We are candid in Kenmore. What you see is what you get. But we’re also helpful and kind: equal parts passion and compassion.
Everyone is welcome in Kenmore, so be yourself here. Then, watch as Kenmore becomes part of you.
Visiting The BLVD
Here are some tips to make your visit to the historic Kenmore Boulevard business district easy, fun and memorable:
Tip #1:
Enjoy the Free Parking
Free parking available down both sides of Kenmore Boulevard. Unless there’s a major event, chances are you can park right in front of the shop or activity you are hoping to visit. However, additional free parking is available south of Kenmore Blvd. on Virgil Lay Way, north of Kenmore Blvd. at the Kenmore Branch Library, at Cozolli Plaza on the corner of Kenmore Blvd. and 16th Street, and on side streets. Refer to the map above for more details.
Tip #2:
Call or Check Ahead Before You Go
Kenmore Boulevard is home to many unique and wonderful small businesses run by owners who live in the Kenmore community. Some of shops have seasonal hours, others have hours that vary during the week, and some offer late night hours. Be sure to check hours online or call ahead to make sure the business will be open when you arrive.
Tip #3:
Rock Out in Kenmore Day or Night
Kenmore Boulevard is home to Akron’s Music Row – a music and entertainment district with activities from sun up to sun down for people from all walks of life, but especially for those who love music and nightlife. Whether you want to catch a show at The Rialto Theatre, Buzzbin, Old 97 Café or The Bank Lounge, or you’re a musician looking looking for gear or services from The Guitar Department or Lay’s Guitar Shop, The BLVD has lots to offer musicians and music lovers a like.
Tip #4:
Grab a Bite (or Two or Three)
There are many tasty spots on Kenmore Boulevard including healthy bites at Srina Tea House & Cafe, authentic New York pizza and sandwichs at Pierre’s Brooklyn Pizza & Deli, gourmet paninis at Paninoteca (located inside The Rialto Living Room) and late night eats at The Nite Owl.
Tip #5:
Peek at Public Art
Kenmore Boulevard is a street-sized gallery with public art by local artists in every nook and cranny. Check out our ‘The Boulevard’s a Gallery’ walking tour to make sure you aren’t missing out on any of the artwork that decorates Kenmore. Find something we missed? (Just a hint, but the Boulevard has the fanciest trash cans around). Take a shot of it and share with #KenmoreRocks. Be sure to tag us!
Tip #6:
Find Hidden Gems
While some of the businesses on Kenmore Blvd. have large signs letting you know where to go, others maintain a more low key presence and if you don’t look closely, you could miss some amazing hidden gems waiting to be discovered – like The Center Yoga + Dance Studio, Whiskers & Wine Cat Lounge, and ManiKitchen Tea Shop. Check out the business category pages to learn more about the types of businesses you’ll fund on The BLVD!
Tip #7:
Follow Better Kenmore on Social
Follow Better Kenmore on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to see what’s happening and tag us during your visit! And don’t forget to sign up for This Week On The BLVD – our weekly e-newsletter and stay up to date on all the events happening on Kenmore Boulevard!
Tip #8:
Say Hello to Our Neighbors!
Not only is there a lot to do in Kenmore on the boulevard, there’s also plenty to discover off of the boulevard in Kenmore’s other neighborhoods as well!
Head over to East Ave. to grab ice cream at Kenmore Freeze, pizza from longtime Kenmore staples Regina’s Pizza or Rocco’s Pizza, and swing by East Ave Market and visit the art gallery and shop goods crafted by local makers. Or run over to Wilbeth Road and grab a drink and a snack at the Pegasus Lounge.
Hop on Manchester Road and grab the best friend chicken you’ve ever tasted at Showcase Meats, go on a spiritual journey at The Dragon’s Mantle or continue on to the Nesmith Lake area where you’ll find Magic City Brewing Company, Finny’s Sports Bar & Grill, and one of the area’s two last remaining Hamburger Station restaurants.
Don’t forget about Summit Lake, home to a brand new loop trail, towpath connector, nature center, and Let’s Grow Akron – a non-profit organization that creates and supports community food gardens in neighborhoods where access to fresh food has been unfairly limited.
Finally, no trip to Kenmore is complete without a walk or game of disc golf at Chestnut Ridge Park.