Jonathan lives in Highland Square, a the most densely-populated neighborhood of Akron. He says Highland Square is "as close as you'll get to a city feel in Akron, even more than downtown." The area has a little of everything, from outdoor recreational and cultural opportunities to funky independently-owned stores and music festivals.

Arts & Culture 
To expand your cultural horizons, check out the Akron Civic Theatre, built in 1929. The Theatre hosts a variety of live performance events, from concerts to dance to comedy. The E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall is located on the University of Akron campus and also hosts concerts, speakers and other special events. The modern Akron Art Museum facility is also worth a visit. 

Art in the Square is an annual artisans festival held every August and featuring about 250 vendors and musicians over one day. A new festival scheduled to premiere this June is being called "PORCHOKR." This neighborhood music festival will feature 30-50 musicians over one day, all playing on neighborhood residents' porches.
 
The Great Outdoors
For outdoor adventurers, the Ohio Erie Towpath Trail follows an extensive canal system that once was in Akron but is no more; now it is a series of hike and bike trails. The local metroparks systems also have plenty of great trails for running and biking.
 
Dining & Drinking
Get your morning pick-me-up at Angel Falls, a local coffee shop, or carb up at Wally Waffle, known for (you can probably guess) their waffles. For lunch, stop by Aladdin's Eatery for some hummus and shawarma, or swing by Mr. Zub's for one of the funky, eclectic sandwiches, "stuff you wouldn't normally find at a typical sandwich place."
 
In the evening, hit up the Highland Tavern for a low-key pub environment with a large beer selection. If you feel like dancing, the Square Bar has more of that nightclub atmosphere.

Retail Therapy
Highland Square also has some unique shopping. Vinyl purists will love Square Records, an independently-owned record store. Fahsionistas both male and female will love the clothing store Revival.