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January 21, 2010
Jules Libertin
Frigid temperatures, blistering winds and, of course, snow are three elements that define winter. These aspects leave many hibernating throughout the season, but some of us who brave the weather enjoy the winter wonderland. Here are the top five things to do in Akron during the winter season:
Sled-Riding
Who doesn’t enjoy this winter activity? Akron is fortunate to have many legendary hills. The most popular area is Goodyear Heights Metro Park. The park is home to a steep large hill and has perks such as heated bathrooms and large parking lots. Other great hills are located at Cascade and Virginia Kandel.
“Barreling down these extravagant slopes on a steel and wood contraption only inches from the ground and obtaining terminal velocities is simply one of the most exhilarating activities of the winter season,” senior Ryan Spear said.
Skiing at Boston Mills and Bradywine
These two are the closest ski resorts near Akron. The two offer 19 runs collectively including the Tiger Run which is the steepest slope in Ohio. The lift tickets can cost up to $40 for an all-day pass.
“Skiing is a blast!” senior John Duckworth said. “I love skiing at Boston Mills because it is so close to home and it is at a great price. I also enjoy it because the two places are made for all ski levels.”
Lock 3 Ice Skating
For only two bucks, one can skate on the largest seasonal skating venue in Ohio. The 10,000 square foot outdoor skating rink is located in the center of downtown Akron. The rink is opened all through the month of January from 11:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M. on most days. With Christmas lights and holiday decorations, Lock Three can easily keep one in the holiday mood.
“I love skating there because it is never crowded and I always have fun,” senior Krissy Sokol said. “The best part is it is only two bucks!”
Blossom Light Festival
While Christmas may be over, the festivities are not. Blossom Music Center holds a drive-through lighting festival until Jan. 27. With over two million lights scattered along the two-mile drive, one will see holiday scenes, themes and characters. The cost is only $15 per car which makes it a cheap but unique winter activity.
“I was forced to go with my family,” senior Jason Green said. “I did not want to go at first, but I ended up really enjoying it. The festival is beautiful at night.”
Tubing
Skiing and sledding are the two most popular winter activities, but many forget about tubing. Known as “extreme sledding,” this activity is a mix between the two. Brandywine and Boston Mill’s tubing are the most popular. The cost is $25 per person.
“Tubing is a Blast! I love going down the hill at a fast speed,” junior Chris Libertin said. “I like it more than sledding because you go at a much faster pace which creates butterflies in you stomach.”
So instead of staying inside and waiting for the summer season to come, go outside and enjoy the winter wonderland. With so much to do in Akron there is no excuse not to.