Self-Guided Story Trail: Berry Song
Enjoy a walk along the 1.3-mile Rock Creek Trail while following a self-guided story trail based on the book, “Berry Song.” Available through September 27.
Portions of Gorge Metro Park are closed due to construction related to removal of the Gorge Dam. Learn More.
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.).
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3 events,
Self-Guided Story Trail: Berry Song
Self-Guided Story Trail: Berry SongEnjoy a walk along the 1.3-mile Rock Creek Trail while following a self-guided story trail based on the book, “Berry Song.” Available through September 27.
Self-Guided Trail: Bird Humor
Self-Guided Trail: Bird HumorLighten up while hiking the 1.4-mile Quarry Trail with some jokes that aren’t just for the birds. Available through September 27.
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Back Yards Gone Wild: Seed CollectingJoin a naturalist to learn how to start beautiful, beneficial native plants from seed, including collection, storage and propagation techniques. After learning, get hands-on as we collect seeds as a group, then go home with some of your bounty! Gardeners are encouraged to bring native seeds from home to swap as well.
Liberty Park
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0 events,
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1 event,
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Pawpaw Appreciation NightDiscover Ohio’s state native fruit, the pawpaw! Learn the history of this fruit, its benefits and how to grow it. After a presentation, you’ll take home recipes and seeds (while supplies last) and sample its delicious banana-like flavor.
Liberty Park
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0 events,
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1 event,
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Kids in the GardenJoin us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron for hands-on gardening activities for children of all ages. Seed, sow, water, harvest . . . and enjoy! Each month we’ll have a game or craft, garden activity and snack themed around what is growing and ready to harvest in the garden. In the event of inclement […]
Towpath Trail
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2 events,
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Nature TalesYoung children and their adult companions can enjoy an interactive nature-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the Nature Play area after the program.
Liberty Park
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Spree With Me: Discover NatureJoin a naturalist to earn spree credit and explore the many exciting pieces of nature to be found on the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail. Please bring a flashlight.
Wood Hollow Metro Park
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0 events,
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4 events,
Self-Guided: Autumn Colors
Self-Guided: Autumn ColorsFollow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Self-Guided Story Trail: Leaf Man
Self-Guided Story Trail: Leaf ManEnjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
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Fall Bird WalkJoin a naturalist for a fall bird walk along the banks of the Cuyahoga River as we hope to catch glimpses of resident and migratory birds. Come prepared to walk about three miles on a paved trail with a bird guide and binoculars.
Bike and Hike Trail
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Fabulous FungiJoin a naturalist as we explore the hidden world of mushrooms, highlighting their ecological importance, medicinal potential and vast underground networks. Learn simple identification techniques and of some species commonly seen in our parks.
Furnace Run Metro Park
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3 events,
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Homegrown Habitat: Busy BumblebeesCalling all people with yards or green spaces big and small: Join us and learn how to rewild your home landscape. This month, discover the buzz behind some of our most charismatic insect ambassadors — bees! We’ll highlight specific plants and deliberate practices that support these fuzzy friends.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
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5 events,
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Lil’ SproutsThis biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults in the wonderful world of gardening and nature. Each class will be centered on what’s happening in nature and what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. Registration is required and begins 9/1.
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Bird Nerds: American CrowBird enthusiasts of all kinds are welcome to join us for a deep dive into one of Ohio’s most recognizable species each month. You see them. You love them. But how well do you really know them? After our indoor presentation, those interested can join for a guided birding walk.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
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Leaf It!Autumn means time for that tedious task of raking, bagging and disposing of leaves — or does it? Learn how leaving the leaves can benefit your yard and the environment, while making your life easier! After the presentation, we’ll take a walk to see why the leaf layer is important to the forest.
Liberty Park
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4 events,
Self-Guided: Autumn Colors
Self-Guided Story Trail: Leaf Man
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Self-Guided: Spooky Scavenger HuntDrop in for a scavenger hunt along the first portion of the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to search for some spooky and not-so-spooky items. Return your completed list to the front desk inside the nature center for a prize.
Liberty Park
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Terrifying Titans: MegafaunaHalloween is known for monsters, so let’s talk about the behemoths that once roamed Ohio! Come learn about the megafauna that towered over all and how they were replaced by the fauna we have today. We will be hiking the grounds, so dress for the weather!
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
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3 events,
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Kinderealm: Mimicry and CamoAnimal costumes aren’t just for Halloween! Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions are invited to discover the clever disguises animals use year round through stories, crafts and games. Please make other arrangements for younger children who cannot remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins 9/1.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
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5 events,
–
Lil’ SproutsThis biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults in the wonderful world of gardening and nature. Each class will be centered on what’s happening in nature and what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. Registration is required and begins 9/1.
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Homeschoolers: Natural ConnectionsHomeschoolers ages 7-12: Join us to investigate how all living things are connected. Activities and outdoor exploration will help us learn how their interactions with each other and their surroundings affect the balance in nature. Registration is required and begins 9/1.
Liberty Park
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Good Garden Talks: Edible LandscapesJoin us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron and OSU Extension for to learn how we can enhance our gardens by planting berries. We’ll explore the native trees and shrubs that provide delish treats for gardeners, birds and other wildlife. Then enjoy a snack made from locally grown berries. The program will be held in […]
Goodyear Heights Metro Park
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3 events,
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Spree With Me: Fall FoliageJoin a naturalist along the 1.6-mile Willow Trail to celebrate the vivid hues of fall foliage at the day’s end, all while crossing a Fall Hiking Spree Trail off your list.
Firestone Metro Park
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3 events,
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Young Birders: Wonderful WoodpeckersKids ages 8 and up are invited to discover the world of woodpeckers through a short presentation and bird walk. An adult companion is required to remain for the entirety of the program.
Wood Hollow Metro Park
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3 events,
Self-Guided: Autumn Colors
Self-Guided Story Trail: Leaf Man
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Spree With Me: Natural HistoryJoin a naturalist to hike the rugged and hilly 3.2-mile Nuthatch Trail! Learn about the natural history of the park as well as updates to the stream and surrounding environment while completing a Fall Hiking Spree trail.
Sand Run Metro Park
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4 events,
–
Kinderealm: Mimicry and CamoAnimal costumes aren’t just for Halloween! Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions are invited to discover the clever disguises animals use year-round through stories, crafts and games. Please make other arrangements for younger children who cannot remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins 9/1.
Liberty Park
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Protecting Our Drinking WaterJoin the Greater Akron Audubon Society and City of Akron Stormwater Superintendent Jessica Glowczewski to learn how the City of Akron manages the Upper Cuyahoga River watershed. We’ll discover where Akron’s water comes from, how it’s monitored and the many programs dedicated to keeping your drinking water clean and our watershed healthy.
Goodyear Heights Metro Park
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3 events,
–
Nature TalesYoung children and their adult companions can enjoy an interactive nature-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the Nature Play area after the program.
Liberty Park
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4 events,
–
Spree With Me: Nature SaunterLearn about and appreciate the colors of autumn at a leisurely pace with a stroll along the 1.3-mile Rock Creek Trail.
Furnace Run Metro Park
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Brumation NationExplore the mysteries of reptile hibernation, also known as brumation, with a naturalist on the 1.6-mile Willow Trail.
Firestone Metro Park
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4 events,
Self-Guided: Autumn Colors
Self-Guided Story Trail: Leaf Man
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Spree With Me: Hike & CampfireJoin a naturalist to hike the 1.4-mile Seneca Trail to earn spree credit. Then, stick around for a campfire and s’mores while supplies last!
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
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Hawks, Owls and Eagles…Oh My!Hawks and owls are fascinating birds of prey known for their sharp vision and hunting skills. Hawks are active during the day, using speed and agility, while owls are nocturnal hunters with silent flight. Both play important roles in ecosystems by controlling rodent populations and maintaining natural balance. Join a naturalist as we learn how […]
Liberty Park
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1 event,
–
Spree With Me: Howl-O-Ween at the MoonJoin a naturalist as the sun sets and full moon rises to discover some of the park’s most elusive and misunderstood residents: coyotes. After a short presentation, we’ll take a quiet moonlit stroll along the 1.4-mile Quarry Trail to call for these creatures in hopes they will respond.
Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park
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0 events,
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1 event,
–
Kinderealm: Mimicry and CamoAnimal costumes aren’t just for Halloween! Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions are invited to discover the clever disguises animals use year round through stories, crafts and games. Please make other arrangements for younger children who cannot remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins on 9/1.
Towpath Trail
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0 events,
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0 events,
|
2 events,
–
Spooky Species SpotlightDiscover the spooky, weird and gross things nature has to offer in this showcase of all things uncanny.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
–
What the Heck is a Hellbender?A hellbender is the largest amphibian native to Eastern North America. Sometimes called a “snot otter” or “lasagna lizard,” it’s harmless to humans and serves as an important indicator of healthy freshwater ecosystems. Join a naturalist as we learn about this interesting creature.
Liberty Park
|
Enjoy a walk along the 1.3-mile Rock Creek Trail while following a self-guided story trail based on the book, “Berry Song.” Available through September 27.
Lighten up while hiking the 1.4-mile Quarry Trail with some jokes that aren’t just for the birds. Available through September 27.
Join a naturalist to learn how to start beautiful, beneficial native plants from seed, including collection, storage and propagation techniques. After learning, get hands-on as we collect seeds as a group, then go home with some of your bounty! Gardeners are encouraged to bring native seeds from home to swap as well.
You veered off the trail and got lost. We suggest clearing your filters and beginning a new search.
Discover Ohio’s state native fruit, the pawpaw! Learn the history of this fruit, its benefits and how to grow it. After a presentation, you’ll take home recipes and seeds (while supplies last) and sample its delicious banana-like flavor.
You veered off the trail and got lost. We suggest clearing your filters and beginning a new search.
Join us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron for hands-on gardening activities for children of all ages. Seed, sow, water, harvest . . . and enjoy! Each month we’ll have a game or craft, garden activity and snack themed around what is growing and ready to harvest in the garden. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be…
Young children and their adult companions can enjoy an interactive nature-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the Nature Play area after the program.
Join a naturalist to earn spree credit and explore the many exciting pieces of nature to be found on the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail. Please bring a flashlight.
You veered off the trail and got lost. We suggest clearing your filters and beginning a new search.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Join a naturalist for a fall bird walk along the banks of the Cuyahoga River as we hope to catch glimpses of resident and migratory birds. Come prepared to walk about three miles on a paved trail with a bird guide and binoculars.
Join a naturalist as we explore the hidden world of mushrooms, highlighting their ecological importance, medicinal potential and vast underground networks. Learn simple identification techniques and of some species commonly seen in our parks.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Calling all people with yards or green spaces big and small: Join us and learn how to rewild your home landscape. This month, discover the buzz behind some of our most charismatic insect ambassadors — bees! We’ll highlight specific plants and deliberate practices that support these fuzzy friends.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
This biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults in the wonderful world of gardening and nature. Each class will be centered on what’s happening in nature and what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. Registration is required and begins 9/1.
Bird enthusiasts of all kinds are welcome to join us for a deep dive into one of Ohio’s most recognizable species each month. You see them. You love them. But how well do you really know them? After our indoor presentation, those interested can join for a guided birding walk.
Autumn means time for that tedious task of raking, bagging and disposing of leaves — or does it? Learn how leaving the leaves can benefit your yard and the environment, while making your life easier! After the presentation, we’ll take a walk to see why the leaf layer is important to the forest.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Drop in for a scavenger hunt along the first portion of the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to search for some spooky and not-so-spooky items. Return your completed list to the front desk inside the nature center for a prize.
Halloween is known for monsters, so let’s talk about the behemoths that once roamed Ohio! Come learn about the megafauna that towered over all and how they were replaced by the fauna we have today. We will be hiking the grounds, so dress for the weather!
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Animal costumes aren’t just for Halloween! Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions are invited to discover the clever disguises animals use year round through stories, crafts and games. Please make other arrangements for younger children who cannot remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins 9/1.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
This biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults in the wonderful world of gardening and nature. Each class will be centered on what’s happening in nature and what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. Registration is required and begins 9/1.
Homeschoolers ages 7-12: Join us to investigate how all living things are connected. Activities and outdoor exploration will help us learn how their interactions with each other and their surroundings affect the balance in nature. Registration is required and begins 9/1.
Join us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron and OSU Extension for to learn how we can enhance our gardens by planting berries. We’ll explore the native trees and shrubs that provide delish treats for gardeners, birds and other wildlife. Then enjoy a snack made from locally grown berries. The program will be held in the West Room.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Join a naturalist along the 1.6-mile Willow Trail to celebrate the vivid hues of fall foliage at the day’s end, all while crossing a Fall Hiking Spree Trail off your list.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Kids ages 8 and up are invited to discover the world of woodpeckers through a short presentation and bird walk. An adult companion is required to remain for the entirety of the program.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Join a naturalist to hike the rugged and hilly 3.2-mile Nuthatch Trail! Learn about the natural history of the park as well as updates to the stream and surrounding environment while completing a Fall Hiking Spree trail.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Animal costumes aren’t just for Halloween! Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions are invited to discover the clever disguises animals use year-round through stories, crafts and games. Please make other arrangements for younger children who cannot remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins 9/1.
Join the Greater Akron Audubon Society and City of Akron Stormwater Superintendent Jessica Glowczewski to learn how the City of Akron manages the Upper Cuyahoga River watershed. We’ll discover where Akron’s water comes from, how it’s monitored and the many programs dedicated to keeping your drinking water clean and our watershed healthy.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Young children and their adult companions can enjoy an interactive nature-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the Nature Play area after the program.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Learn about and appreciate the colors of autumn at a leisurely pace with a stroll along the 1.3-mile Rock Creek Trail.
Explore the mysteries of reptile hibernation, also known as brumation, with a naturalist on the 1.6-mile Willow Trail.
Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25.
Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, “Leaf Man.” Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25.
Join a naturalist to hike the 1.4-mile Seneca Trail to earn spree credit. Then, stick around for a campfire and s’mores while supplies last!
Hawks and owls are fascinating birds of prey known for their sharp vision and hunting skills. Hawks are active during the day, using speed and agility, while owls are nocturnal hunters with silent flight. Both play important roles in ecosystems by controlling rodent populations and maintaining natural balance. Join a naturalist as we learn how to identify these amazing creatures…
Join a naturalist as the sun sets and full moon rises to discover some of the park’s most elusive and misunderstood residents: coyotes. After a short presentation, we’ll take a quiet moonlit stroll along the 1.4-mile Quarry Trail to call for these creatures in hopes they will respond.
You veered off the trail and got lost. We suggest clearing your filters and beginning a new search.
Animal costumes aren’t just for Halloween! Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions are invited to discover the clever disguises animals use year round through stories, crafts and games. Please make other arrangements for younger children who cannot remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins on 9/1.
You veered off the trail and got lost. We suggest clearing your filters and beginning a new search.
You veered off the trail and got lost. We suggest clearing your filters and beginning a new search.
Discover the spooky, weird and gross things nature has to offer in this showcase of all things uncanny.
A hellbender is the largest amphibian native to Eastern North America. Sometimes called a “snot otter” or “lasagna lizard,” it’s harmless to humans and serves as an important indicator of healthy freshwater ecosystems. Join a naturalist as we learn about this interesting creature.