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KENT

Arts and Culture in Kent

Dining in Kent

Kent Map

Surrounding Communities

Nestled in the heart of Portage County, Ohio, Kent is a beautiful town with an intriguing history. Most people are likely familiar with the shooting that occurred on campus in May of 1970. It was a time of heightened emotions, confusion, fear, and anger over the ongoing Vietnam War, and students at Kent State had been demonstrative in voicing their opinions. On May 4th of that year, a contingent of National Guard soldiers shot into a crowd of student protesters, killing four and injuring others. The university and the community of Kent continue to commemorate the anniversary of this incident and give remembrance to an event that shapes not only the history of this community, but that of the entire nation and the world as well.

What people may not know is that Kent is rich with a history predating the Civil War, when the area was known as Franklin Mills. Today, Kent offers an eclectic mix of entertainment, retail, and dining options in addition to housing the Kent State campus. Please follow the links below to learn more about the city and culture of Kent.

Arts and Culture in Kent

  • Whether you are interested in learning about upcoming events, nearby parks, recreation, or attraction options, or simply would like to know more about Kent, About Kent, Ohio offers a large variety of information pertaining to all things Kent.
  • The Kent May 4th Center offers extensive information pertaining to the events of May 4th, 1970. It also details the continued efforts to remember those affected and recognize the impact of the event.
  • The Kent Stage the only remaining downtown theater of its kind in Portage County. The building opened as a movie theater and has entertained audiences in Kent for 82 years. The Western Reserve Folk Arts Association opened up the Kent Stage in 2002 continuing a tradition of providing quality entertainment in Downtown Kent.

Dining in Kent

  • Bistro on Main offers a variety of gourmet meals, including several that are vegetarian-friendly. The Bistro also has excellent coffee, wine, and craft beer selections, in addition to appetizers, cheeses, and desserts. Moreover, catering is available and reservations can be made to hold meetings or other gatherings in the lounge.
  • Pufferbelly Ltd. was actually once the main train depot for the city of Kent. Founded in 1875, the depot linked New York and St. Louis. The menu at the Pufferbelly offers a large selection of meals and appetizers that will satisfy your taste buds no matter what you are in the mood for, and will please meat lovers and vegetarians alike.
  • Ray’s Place‚ while often viewed as just another Kent bar by those not in the know‚ is anything but. Ray’s has an enoromous medley of meal choices‚ including a colassal assortment of appetizers‚ and a large variety of meals that is certain to win over even those with the most discerning tastes. Whether Mexican‚ All–American‚ Vegan‚ Italian‚ or any other cuisine strikes your fancy‚ Ray’s is the place to go. There are also delectable desserts and a kid’s menu. And if you are feeling like a little fun and relaxation‚ the drink menu is sure to please. If your thirst needs quenched‚ Ray’s has got you covered! They do catering‚ too.

You may also want to visit the Portage County, OH Homepage for more information and valuable links about Kent and its surrounding communities.

Map of Kent


 

AKRON

And Nearby Neighborhoods

 


Roughly 20 minutes from Kent State University, Akron offers an array of restaurants, night life, theatres, and other enticing attractions that draw visitors from all over the state. Most importantly, the relatively short commute from Kent to Akron makes it an excellent location for living, eating, or finding worthwhile entertainment.

Fine Dining

  • Luigi's Restaurant "famous since 1949", is well-known by area residents for its award-winning pizza, which has been awarded #1 by the Akron Beacon Journal. It also has Italian entrees, hot sandwiches, and many other delicious options.
  • The Vegiterranean Restaurant is Chrissie Hynde’s Vegetarian and Kosher Restaurant. 
  • The Lockview offers a twist on classic American fare, and specializes in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. It also features several other vegetarian-friendly choices in addition to signature burgers and interesting selections such as the fish soft taco. 
  • Mary Coyle offers Italian cuisine and features its very own homemade ice cream parlor.
  • The Tangier is an excellent choice for those looking for an elegant evening of gourmet dining and first-class entertainment.

CANTON

And Nearby Neighborhoods


TEXT ABOUT ARTS AND LIFE/DIVERSITY Coming soon!

 

Fine Dining/Coffee Shops

  • The 365th Fighter Group is the “only authentic WWII restaurant dedicated to the heroes of the war”.  In addition to a great menu, the 365th Fighter Group also offers catering and wedding packages. Every Thursday is Bike Night, and concerts take place at the venue regularly. There is also a “Flying Solo Singles Club”. If you are looking to mix history, culture, and unbeatable entertainment, the 365th Fighter Group is an attractive dining and/or entertainment option.  
  • The Old Carolina Barbeque Company is an award-winning Carolina-style barbeque restaurant. The ribs were recently featured on Regis and Kathy Lee as a contender for the best barbeque ribs in the country.  The Old Carolina also provides catering services and takeout, and will be expanding to add a new location in Akron shortly.
  • The Sahara Grille offers authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. It also provides catering and takeout.
  • Muggswigz Coffee is environmentally-conscious and uses only recyclable materials for their cups. They offer teas and coffees brewed by master barista, as well as live entertainment such as poetry and music.

CLEVELAND

And Nearby Neighborhoods


 

Greater Cleveland offers a rich cultural experience, providing unbeatable entertainment options and excellent dining, in addition to world-renown hospitals and museums, stunning wooded parks teeming with local wildlife, and the allure of nationally recognized sports venues such as the Q, home of LeBron James and Shaquille O’Neal of the Cleveland Cavilers. In short, Cleveland rocks! 

Comedy Clubs

Dining

  • Fat Fish Blue offers Louisiana-Creole cooking you won't want to pass up.
  • House of Blues offers fine dining options in addition to hosting fantastic concerts.
  • Pickwick & Frolic is home of the Hilarities 4th Street Theatre and the Frolic Cabaret. Also housing a champagne and a martini bar‚ Pickwick has meal selections "for everyone, including seafood and vegetarian items".

Hospitals

 

Museums

Music and Dance

Parks and the Outdoors

Sports

Theatres

Racing

Are you interested in a more comprehensive look at the diverse cultural attractions and events in the Cleveland area? Consider reviewing one or more of the following guides. Though they were published in 2008, these guides will give you a flavor of what happens in Cleveland and the surrounding area annually and year-round.

Also be sure to check out Cleveland Plus for more information and ideas about what to do and where to dine in the Cleveland, Akron, Canton, and Youngstown areas. Alternatively, you may try The Convention and Visitor’s Bureau of Greater Cleveland.