Dr Bob's Home Akron
Historic home of AA co-founder Dr. Bob Smith, a pilgrimage site for recovery and a testament to the fellowship's enduring legacy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Dr Bob's Home Akron
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic home of AA co-founder Dr. Bob Smith, a pilgrimage site for recovery and a testament to the fellowship's enduring legacy.
"If you're 'one of us,' you owe it to yourself to come to Akron."
🙏 Be Open to the Experience
This is a place of deep personal meaning for many. Embrace the history and shared stories.
🚶♀️ Walk the 12 Steps
Take time to reflect on the symbolic steps leading to the house. A powerful moment.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.9 · 937 reviews
Website
drbobshome.orgHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Home
855 Ardmore Ave, Akron, OH 44302
Step into the actual house where Dr. Bob Smith lived and AA found its footing. A truly moving experience for many.
Volunteer-Led Tours
Inside Dr. Bob's Home
Gain deep insights into AA history and personal recovery stories from passionate volunteers.
The 12 Steps Leading to the Porch
Exterior path to the house
Symbolic steps representing the core principles of Alcoholics Anonymous, offering a moment of reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Significance
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🙏 Be Open to the Experience
This is a place of deep personal meaning for many. Embrace the history and shared stories.
🚶♀️ Walk the 12 Steps
Take time to reflect on the symbolic steps leading to the house. A powerful moment.
Dr. Bob’s House. Akron, OH.
I was lucky enough to visit there last month when I was on a trip to the US. I sat on his verandah in bright sunlight, feeling very serene. The people who guide and who man the shop are lovely.
Home of the First AA Meeting. Akron, OH
Going to Akron made AA real for me. Growing up, I had a nagging suspicion that I was the product of a scientific experiment, since nothing really made sense. I went to Akron, saw the places shown in pictures in meeting rooms and AA history books, and thought "They couldn't…
🛍️ Visit the Gift Shop
Find unique souvenirs and literature related to AA history. Highly recommended!
🗣️ Engage with Volunteers
The volunteers' experience, strength, and hope make the visit truly memorable.
Tips
from all over the internet
🙏 Be Open to the Experience
This is a place of deep personal meaning for many. Embrace the history and shared stories.
🚶♀️ Walk the 12 Steps
Take time to reflect on the symbolic steps leading to the house. A powerful moment.
🛍️ Visit the Gift Shop
Find unique souvenirs and literature related to AA history. Highly recommended!
🗣️ Engage with Volunteers
The volunteers' experience, strength, and hope make the visit truly memorable.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Dr. Bob's Home as a deeply meaningful and moving experience, particularly for those connected to Alcoholics Anonymous. The knowledgeable and welcoming volunteers are a highlight, sharing personal stories and historical insights that enrich the visit. While primarily a site of historical and spiritual significance, the gift shop also receives positive mentions.
"I've visited Dr.Bob's Home three times with friends from the Program. Each time was wonderfully memorable.
The volunteers are always fantastic and share their experience, strength and hope.
If you're a Muslim you go to Mecca. If you're "one of us" you owe it to yourself to come to Akron."
Stephen Jones
"What an experience the history that is shared with you when you go in there. I left with such a deeper appreciation for AA and of recovery. Even to the 12 steps that lead to the porch of the house have a meaning insignificance"
Karen Watson
"Is a nice place to visit and learn about A.A. history. You get the tour experience by a volunteer and they will make the difference in your life."
Eddie Lopez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dr. Bob's Home is located at 855 Ardmore Ave, Akron, OH 44302. It's accessible by car, and parking is usually available nearby. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach this historic site.
Yes, the address 855 Ardmore Ave, Akron, OH 44302 is straightforward to navigate to. Many visitors find it a significant landmark in Akron.
From downtown Akron, head west on Market Street, then turn right onto Ardmore Avenue. Dr. Bob's Home will be on your left. It's a well-known location for those familiar with AA history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While there isn't a strict ticket purchase system, donations are highly encouraged to support the upkeep of Dr. Bob's Home. Tours are often free, but contributing is appreciated.
Visiting hours can vary, and it's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on tour availability and operating times.
Typically, there is no set admission fee, but donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain this historic site and its mission.
Tours are the primary way to experience Dr. Bob's Home, as they are led by knowledgeable volunteers who share the history and significance of the location.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect a deeply personal and informative tour led by volunteers who share their experience, strength, and hope, along with the history of AA's founding. It's a moving experience for many.
The entire home serves as an exhibit, showcasing the living space of Dr. Bob Smith and artifacts related to the early days of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Accessibility information can vary. It's advisable to contact Dr. Bob's Home directly to inquire about specific accessibility features for visitors with mobility challenges.
Photography policies may vary. It's best to ask your tour guide or check for posted signs regarding photography inside the home to respect the sanctity of the space.
The 12 steps leading to the porch are a symbolic representation of the core principles of Alcoholics Anonymous, offering a moment of reflection and connection to the program's foundation.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the house, especially with the 12 steps leading to the porch, offers iconic photo opportunities. Ask your guide about any interior photography permissions.
It's generally best to ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially volunteers who are sharing personal stories. Respect their privacy.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit