New Franklin, OH
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Academic Institutions
- Medical Institutions and Healthcare
New Franklin is a suburban city in Summit County, Ohio, home to the Portage Lakes and offering a blend of rural charm and residential comfort within the Akron metropolitan area.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: New Franklin, Ohio.
- Administrative Role: New Franklin is a city located at the southern edge of Summit County. It is not a county seat but is a self-governing municipality within the state .
- Regional Context: The city is situated in northeastern Ohio and is part of the Akron Metropolitan Statistical Area. Summit County is known for its natural attractions, including the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and the Ohio & Erie Canalway .
Founding Date and Age
- Year Founded/First Mentioned: The area was originally settled as Franklin Township in 1817. The village of New Franklin was incorporated in 1997 from a section of the township. The current city of New Franklin was formed on January 1, 2005, when the village and the remaining Franklin Township merged .
- Age: As a city in its current form, New Franklin is 19 years old (as of 2024). The original township settlement dates back over 200 years .
- Founding Context: The village of New Franklin was originally incorporated to prevent annexation attempts by neighboring cities. The 2005 merger was a vote by residents to unify the community .
Geographical Position and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 40°57′N 81°36′W .
- Location Relative to Natural Features: The city is home to a significant portion of the Portage Lakes, a chain of glacial lakes, including the Portage Lakes State Park .
- Elevation: The elevation of the city is approximately 1,093 feet (333 meters) above sea level .
- Settlement Type: New Franklin is a suburban and rural community, characterized by residential neighborhoods, recreational lake areas, and green spaces .
City Type and Economic Specialization
- Primary Function: New Franklin is primarily a suburban residential community and a hub for water-based recreation. Its economy is supported by local services, retail, and small businesses .
- Key Economic Drivers: The major economic drivers are recreation (centered around the Portage Lakes) and its role as a bedroom community for nearby cities like Akron, Canton, and Cleveland . Local schools and healthcare systems in the region are major employers .
Population and Demographics
- Population: The population was 13,877 according to the 2020 census .
- Population Class: New Franklin is a small city.
- Demographic Note: The city is known as "A Community of Neighborhoods," with residents identifying with different local areas, postal codes, and school districts, which gives it a diverse, community-focused character . It has been recognized as one of the 100 Safest Cities in America .
"Visiting Card" of the City (Brief)
New Franklin, Ohio, is a safe, family-oriented community defined by its beautiful glacial lakes. Known as the home of Portage Lakes State Park, it offers a unique blend of suburban comfort and outdoor recreation, with ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and lakeside dining, all within a short drive of the larger cities of Akron and Cleveland .
Geography
Water Bodies (Lakes, Rivers, Waterfalls)
- Portage Lakes: New Franklin is synonymous with the Portage Lakes, a chain of glacial reservoirs and natural lakes in Northeast Ohio. The city contains the majority of the acreage of these lakes, which are a central feature of the community . Key lakes within or bordering the city include Turkeyfoot Lake, which is a popular spot for boating and fishing . These lakes are the primary draw for recreation, offering opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and pleasure boating.
National and Nature Parks
- Portage Lakes State Park: This is the city's premier natural attraction. Located entirely within New Franklin, the park offers public access to the lakes, with facilities for boating, fishing, swimming at Turkeyfoot Beach, and picnicking . It is a major regional destination for outdoor activities.
- Nearby National Park: The Cuyahoga Valley National Park is located approximately 25 minutes from New Franklin. This national park preserves the rural landscape of the Cuyahoga River Valley and features the historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which offers miles of hiking and biking .
Beaches and Shores
- Turkeyfoot Beach: Located within Portage Lakes State Park, this is a popular public swimming beach on the shores of Turkeyfoot Lake. It provides a sandy shoreline and designated swimming area for residents and visitors during the summer months .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
New Franklin has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. It features warm, pleasant summers and cold, snowy winters, with significant variations in temperature and cloud cover throughout the year .
Average Temperatures by Month
Temperatures in New Franklin vary significantly between seasons.
- Hottest Month: July, with average highs of 82°F (28°C) and lows of 64°F (18°C) .
- Coldest Month: January, with average highs of 34°F (1°C) and lows of 22°F (-6°C) .
- Extreme Temperatures: Temperatures rarely drop below 4°F (-16°C) or rise above 90°F (32°C) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Rainfall: Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. The wettest month is June, with an average of 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain. The average annual rainfall is about 37 inches (942 mm) .
- Snowfall: The city experiences a snowy period from late November to early April. February typically sees the most snow, with an average accumulation of 3.6 inches (9 cm). The average annual snowfall is around 5 inches (121 mm) .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit New Franklin for warm-weather outdoor activities is from mid-June to mid-September .
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm up considerably, with May seeing highs of 70°F (21°C). This is a wet period with increasing amounts of rainfall.
- Summer (June-August): This is the peak season for enjoying the Portage Lakes. The weather is warm and humid, with July being the warmest month. It's the best time for swimming, boating, and hiking.
- Autumn (September-November): Early fall is pleasant and clear, with comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for hiking in the nearby national park. Late fall becomes cooler and cloudier.
- Winter (December-February): Winters are cold, cloudy, and snowy. This season is suited for indoor activities or enjoying the winter landscape, though snow sports are possible in the region.
Landmarks
Architectural or Historical Landmark
- The Tudor House on the Portage Lakes: This historic house, also known as the Frank Mason Raymond House (built in 1913), is a landmark on the Portage Lakes waterfront. It stands as a reminder of the area's early 20th-century history and is a unique architectural feature on the lakeshore .
Iconic Local Structure
- Quaker Oats Water Tower: Located nearby in the historic village of Clinton (within the New Franklin ZIP code), this former water tower was famously painted to resemble a Quaker Oats cereal box. It was a beloved local landmark and a unique piece of roadside Americana, reflecting the region's industrial heritage .
Parks and Recreation Landmark
- Portage Lakes State Park: The defining landmark of the area, this state park is the heart of the community's recreational identity. Its expansive waters and green spaces are the primary attraction for visitors and a source of pride for residents .
- Craftsmen Park: A city park offering recreational facilities for residents, contributing to the community's suburban quality of life .
Natural Landmark
- Turkeyfoot Lake: The largest and most prominent of the Portage Lakes within New Franklin, it's a central hub for boating and water activities, with its own public beach .
Transport
Major Highways and Roads
New Franklin is traversed by three major state highways: State Routes 93, 236, and 619. These roads provide direct access to State Route 21, a key north-south artery. The city's location offers easy connectivity to the regional highway network .
Main Airports
Residents and visitors have convenient access to two major airports:
- Akron-Canton Regional Airport (CAK): Located just a 20-minute drive from New Franklin, this airport offers a convenient alternative for commercial flights .
- Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE): Ohio's largest airport is approximately a 40-45 minute drive from New Franklin, providing a full range of domestic and international flights .
Public Transportation
Public transportation is provided by the Metro Regional Transit Authority (METRO RTA) , which offers bus services connecting New Franklin to Akron and other parts of Summit County . Ridesharing services like Uber and Uber Eats are also available in the city .
Rail and Other Transport
While there is no passenger rail station within New Franklin itself, the regional nature of the Akron area means that Amtrak services are accessible in nearby larger cities. The city's layout and road network are designed for personal vehicle travel, which is the dominant mode of transport .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Dining in Nearby Akron
While New Franklin itself is a smaller community, its residents and visitors have easy access to the vibrant and diverse food scene of its larger neighbor, Akron, located just to the north. Akron offers a rich tapestry of culinary experiences, from historic local institutions to modern, globally-inspired eateries .
Swensons Drive-In is an Ohio institution that has been serving up nostalgic fare since 1934. Known for its iconic Galley Boy double cheeseburger, which is topped with two secret sauces, the experience of having food brought to your car by servers in retro uniforms is a beloved local tradition .
For those seeking classic Italian-American comfort food, Luigi's Restaurant has been an Akron staple since 1949. It is famed for its signature pizza loaded with melted provolone cheese and its old-school charm, complete with red-checkered tablecloths .
Akron's culinary landscape also includes a variety of international options. The Lockview, located near the Akron Civic Theatre, specializes in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches with unique flavor pairings and an extensive craft beer selection . For authentic Thai cuisine, Pad Thai Restaurant in the Merriman Valley is highly recommended for its fresh, aromatic dishes like Pad Kee Mao . Those craving Latin flavors can visit Nuevo Modern Mexican, which offers elevated tacos and ceviche along with a rooftop view of downtown Akron .
Coffee Culture
The city also boasts a thriving coffee culture. Angel Falls Coffee Company in Highland Square is a beloved local spot known for its cozy atmosphere and high-quality coffee . Akron Coffee Roasters in downtown is a destination for serious coffee lovers, offering single-origin brews and pour-overs in a minimalist setting. For a more eclectic vibe, Nervous Dog Coffee Bar provides a community-focused space with locally roasted blends .
Museums
Art and History in Nearby Cities
New Franklin's central location in Northeast Ohio puts it within a short drive of several cities with notable museums.
In Akron
The Akron Art Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers. Housed in a striking building that blends a late 19th-century structure with a 21st-century glass-and-steel addition designed by the Viennese architectural firm Coop Himmelb(l)au, the museum itself is a work of art . Its collection focuses on art created since 1850, including modern painting, sculpture, and photography .
In Canton
Just to the south, the city of Canton offers two accredited art museums. The Canton Museum of Art and the Massillon Museum feature permanent collections and traveling exhibits . Canton is also home to a unique public art initiative called "The Eleven," which brings to life the greatest moments in the first century of pro football through public art installations, created in partnership with the Pro Football Hall of Fame . Another colorful attraction is Umbrella Alley in nearby Louisville, a pedestrian alley decorated with nearly 200 hanging umbrellas and vibrant murals, making it a popular spot for photos .
In Franklin
Within the city of Franklin itself, there is the Museum of Spiritual Art & Fine Art Gallery. Located at 318 S River St, this gallery is open 24/7 for those interested in exploring its collections .
Sport and Sports Legends
Minor League Baseball in Akron
For top-tier minor league sports, residents of New Franklin can head to Akron's Canal Park, the home stadium of the Akron RubberDucks . The RubberDucks are the Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians and play in the Eastern League.
Opened in 1997 and designed by the renowned architectural firm Populous (formerly HOK Sport), the same firm behind the Guardians' Progressive Field, Canal Park is celebrated for its classic, urban design with a brick facade, drawing comparisons to Oriole Park at Camden Yards . The stadium is named for its location along the historic Ohio and Erie Canal, which runs behind the left-field wall . It has a seating capacity of 7,630 and features unique amenities like the "Tiki Terrace" and a full-service restaurant called "The Game Grill & Bar" . The ballpark is known for having one of the largest scoreboards in Minor League Baseball, which was upgraded before the 2025 season . The team is a beloved part of the community and provides affordable, family-friendly entertainment from spring through early fall.
Universities and Academic Institutions
Higher Education in the Region
New Franklin is strategically located near several major universities in Northeast Ohio, providing ample opportunities for higher education.
The University of Akron
The University of Akron is a public research university founded in 1870. Its main campus is located near downtown Akron, just a short drive from New Franklin . The university enrolls nearly 15,000 students from across the U.S. and over 70 foreign countries. It is a comprehensive institution offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is a key partner in the Northeast Ohio Master of Fine Arts (NEOMFA) consortium .
Kent State University
About 30 minutes to the northeast is Kent State University, founded in 1910. It is one of Ohio's largest universities, offering over 300 degree programs. Its main campus in Kent is known for its classic college town atmosphere and vibrant student life with more than 200 student organizations .
Other Nearby Universities
The region is also home to Cleveland State University, a major public university located in downtown Cleveland, and the Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) in Rootstown, which is a consortium of multiple universities focusing on pharmacy and medicine .
Medical Institutions and Healthcare
Local Healthcare in New Franklin
Within New Franklin, residents have access to community-based medical care. Community Health Care is a medical group practice located at 5147 Manchester Rd, specializing in Family Medicine and Nursing .
Major Medical Centers Nearby
For more comprehensive hospital services, New Franklin is well-served by major medical centers in the region.
Cleveland Clinic Akron General
The Cleveland Clinic Akron General medical center is a premier healthcare facility located at 1 Akron General Ave. in Akron . It is recognized regionally and statewide for its expertise across a full spectrum of specialties. The hospital has earned the prestigious "Magnet" status from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, a distinction held by fewer than 400 hospitals in the country, recognizing excellence in nursing and patient care . As part of the Cleveland Clinic health system, patients have access to world-class medical expertise.
Other Regional Hospitals
Other major hospitals in the area include Summa Health System in Akron and Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital in Canton, ensuring that residents of New Franklin have access to high-quality medical care within a short driving distance.