Summit Metro Parks We're Your Back Yard

Programs & Events

Program & Events Calendar

To join a virtual program, visit www.zoom.com and enter the Zoom meeting ID.

Summit Metro Parks staff can adapt many programs to be accessible to anyone who would like to participate. Please make the request at the time of registration and/or at least 72 hours prior to the program. Contact us at 330-865-8065.

On the rare occasion of a program cancelation or change, please visit us on social media to see the latest information.

AprilMayJune

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 01, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

FLOWERS, FERNS & FUNGI - OH, MY!


April showers bring more than flowers. Join a naturalist on a hike to look for seasonal wildflowers, ferns and fungi. Meet at the Indian Spring Trailhead. MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Sunday, June 02, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

INTRO TO ARCHERY FOR ADULTS


Archery is one of the oldest arts still practiced today, and it's more accessible than ever. Adults 16 and older can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our outdoor range. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 5/14: Register here. SC/Archery Range

Leaf Icon Sunday, June 02, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

BANK SWALLOW WATCH


Join a naturalist to view the aerial acrobatics of bank swallows. These small birds put on quite a show diving through the air and flitting in and out of their nests in the steep, sandy riverbank. Spotting scopes and binoculars will be available. CV/Overlook

Leaf Icon Sunday, June 02, 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY FOR FAMILIES


Archery is one of the oldest arts still practiced today, and it's more accessible than ever. Families with children ages 9 and older join us to learn international-style target archery together. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 50 inches or taller. Cost: $15/family. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 5/14: 330-865-8065. SC/Archery Range

Leaf Icon Monday, June 03, 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

INSECTS AND SPIDERS WALK


Discover beneficial “bugs” through magnification aids to get close-up views. Program will begin in the shelter and includes a walk on an accessible trail. Nets and jars will be provided for insect collection and observation. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Tuesday, June 04, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

MUSIC BY THE LAKE


Enjoy free lake swimming from 3 to 6:45 p.m. and a one-hour concert by the Metro Parks Ensemble near Maple Beach Shelter at 7 p.m. Concert canceled if it rains. Call 330-865-8060 if wet weather is in the forecast. MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Wednesday, June 05, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

FUN FACTS HIKE


What are hummingbird nests made of? How did the box turtle get its name? Join a naturalist for a fun hike to discover the answers to these questions and more! FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Wednesday, June 05, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

LOOKIN' UNDER LOGS


All ages: ever wonder what's hiding in the soil under logs in the forest? Come and find out! We'll hike along the trail and step off-trail to investigate. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Wednesday, June 05, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KINDEREALM CAMPFIRE: PICNIC


Children 3 to 6 and their families can explore nature at a picnic. Pack a picnic or bring hot dogs to roast over the campfire. Bring a t-shirt to tie-dye! We'll provide condiments, lemonade, marshmallows and dye. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Thursday, June 06, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

KINDEREALM CAMPFIRE: PICNIC


Children 3 to 6 and their families can explore nature at a picnic. Pack a picnic or bring hot dogs to roast over the campfire. Bring a t-shirt to tie-dye! We'll provide condiments, lemonade, marshmallows and dye. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Thursday, June 06, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

APEX PREDATOR HIKE


Join a naturalist to explore the top of the food chain: apex predators. As we hike we will discuss Ohio's top predators, past, present and future. SFB

Leaf Icon Thursday, June 06, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Join a naturalist on a leisurely stroll with frequent stops along the way to discover nature. HH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Friday, June 07, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

FISHING FRIDAY


Join us for a fun morning of fishing! Each month a native Ohio fish found in the Metro Parks will be highlighted. Poles and bait will be provided while supplies last. Participants 16 and older must have a fishing license. WH

Leaf Icon Friday, June 07, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

POLLINATORS FOR KIDS


Calling all kids and their adult companions! Join a naturalist to explore the fascinating world of pollinators and insects. Some nets and jars will be available to use. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, June 07, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

HIKE & FIRE


Hike Cherry Lane Trail to learn about local wildlife, then relax around the fire and roast marshmallows. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Friday, June 07, 8:30 PM - 10:00 PM

BATS FOR FAMILIES


Come learn about beneficial bats during this family-friendly presentation, then take a short walk to look for these winged wonders. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 08, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

OSPREY WATCH


Stop by to use spotting scopes and binoculars to catch views of this avian acrobat soaring above, hovering in place, and diving feet first into the water in search of prey. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 08, 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

YOGA: VINYASA


Enjoy an active vinyasa yoga practice with a certified instructor. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 5/25: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 08, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATIVE VINES AND SHRUBS OF OHIO


Did you know that poison ivy is a native vine? Learn which native vines and shrubs are found in the parks, how they are important for wildlife and how to incorporate them into your back yard. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 08, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

ARCHERY GAMES FOR ADULTS


Ages 16 and older will play different games to build archery skills in a fun and exciting way. Participants must have already taken one of our Intro to Archery programs. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 5/14: 330-865-8065. SC/Archery Range

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 08, 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

ARCHERY GAMES FOR FAMILIES


Families will play games to build archery skills in a fun and exciting way. Participants must have already taken one of our Intro to Archery programs. Equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be at least 9 years old and 50" inches or taller. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 5/14: 330-865-8065. SC/Archery Range

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 08, 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM

MARVELOUS MOTHS


Join a naturalist to attract moths to a white sheet using special lights, and observe these insects' amazingly beautiful colors, shapes and patterns up close. Bring a flashlight and camera. Meet at Tuscarawas Shelter. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Sunday, June 09, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

UNCOMMON TREES OF SMP


Join us as we search for American bladdernut, blue beech, shingle oak and many more uncommon trees found along the trail. We will also discuss the impact invasive species have on the area and local wildlife. CV/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Monday, June 10, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

NATURE TRIVIA HIKE


Did you know? Hummingbirds are the only birds that can fly backward, and opossums are only as big as a grain of rice when born? Discover other cool facts about wildlife during this hike. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Monday, June 10, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

KINDEREALM CAMPFIRE: PICNIC


Children 3 to 6 and their families can explore nature at a picnic. Pack a picnic or bring hot dogs to roast over the campfire. Bring a t-shirt to tie-dye! We'll provide condiments, lemonade, marshmallows and dye. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, June 10, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM

WATER MONSTERS


Families will enjoy learning about the unique and irreplaceable "monsters" that live in our waters. Wear shoes that can get wet so you can have a closer peek. F/Little Turtle Pond

Leaf Icon Tuesday, June 11, 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

URBAN EATS


Stop by to learn about food in the city with Summit Metro Parks and Let's Grow Akron. We'll talk access, opportunity and community! TT/Summit Lake

Leaf Icon Tuesday, June 11, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

MUSIC BY THE LAKE


Enjoy free lake swimming from 3 to 6:45 p.m. and a one-hour concert by the Metro Parks Ensemble near Sherman Shelter at 7 p.m. Concert canceled if it rains. Call 330-865-8060 if wet weather is in the forecast. SC/Lake House

Leaf Icon Wednesday, June 12, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

DRAWING OUTDOORS


Bring your drawing pad and pencils for an outdoor lesson in drawing. Beginners are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program. Portable chairs and drinking water are recommended. Program will be canceled during inclement weather. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, June 12, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

KIDS' FISHING


Kids 15 and younger can learn the basics of fishing, then drop a line in Brushwood Lake. Some rods and reels will be available for use. Bait is provided. Adults must supervise their children, but are not permitted to fish during the program. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Wednesday, June 12, 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

SCALY & SLIMY STORYTIME


Families with beginner readers of all ages: grab your favorite book and enjoy an interactive story time experience with our live animals. We'll read some stories together, meet a critter, then read your favorite book with your family. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 5/31: 330-865-8065. TT/SLNC

Leaf Icon Wednesday, June 12, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

SCALY & SLIMY STORYTIME


Families with beginner readers of all ages: grab your favorite book and enjoy an interactive story time experience with our live animals. We'll read some stories together, meet a critter, then read your favorite book with your family. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 5/31: 330-865-8065. TT/SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, June 13, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

POLLINATORS FOR KIDS


Calling all kids and their adult companions! Join a naturalist to explore the fascinating world of pollinators and insects. Some nets and jars will be available to use. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Thursday, June 13, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

KINDEREALM CAMPFIRE: PICNIC


Children ages 3 to 6 and their families can explore nature at a picnic. Pack a picnic or bring hot dogs to roast over the campfire. Bring a t-shirt to tie-dye! We'll provide condiments, lemonade, marshmallows and dye. FASN

Leaf Icon Thursday, June 13, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KIDS NATURE ART


Ages 6 to 12 join our interpretive artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. TT/SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, June 13, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

GARDENING THROUGH THE YEAR


This month, learn about selecting healthy plants, hardening them off and the correct way to plant them. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, June 13, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

CONSERVATION MATTERS!


Join Summit Metro Parks Chief of Conservation Mike Johnson at the opening of the "Conservation Matters!" exhibit for a presentation about the park district's conservation program. From prairie burns to cloning technology, learn what is happening behind the scenes to support endangered ecosystems and species, and nationally significant historical and archaeological sites. Light refreshments will be served. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, June 14, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

DROP-IN DISCOVERY: AWESOME AMPHIBIANS


Children and their adult companions can drop in to learn about some awesome amphibians that may be out and about this season. Meet one of our resident amphibians and make a craft to take home. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, June 14, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

POND CRITTERS FOR KIDS


Children and adult companions can discover the critters that make their homes in pond water, plants and muck! We're getting hands-on, so dress for a mess! SC/Big Oak

Leaf Icon Friday, June 14, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT: OZONE BAND


Enjoy the unique funk and roll/rock and soul music of the Ozone Band at this free concert, presented by the City of Akron. For more, call 330-375- 2311 or visit akronohio.gov. GYH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Friday, June 14, 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM

MOTHS OF SAND RUN


Join us to learn how to attract these amazing creatures, and for a chance to observe their beautiful colors, shapes and patterns up close. Big silk moths might even join us for the evening! Bring a flashlight, bug spray and camera. SR/Mingo

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 15, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

BANK SWALLOW WATCH


Join a naturalist to view the aerial acrobatics of bank swallows. These small birds put on quite a show diving through the air and flitting in and out of their nests in the steep, sandy riverbank. Spotting scopes and binoculars will be available. CV/Overlook

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 15, 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

GORGE KAYAK


Paddle the Cuyahoga River at the Gorge to see towering rock ledges and breathtaking scenery from your kayak. Led by a certified instructor and a naturalist. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: loan of kayak, paddle, personal flotation device and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 5/29: Register here. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 15, 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM

NATURE ART FOR TEENS


Do you have a creative spirit? Teens ages 13 to 17 can join our interpretive artist for lessons in nature-inspired art. This is a drop-off program. Please dress for a mess. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 6/1: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 15, 12:30 PM - 3:00 PM

GORGE KAYAK


Paddle the Cuyahoga River at the Gorge to see towering rock ledges and breathtaking scenery from your kayak. Led by a certified instructor and a naturalist. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: loan of kayak, paddle, personal flotation device and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 5/29: Register here. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Sunday, June 16, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

FATHER'S DAY HIKE


Enjoy a morning hike with the father figure in your life. We’ll search for turtles, birds and other creatures who become fathers in spring and learn how animal dads help take care of their young. FASN

Leaf Icon Sunday, June 16, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

NATURE FOR FAMILIES: POND CRITTERS


Join this hands-on nature exploration series for the whole family. This month we'll explore life in the pond. We will be outside for the entire program. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, June 17, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

HIKE FOR THE HEALTH OF IT


Hike both Pheasant Run and Chippewa trails at a vigorous pace with few, if any, rest stops. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Monday, June 17, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

RIVER STROLL


The Cuyahoga River has come a long way, and this year we celebrate 50 years of environmental recovery. Take a hike along its banks to learn about its storied past and look forward to its bright future. CV/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Tuesday, June 18, 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM

NATURE JOURNALING: AQUATIC INSECTS


Learn basic journaling techniques to record your nature observations. This month we'll learn about aquatic insects first by catching, then by journaling. Taking photos is optional. A one-time registration fee for the monthly series includes a journal, journal pen and pencil. Cost: $20/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 6/4: Register here. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Tuesday, June 18, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

CANAL & RIVER HIKE


Join a naturalist on a hike to explore how Ohio's canal and river systems are recovering from decades of unhealthy conditions. TT/Clinton

Leaf Icon Tuesday, June 18, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

RANDOM ACT OF MUSIC


Weather permitting, the all-volunteer Metro Parks Ensemble will perform an hour of kid-friendly favorites for the whole family. Call 330-865-8060 after 4 p.m. to learn if the concert is cancelled due to inclement weather. CV/Chuckery

Leaf Icon Wednesday, June 19, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

DRAWING OUTDOORS


Bring your drawing pad and pencils for an outdoor lesson in drawing. Beginners are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program. Portable chairs and drinking water are recommended. Program will be canceled during inclement weather. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, June 19, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

WILDLIFE WEDNESDAY


Come explore the grounds of Liberty Park looking for critters! We will be looking for all things furry, feathery, slimy and scaly. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, June 19, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

WATER MONSTERS


Families will enjoy learning about the unique and irreplaceable "monsters" that live in our waters. Wear shoes that can get wet so you can have a closer peek. Everett Road Covered Bridge: 2370 Everett Rd. Peninsula, OH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, June 19, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

SOUNDS OF SUMMER CAMPFIRE


Families are invited to spend an evening around the campfire to learn about the critters that are creating the symphony of summer sounds we hear at night. Marshmallows will be available, while supplies last. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Thursday, June 20, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

FUN FACTS FOR KIDS


How do frogs survive frigid winters? Can toads give you warts? Join a naturalist for a fun hike to discover the answers to these questions and more! FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, June 20, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Leaf Icon Thursday, June 20, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

CAMPFIRE KICKOFF


Join a naturalist for a hike followed by a campfire to kick off the summer season. Marshmallows will be provided, while supplies last. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, June 21, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

CUYAHOGA RIVER HOMECOMING


The City of Akron's annual Blue Heron Homecoming has been renamed the Cuyahoga River Homecoming this year to celebrate river's renewal in the 50 years since it famously caught fire. This family-friendly event will be held in conjunction with celebrations happening all over Northeast Ohio and will feature exhibits and activities for all ages. For more information, visit http://www.akronwaterwaysrenewed.com/community/blue-heron-homecoming.aspx. CV/Chuckery

Leaf Icon Friday, June 21, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT: THE RHYTHM SYNDICATE


Enjoy soul, Motown, classic rock and blues with The Rhythm Syndicate at this free concert, presented by the City of Akron. For more, call 330- 375-2311 or visit akronohio.gov. GYH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Friday, June 21, 9:00 PM - 10:30 PM

SUMMER SOLSTICE NIGHT HIKE


Experience nature in the evening while we enjoy a hike on the shortest night of the year. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 22, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

SNAKES IN THE WILD


Join a naturalist to learn about Ohio's native snakes, how to identify them and where to find them in the wild. SFB

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 22, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

FAMILY BIKE RIDE


Enjoy a ride on the Towpath Trail at a moderate pace with a naturalist. See how many scavenger hunt items you can find during the ride. Bring a sack lunch to enjoy. Helmets required. DLQ

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 22, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

SALAMANDERS OF SMP


Discover the importance of salamanders in Summit Metro Parks. Many of the 12 species found here will be on display for viewing. We will hike a trail to see how many we can find! FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, June 23, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NIMISILA RESERVOIR KAYAK


Paddle a portion of Nimisila Reservoir with a certified instructor and a naturalist to learn paddle strokes, safety and see wildlife around the water. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: loan of kayak, paddle, personal flotation device and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 6/6: Register here. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Sunday, June 23, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

NIMISILA RESERVOIR KAYAK


Paddle a portion of Nimisila Reservoir with a certified instructor and a naturalist to learn paddle strokes, safety and see wildlife around the water. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: loan of kayak, paddle, personal flotation device and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 6/6: Register here. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Sunday, June 23, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

TIE-DYE FLAGS & CAMPFIRE


Get ready for the Fourth of July by learning some flag history and tie-dying your own flag by the campfire. All materials and marshmallows are included. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, June 24, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

NATIVE AMERICAN SKILLS DAY CAMP


Kids ages 7 to 10 will enjoy this two-day summer adventure with fun, hands-on experiences. We will learn Native American skills and play games while exploring the park. Please pack a lunch and dress to be outside for long periods of time. Cost: $20/child. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 4/1: Register here. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, June 25, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

NATIVE AMERICAN SKILLS DAY CAMP


Kids ages 7 to 10 will enjoy this two-day summer adventure with fun, hands-on experiences. We will learn Native American skills and play games while exploring the park. Please pack a lunch and dress to be outside for long periods of time. Cost: $20/child. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 4/1: Register here. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, June 25, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

O'NEIL WOODS HISTORY


Hike with a naturalist to learn the history of O’Neil Woods Metro Park. ONW/Trail Lot

Leaf Icon Wednesday, June 26, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

KIDS' FISHING


Kids 15 and younger will learn the basics of fishing, then drop a line in Little Turtle Pond. A few rods and reels will be available for use. Bait is provided. Adults must supervise their children but are not permitted to fish. F/Little Turtle Pond

Leaf Icon Wednesday, June 26, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Join a naturalist to hike Quarry Trail, with stops along the way to discover nature and history. DLQ

Leaf Icon Wednesday, June 26, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN


Join the Master Gardeners of Summit County to learn about newly created public landscapes in the Akron/Cleveland area. Presented by Kyle Lukes, senior landscape architect, Environmental Design Group. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, June 27, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

PRESCHOOL EXPLORERS


Get outside and enjoy nature through this monthly series for children ages 3 to 5. Each month we will explore a seasonal topic that will engage the senses and encourage self-exploration. Program will be outside, so please dress for the weather. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, June 27, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

HIKE BY THE BROOK


Learn a little about the history of Pond Brook while we hike. We may even spot some brookside wildlife! LP/Pond Brook

Leaf Icon Friday, June 28, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

FOSSILS FOR KIDS


Follow a naturalist while you explore the stream to hunt for fossils. Closed-toe, waterproof boots or shoes that can get wet are required. Adults must accompany their children. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Friday, June 28, 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

SIDEWALK NATURE


Join a naturalist to examine the nature that can be found right under your feet, in the cracks of the sidewalk and amid the lawn. Families welcome! TT/SLNC

Leaf Icon Friday, June 28, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT: BLUE LUNCH


Enjoy the blues music of Blue Lunch at this free concert, presented by the City of Akron. For more, call 330-375-2311 or visit akronohio.gov. GYH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Friday, June 28, 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM

MOTHS OF LIBERTY PARK


Join a naturalist to learn how to use special lights to attract these amazing creatures, and for a chance to observe their beautiful colors, shapes and patterns up close. Bring a flashlight and camera for photos. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 29, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

WOODLAND MUSHROOMS


Have you seen any mushrooms popping up these days? Join a naturalist on a leisurely hike in search of these interesting "fun guys." FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 29, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

SUMMIT LAKE KAYAK


Paddle in the “Heart of Akron” at Summit Lake to learn what historical treasures helped build this community. Led by a certified instructor and a naturalist. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: loan of kayak, paddle, personal flotation device and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 6/7: Register here. TT/Summit Lake

Leaf Icon Saturday, June 29, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

SUMMIT LAKE KAYAK


Paddle in the “Heart of Akron” at Summit Lake to learn what historical treasures helped build this community. Led by a certified instructor and a naturalist. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: loan of kayak, paddle, personal flotation device and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 6/7: Register here. TT/Summit Lake

Leaf Icon Sunday, June 30, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

BEGINNER STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING


Try stand-up paddleboarding, the fastest growing water sport, to get a workout and enjoy nature. A certified instructor and a naturalist will guide you. No experience needed. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: loan of paddleboard, paddle, personal flotation device and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 6/12: Register here. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Sunday, June 30, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

BEGINNER STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING


Try stand-up paddleboarding, the fastest growing water sport, to get a workout and enjoy nature. A certified instructor and a naturalist will guide you. No experience needed. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: loan of paddleboard, paddle, personal flotation device and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 6/12: Register here. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Sunday, June 30, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

DRAGONFLIES OF SILVER CREEK


Join us as we learn about dragonflies and document them for the Ohio Dragonfly Survey using iNaturalist. We'll search several areas to see how many species we can find. Bring a camera and bug spray. SC/Big Oak