Traveling has looked a bit different for everyone lately, but it’s astonishing what you can find in your own hometown.
Hinged on the scenic Cuyahoga River, the city of Cuyahoga Falls has much to offer both tourists and residents. After opening to traffic in 2018, Front Street has become a staple for businesses in the community. The newly revitalized Front Street has everything from dining and cocktails, to boutiques and coffee shops. Many newer businesses have inhabited the downtown area since its transformation. Perhaps most notably, The Workz has recently converted the old Falls Theatre into a restaurant, arcade and speakeasy, making it a destination that everyone can enjoy.
A splash pad during the summer and ice rink in the winter, Falls River Square changes with the seasons so there is always something new and exciting to explore. The pavilion and plaza area houses several types of events, from weddings and showers, to business meetings and other events hosted by the Downtown Cuyahoga Falls Partnership and City of Cuyahoga Falls — such as Nightmare on Front Street, the Jingle Dog Parade, and annual tree lighting events in support of Small Business Saturday.
It is vastly important to shop local — perhaps now more than ever. Lined with boutiques such as Jean + Lou, Celia’s Boutique, Hope Soap, REVERIE and various others, it would be easy to spend the whole day shopping and exploring the downtown area of Cuyahoga Falls. Grab a cup of coffee at Asterisk Coffee Bar and stroll the mile-long strip, taking in all the city has to offer. Likewise, make a day of it and book a service with Good Co. Salon or VIVO Beauty Bar, then walk next door and enjoy a beer at HiHO Brewing Company. Discover the Jenks Building and all that it houses within its walls like Falls Outdoor Company, Yada Yada Coffee, live music, and so much more. Eat your way through downtown with menus from Italian to hibachi to tacos to homemade popcorn. If you have a sweet tooth, head to Pav's Creamery for homemade ice cream or step into our own version of Willy Wonka at Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop. Looking for a one-of-a-kind gift? Our arts community is sprinkled downtown from Up Front Art Space, Harps & Thistles Yarn Emporium, and Looking Glass Gifts & Gallery to signing up for a pottery workshop at the Cuyahoga Valley Art Center. We are dog friendly so make Morty’s Munchies Dog Bakery & Boutique a stop while sampling. With over 60 area services from photography to marketing agencies to counseling to music lessons, DTCF has so much to offer!
As Spring slowly approaches, nature lovers should walk the trail encompassing the river or stop into Burntwood Tavern or Beau’s on the River for lunch or dinner to admire the view of the falls. As the weather warms up, head to High Bridge Glens Park with a book from the Cuyahoga Falls Library or Shelf Life and cozy up on a bench overlooking the water for a tranquil experience. Yoga in the Park is offered during the Summer months from HARVEST Yoga & Wellness sponsored by Parks & Recreation encouraging residents and visitors to get in touch with nature.
Float the River will open Memorial Day weekend, allowing visitors to rent a tube or a kayak and set aside 1-2 hours to float down the Cuyahoga River and appreciate the scenery, a truly unique experience. Gear up for all your outdoor needs at Falls Outdoor Company.
In addition, Falls Fridays will return this summer for plenty of entertainment for the whole family. Relish in a true touristy experience complete with live music, food trucks, and various vendors during select Fridays from June-August. The “big 3” heritage festivals are set to take place this year which brings thousands of people together to celebrate those of Irish, Italian, and German heritage.
Possibly the most valuable part of downtown CF’s historic district is in the name — the history. Cuyahoga Falls is the second largest city in Summit County and has a vast history that many residents may not know about. Last year, the Downtown Cuyahoga Falls Partnership installed a History Trail along Front Street and Riverfront Parkway showcasing the city and telling the story of its evolution as it relates to the Cuyahoga River. There are seven stops on the trail, leading from High Bridge Glens Park up to Portage Trail, each with a unique story to tell. Dive deeper into the history of the city by walking the Cuyahoga Falls Historical Society and Museum, located at 2083 Cook Street, where you can find documents and artifacts relative to the history of the city.
Many residents of Cuyahoga Falls are life-long, and with a population of over 50,000, Cuyahoga Falls is a great crossover between a big city and a small-town suburb, making it an excellent place to shop and explore yet still giving off its neighborly hometown vibes.
Written by: Emily Scharf and Kaylee Piper
The Downtown Cuyahoga Falls Partnership is a community based 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to promoting and enhancing historic downtown Cuyahoga Falls as a vibrant destination for residents and visitors.
