved or renovated older homes enjoy generous acreage in this area. While the township is well known for the pastoral beautify of its open spaces and the quality of its gracious homes, local residents have been recognized for their commitment to preserve nature’s unspoiled beauty. Summit Mall is only minutes from home, one of Akron’s most popular shopping addresses. This area is also convenient to the bustling Montrose Corridor with its quality retail and entertainment choices.
Copley
Municipal Offices
330-666-1853
www.copley.oh.us
Chamber of Commerce
330-376-5550
www.greaterakronchamber.org
One of the fastest-growing of the townships in Northeast Ohio, Copley continues to welcome new residents and new businesses. Retail, industrial, and commercial areas are well located to serve every need. The school districts that serve this area are all highly regarded and housing is abundant, diverse, and attractive whether older or new. With its ideal location, Copley is extremely attractive to young families. The township offers a suburban home that often reflects its agricultural roots in lush foliage and open space, yet offers a location near the premier commercial hub of Fairlawn, Montrose, and West Akron. Major thoroughfares running through and near the area make this a convenient living choice.
Green, Coventry
Green Offices
330-896-5500
www.cityofgreen.org
Coventry Offices
330-644-0785
www.coventrytownship.com
Chamber of Commerce
330-896-3023
http://greenareachamber.org
Ideally situated in southern Summit County along the Interstate 77 corridor between Akron and Canton, the growing city of Green offers a comfortable and attractive community environment. Local parks feature paved walking trails, sports fields, tennis courts, picnic pavilions, playgrounds, and a rental hall for family gatherings. Good local schools are an additional magnet to this still-developing area that features a great deal of new construction and modern neighborhoods. Golf courses and a community center expand the opportunities for recreation close to home. Coventry Township lies between the cities of Green and Barberton, adding picturesque land for residential development. This small community with its rural flavor is also located near Portage Lakes.
Cuyahoga Falls
Municipal Offices
330-971-8000
www.cityofcf.com
Chamber of Commerce
330-929-6756
www.cfchamber.com
Welcome to Cuyahoga Falls, the proud home of regional attractions like the serene and beautiful Blossom Music Center or the Boardwalk at the Riverfront Centre District. The latter is a popular shopping destination that features vintage architecture, spectacular water features, live entertainment, and delightful restaurants. This suburban community offers lovely, well-maintained older homes, and a good selection of newer construction for a hometown feeling. This spirit is most evident at the full calendar of colorful annual events, from arts and jazz to culture, family fun, and evening concerts. Major shopping centers, golf courses, extensive sports facilities, Cuyahoga River recreation, and nearby ski resorts add to the attraction.
Fairlawn
Municipal Offices
330-668-9500
https://www.fairlawn.us/
Chamber of Commerce
330-376-5550
www.greaterakronchamber.org
Often called a “well-kept secret,” the small and attractive community of Fairlawn combines progressive services with an amazingly diverse mix of quality housing. Retail development and commerce are highly concentrated, complemented by tranquil residential neighborhoods of comfortable homes shaded by mature greenery. The community is complete in less than five square miles, preserving a small-town flavor. At the same time, Fairlawn rivals Summit County’s largest cities for its number of service and retail companies, crowned by the sprawling and ever-popular Summit Mall. Fairlawn’s hometown spirit was probably the driving force behind the move to break away from Copley Township in 1960 and incorporate as a distinctive village.
Hudson
Municipal Offices
330-650-1799
www.hudson.oh.us
Chamber of Commerce
330-650-0621
www.explorehudson.com
Proud of its status as one of the most desirable addresses in Summit County, the community of Hudson has managed to retain much of the New England heritage and charm in century and colonial style homes. Creating the ideal complement to this quaint scene are sprawling horse properties and handsome new construction. Many of the modern subdivisions offer spacious lots with sweeping lawns. Both the Village Center and the Western Reserve Academy are listed on the National Historic Register. Quality local shops combine with nearby major malls for added convenience. Excellent schools, upscale neighborhoods, highly developed local recreational programs and facilities, and access to state-of-the-art healthcare make Hudson a sought-after community.
Macedonia
Municipal Offices
330-468-8322
http://macedonia.oh.us
Chamber of Commerce
330-467-8956
http://nordoniahillschamber.org/
Claiming one of the largest city parks in Ohio, the community of Macedonia is ideally situated about 20 miles south of Cleveland 20 miles north of Akron. Several large shopping centers, major amusement parks, several colleges and a state university, leading employment centers, and thousands of acres of lush parkland are all easily accessible. The sprawling 350-acre local park features walking paths, playgrounds, picnic areas, sports fields, a lake, and a first-rate natatorium. Well-kept older homes blend with new construction in this quiet but thriving and friendly community.
Mogadore
Municipal Offices
330-628-4896
http://mogadorevillage.org
Chamber of Commerce
330-376-5550
www.greaterakronchamber.org
Approximately 10 miles southeast of Akron near the Portage County border lies the small, welcoming community of Mogadore. Local plazas, shops, and services are available to meet every daily need. Chapel Hill Mall provides the nearest expanded retail facility with its pleasing collection of department stores, specialty shops, and entertainment opportunities. Primarily older housing that demonstrates pride of ownership is characteristic of this area. Active clubs and organizations add to the quality of life, and the atmosphere tends to be family oriented. The close proximity to major interstate highways provides a commuting advantage.
Montrose, Ghent
County Offices
330-643-2725
https://co.summitoh.net
Chamber of Commerce
330-376-5550
www.greaterakronchamber.org
The unincorporated, neighboring communities of Montrose and Ghent are easily distinguishable from each other. Montrose is characterized by a bustling center of quality commercial development, while Ghent offers a haven of gracious country homes and beautiful manors. Both communities enjoy an ideal location near West Akron and the extremely well-developed corridor of restaurants, shopping, and entertainment centers that have sprung up in recent decades around Route 21 and the Montrose Corridor along Route 18. Ghent is an especially serene residential area with generous lots, many of which are wooded and somewhat secluded.
Munroe Falls
Municipal Offices
330-688-7491
www.munroefalls.com
Chamber of Commerce
330-688-1579
www.smfcc.com
Monroe Falls offers a small-town atmosphere that preserves considerable open space in an area surrounded by more densely populated urban centers. Newcomers can choose from a number of contemporary subdivisions as well as mature neighborhoods of sturdy, comfortable, well-kept homes. Industry is present but limited in this area to primarily small companies. Nearby opportunities for recreation include Munroe Falls Metro Park, the Metro Park Hike and Bike Trail, Cuyahoga River for fishing and boating, numerous athletic fields, winter sports, golf courses, a community lodge and picnic area, colorful festivals, and the Summit County Fairgrounds.
Norton
Municipal Offices
330-825-7815
www.cityofnorton.org
Chamber of Commerce
330-745-3141
www.southsummitchamber.org
Just six miles from Akron and 30 miles southeast of Cleveland, the serene community of Norton offers easy access to Summit Mall and several major thoroughfares. Excellent services close to home include Barberton Citizens Hospital, Akron’s major hospitals, and the University of Akron. Just a few minutes further north are vast acres of deeply wooded trails through pristine forests. Lush local parks and golf courses combine with close proximity to the Portage Lakes area, a charming recreational community that enjoys more than 70 miles of shoreline for skiing, boating, and fishing. Wonderful “sail up” restaurants dot the Portage Lakes riverfront. Barberton, Montrose, and Fairlawn expand the shopping and entertainment options.
Peninsula Village
Municipal Offices
330-657-2151
http://villageofpeninsula-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
330-376-5550
www.greaterakronchamber.org
The historic canal village and artists community of Peninsula offers a retreat with all the charm of an Aspen or Vale in Colorado. In fact, for skiers drawn to the sweeping expanse of Virginia Kendall and Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area, Peninsula becomes a ski town complete with ski rentals. Boston Mills and Brandywine ski resorts are close by. Delightful shops, galleries, popular restaurants, and boutiques line the streets all year long. During the holidays, bright decorations and the railroad whistle in the season. Nature study, hiking, biking, golfing, fishing, and winter sports are common pastimes. One of the 19th-century architectural highlights is the 1886 Stick Style Boston Township Hall, home to the Cuyahoga Valley Museum.
Richfield
Township Offices
330-659-4700
www.richfield-twp.org
Village Offices
330-659-9201
www.richfieldvillageohio.org
Chamber of Commerce
330-659-0303
www.richfieldchamber.com
The former agricultural community of Richfield combines a growing village and township that is transforming yesterday’s fields into quality residential and commercial development. The housing selection features handsome, 30 to 50-year-old family homes with acre or multi-acre lots as well as new construction. Residents and planners are determined to control growth in a way that preserves Richfield’s rural character, crowned by the sprawling park and recreation area with a small river running through it and a diversity of ecosystems. The park also has picnic areas, camping, hiking and seasonal sled-riding and cross country skiing. Amenities close to home include the concentrated entertainment centers and restaurants along the Montrose Corridor along Route 18, and Summit Mall.
Sagamore Hills
Municipal Offices
330-467-0900
www.mysagamorehills.com
Chamber of Commerce
330-376-5550
www.greaterakronchamber.org
Yesterday’s farming community of Sagamore Hills Township now grows a crop of luxurious residential development. In fact, newcomers can expect to find some of the finest homes and appealing neighborhoods in the region. Contemporary developments feature quality residences on meticulously groomed grounds, while a sprinkling of historic farmhouses add a country charm. Excellent public schools, wonderful local parks, private recreation clubs, pleasing mix of older and new homes, and Northfield Shopping Center offer suburban advantages. The natural wonderland of the Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area borders the township to the west, home to the Brandywine Ski Resort, Dover Lake Park, and the 63-foot Brandywine Falls.
Springfield, Lakemore
Springfield Offices
937-324-7700
https://springfieldohio.gov/
Lakemore Offices
303-733-6125
www.lakemoreohio.org
Chamber of Commerce
330-376-5550
www.greaterakronchamber.org
Southeast of Akron in close proximity to Chapel Hill Mall, the community of Springfield also offers a quick commute to Kent State University and the University of Akron campuses. Major hospitals in Akron are convenient for healthcare services. Situated in the gently rolling hills of the Appalachian Plateau, Springfield Lake is distinguished as one of the few natural lakes found in Ohio. This spring-fed lake formed from glacial activity, offers a popular recreational area for boating, fishing, and water sports. The small village of Lakemore nestles along the southern border of Springfield Lake, offering one of the finest parks and recreation programs in the area.
Stow, Silver Lake
Stow Offices
330-689-2700
http://stowohio.org
Silver Lake Offices
330-923-5233
www.villageofsilverlake.com
Chamber of Commerce
330-688-1579
www.smfcc.com
Blending a housing selection that includes colonials, bungalows, Cape Cods, and split-levels with multi-family development, Stow is a desirable address. Lush city parks, golfing, swimming, league sports, boating, fishing, and water or snow skiing are some of the popular ways that residents spend their leisure hours. Nearby Crystal Lake and Silver Lake add recreational attractions, with the latter spring-fed lake being especially popular for water sports and picnicking. Excellent schools, local shopping, regional malls, and close proximity to downtown Akron and Cleveland add to the quality of life. Several colleges are available within commuting distance, public and private. Silver Lake is an intimate community of beautiful but primarily older, single-family residences — many of which fringe the sparkling lakes.
Tallmadge
Municipal Offices
330-633-0857
www.tallmadge-ohio.org
Chamber of Commerce
330-633-5417
http://tallmadgechamber.com
Many people remember Tallmadge for its famous central circle, serving as the heart of the suburb and a showcase for some of the state’s most historic buildings. The circle also provides access to neighboring communities through eight spokes that stretch in every direction and create one of the busiest intersections in Ohio. The circle also serves as a gathering place for special events, arts and craft shows, and holiday festivities. Tallmadge uses zoning to protect the circle and the New England flavor of the community. Complementing the selection of fine older homes are suburban neighborhoods built in the 1960s. The city is also known for its lush parks and active, highly successful league sports. West Avenue serves as a business district, and the Summit County Fairgrounds attract even more special events.
Twinsburg, Reminderville
Twinsburg Offices
330-425-7161
www.mytwinsburg.com
Reminderville Offices
330-562-1234
www.reminderville.com
Chamber of Commerce
330-963-6249
www.twinsburgchamber.com
The hometown atmosphere of Twinsburg and the neighboring small community of Reminderville blend historic homes, fine older neighborhoods, and contemporary construction. The area has experienced considerable growth, yet residents are proud of their heritage and dedicated to its preservation. The city of Twinsburg and Reminderville were once rolled into Twinsburg Township but paved their ways to self-sufficiency. Twinsburg is most famous for its annual “twins” event, attended by twins from all over the world. In recent decades, this area has transformed from farmland into a suburb that features modern neighborhoods and thriving businesses. Residents are committed to protecting yesterday’s country feeling while they enjoy first-rate conveniences and services. Lush parks, picnic areas, tennis courts, and league sports are all available.
