Shop Local
Are you one of those people who waits until the last minute to shop for the holidays? When you reluctantly head out with your list, all you find are empty shelves, the “perfect present” on backorder, stressed-out salespeople and sky-high prices eagerly awaiting desperate shoppers, just like you.
This year, think of akronlife as your personal shopping assistant. We’ve scoured the area—from Akron to Hudson, Kent to Tallmadge — hunting for unique presents. And we’ve found the hippest gift ideas in our backyard.
So brew yourself a cup of locally-roasted coffee and map out your shopping plan-of-attack. When your relative or friend opens this special gift from you, we’re sure the response will be priceless.
Stocking Stuffers
If you need more Shop Local gift ideas, head to
akronlife.com throughout November for our “30 Gifts In 30 Days” special feature. We’re spotlighting unique locally-sold or locally-made presents each day, and there’s bound to be a few that will fit both the recipient’s taste AND your budget.
Adventure-Seekers
The perfect gifts for people who’d rather have “experiences” than “stuff”
Akron Zoo Keeper For A Day – Know any animal fans who would like to follow an Akron Zoo Keeper during his or her daily routine? The Keeper For A Day will help make diets for the animals, clean their exhibits or simply shadow the zoo keeper and ask questions. This once-in-a-lifetime journey is available for ages 14 and older. The cost is $250 for a half-day or $350 for a full-day. Call the zoo at 330-375-2550, ext. 7220, to schedule this unique experience.
2013 Bridgestone Invitational – Yes, yes, we know … The winter white stuff is coming but there’s no reason you can’t daydream about this summer’s Bridgestone Invitational – World Golf Championships. This year, instead of watching the tournament highlights on the news, join the crowds at Firestone Country Club’s challenging South Course, July 31 through Aug. 4. For details, check out www.worldgolfchampionships.com/tournaments.
Weathervane Playhouse’s Studio Series – Do you know someone who’s always wanted to take voice, piano or acting lessons? Weathervane’s new performing arts classes for children and adults offer private instruction for beginners to advanced students. This is a great opportunity to encourage someone on your gift list to develop or perfect their talents. Classes start at $20 per ½-hour. For info, call 330-836-2626, ext. 35.
Spring Mist Farms – Bundle up your crew and head to Spring Mist Farms at 691 Pearl Road in Brunswick Hills for sleigh rides. Rides for up to six adults in a small sleigh cost $50 per ½-hour, while rides for up to 12 adults in a large sleigh cost $100 per ½-hour. That’s a small price to pay for a journey “over the river and through the woods” that your family will remember forever.
Kent State University Ice Arena – Do you know an avid ice skater or someone who would like to learn to skate? The Kent State University Ice Arena, 650 Loop Road, offers gift cards that can be used for open skates, concessions or programming. For every $50 that you spend on a gift card, the Ice Arena will give you two free skate passes. For details, call 330-672-RINK (7465).
Charitable Gifts
Easy to Wrap Because They Come from the Heart
Porthouse Theater’s Student Adoption Program – Porthouse provides educational internships to students working toward degrees in theatre programs across the country. The Student Adoption Program allows you to defer a portion of the educational expenses that are provided for a student each summer season. Adopt a student with a donation of $300 (or two students for $500), and you can even choose your student on Porthouse’s website! For info, call 330-672-3884.
Akron Symphony Red Chair Society – Is someone on your list fond of fiddles or partial to percussion? For $6,000 you can gift a membership in the symphony’s Red Chair Society, which funds each of its non-principal musicians for a year and provides long-term, sustainable funding for the orchestra. Call 330-535-8131.
Habitat for Humanity of Summit County ReStore – Home improvement fans will love a gift certificate from the Habitat for Humanity of Summit County ReStore at 2301 Romig Road in Akron. Individuals, contractors and retailers donate new and gently used building supplies and home furnishings to the ReStore, and proceeds are used to build local Habitat homes. It’s a great way to pick up slot machines, big-screen TVs, artwork, playground equipment and other treasures. The store is open Thurs.-Sat., 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Lydia’s Purse – Do you know someone who needs a sturdy, but beautiful, bag to carry to farmers’ markets? Check out Janet Rhodes’ shop in Hudson. The Lydia’s Purse collection of market bags is made by women from Haven of Rest, a faith-based homeless shelter in Akron. This sewing project empowers women to learn new skills and create their own business. Purses start at $36. Call 330-653-9006.
Black Friday Game Plan
Your guide to holiday shopping in Akron’s Historic District
SHOP
1 S. High St.
330-376-9185
www.akronartmuseum.org
Open 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Wed.-Sun., and 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Thurs.
This store offers a unique assortment of contemporary accessories for your home and lifestyle. Choose from beautiful handmade objects, including jewelry from local artists, fair-trade items from across the globe, award-winning art supplies and toys for children. Gallery admission is not required to shop.
High Street Gallery
22 N. High St.
330-374-1114
Akron’s premiere fine art gallery and event space can be found above Urban Eats and Musica.
51 E. Market St.
330-374-1114
www.akronmusica.com
Do you have a music fan on your shopping list? This venue showcases up-and-coming talent in the heart of Akron’s Historic District. Check out Musica’s website for a list of upcoming shows and ticket information.
1 • Noto
51 E. Market St.
330-451-6686
www.zelionoto.com
Open Tue.-Sat., 3-7 p.m.
This women’s clothing and accessories boutique, owned by Lauren Ward, brings chic city style to Akron without breaking your budget.
18 N. High St.
330-434-4722
www.rubbercityclothing.com
Open 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Mon.-Wed., and 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Thurs.-Sat.
Since 2004, Rubber City Clothing has promoted the pride and spirit of Akron with witty and spirited T-shirts, hoodies and kids’ gear.
Urban Kanvas Contemporary Art & Furnishings
51 E. Market St.
330-310-7135
www.urbankanvas.com
Open 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon.-Fri.
This studio features a unique mix of pop art, from hand-cut stenciled plywood paintings to screen-printed designer cabinets. Choose from existing pieces or commission artist Jason Scala to create a painting or cabinet with an image, design and/or color scheme of your choice.
3 • We Gallery
20 N. High St.
330-252-0988
www.thewegallery.com
Open 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Tues.; 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Weds.; and 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Thurs.-Sat.
The vision of sisters, Karyn and Erin Ludlam, this eclectic gallery features national and local artisans in all media, encompassing metal, glass, jewelry, wood, ceramics and photography.
PARK
High/Market Parking Deck
40 S. High St.
Open 7 a.m.-11 p.m.
Solutions Valet
45 E. Market St.
Open 10 a.m.-10 p.m. weekdays and 5-11 p.m., Sat.
John S. Knight Center Parking Lot
71 S. High St.
24 hours, 7 days
EAT
45 E. Market St.
330-535-6410
www.3pointrestaurant.com
Open 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Mon.-Thurs.; 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Fri.; and 4-11 p.m., Sat.
Said to be “the place where commerce and culture meet cuisine.” 3 Point serves affordable, simple American dining with a gourmet twist.
57 E. Market St.
330-253-1234
www.eatdrinkcrave.com
Open 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Mon.-Thurs.; 11 a.m.-11 a.m., Fri.; and 5-11 p.m., Sat.
Co-owned by chefs DeAnna Akers and Aaron Hervey. Tried-and-true recipes twisted with fresh new flavors.
23 S. Main St.
330-376-7839
thestewpotkitchen.com
Open 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri.
Soups, stews, Nathan’s ¼-pound hot dogs or Slovenian kielbasa. Owner Scott Malensek’s weekly menu specials offer unique flavors and pairings and include vegetarian and vegan options.
22 N. High St.
330-374-1850
This wine bar displays local artists’ work and is often used for art receptions. Uncorked features Flight Night, private and public wine tastings, Friday Happy Hour, gourmet items, wine accessories, gift baskets, carry-out, live music and more.
4 • Urban Eats ... A Pop Art Café
51 E. Market St.
330-310-7135
www.urbaneatsmusica.com
Open 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon.-Fri. and during all Musica shows.
Urban Eats provides a healthier alternative to typical bar food ... Nothing is deep-fried! Chef Jason Scala’s urban-industrial artwork decorates the walls and is available for sale. Coffee and cold beverages, including smoothies. Catering and downtown delivery available.