Why Cuyahoga Falls—the Gateway of Cuyahoga Valley National Park—Is Worth a Visit in Its Own Right

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a large park of nearly 33,000 acres, encompassing a variety of landscapes, including forests, hills, and the Cuyahoga River. It's also accessible from the cities of Akron and Cleveland, making it one of the most popular parks in the state of Ohio, with nearly 3 million people visiting the park each year. However, there's a gateway town that you might overlook if your sole destination is Ohio's only national park. While Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a must-visit, bucket-list destination, the city of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, is worth a visit, too.

About Cuyahoga Falls

Founded in 1812, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, currently has a population of nearly 51,000. It's a small city with the heart of a small town. The Cuyahoga River and its series of waterfalls cut through this Ohio city. Beginning in the 1840s, the river provided power for mills and manufacturing, which were critical economic drivers for Cuyahoga Falls.

Today, many former manufacturing plants and mills have been repurposed into hotels, office buildings, restaurants, and other commercial uses. The river remains the lifeblood of Cuyahoga Falls, providing both scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. While Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a destination on its own, you should make Cuyahoga Falls a destination, as well.

Things to See and Do in Cuyahoga Falls

From vineyards and breweries to historic sites and parks, Cuyahoga Falls offers something to just about everyone. Located on Front Street, which runs alongside the Cuyahoga River downtown, HiHO Brewing Co. is for anyone who enjoys a refreshing craft ale or lager or even a pizza cooked in a brick oven. If you're more of a wine drinker like me, Sarah's Vineyard is where you'll need to go. With food, wine, an art gallery, and plenty of outdoor seating, you may want to spend an entire afternoon here. You may also want to check out who's playing at the Blossom Music Center, located just across the street from the vineyard.

For hiking, I recommend visiting the Gorge Metro Park for its numerous trails and stunning scenic views of the gorge and rock formations. You'll find the park's entrance on Front Street. If you're here in the summer with kids, there's no place better to bring them than the Water Works Family Aquatic Center for some outdoor fun. With its pools, waterslides, and lazy river, both kids and adults may want to stay here all day long.

If you're looking for a cafe, restaurant, or shopping, Front Street is where you should go. The Farmer's Rail Cuyahoga Falls, Darby's on 59, and Moe's Restaurant are all highly rated restaurants you may want to try while in town.

Places to Stay in Cuyahoga Falls

There is a wide variety of places to stay in Cuyahoga Falls, so I handpicked a couple of options for you. If you prefer a unique vacation rental, this renovated cottage on the Cuyahoga River is centrally located, within walking distance of downtown, and just a 10-minute drive from the national park. It can accommodate up to six guests with three bedrooms.

If you prefer a hotel, book a stay at the Sheraton Suites Akron Cuyahoga Falls, situated on the water near Falls River Square. Select a room with a view, watch the river rapids as you dine at the on-site restaurant, and lay your head to rest on a comfortable bed after a day of exploring the town. You'll love it!

Is Cuyahoga Falls Worth Visiting?

For its river views, outdoor recreation, breweries, a vineyard, shopping, dining, and so much more, it's absolutely worth visiting Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. The question is, have you made plans to visit this lovely city yet?

Visiting Cuyahoga Valley National Park? Be sure to check the National Park Service website for updates, alerts, and upcoming park events. Please note that this national park charges an entry fee—be prepared to pay or show your America the Beautiful Pass at the entrance.