Akron, Ohio, is taking a page from its neighbor to the north, Cleveland, in creating a buzzworthy attraction that’s drawing both locals and visitors alike. Just like Cleveland’s iconic script signs, the newly installed sign at Akron Family Restaurant is quickly becoming a beloved photo backdrop, celebrating the city in a vibrant and engaging way.
Located along West Market Street, a major thoroughfare in Akron, the Akron Family Restaurant at 254 W. Market St., has erected a large, colorful block letter sign spelling out “Akron.” This eye-catching display is reminiscent of the successful “Cleveland” signs that have become social media sensations and tourist magnets since their introduction by Destination Cleveland in 2016. People flock to these signs to pose, climb, and capture their Cleveland memories.
Nicholas Corpas, the owner of Akron Family Restaurant, which has been serving the community since 1986, explained his inspiration. “I just wanted to bring some light into Akron and incorporate what Cleveland is doing with their signs but put color into mine,” he said. His vision was to create something that resonated with the local community, and the color scheme of the sign is a testament to that.
The vibrant colors of the letters are a tribute to several prominent Akron institutions:
- Blue and Gold: Representing the University of Akron and Archbishop Hoban High School.
- Green and Gold: Honoring St. Vincent-St. Mary and Firestone High School.
- Maroon and Gold: Paying homage to Walsh Jesuit High School.
- Purple and Gold: A nod to the I PROMISE School and its renowned benefactor, LeBron James.
“All these are local institutions that I thought represented Akron,” Corpas stated. He also highlighted the restaurant’s connection with the I PROMISE School, recalling their efforts to provide meals for hundreds of families during the initial COVID-19 shutdown, reinforcing the sign’s symbolic representation of community support and local pride.
The Ellet Sign Company constructed and installed the sign in June 2021. Despite a low-key installation, word quickly spread about Akron’s newest photo opportunity.
Darci Bingham, an employee at Akron Family Restaurant, noted the sign’s immediate popularity, especially during a basketball showcase hosted by St. Vincent-St. Mary in July 2022. The event, “The Battle,” featuring Bronny James, drew significant attention to the area. “We had a lot of visitors come in during the basketball tournament, including a Canadian team — which had to have come here three or four times,” Bingham recounted. She enjoyed welcoming visitors, showcasing Akron, and watching people interact with the sign.
Corpas has also witnessed the sign’s magnetic appeal firsthand. “People are stopping by and taking photos; I’ve taken so many group photos of families who said they were driving by and wanted to stop and take a photo in front of our sign, and I believe that this is just something fun for the city,” he said.
Craig Kulieke, a long-time employee of 17 years at Akron Family Restaurant, emphasizes the sign’s role as a conversation starter and a draw for curious passersby. “I think it’s really cool; it’s like an attraction — and so many people have just stopped by without even eating to just take pictures. And there’s been so many families with children who crawl around inside of the ‘O’ — and it’s been great having it,” Kulieke shared. He even found the installation process itself to be entertaining and engaging.
Ashly Watts, an 11-year employee, highlighted the sign’s broader appeal, particularly during events like Founder’s Day Weekend in June. “Anybody traveling, they always want to take group pictures in front of it, everyone seems to love it, and I know last year for Founder’s Day Weekend in June when people came in from all around the country we ended up taking a lot of pictures of people with the sign — so it’s just been a joy to have,” Watts said.
The sign at Akron Family Restaurant is more than just a restaurant advertisement; it’s a vibrant symbol of Akron pride and community spirit. It’s a welcoming beacon for visitors and a fun, interactive landmark for residents. So, next time you’re in Akron, be sure to stop by Akron Family Restaurant, grab a bite, and capture your own Akron moment with this fantastic sign.
