Welcome to Fairlawn, Ohio
Whether you are new to Fairlawn or have lived in the area for years, there are plenty of ways to explore the community. Families can visit Croghan Park, walk the boardwalk trails at Fort Island/Griffiths Park, explore programs at the Fairlawn Nature Center, or spend time shopping and dining around Summit Mall. This Fairlawn, Ohio community guide brings together local parks, family activities, schools, restaurants, churches, events and community resources in one place. You can also learn more about Heartland Community Church and the programs available to Fairlawn-area families who are looking for a church community.
Fairlawn offers a mix of parks, nature programs, restaurants, shopping, community events and family resources. Below, you can explore places to visit, local schools, churches, volunteer opportunities and other resources that can help you get more connected with the Fairlawn community.
Things to Do
Looking for things to do in Fairlawn? Explore local parks, nature programs, shopping, family activities and seasonal community events happening in and around the city.
Read MorePlaces of Worship
Explore local churches and worship communities where you and your family can feel connected and supported.
Read MoreCommunity Resources
Looking for support or ways to get involved? Explore local services, volunteer options, and helpful programs available across Fairlawn.
Read MoreResources Connections Information Events for you.
Frequently asked questions
Every community is unique. These are some of the frequently asked questions people in Fairlawn are searching on Google, along with a few we think are worth asking too.
What are some of the best parks in Fairlawn, Ohio?
Fairlawn maintains several public parks, including Croghan Park, Fairlawn Park, Fort Island/Griffiths Park, Wood Park and Bicentennial Park. Croghan Park includes a .36-mile walking path, playground equipment, tennis courts, basketball courts, handball courts and picnic areas. Fort Island/Griffiths Park is also home to the Fairlawn Nature Center and boardwalk trails through the surrounding natural area.
Families looking for outdoor activities can also check the City of Fairlawn Parks and Recreation calendar for guided hikes, nature programs and seasonal events.
What are some activities that families can do together in Fairlawn, Ohio?
Fairlawn has several family-friendly activities throughout the year. Croghan Park has a playground, walking path, sports courts and picnic areas, while Fort Island/Griffiths Park offers trails and access to the Fairlawn Nature Center.
The Nature Center hosts programs for children and families, including guided hikes, educational activities, camps and seasonal nature programs. Families can also visit the Fairlawn-Bath Branch Library for books, public computers, meeting spaces and programs for different age groups. Summit Mall provides additional shopping, dining and indoor activities nearby.
Because programs and events change throughout the year, families can also check the City of Fairlawn Parks and Recreation calendar and the Fairlawn-Bath Branch Library event calendar for current activities.
How are the schools in Fairlawn, Ohio?
Students identified for gifted services have additional opportunities beginning in elementary school. In grades 5 through 8, the district provides advanced English language arts and math opportunities for qualifying students. At the high school level, students can choose from Honors and Advanced Placement courses, along with clubs and academic competitions.
Families comparing schools should review the district website and the latest Ohio School Report Cards for current academic performance, graduation and achievement data rather than relying on older rankings or third-party grades.
Does Fairlawn have international restaurants?
Yes. Fairlawn and the surrounding West Market Street area include restaurants representing several international cuisines.
Aladdin’s Eatery serves Lebanese-American and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, including hummus, wraps, salads and vegetarian options.
Bombay Grill serves Indian dishes such as curries, tandoori entrées, naan and other traditional favorites.
Casa Del Rio Express serves Mexican dishes including tacos, burritos, fajitas and combination meals.
Big Eye Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar offers sushi, sashimi, specialty rolls and Japanese entrées.
Restaurant hours and menus can change, so visitors should check each restaurant’s current website or listing before visiting.
What community events take place in Fairlawn each year?
Fairlawn hosts several community events and seasonal programs throughout the year. Fairlawn Fest brings together food trucks, vendors, entertainment and family activities, while the city also organizes summer concerts and other Parks and Recreation programs.
Seasonal events have also included Independence Day celebrations and a city Holiday Lighting event. Event schedules, locations and activities can change from year to year, especially while improvements are underway around Bicentennial Park and the Rosemont Preserve project.
For the most current dates and event details, check the City of Fairlawn Parks and Recreation calendar before attending.
Where can I volunteer in Fairlawn, Ohio?
One local option is the Fairlawn Nature Center, which welcomes volunteers to help with animal care, educational programs and maintenance of its pollinator gardens. The city’s naturalists also organize volunteer projects such as invasive plant removal in Fairlawn parks.
RAHAB Ministries has a Fairlawn location that accepts in-kind donations used to support its outreach programs, while other Summit County organizations provide additional opportunities involving food assistance, housing, conservation and community support.
Volunteer needs can change throughout the year, so contact the organization directly before arriving.
Things to Do
- Fort Island/Griffiths Park and Fairlawn Nature Center Fort Island/Griffiths Park is one of Fairlawn’s main outdoor recreation areas and is home to the Fairlawn Nature Center. Visitors can explore boardwalk trails, attend naturalist-led hikes and take part in educational programs offered throughout the year. The Nature Center also features environmental displays and live educational animals and is free to visit when open.
- Croghan Park
Croghan Park is a 7.5-acre city park at North Miller Road and Sand Run Parkway. Amenities include a .36-mile walking path, playground equipment, three tennis courts, two basketball courts, two handball courts, picnic tables and open areas for play. - Fairlawn-Bath Branch Library
The Fairlawn-Bath Branch Library serves as a local resource for books, technology, programs and community activities. The branch offers free Wi-Fi, public computers, meeting rooms, a StoryWalk and an ongoing calendar of programs and events. - Summit Mall
Summit Mall is one of Fairlawn’s main shopping destinations, with a mix of stores, restaurants and services. Its location along West Market Street also puts visitors close to many of Fairlawn’s other restaurants and businesses. - Fairlawn Fest and Community Events
Fairlawn hosts community events and seasonal programs throughout the year, including Fairlawn Fest, city recreation programs and seasonal celebrations. Because dates and locations can change each year, check the City of Fairlawn event calendar for the latest schedule before making plans. - Rosemont Preserve Project
Fairlawn is currently developing the Rosemont Preserve, a planned 66-acre passive-use nature preserve on part of the former Rosemont Country Club property. Plans include walking trails, stormwater and water-quality features, with Bicentennial Park serving as a trailhead. Construction is ongoing, so visitors should review the city’s project updates before attempting to access affected areas.
Places of Worship
Heartland Community Church
Located just a short 20-minute drive from the heart of Fairlawn, Heartland invites families to experience authentic community and connection. Worship is heartfelt, teaching is practical, and people genuinely care. Nearby, you’ll find the green beauty of F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm and the shopping and dining hub of Summit Mall.
Learn MoreGrace Church
Located in Bath Township near Fairlawn, Grace Church’s Bath Campus is part of Grace Church of Greater Akron and is built around a gospel-centered mission to “Know It, Live It, and Give It Away.” Weekend services run Saturday at 5:00 & 6:45 PM and Sunday at 9:00 & 10:45 AM, with online viewing available if you’d rather tune in from home.
Learn MoreValley Baptist Temple
Located in Fairlawn, Valley Baptist Temple is an independent Baptist church that invites the community to worship and grow through Bible-centered teaching. Their posted weekly schedule includes Sunday services at 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 6:00 PM, plus a Wednesday service at 7:00 PM.
Learn MoreCommunity Resources
- Stewart’s Caring Place
Stewart’s Caring Place is a nonprofit cancer wellness center that provides free support services for individuals and families impacted by cancer. Programs can include support groups, educational resources, and wellness services designed to help people cope and connect.
Address: 3501 Ridge Park Dr, Fairlawn, OH 44333 • Website: stewartscaringplace.org • Phone: 330-836-1772
- RAHAB Ministries
RAHAB Ministries supports individuals and families through outreach and practical assistance, and this Fairlawn location serves as a drop-off point for in-kind donations. Donations collected here help staff and volunteers meet needs in the community through their programs.
Address: 3480 W Market St, Suite 303, Fairlawn, OH 44333 • Website: rahab-ministries.org • Phone: 330-819-3326 - Goodwill – Fairlawn Attended Donation Center
Goodwill accepts donated clothing and household goods at this Fairlawn attended donation center. Donations support Goodwill’s mission programs, including workforce development and employment services in the region.
Address: 565 S Cleveland Massillon Rd, Fairlawn, OH 44333 • Website: goodwillgoodskills.org