Your Campus. Your City. Your Life.
The University of Akron and the community
The city of Akron offers a vibrant downtown, serene parks, and events and venues that appeal to almost every interest. Here's a taste of what you can discover in Akron and the region:
Michael and Jess, two University of Akron students, reveal their 10 favorite things to do in downtown Akron.
[Video by Downtown Akron Partnership]
Part-time Jobs
The university and the city of Akron work together to provide employment opportunities on and off campus.
Networking
From the Greater Akron Chamber to the Young Professionals group, there are many opportunities to meet business leaders.
Internships and Co-Ops Opportunities
The university has strong ties with businesses far and wide, allowing opportunities for internships and co-ops.
Entertainment
Grab a bite at a restaurant downtown. Attend a minor league baseball game. See a show at our E.J. Thomas Hall. Shop local at the Northside Marketplace - featuring the UA Press. There's always something to do within a short walk from campus.
Weekend trips
Whether you prefer exploring a forest via zip line, canoeing and fishing in the lake or skiing down a snow trail, there are numerous getaway locations within a few hours of Akron.
Boston Mills Brandywine Ski Resort – 20 minutes
Downtown Cleveland – 45 minutes
Geneva on the Lake – 1 hour and 20 minutes
Cedar Point & surrounding waterparks – 1 hour and 30 minutes
Hocking Hills – 3 hours
Niagara Falls - 4 hours
Washington, D.C. - 5.5 hours
Sports
The city of Akron is home to Zips athletics as well as professional and minor league teams. Students of Akron have the best of both worlds; the community involvement in a Division I Athletics program, along with access to multiple major-league teams within 45 minutes of campus.
Cleveland Comets – National Pro Fastpitch
Akron RubberDucks – Cleveland Guardians AA Affiliate
Cleveland Charge – Cleveland Cavaliers' D-League team
Museums
The rich history of Akron has been archived in the city’s many museums. Students can take advantage of Free Thursdays at the Akron Art Museum, student discounts at the Hower House and so much more.
UA's Hower House
Pro Football Hall of Fame – Canton
Get active
Get up and get moving! Staying active in between classes and studying couldn’t be easier in Akron. With endless possibilities around the area, you’ll have a hard time choosing which one you want to do first.
Portage Lakes
Rent outdoor equipment from the UA Rec & Wellness Center and head to the Portage Lakes, 8 lakes expanding over 2,000 acres, offering a variety of outdoor adventures just 10 minutes away
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Cuyahoga Valley National Park
More than 100 miles of trails for bike ride, walking or running, along with the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.
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Road Races
Whether you’re a running veteran or attempting your first 5k, Akron and surrounding areas have road races for you
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Akron Marathon
The popular fall marathon now has two warm-up events in the summer, offering 1-mile to half-marathon options.
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Metro parks
Metro offers 14 parks, conservation areas and 125 miles of trails for all sorts of outdoor fun
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Arts and culture
Get lost in the abundance of art and culture located in Downtown Akron. No matter your interests, there’s something to suit your creative flare.
Akron Civic Theater - Entertainment and live performances ranging from musicals to comedy
E.J. Thomas Hall - Offering speakers and more, right on campus
Weathervane Community Playhouse produces live theater with volunteer artists, designers, and technicians under professional direction
Summit Artspace - a variety of art-related programming for area individuals, families and groups, classes and schools, businesses and nonprofit organizations, including workshops, lectures, demonstrations, artist as an entrepreneur institute.
Annual events and festivals
Akron hosts thousands of events each year from live concerts to monthly art walks and historic festivals to holiday celebrations. Join other students and citizens of Akron in learning and loving your community.