3 Best Landmarks in Akron, OH

“Dr. Bob’s Home is a small arts and crafts house that has become the lifelong home of Dr. Bob Smith and his wife, Anne Ripley Smith. This home is now owned by the Founders Foundation and is operated by them as a museum dedicated to the history of AA. The home was named a National Historic Landmark on Oct. 31, 1985. Today, the house aims to maintain, restore, and preserve the property, which was the family home of physician Robert Holbrook Smith, affectionately known as Dr. Bob, one of the founding fathers of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Dr. Bob's Home is one of the two National Historic Landmarks in Summit County and one of 73 in the state of Ohio. Dr. Bob's Home and gift shop is free to guests every day from noon to 3:00 p.m., seven days a week.”

Read more

“Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens is 70 acres of historic house museum and formal gardens. The estate is a 64,500 sq. ft. property that features a historic 65-room Tudor revival Manor House, conservatory, and restored gate. The site includes gardens, a greenhouse, a carriage house, and the main mansion, one of the largest historic houses in the United States. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens aims to provide compelling, engaging, and relevant learning opportunities for audiences of all ages. Each garden provides its magic and history for visitors. Initially, the garden was driven by Stan Hywet's overall organizational mission and identified interpretive themes. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens is a perfect backdrop for special occasions, private parties, and corporate events. The estate offers free admission for children under 2.”

Read more

“Hower House Museum was constructed by John Henry Hower, a leading Akron industrialist who was active in the milling, reaping, and cereal industries. The house is one of the finest and best-preserved examples of its architectural style in the country and is on the National Historic Landmark registry. This elegant home is filled with unique furnishings and treasures collected by the Hower Family during their travels worldwide. The 28-room mansion is capped with a distinctive mansard roof and soaring tower. Visitors are grateful to view the unique architecture and rare gems of this National Historic Landmark, 11 months of the year.”

Read more