I realize now that there are two physical activities that generate really happy memories for me - swimming and skating.  To float in the summer in a beautiful happy place like Frostburg Pool - makes me happy.  To glide on the ice and feel the brisk sensation of flying, leaving the earth's gravitational pull in a place like Lock 3 in Akron- makes me happy.

I highly recommend a getaway to Akron in the Winter.  Sure, Cleveland has the outside rink downtown and at University Circle - but these rinks are, well, dinky.  Lock 3 offers a larger experience at a better price ($3) compared to the exorbitant ($10) for the rink in Cleveland's Public Square.  You also have the option in Akron to bring your own skates to skate for free.  There is also a warm commons area adjacent to the Children's Museum at Lock 3, where you can bring your own packed lunch, and Lock 3 is also located along the Ohio and Erie Canal towpath.

If you decide to stay for the weekend, the Courtyard Marriott is immediately accessible from the Ohio and Erie Canal towpath.  There are bike rentals from SummitCity cycle available at the hotel.  The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad station is also adjacent to the hotel.  FREE Thursdays at the Akron Art Museum are within walking distance and for nightlife, the club Blu Jazz +- is within the same radius as the Courtyard Marriott and the art museum. 

It is also cool to note that Akron is merging their amazing cultural history into an artist residency known as the Akron Soul Train. Stay tuned.