Amphibian Adventure
Get an up-close experience searching for amphibians and other water-loving creatures. We'll learn what makes them slimy, small and special. Be prepared to get wet. Closed-toe water shoes required.
35 events found.
Nature Education
Beginning January 2026, all program registration will be online. Registration will now open at 8:30 a.m. on the first day of the month prior to the program. Please register for the individuals in your household only. If you have questions regarding this new process, please call Nature Realm Visitors Center at 330-865-8065 (Wednesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday, 12 – 5 p.m.).
Programs & Events
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1 event,Warbler Warm UpJoin a naturalist as we get ready for warbler season and the Biggest Week in American Birding! We will review the basics of warbler identification and other important tidbits about our feathered friends. There will be several specimens preserved by taxidermy to provide a bird's eye view of the many species that will be migrating […] |
2 events,Virtual: Biggest Week BirdsJoin us online to discover the amazing avian journeys that are occurring now, right in our own back yards! We'll meet some migratory bird species, talk hot spots and share our love for these special groups of songbirds. Zoom meeting ID: 485 730 2450 Peep Peep Peep HikeBring a flashlight, wear insect repellent and hike with a naturalist along the 1.6-mile Celebration Trail to listen for one of the first, best signs of spring: the male spring peeper's mating call! |
3 events,Eye Spy: Hard ModeSMP's hit trail hunt is back! Hike along the 0.6-mile Cherry Lane Trail any time through May 15 for a challenge in the woods. Remember, this is not your nana's eye spy! Kids in the GardenJoin us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. Good Garden Talks: Plant SwapJoin us to swap some plants! These can be cuttings from plants in your yard or freshly grown from seed. Plants should be labeled by name and contained in pots. Vegetables, herbs and native plants are preferred, but all plants are welcome! All are encouraged to attend, even without plants to share. In the event […] |
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1 event,Spring Bird StrollFor some folks, spring means birds. We are those folks! Join a naturalist on a guided hike to see which bird species are passing through during the migration. Bring binoculars and a field guide if you've got 'em! |
4 events,Self-Guided Storybook Trail: The Garden Next DoorEnjoy some exercise and fun while following a self-guided story trail based on the book, “The Garden Next Door.” This experience will be available along the .25-mile Maple Loop Trail through May 26. Peak Migration Bird WalkHappy Biggest Week in American Birding! Hike the 1.6-mile Celebration Trail with a naturalist to spot neotropical migrants on their journeys north. Along the way, discover how bird lovers can better support our avian friends at home. Please bring binoculars and a bird guide. Smartphone BirdingSo often our phones take us away from nature, but that doesn't have to be the case! Come for a high-tech bird walk on the 1.4-mile Alder Trail and explore how you can enhance your birding experience with technology. |
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1 event,Wandering for Warblers Day TripJoin park naturalists for an all-day exploration of the Warbler Capital of the World during the Biggest Week in American Birding. The tour bus will depart F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm at 6 a.m. for the famed Magee Marsh and other birding hotspots, returning at 6 p.m. Be prepared for extensive walking on boardwalks and trails. […] |
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3 events,Kids in the GardenJoin us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. Spring Ephemeral Seed Harvest WorkshopJoin a naturalist to learn the art of spring ephemeral seed identification, collection and preservation, then get hands-on as we collect native seeds as a group. You will go home with some of your bounty! Black Light Night HikePeek just beyond the visible spectrum and explore the world of nature by black light. Hike the 1.6-mile Willow Trail after dark to discover how nature sends signals just out of our sight. |
2 events,Spring Nature TalesYoung children and their adult companions can celebrate spring with an interactive, spring-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the nature play area after the program. Friday Night FrogsVenture out on a night hike in search of frogs and discover the important roles amphibians play in our world. Please bring a headlamp or flashlight and come prepared to step off-trail in wet conditions.
Munroe Falls Metro Park
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1 event,Marvelous Moths of Riding Run Conservation AreaJoin a naturalist to attract moths using special lights and sheets as we observe these insects' amazingly beautiful colors, shapes and patterns up close. We will hope for the big silk moth to make an appearance! Bring a flashlight, camera and bug spray. Meet in the parking lot. |
1 event,Rocks and Minerals of SMP and OhioJoin a naturalist as we delve into the geology of Summit Metro Parks and Ohio. Discover the different types of rocks and minerals that contribute millions of dollars to Ohio's economy. Learn how these mineral deposits were formed and the mining techniques involved in their extraction. We will have hands-on examples to examine. |
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1 event,Kinderealm: LadybugsChildren ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will enjoy a game, craft, story and song centered around a much-loved critter that some cultures believe brings good luck: the ladybug! A short walk will be included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. |
4 events,Homeschoolers: Animal AmbassadorsHomeschoolers ages 7 to 12: Join a naturalist and the animal ambassadors of Summit Metro Parks to get up close and personal with some of the reptiles and amphibians that call our parks home. We'll also explore a trail and learn why wildlife conservation is important in the face of climate change. Homeschoolers: Animal AmbassadorsHomeschoolers ages 7 to 12: Join a naturalist and the animal ambassadors of Summit Metro Parks to get up close and personal with some of the reptiles and amphibians that call our parks home. We'll also explore a trail and learn why wildlife conservation is important in the face of climate change. Kids in the GardenJoin us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. |
1 event,Senior SaunterWhether you're a senior by age or just want to appreciate the outdoors at a leisurely pace, join us for a short walk to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of nature in spring. Bring a mug and enjoy a beverage and more nature conversation afterward. |
5 events,Inviting Biodiversity to Your Back YardWhat do butterflies, birds, fireflies and even salamanders have in common? They all need food, water, shelter and space to thrive. We'll discuss best practices to turn your back yard of any size into a well-rounded wildlife oasis for a variety of beloved native animals using a combination of native plants and wildlife-friendly features. 3rd Annual Native Plant FestivalKick off summer by welcoming wildlife into your yard with beautiful, beneficial native plants! Join Summit Metro Parks staff and local native plant nurseries to learn more about the vital role of native plants in our ecosystem. Browse a wide variety of plants available for purchase or attend an educational session to better understand how […] Backyard Bird BuffetBirdseed is not the only way to feed back yard birds! Did you know it takes over 6,000 caterpillars to feed one clutch of chickadees? Join a naturalist to discover how native plants can attract delicious insects to your back yard and create a diverse backyard bird buffet! |
2 events,Bug Hunt for KidsCome explore the insect world up close and personal! Remember to bring your own curiosity, but bug jars, sweep nets and other items will be provided. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Storytime in the Parks: Silly GeeseStay silly this spring! You and your 2 to 5 year olds will enjoy a goose-themed story, craft, games and short hike. |
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3 events,Self-Guided: ReptilesCome learn all about what reptiles might be right around the corner as you hike the 0.6-mile Cherry Lane Trail through May 31. From ponds full of turtles to snakes under logs, explore what makes these scaly creatures so unique. Kinderealm: LadybugsChildren ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will enjoy a game, craft, story and song centered around a much-loved critter that some cultures believe brings good luck: the ladybug! A short walk will be included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Meet Me in the Garden: Gardening as We AgeJoin Laura Akgerman, disability services coordinator at Ohio AgrAbility and OSU Extension for this month's session. Learn about good body mechanics, ergonomic gardening tools, safe lifting, sun safety, universal design and ideas for adapting your current work habits. We will review tools and structures that will help you continue gardening productively and safely as your […] |
1 event,Kids in the GardenJoin us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. |
1 event,Spring Nature TalesYoung children and their adult companions can celebrate spring in an interactive, spring-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the nature play area after the program. |
1 event,Swallow SwarmHave you ever seen a bird dig? Bank swallows do! Join a naturalist to learn about their behaviors and see them as they return to their nests above the Cuyahoga. |
1 event,Insect SafariGo on safari to sweep for beautiful and bizarre insects in the tall grasses alongside the trail. |
0 events,
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1 event,Bert Szabo Legacy Address with Jim McCormacJoin the Greater Akron Audubon Society to celebrate biodiversity and beyond with photographer and naturalist-extraordinaire Jim McCormac. Honoring the legacy of Bert Szabo, the park district's first naturalist, with the idea that "the more of us who care, the more likely that our natural world will survive," Jim will inspire us to protect and enhance […] |
1 event,Kinderealm: LadybugsChildren ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will enjoy a game, craft, story and song centered around a much-loved critter that some cultures believe brings good luck: the ladybug! A short walk will be included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. |
2 events,Wetland Wildflowers WalkHike the rich wetlands of Firestone's 1.1-mile Redwing Trail to learn about and enjoy spring's early blooming flowers. Kids in the GardenJoin us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. |
1 event,Color Hunt HikeJoin a naturalist on a short hike while we search for all the colors of the rainbow! Along the way, we'll chat about the science behind colors in nature |
0 events,
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Amphibian Adventure
Get an up-close experience searching for amphibians and other water-loving creatures. We'll learn what makes them slimy, small and special. Be prepared to get wet. Closed-toe water shoes required.
Warbler Warm Up
Join a naturalist as we get ready for warbler season and the Biggest Week in American Birding! We will review the basics of warbler identification and other important tidbits about our feathered friends. There will be several specimens preserved by taxidermy to provide a bird's eye view of the many species that will be migrating through in the coming weeks.…
Virtual: Biggest Week Birds
Join us online to discover the amazing avian journeys that are occurring now, right in our own back yards! We'll meet some migratory bird species, talk hot spots and share our love for these special groups of songbirds. Zoom meeting ID: 485 730 2450
Peep Peep Peep Hike
Bring a flashlight, wear insect repellent and hike with a naturalist along the 1.6-mile Celebration Trail to listen for one of the first, best signs of spring: the male spring peeper's mating call!
Eye Spy: Hard Mode
SMP's hit trail hunt is back! Hike along the 0.6-mile Cherry Lane Trail any time through May 15 for a challenge in the woods. Remember, this is not your nana's eye spy!
Kids in the Garden
Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden.
Good Garden Talks: Plant Swap
Join us to swap some plants! These can be cuttings from plants in your yard or freshly grown from seed. Plants should be labeled by name and contained in pots. Vegetables, herbs and native plants are preferred, but all plants are welcome! All are encouraged to attend, even without plants to share. In the event of inclement weather, the program…
Spring Bird Stroll
For some folks, spring means birds. We are those folks! Join a naturalist on a guided hike to see which bird species are passing through during the migration. Bring binoculars and a field guide if you've got 'em!
Self-Guided Storybook Trail: The Garden Next Door
Enjoy some exercise and fun while following a self-guided story trail based on the book, “The Garden Next Door.” This experience will be available along the .25-mile Maple Loop Trail through May 26.
Peak Migration Bird Walk
Happy Biggest Week in American Birding! Hike the 1.6-mile Celebration Trail with a naturalist to spot neotropical migrants on their journeys north. Along the way, discover how bird lovers can better support our avian friends at home. Please bring binoculars and a bird guide.
Smartphone Birding
So often our phones take us away from nature, but that doesn't have to be the case! Come for a high-tech bird walk on the 1.4-mile Alder Trail and explore how you can enhance your birding experience with technology.
Wandering for Warblers Day Trip
Join park naturalists for an all-day exploration of the Warbler Capital of the World during the Biggest Week in American Birding. The tour bus will depart F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm at 6 a.m. for the famed Magee Marsh and other birding hotspots, returning at 6 p.m. Be prepared for extensive walking on boardwalks and trails. Dress for variable weather conditions.…
Kids in the Garden
Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden.
Spring Ephemeral Seed Harvest Workshop
Join a naturalist to learn the art of spring ephemeral seed identification, collection and preservation, then get hands-on as we collect native seeds as a group. You will go home with some of your bounty!
Black Light Night Hike
Peek just beyond the visible spectrum and explore the world of nature by black light. Hike the 1.6-mile Willow Trail after dark to discover how nature sends signals just out of our sight.
Spring Nature Tales
Young children and their adult companions can celebrate spring with an interactive, spring-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the nature play area after the program.
Friday Night Frogs
Venture out on a night hike in search of frogs and discover the important roles amphibians play in our world. Please bring a headlamp or flashlight and come prepared to step off-trail in wet conditions.
Munroe Falls Metro Park
Marvelous Moths of Riding Run Conservation Area
Join a naturalist to attract moths using special lights and sheets as we observe these insects' amazingly beautiful colors, shapes and patterns up close. We will hope for the big silk moth to make an appearance! Bring a flashlight, camera and bug spray. Meet in the parking lot.
Rocks and Minerals of SMP and Ohio
Join a naturalist as we delve into the geology of Summit Metro Parks and Ohio. Discover the different types of rocks and minerals that contribute millions of dollars to Ohio's economy. Learn how these mineral deposits were formed and the mining techniques involved in their extraction. We will have hands-on examples to examine.
Kinderealm: Ladybugs
Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will enjoy a game, craft, story and song centered around a much-loved critter that some cultures believe brings good luck: the ladybug! A short walk will be included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers.
Homeschoolers: Animal Ambassadors
Homeschoolers ages 7 to 12: Join a naturalist and the animal ambassadors of Summit Metro Parks to get up close and personal with some of the reptiles and amphibians that call our parks home. We'll also explore a trail and learn why wildlife conservation is important in the face of climate change.
Homeschoolers: Animal Ambassadors
Homeschoolers ages 7 to 12: Join a naturalist and the animal ambassadors of Summit Metro Parks to get up close and personal with some of the reptiles and amphibians that call our parks home. We'll also explore a trail and learn why wildlife conservation is important in the face of climate change.
Kids in the Garden
Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden.
Senior Saunter
Whether you're a senior by age or just want to appreciate the outdoors at a leisurely pace, join us for a short walk to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of nature in spring. Bring a mug and enjoy a beverage and more nature conversation afterward.
Inviting Biodiversity to Your Back Yard
What do butterflies, birds, fireflies and even salamanders have in common? They all need food, water, shelter and space to thrive. We'll discuss best practices to turn your back yard of any size into a well-rounded wildlife oasis for a variety of beloved native animals using a combination of native plants and wildlife-friendly features.
3rd Annual Native Plant Festival
Kick off summer by welcoming wildlife into your yard with beautiful, beneficial native plants! Join Summit Metro Parks staff and local native plant nurseries to learn more about the vital role of native plants in our ecosystem. Browse a wide variety of plants available for purchase or attend an educational session to better understand how to incorporate native plants into…
Backyard Bird Buffet
Birdseed is not the only way to feed back yard birds! Did you know it takes over 6,000 caterpillars to feed one clutch of chickadees? Join a naturalist to discover how native plants can attract delicious insects to your back yard and create a diverse backyard bird buffet!
Bug Hunt for Kids
Come explore the insect world up close and personal! Remember to bring your own curiosity, but bug jars, sweep nets and other items will be provided. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Storytime in the Parks: Silly Geese
Stay silly this spring! You and your 2 to 5 year olds will enjoy a goose-themed story, craft, games and short hike.
Self-Guided: Reptiles
Come learn all about what reptiles might be right around the corner as you hike the 0.6-mile Cherry Lane Trail through May 31. From ponds full of turtles to snakes under logs, explore what makes these scaly creatures so unique.
Kinderealm: Ladybugs
Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will enjoy a game, craft, story and song centered around a much-loved critter that some cultures believe brings good luck: the ladybug! A short walk will be included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers.
Meet Me in the Garden: Gardening as We Age
Join Laura Akgerman, disability services coordinator at Ohio AgrAbility and OSU Extension for this month's session. Learn about good body mechanics, ergonomic gardening tools, safe lifting, sun safety, universal design and ideas for adapting your current work habits. We will review tools and structures that will help you continue gardening productively and safely as your abilities change.
Kids in the Garden
Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden.
Spring Nature Tales
Young children and their adult companions can celebrate spring in an interactive, spring-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the nature play area after the program.
Swallow Swarm
Have you ever seen a bird dig? Bank swallows do! Join a naturalist to learn about their behaviors and see them as they return to their nests above the Cuyahoga.
Insect Safari
Go on safari to sweep for beautiful and bizarre insects in the tall grasses alongside the trail.
Bert Szabo Legacy Address with Jim McCormac
Join the Greater Akron Audubon Society to celebrate biodiversity and beyond with photographer and naturalist-extraordinaire Jim McCormac. Honoring the legacy of Bert Szabo, the park district's first naturalist, with the idea that "the more of us who care, the more likely that our natural world will survive," Jim will inspire us to protect and enhance Ohio birds and biodiversity. Come…
Kinderealm: Ladybugs
Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will enjoy a game, craft, story and song centered around a much-loved critter that some cultures believe brings good luck: the ladybug! A short walk will be included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers.
Wetland Wildflowers Walk
Hike the rich wetlands of Firestone's 1.1-mile Redwing Trail to learn about and enjoy spring's early blooming flowers.
Kids in the Garden
Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden.
Color Hunt Hike
Join a naturalist on a short hike while we search for all the colors of the rainbow! Along the way, we'll chat about the science behind colors in nature