SoulCare Intensives
Akron Guide
Welcome to Your SoulCare Intensive
Dear Friend,
Welcome to Emerge Counseling Ministries. We are honored that you are here. Whether you have traveled near or far, our hope is that your time in Akron will provide space to rest, reflect, and receive care in a meaningful and restorative way.
We understand that intensive counseling seasons often come during times of exhaustion, uncertainty, or emotional strain. Because of that, we created this guide to help make your stay as simple and comfortable as possible. Inside you’ll find places to eat, quiet spaces for reflection, coffee shops, gentle activities, and local destinations that many of our guests have found calming and restorative.
Please know that you do not need to carry everything alone. Our team is here to walk alongside you with compassion, wisdom, and hope.
May this season become one marked not only by healing, but also by renewed strength and peace.
Grace and peace,
Dr. Robert Crosby
President, Emerge Counseling Ministries
“Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
— Matthew 11:28
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Food
Aladdin’s Eatery
Fresh Mediterranean dishes with healthy and vegetarian options.
Blue Door Cafe & Bakery
Cozy cafe known for pastries, brunch, and comforting breakfasts.
The Farmer’s Rail
Relaxed farm-to-table dining with fresh seasonal ingredients.
Fleming’s Steakhouse
Upscale steakhouse offering fine dining and an intimate atmosphere.
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream
Locally loved homemade ice cream with classic flavors.
Luigi’s Restaurant
Classic Akron Italian comfort food in a warm nostalgic setting.
Mustard Seed Market & Café
Wholesome café featuring organic meals and smoothies.
Pav’s Creamery
Small-batch ice cream with a nostalgic neighborhood feel.
Saffron Patch Akron
Elegant Indian cuisine with rich flavors and Akron tradition.
Taste of Bangkok
Authentic Thai cuisine in the heart of Akron.
Coffee
Akron Coffee Roasters
Locally roasted specialty coffee with a modern atmosphere.
Angel Falls Coffee
Relaxed cafe known for handcrafted drinks and cozy seating.
Asterisk Coffee Bar
Stylish coffee shop serving carefully crafted espresso drinks.
Bent Tree Coffee Roasters
Warm artisan coffee shop focused on ethical small-batch roasting.
Crimson Cup
Friendly cafe with specialty drinks and comfortable gathering spaces.
Nervous Dog Coffee Bar
Popular neighborhood coffee spot with excellent lattes.
Things To Do
Akron Art Museum
Contemporary and historical art; free for kids 17 and under, and free for all on Thursdays.
Akron Public Library
Offering resources, events, and family-friendly programming across multiple locations in the greater Akron area.
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
Slow scenic train rides through the Cuyahoga Valley.
Pro Football Hall of Fame
Interactive museum in Canton honoring the legacy of professional football.
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Iconic museum in nearby Cleveland celebrating the history of rock & roll.
Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens
Tour the historic estate and explore 70 acres of beautiful gardens.
Admission: ~$10–$19 depending on tour type. Children under 5 are free.
Summit Artspace
Local artist studios and exhibitions. Free entry when open to the public.
Parks
Cascade Plaza
Public space with seasonal events, ideal for family gatherings and community activities.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Scenic trails and waterfalls ideal for reflection and rest.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Hiking trails, gardens, ponds, and nature exhibits.
Lock 3 Park
Downtown gathering space with seasonal events and open-air seating.
Silver Springs Park
Peaceful park with trails and water views.
Summit Lake Nature Center
Quiet lakeside trails and calming natural surroundings.
Summit Metro Parks
Over 16,000 acres across 16 local parks including trails, picnic spots, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Family
Akron Children’s Museum
Hands-on exhibits designed for creative play and learning.
Admission: ~$7 per person; babies under 1 are free.
Akron Zoo
Explore over 1,000 animals in themed habitats like the Grizzly Ridge and Komodo Kingdom. General admission is ~$10–$14; children under 2 are free. Discountsavailable online.
Sky Zone Trampoline Park
Indoor trampoline park with activities like dodgeball, foam pits, and toddler zones.
General jump passes start around ~$15–$20 per hour.