Top Photo Locations in Akron Ohio
Akron and the surrounding areas are full of breathtaking, versatile photo locations perfect for engagements, family portraits, and even wedding photography. From historic estates to forest trails and dramatic rock formations. There’s something here for every style! Whether you’re dreaming of timeless elegance, natural backdrops, or cozy rustic charm.
As a local photographer, I’ve had the privilege of exploring some of the best places Northeast Ohio has to offer. Below are my top recommended locations, starting with the iconic Cuyahoga Valley National Park, followed by some hidden (and not-so-hidden) gems right in the Akron area.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Spanning more than 33,000 acres between Akron and Cleveland, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a treasure trove for photographers. With dense forests, open fields, waterfalls, and historic structures. It provides endless variety and year-round beauty! These are some of my personal favorite photo location in the park:
Kendall Hills
Located near the Virginia Kendall area, Kendall Hills is a peaceful, rolling landscape perfect for couples who love open fields, soft grasses, and a touch of whimsy. In the warmer months, wildflowers often bloom across the hills. While winter transforms the area into a popular sledding and snowshoeing destination. The openness allows for glowing golden hour photos, and there’s enough variation in the terrain to get both intimate close-ups and wide, scenic landscape shots.
Everett Covered Bridge
As the only remaining covered bridge in Summit County, the Everett Covered Bridge is a must-visit for timeless, rustic portraits. Located off Everett Road near Peninsula, this bright red wooden bridge is surrounded by tall trees, walking trails, and Furnace Run Creek. It’s particularly stunning in the fall, when the leaves blaze with color! The structure itself adds a pop of bold contrast to nature-filled frames, while the surrounding footpath and fields offer variety in your gallery.
The Ledges at Virginia Kendall Park
If you’re drawn to natural drama, The Ledges are unforgettable. These moss-covered sandstone rock formations date back hundreds of millions of years. They line the forest in dramatic layers, providing texture, depth, and atmosphere. The trail around The Ledges is easy to moderate and leads to a scenic overlook. Which is a dream for sunset photos! In the shade of the cliffs, the light is soft and directional, creating beautifully moody portraits. There are also rock staircases and stone shelters built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, which add architectural elements to your session.
Downtown Peninsula
Charming and full of small-town character, Peninsula offers a walkable blend of natural beauty and historic architecture. It’s the heart of the Cuyahoga Valley, with preserved 19th-century buildings, a quaint train depot (part of the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad), antique shops, and quiet streets lined with trees. Whether you’re going for nostalgic, vintage vibes or capturing cozy urban charm, this area delivers. And don’t miss the nearby Towpath Trail or the picturesque bridge over the Cuyahoga River!
Photo Locations in Akron
Outside of the National Park, Akron is home to several stunning photo locations that cater to different aesthetics. There are beautiful options for historic, modern, rustic, and everything in between. Here are a few of my favorite places to photograph in the city and surrounding suburbs:
Himelright Lodge
Hidden within Cascade Valley Metro Park’s Valley View Area is Himelright Lodge. It is a beautifully preserved stone and wood lodge available for rentals and photo sessions. The area surrounding the lodge features meadows, tall trees, and open skies. Perfect for romantic golden hour shots! The building itself has a cozy, rustic appeal with wooden doors, natural stonework, and a setting that feels completely removed from city life. It’s a great choice for engagement sessions or elopement-style shoots in every season.
Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens
If you’re seeking elegance and grandeur, Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens is Akron’s crown jewel! Built in 1915, this Tudor Revival estate is surrounded by 70 acres of professionally maintained gardens. Including the Japanese Garden, English Garden, Birch Tree Allée, and the formal West Terrace. Every corner of the estate offers a new visual story with manicured hedges, ivy-covered walls, wrought-iron gates, and architectural arches. Photography sessions require a paid permit, but it’s worth every penny for timeless, regal portraits.
Copley Community Park
Located just west of Akron, Copley Community Park offers a laid-back, suburban setting perfect for nature-based portraits. The 1.6-mile loop trail winds through grassy meadows, small ponds, and lightly wooded areas, providing a variety of simple, natural backdrops. It’s a wonderful option for casual engagement or family sessions, with wide open spaces that let your personalities shine without distractions.
Trail Lake Park
Although technically in Portage County, Trail Lake Park is less than 30 minutes from Akron and worth the short drive. This 222-acre park features a tranquil 30-acre lake surrounded by wetlands, wildflowers, and mixed forest. There’s a paved loop trail that’s perfect for walking sessions, and the water reflections add visual interest to portraiture. It’s a peaceful, lesser-known location that feels serene and untouched.
River Front Park
Just north of Akron, River Front Park in Cuyahoga Falls hugs the Cuyahoga River and offers a lively mix of natural beauty and small-town vibes. This park is particularly great for summer sessions, with river views, stone walkways, flower beds, and park benches that frame photos naturally. You’ll often see couples kayaking, walking their dogs, or enjoying a picnic. Giving your session a candid, lifestyle feel.
Top Akron Photo Locations
Whether you’re planning a proposal, engagement shoot, anniversary session, or just updating your family photos. Akron and the Cuyahoga Valley region have no shortage of incredible photo locations. From the romantic ruins of The Ledges to the elegant gardens of Stan Hywet, every spot brings a different kind of wonder and beauty.
As a local photographer, I’d love to help you pick the perfect setting and plan your session for the best light, weather, and mood. Let’s turn your vision into something magical! Reach out here.
