Lock 3, located next to the Akron Civic Theatre on Main Street in downtown Akron, is the main hub of family entertainment in the city throughout the year. Having opened in 2003, Lock 3 has hosted over 2 million visitors. From May to September, outdoor weekend concerts are held here under the open sky. In addition, Lock 3 hosts Akron’s largest festivals, numerous community events, and the official 4th of July fireworks.
Winter events at Lock 3 are a true fairy tale for the whole family. It features Ohio’s largest outdoor seasonal ice rink, as well as unique attractions such as ice bumper cars and winter mini-golf. The holiday season begins with a vibrant Santa Parade, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the city’s Christmas tree and a festive fireworks display. All winter entertainment is located under the State St bridge, near the Canal Park stadium, creating the perfect atmosphere for winter recreation in the heart of Akron.
Local non-profit organizations can apply to host events such as 5K runs, yoga sessions, or other unique gatherings right in the heart of Akron.
The Future of Lock 3
Lock 3 initially started as a temporary outdoor concert venue on Main Street. Over the years, it has transformed into a well-known place for local residents and was named “Akron Central Park.” It is now time to invest in Lock 3 to make it a permanent leisure area for all city residents. The development plan for Lock 3 is an integral part of the Akron Civic Commons 2.0 initiative, aimed at further developing this space as a venue for events, concerts, and festivals. The goal is to create a year-round park that becomes a popular spot for residents and tourists alike, including cyclists and visitors along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail.
After considering community feedback, the City of Akron, in partnership with Akron Civic Commons and the Knight Foundation, has developed a plan that includes:
- Shade areas for relaxation
- Landscape gardens
- Art installations
- Skating zones
- A modern performance pavilion
This ambitious vision will help transform Lock 3 into an attractive space for recreation, culture, and events throughout the year.
Current Information:
Address: 200 S Main St, Akron, OH 44308 United States
Contacts: +1(330) 375-2877
Hours:
Wed-Thu 11:00-21:00 (11:00 AM - 09:00 PM)
Fri-Sat 11:00-23:00 (11:00 AM - 11:00 PM)
Sun 11:00-18:00 (11:00 AM - 06:00 PM)
Mon-Tue - closed
