Things To Do
in Stow
Stow, Ohio is a friendly suburb just north of Akron, known for its tree-lined neighborhoods and convenient access to the wider region. The city blends small-town charm with easy reach to parks, shopping, and cultural attractions in the Akron-Cleveland corridor. Its well-kept community spaces and family-friendly vibe make it a comfortable base for exploring Northeast Ohio.
Throughout the year, Stow offers quick access to outdoor trails, lakes, and urban amenities within reach.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Stow Town Hall, where you can admire its beautiful architecture and learn about the town's history. Afterward, stroll through the quaint streets of downtown Stow, stopping at local shops and cafes for a light breakfast. Take your time to enjoy the charming atmosphere and maybe pick up some souvenirs.
In the afternoon, visit the Stow Historical Society Museum to delve deeper into the local history through its exhibits and artifacts. After your museum visit, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant offering regional cuisine. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Stow's parks, such as the scenic Stow Town Forest, where you can take a peaceful walk or hike.
As the sun sets, head to a local brewery or pub for dinner, where you can taste some craft beers and hearty American fare. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as locals gather to unwind after a busy day. To round off the night, catch some live music or a trivia night at a nearby venue for a fun, engaging experience.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk at the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, where you can explore the lush trails and enjoy the stunning scenery. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the natural beauty around you, including waterfalls and wildlife. After your walk, stop at a local café for a hearty breakfast to refuel for the day ahead.
In the afternoon, continue your nature exploration by visiting the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, where you can bike or hike along the historic canal. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy by the water, taking in the serene surroundings. As you explore, keep an eye out for various bird species and other wildlife native to the area.
As evening approaches, return to Stow and enjoy a cozy dinner at a restaurant featuring farm-to-table dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll around one of the local parks to enjoy the peaceful evening atmosphere. Consider bringing a blanket to relax under the stars, reflecting on the beauty of your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $3-5 |
| 🚎One-way local transit ride | $2-4 |
| 💊Prescription medicine (average) | $10-50 |
| 🏨One-night hotel stay (mid-range) | $75-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to outdoor scenery and parks
- Strong family-friendly atmosphere
- Limited nightlife directly in Stow
- Traffic can be heavier during peak hours in the Akron metro area
Places to Visit in Stow
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic waterfall with a short, well-marked trail to the overlook, especially photogenic in late afternoon light.
Urban riverside park with murals and a scenic vantage point along the Little Cuyahoga River—great for sunset shots.
Calm water and tree-lined shores ideal for lake reflections and golden-hour photography.
Rail bridges and trestles along the route provide classic rail-and-nature compositions.
Food in Stow
Stow Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Polish-inspired dumplings filled with potato, cheese, or meat; a staple at many local eatery menus and markets.
Must-Try!
Smoked sausage served with tangy sauerkraut, often accompanied by mustard and rye bread.
Creamy paprika-spiced chicken dish from Eastern European-inspired menus; pairs well with dumplings.
Chocolate-coated peanut butter balls, a sweet Ohio specialty perfect for a treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh produce, ethnic foods, baked goods, and prepared foods; ideal for sampling Polish, Italian, and Eastern European specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Ohioans are generally polite; a quick greeting and friendly check-in is appreciated.
Punctuality is valued in business settings; casual social plans are often flexible.
Safety
Tipping in Stow
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leave 15-20% of the bill before tax. For bartenders, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% is customary.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for small vendors and farmers markets; mobile wallets are common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with humidity; long daylight hours and outdoor events abound, so bring sunscreen and water and plan park visits for early mornings or late evenings.
Stow at Night
Hiking in Stow
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic waterfall hike within CVNP with family-friendly routes.
Rocky ledges and forest landscape offering dramatic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Stow by plane.
Major international airport about 40-60 minutes from Stow by car; frequent domestic and international flights.
Regional airport located roughly 20-40 minutes from Stow; convenient for flights to many hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest demographic in the region, with families and professionals across suburbs.
A stable community contributing to local culture and businesses.
A growing demographic adding cultural diversity and food options.
A smaller but active presence in universities and suburban areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
American football is widely followed at high school and college levels in the region.
Popular in youth leagues and local gyms; a staple of Midwest sports culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Stow.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in diners and casual eateries; look for veggie burgers, salads, and vegetarian entrees, and ask for egg- or dairy-based substitutes where needed.