Akron, Ohio, close to Cuyahoga Valley National Park, has a rich history connected to the Industrial Age. The DoubleTree by Hilton Akron-Fairlawn is in an excellent location for exploration.
The 300 guest room hotel, is also in the midst of a shopping mecca. Think of a store and you’ll probably find it along Market Street where this DoubleTree is located. Fairlawn is an upscale Akron suburb that’s also just 30 minutes from Cleveland. This particular DoubleTree is notable for its attention to aesthetics and comfort that presents a family-friendly feel. Locals do head here to dine as well.
We headed here as part of a wedding weekend with family that included a next day memorial for my husband’s aunt. The Double Tree factored into that occasion making the hotel more than a place for an overnight.
Even with our late arrival, post wedding, we were given warm chocolate chip cookies at check-in. Our king bedroom with a pull-out couch was comfortable and well designed. Earth tones, abstract art and lighting created a cozy, contemporary feel. The mini-fridge, coffee maker, hairdryer and flat screen TV were put to use. And, the Jacuzzi bathtub was an unexpected treat.
With the memorial later in the afternoon the next day, I had time to hang out and explore. The pool and workout area are as well designed as the rest of the hotel. There’s something about clean windows, a indoor pool with plenty of seating that looks new, and the placement of equipment that makes a difference. All were in order here creating pleasant spaces.
Now that we’ve wandered into snow weather, I imagine the lobby reception area’s fireplace has a cheery blaze. The complimentary USA Today newspapers and coffee available through the morning make for a leisurely approach to the day.
Along with the seating in front of the fireplace, there are two more hang out locations. These spots were put to use by friends and family as they caught up with each other sharing stories and memories.
Several of us descended on Cafe Bricco, the restaurant connected with this DoubleTree in Akron. The service and the food were excellent. As more and more of our party appeared, the staff rearranged tables so that most of us were able to sit together.
Along with serving breakfast that we ended up turning into brunch, Cafe Bricco serves up lunch and dinner and serves as the hotel bar. Like the hotel, this space is modern and fun. The glass sculpture evokes images of artist Dale Chihuly’s work which adds a lovely color burst touch.
I ordered the Breakfast Bowl, a scrumptious concoction of chorizo, bell peppers, caramelized onion, and cheddar topped with two scrambled eggs and home fries. No matter what people ordered, everything was tasty and lovely to look at.
Throughout our stay, the staff at Akron DoubleTree Hotel was friendly and accommodating to our needs, including our request for a late checkout.
My husband’s aunts memorial was held in two of the hotel’s small business/conference rooms. One for the event, and one for the meal that followed. During both occasions, the accommodations and staff were perfect. This was truly a lovely stay.
Rooms currently start at $102. If you are planning on enjoying what this part of Ohio has to offer, and there is much to see, the DoubleTree by Hilton Akron-Fairlawn is worth considering.
Book direct at the Doubletree site or check prices online at Hotels.com.
Post and photos by Jamie Rhein
