NORTHEAST OHIO
Kent Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Kent State University and May 4 Visitors Center
EDUCATIONAL & HISTORICAL LANDMARK | KENT OH
Kent State University and May 4 Visitors Center is a renowned educational institution and historical site. The university offers diverse academic programs and vibrant campus life. The May 4 Visitors Center commemorates the 1970 Kent State shootings, providing a poignant educational experience about this pivotal moment in American history.
2. Downtown Kent
URBAN ENTERTAINMENT HUB | KENT OH
Downtown Kent is a vibrant urban center offering a diverse array of experiences. This revitalized area features an eclectic mix of locally-owned shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Visitors can explore unique boutiques, enjoy live music, or relax by the picturesque Cuyahoga River that flows through the heart of the city.
3. The Kent Stage
LIVE MUSIC VENUE | KENT OH
The Kent Stage is a premier live music venue in Northeast Ohio. Housed in a historic theater, it hosts an impressive lineup of national and international acts across various genres. The intimate setting and excellent acoustics provide an unforgettable experience for music lovers, making it a cultural cornerstone of Kent.
4. Cuyahoga River
NATURAL ATTRACTION | KENT OH
The Cuyahoga River is a scenic waterway flowing through Kent, offering numerous recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or fishing along its picturesque banks. The river's presence enhances the city's natural beauty and provides a tranquil backdrop for outdoor activities and riverside parks in the area.
5. Haymaker Farmers' Market
LOCAL PRODUCE & CRAFTS | KENT OH
Haymaker Farmers' Market is Kent's vibrant community marketplace. Open year-round, it showcases a diverse array of local produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted goods. The market fosters connections between local farmers, artisans, and residents, promoting sustainability and supporting the local economy while offering fresh, seasonal products to visitors.
6. Kent State University Museum
FASHION & CULTURAL EXHIBITS | KENT OH
Kent State University Museum is a hidden gem showcasing an impressive collection of fashion, decorative arts, and cultural artifacts. The museum features rotating exhibits that explore the history of costume, textiles, and fine arts. Its diverse displays offer visitors a unique blend of fashion, history, and art in an educational setting.
7. Erie Street Kitchen
SOUTHERN-INSPIRED CUISINE | KENT OH
Erie Street Kitchen is a popular eatery known for its Southern-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring comfort food favorites made with locally-sourced ingredients. Diners can enjoy innovative dishes that blend traditional Southern flavors with contemporary culinary techniques.
8. Acorn Alley
UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE | KENT OH
Acorn Alley is a charming pedestrian-friendly shopping district in downtown Kent. This quaint area features a collection of locally-owned boutiques, specialty shops, and eateries. Visitors can explore unique stores offering everything from handmade crafts to vintage goods, making it a perfect spot for leisurely shopping and dining.
9. The River Merchant
ECLECTIC GIFT SHOP | KENT OH
The River Merchant is a unique gift shop offering an eclectic mix of merchandise. This charming store features a wide range of items, including home decor, jewelry, clothing, and local artisan crafts. Visitors can find one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Kent and the surrounding area.
10. Franklin Mills Riveredge Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION | KENT OH
Franklin Mills Riveredge Park is a scenic outdoor space along the Cuyahoga River. The park offers walking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the river and surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy fishing, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in this tranquil natural setting in the heart of Kent.
Kent Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN KENT
Kent, Ohio, is best known for being home to Kent State University, a major public research university with a rich history and vibrant campus life. The city's identity is deeply intertwined with the university, which has shaped Kent's cultural landscape and economic development since its founding in 1910. Kent State University's influence extends beyond education, as it hosts numerous events, art exhibitions, and performances throughout the year, making it a focal point for both residents and visitors.
One of Kent's most popular attractions is the May 4 Visitors Center, which commemorates the tragic events of May 4, 1970, when Ohio National Guard members fired on Kent State University students during a Vietnam War protest. This somber yet educational site offers visitors a chance to reflect on an important moment in American history and its lasting impact on civil rights and antiwar movements.
Downtown Kent is another major draw, offering a charming blend of historic architecture and modern amenities. The area has undergone significant revitalization in recent years, featuring an eclectic mix of locally-owned shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Visitors can explore unique boutiques, enjoy live music at venues like The Kent Stage, or relax by the picturesque Cuyahoga River, which runs through the heart of the city.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate Kent's outdoor attractions, including the Portage Hike and Bike Trail and the nearby Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The city is also known for its commitment to urban forestry, earning the nickname "The Tree City" and hosting the Davey Tree Expert Company, a leading tree care and landscaping service founded in Kent. These natural spaces, combined with Kent's cultural offerings and university atmosphere, create a diverse array of attractions that appeal to a wide range of interests and age groups.