Downtown is home to many engaging and exciting public spaces.
Northside Green
A new public space in downtown Akron, inspired by the DT Akron Vision + Redevelopment Plan. The space includes a mural designed by Akron artist April Nicholson-Couch, outdoor furniture by Krunchworks Design and pollinator-friendly plants recommended by Keep Akron Beautiful and Summit Metro Parks.
North High Street Parklet
The North High Parklet provides more space and amenities for people using the sidewalks and visiting businesses. Grab a coffee or ice cream cone and enjoy this downtown social space.
STEM Plaza
The Roots of Rubber installation by Spanish arts collective Boa Mistura beautified the plaza of the National Inventors Hall of Fame School for STEM Learning. The installation combines a large-scale painting on the surface of the plaza with a series of three-dimensional forms featuring an inspirational excerpt of poetry by Akron native, Rita Dove.
The project was a partnership between DAP, Akron Public Schools, STEM learners, the city of Akron and the public to enliven this public space with art featuring Rita Dove’s poetry with support from the John S. and James L Knight Foundation. Dove is United States Poet Laureate, Pulitzer Prize winner for poetry, and the only poet with both the National Humanities Medal and the National Medal of Arts to her credit.
Lock 2
Located along the historic Ohio & Erie Canal, Lock 2 is one of 19 locks once used to move canal boats. It's located on the Towpath Trail in between Akron Children's Hospital and Canal Park Stadium and is now an open and inviting public space that recently underwent some enhancements.
Lock 3
Akron's affordable family friendly entertainment. Lock 3 is located next to the Akron Civic Theatre in downtown Akron. Each summer Lock 3 features a dynamic variety of entertainment.
Lock 4
Lock 4 is an exciting space in downtown Akron. The rushing water of the Ohio-Erie Canal creates multiple water falls through Lock 4 that, along with the historic brick facades of some of the oldest buildings in the city, give the space a distinctly urban feel.
Cascade Plaza is your destination for free summer fitness events and mid-sized festivals throughout the year. The green grass, large swings, perennial plants, and string lights make for a lovely, atmospheric experience in downtown Akron.