Stow, OH
- About Stow
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Recreation
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Facilities and Services
Stow is a suburban city in Summit County, Ohio, and a charming bedroom community within the Akron metropolitan area offering a high quality of life.
About Stow
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: City of Stow, Ohio.
- Administrative Role: Stow is a suburban city and a principal community within the Akron, Ohio Metropolitan Statistical Area. It is not a county seat .
- Location: The city is located in Summit County in the state of Ohio, United States. The region is historically significant as part of the Connecticut Western Reserve and is known today for its mix of urban and natural attractions, including the nearby Cuyahoga Valley National Park .
Historical Names and Nicknames
While Stow does not have widely recognized historical names or nicknames, its identity is deeply tied to its founder.
- Namesake: The city is named after Joshua Stow, a surveyor and land developer from Connecticut who purchased the land but never lived there. He is quoted as calling it "one of the prettiest and most romantic spots in the Western Reserve" .
Date of Founding and Age
- Founding: Stow was founded in 1804 by settlers sent by Joshua Stow, with the first permanent settler, William Walker, arriving in 1802 .
- Age: The city is over 220 years old as of 2024.
- Incorporation: It was incorporated as a village in 1957 and became a city after the 1960 census .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Coordinates: The city is centered at approximately 41°9′34″N 81°26′25″W .
- Positioning: Stow is located in Northeast Ohio, about 6 miles north of Akron and 30 miles south of Cleveland . It is an inland suburban community situated on a glaciated plateau, not near any major body of water.
- Elevation: The average elevation is 333 meters (1,093 feet) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Stow is primarily a residential suburb and a regional retail hub for neighboring communities. Its economy is supported by local services, retail, healthcare, and education. Many residents commute to jobs in Akron, Cleveland, and Kent. The city's parks and recreation department, including the Fox Den Golf Course, also contribute to its economy .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, Stow had a population of 34,483 .
- Size Classification: Stow is a medium-sized city. It is the third-largest city in Summit County .
- Demographic Note: The city has a highly educated population, with over 40% of adults over 25 holding a bachelor's degree or higher .
"Visiting Card" of the City
Stow, Ohio, offers a peaceful, family-focused escape with the charm of New England in its history and the great outdoors at its doorstep. It's a perfect base for exploring the scenic Cuyahoga Valley National Park while enjoying comfortable suburban amenities, community parks, and a relaxed Midwestern atmosphere.
Geography
National and State Parks
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park: While Stow itself is an urban suburb, it is located just a short drive (about 20 minutes) from the Cuyahoga Valley National Park . This is Ohio's only national park, renowned for its stunning river valley landscapes, rolling hills, and waterfalls. The park preserves the natural and historical features of the Cuyahoga River valley and is a haven for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, a flat and easy multi-use path, is a major attraction within the park .
Rivers and Waterways
- Cuyahoga River: The Cuyahoga River, a significant American river known historically for its role in industry and its revitalization, flows near Stow. The river's valley forms the heart of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and defines the local geography .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Stow has a humid continental climate (Köppen: Dfa), characterized by very warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Spring and autumn are moderate but highly variable. The city is located in the "secondary snowbelt," meaning it gets significant lake-effect snow from Lake Erie, though less than areas immediately to the north .
Average Temperatures
- Hottest Month: July, with an average high of 27°C (81°F) and an average low of 18°C (64°F) .
- Coldest Month: January, with an average high of 1°C (34°F) and an average low of -6°C (21°F) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Rainfall: The city receives significant rainfall throughout the year. The wettest month is June, with an average of 83 mm (3.3 inches) of rain .
- Snowfall: Snow is common from late November through early April. February is typically the snowiest month, with an average accumulation of around 97 mm (3.8 inches) of snow .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June-August): The most popular time to visit, with warm and pleasant temperatures perfect for exploring the national park and local parks. July is the warmest month. It can be humid .
- Autumn (September-October): A beautiful time with crisp air and spectacular fall foliage in the Cuyahoga Valley. September is still warm, while October cools down significantly.
- Winter (November-March): Cold and snowy. Ideal for winter sports like sledding in local parks or enjoying the quiet, stark beauty of the region .
- Spring (April-May): A transitional period with milder weather and blooming flowers, though it can be rainy and unpredictable. The best time for a visit is from mid-June to mid-September .
Landmarks and Recreation
Silver Springs Park
One of the most popular community spots is Silver Springs Park. It is a hub for local recreation, featuring scenic walking trails, open picnic areas, and a modern playground for children. It's an ideal place for a leisurely family afternoon .
Stow Community Park
Stow Community Park serves as a center for local sports and community events. It boasts well-maintained sports fields, additional picnic areas, and walking paths, offering ample space for activities like frisbee, soccer, or simply enjoying the outdoors .
Nearby: Hudson Springs Park
Located about 15 minutes from Stow in the charming town of Hudson, Hudson Springs Park offers a different kind of outdoor experience. The park's centerpiece is a picturesque lake where visitors can fish or enjoy a peaceful day by the water. It also features multi-use trails and picnic areas .
Nearby: Historic Hudson
For those interested in history and architecture, the nearby town of Hudson is a destination in itself. Its well-preserved historic district offers lovely walking tours along tree-lined streets, allowing visitors to admire beautiful 19th-century architecture .
Transport
Main Airports
Stow does not have its own commercial airport. It is served by several airports in the region .
- Akron-Canton Airport (CAK): Located about 27 km (17 miles) south, this is a convenient regional airport offering flights from several major carriers .
- Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE): The largest major airport in the region, located about 45-60 minutes north, offering a wider array of domestic and international flights. Uber and taxi services are available, with a surcharge for trips from the airport .
- Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT): A larger international airport about 1.5-2 hours east, often used for more flight options .
Major Highways
The city is well-connected by road.
- Ohio State Route 8 (SR 8): A major north-south highway running through the western edge of Stow, providing direct access to Akron to the south and Cleveland to the north.
- U.S. Route 422: Runs just south of Stow, connecting to Warren and Youngstown to the east.
- Interstate 80 / Ohio Turnpike: A major east-west toll road accessible a short distance north of Stow.
Getting Around
While ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in Stow, wait times can be longer than in a major city . Having a car is the most convenient way to explore Stow and the surrounding region. Car rentals are available at the airports and in nearby Akron .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
While Stow itself is a suburban city, its dining scene reflects broader American regional trends, with a notable presence of barbecue traditions that have made a home in Northeast Ohio.
Old Carolina Barbecue Company
Stow is home to a location of Old Carolina Barbecue Company, a regional chain with deep roots in competitive barbecue. The restaurant's origins trace back to 2003 when two friends started a competition barbecue team, traveling across the country and learning secrets from second and third-generation pitmasters in the Carolinas. By 2006, the first restaurant opened in nearby Massillon, Ohio, and the chain has since grown, even being named one of the "10 Best Barbecue Chains in America."
This restaurant specializes in Carolina-style 'cue, which means you can expect:
- Pulled Pork: A signature item, often served as a sandwich or a plate. The "Carolina Style" features a vinegar-based sauce and coleslaw directly on the sandwich.
- Smoked Ribs: The restaurant follows Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) standards for its "competition-quality" St. Louis style ribs.
- Beef Brisket: Available chopped or sliced, served as a sandwich or a platter.
The restaurant serves as a casual dining spot for residents and visitors looking for authentic, slow-smoked barbecue without traveling to a major city .
Sport and Sports Legends
Stow has a vibrant local sports culture, particularly in youth baseball, and is close to major collegiate and professional teams in the Akron-Cleveland area.
Local Youth and Travel Baseball
Stow is a hub for youth baseball, with several travel teams calling the city home.
- Stow Bulldogs: This is a prominent youth baseball organization based in Stow, fielding teams in various age divisions. The organization participates in competitive travel ball events, including those scouted by Perfect Game, a global scouting service. Roster information shows players come from Stow and the surrounding communities like Munroe Falls and Cuyahoga Falls, often attending local high schools such as Stow-Munroe Falls and Archbishop Hoban .
- Canes Northern Ohio - Select: This is another travel baseball team based in Stow, operating as part of the larger Canes Midwest organization. They compete at a high level, including in national championship events, with players from across the region .
These teams highlight the city's role as a center for developing young athletic talent in the region.
Pro and College Sports Nearby
While Stow does not have its own major professional team, its location in Northeast Ohio puts it within easy reach of several major sports franchises.
- Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA): The Cavaliers, a team that won the 2016 NBA Championship, play in downtown Cleveland, approximately 45 minutes north of Stow.
- Cleveland Guardians (MLB): The Guardians play at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
- Cleveland Browns (NFL): The Browns play at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland.
- Akron Zips (NCAA): The University of Akron, just 8 miles from Stow, fields Division I teams, including football and a historically strong men's soccer program .
- Kent State Golden Flashes (NCAA): Kent State University, only 5 miles from Stow, is another major Division I program, known for its baseball and women's basketball teams .
Universities and Educational Institutions
Stow itself hosts a small private college, but its greatest educational asset is its proximity to several large, renowned universities within a short driving distance.
Colleges within Stow
The city is home to American National University-Stow, a private two-year college that offers career-focused education .
Major Universities Nearby
Stow's location in Summit County places it in the heart of a densely populated academic corridor, with two major public research universities just minutes away.
- Kent State University at Kent: Located only about 5 miles from Stow, Kent State is a large public research university with an enrollment of over 25,000 students. It is widely recognized for its strong programs in journalism and fashion design and is ranked #9 among public universities in Ohio by CollegeSimply . Its acceptance rate is around 87-88% .
- University of Akron Main Campus: Situated roughly 8 miles from Stow, the University of Akron is another major public institution with over 13,000 students. It is known for its programs in polymer science and engineering, as well as its business school . It is ranked #10 among public universities in Ohio .
Prestigious Universities in the Region
Within a 30-45 minute drive, residents of Stow have access to some of the top-ranked universities in the state and the nation.
- Case Western Reserve University: Located in Cleveland about 25 miles from Stow, Case Western Reserve is a private research university ranked #49 in the nation. It is globally renowned for its programs in medicine, engineering, and law, with a highly selective acceptance rate of 27% .
- John Carroll University: A private Jesuit university in University Heights, about 22 miles from Stow, John Carroll is ranked #8 among private colleges in Ohio and is known for its liberal arts curriculum and business school .
- Hiram College: A private liberal arts college about 18 miles from Stow, Hiram is ranked #25 among private colleges in Ohio and offers a personalized education with small class sizes .
- Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED): Located in Rootstown, just 11 miles from Stow, NEOMED is a public, highly specialized institution that trains future physicians and pharmacists in collaboration with regional universities like Kent State and the University of Akron .
- Stark State College: A large public community college in North Canton, about 21 miles from Stow, offering affordable two-year degrees and technical certifications .
Healthcare Facilities and Services
Stow is well-served by local outpatient facilities and is in close proximity to major hospital systems in the larger Akron and Cleveland area.
Local Medical Facilities in Stow
The city hosts facilities that provide convenient access to urgent care and primary care services for its residents.
- Western Reserve Hospital Stow Urgent Care and Primary Care: Located at 3913 Darrow Rd, this facility offers a range of services including emergency medicine, family medicine, internal medicine, and occupational medicine. It is a practice that accepts a wide variety of insurance plans, making it an accessible option for many in the community .
- Stow-Falls Express and Outpatient Center: This is another healthcare facility in Stow, situated near the junction with Cuyahoga Falls. It is marked as a hospital and outpatient center, providing another local option for medical services. It is located close to retail and community amenities like the Atterbury Pool .
Major Hospitals and Medical Centers Nearby
For more specialized care, Stow residents have access to world-class medical institutions in nearby cities.
- Cleveland Clinic (Cleveland): One of the top-ranked and most renowned hospitals in the world, the Cleveland Clinic's main campus is about 30-40 minutes north of Stow. It is consistently a top destination for cardiac care, neurology, and urology.
- University Hospitals (UH) Cleveland Medical Center (Cleveland): Another major academic medical center, UH is a partner with Case Western Reserve University and is a leader in pediatric care (UH Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital) and cancer treatment.
- Akron Children's Hospital (Akron): One of the largest pediatric hospital systems in the U.S., Akron Children's is just 8-10 miles south of Stow in downtown Akron, providing comprehensive specialty care for children.
- Summa Health System - Akron Campus (Akron): A large non-profit hospital system in Akron, Summa Health is a major teaching hospital and a key provider of general and specialized medical services for the region.
- Western Reserve Hospital (Cuyahoga Falls): The parent organization of the Stow urgent care, this full-service hospital is located just a few miles away in neighboring Cuyahoga Falls, offering a range of inpatient and outpatient services .