Winter in Northeast Ohio is a magical sight! Instead of snuggling up in front of the fireplace, we encourage you to get out and explore our amazing communities.
We've curated a list of the best things to do this winter in Akron and Canton. Whether you're looking to spend the day outside in the snow or warm inside perusing lovely art — we've got a little something for everyone on our list.
Outdoor Activities
Sledding & Snow Tubing
This is one of the most popular sledding spots in Akron! The huge hill is perfect for sledding, tubing or any other winter activity. You can walk back up with a clear path on the side or hang out next to the fire-pit and stay warm once you've reached the bottom. There is also clean and convenient bathrooms nearby so you can have fun for hours on end.
The sledding hills in Firestone Metro Park in Akron have been providing fun and breathtaking views for years. When you're not sledding, you can snowshoe on one of the many walking trails.
Wampler Park is a great destination during any season, but in the winter, you'll find fantastic hills perfect for a few quick sled runs.
In the Oxbow Area of the park, there are steep hills perfect for sledding. Nearby, you'll find picnic tables, clean restrooms and even a shelter where you can warm up!
During the rest of the year, Quail Hollow Park is a hotspot for hikers, picnickers and campers — but in the wintertime, the park turns into a wonderland, offering ample places to sled and enjoy other winter activities.
Just 20 minutes east of Canton, Silver Park is one of the area's most popular sledding hills. It's great for inner tubes and sleds — depending on how fast you want to speed down.
Ice Skating
The 10,000 square foot outdoor ice rink in Lock 3 is Ohio's largest seasonal ice rink! The entry fee is only $4, including a skate rental, or just $2 if you bring your own skates. They even offer free strap-on toddler skates so everyone can join in on the fun.
The Hall of Fame City Ice Rink is a 60'x100' outdoor ice rink located on the North side of Tuscarawas Street. It only costs $4 (or $2 if you bring your own skates), plus there are concessions available with outdoor seating and great music!
Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
Cuyahoga Valley offers some of the most beautiful sights and some of the most fun winter activities around. From late December to late February every year, their Winter Sports Center is open for you to rent skis for cross-country skiing and snowshoes for both adults and children. They have multiple trails for all different skill levels and you can find a list of them here.
Yes, Quail Hollow Park does have some of the best sledding hills, but they also have some of the best spots to cross-country ski! Rent your gear from the lower level of the Manor House and make sure to stop by the Quail's Nest Gift Shop to pick up some unique nature-related gifts.
Skiing & Snowboarding
Located about a half an hour from Akron, sister resorts Boston Mills and Brandywine are only five minutes away from each other. Combined, the resorts' boast 88 skiable acres, 18 trails, 4 terrain parks and several advanced trails. They also offer night skiing and keep their trails open until 1 a.m. in January and February!
Indoor Activities
Visit an Art Museum
Photo courtesy of the Akron Art Museum, Painting, right foreground: Jeff Donaldson, Stone Singer, 1996-99, acrylic on canvas, 66 x 36 in., Private Collection, Courtesy of Kravets Wehby Gallery, New York. On view in Jeff Donaldson: Dig at the Akron Art Museum through January 21, 2019. Installation photography by Mike Crupi Photography.
The Akron Art Museum is a work of art itself. With gorgeous architecture and dramatic steel and glass walls, you can peruse incredible art while looking out at the blistering cold. They display modern art and photographs and even host several classes for adults and children throughout the year!
The Canton Museum of Art is constantly displaying dynamic and original exhibits, featuring artists celebrated from around the world. If it's too cold outside, visit the museum and see some breathtaking art or take a hands-on class to learn how to make some yourself.
Take a Train Ride
Photo courtesy of Steve Melvin via the Cuyahoga Valley Scene Railroad
When Cuyahoga Valley is blanketed with snow, it truly is an amazing sight — and even more so when viewing it from the comfort of a warm train! See a variety of wildlife, including an eagles nest, deer and other habitats all from a unique vantage point. Get your tickets today.
See a Show
Photo courtesy of Joe Albert via the Canton Palace Theatre
The Akron Civic Theatre is one of the must-see spots in Akron. They host an array of musicians, performers and movies throughout the year. Plus, while you're watching the show, you can look up and experience a twinkling star-lit sky and clouds moving across the horizon!
Whether you want to see a movie or a play, you should do so at the historic Canton Palace Theatre. This beautiful theater opened in 1926 and has some of the most gorgeous architecture in Canton!
Learn Something New

Photo courtesy of MAPS Air Museum
The Akron Children's Museum allows your child to learn through play and exploration in environments created just for them. It gives you the opportunity to sit and play with your kiddo — all while learning something new!
This internationally known museum of aviation will teach you all about the history of aviation. Escape from the cold and witness exciting displays of artifacts, interactive exhibits and historical archives.
Stay Warm!
Whether you're going out or staying in, we're sure you'll have a blast exploring all Akron and Canton has to offer. Let us know your favorite winter activity in the comments below.