Summit Metro Parks
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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2 events,Kayak Open HouseStop by to learn basic kayak techniques and take a short self-guided paddle on the lake under the guidance of certified instructors. 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. Wear clothes that can get wet and bring a […] Summit Lake Birthday BashIt’s a birthday party and you’re invited! Come to the Summit Lake Nature Center to celebrate the anniversary of the center’s opening. |
1 event,Virtual: Plastic Free JulyJoin us online to learn why limiting plastic is important and take part in the growing movement to reduce plastic use. Join the challenge and "choose to refuse" single-use plastic during the month of July. |
2 events,Summit Lake Cycle & TourBrowse a variety of fresh produce and sweets at the Summit Lake Neighborhood Farmer's Market before the ride. As we ride, we will make stops to discuss the neighborhood's history and evolution. This is a casually paced, 6- to 8-mile ride. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required. Music By The LakeEnjoy a performance by the Metro Parks Ensemble. Please bring your own chairs and blankets, and a picnic if you prefer. Cycling without Age trishaw bikes will be available beginning at 6 p.m. to carry riders with limited mobility on a bench seat for an unobstructed view of nature and the feeling of riding a […]
Munroe Falls Metro Park
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1 event,Fantastic FirefliesWhat’s better than fireworks? Fireflies! Enjoy basking in the glow of nature’s light show as we hike the 1.6-mile Prairie Trail looking for the many firefly species that call Summit County home. |
2 events,A “R-Eagle” CelebrationJoin us on Independence Day to celebrate the eagle, a raptor revered by many cultures as the regal "king of the sky." Enjoy hands-on activities inside, take a self-guided hike and make your own s'more over a campfire (while supplies last).
Liberty Park
Firefly FireworksEnjoy nature's bioluminescent fireworks this holiday! Learn about this charismatic insect through engaging activities, then catch some fireflies of your own. Please bring your own flashlight and bug jar. Enjoy sparklers, while supplies last.
Munroe Falls Metro Park
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3 events,Wildflower WalkSummer is in full bloom! Take a walk among the wildflowers through portions of Seneca Trail, the Rock & Herb Garden and the Arboretum as we discuss and identify Ohio's native wildflowers.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Summer Nature TalesYoung children and their adult companions can enjoy an interactive summer-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
Moths Of Liberty ParkDid you know moths outnumber butterflies by about 20 to one? Join a naturalist to learn how to use black lights to attract these amazing creatures and observe their beautiful colors, shapes and patterns up close. Bring a flashlight and camera if you'd like to take photos. Bug spray is highly recommended.
Liberty Park
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2 events,Intro To Stand-Up PaddleboardingLearn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. 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. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. Intro To Stand-Up PaddleboardingLearn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. 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. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. |
4 events,Self-Guided Storybook Trail: Vulture ViewEnjoy some exercise and fun exploration following a self-guided story trail based on the book "Vulture View." Look for it along the 1.2-mile Coyote Run Trail between July 7 and 28.
Liberty Park
Recreation Open HouseHave you ever wanted to try archery, kayaking or fishing? Now's your chance! Join us for a morning of hands-on recreational opportunities. All equipment and materials are provided on a first come, first-served basis. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and dress to be outdoors and get wet. Archery: ages 9 and up. Kayaking: ages 13 […]
Liberty Park
Storytime in the Parks: On Duck PondWaterfowl are wonderful! Bring your 2- to 6-year-old to enjoy a story, craft and games – all about ducks! |
1 event,Fossils For KidsKids and their adult companions can join a naturalist while exploring the stream to hunt for fossils and learn about the ancient creatures that once called this park home. Dress to get wet; closed-toe shoes required.
Furnace Run Metro Park
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1 event,
Music By The LakeEnjoy a performance by the Metro Parks Ensemble. Please bring your own chairs and blankets, and a picnic if you prefer. The concert will be canceled if it rains. Call 330-865-8060 if wet weather is in the forecast. Music by the Lake is presented by Wayside Furniture.
Silver Creek Metro Park
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1 event,Drawing OutdoorsBring 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 in the event of inclement weather.
Liberty Park
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7 events,Senior CyclingJoin like-minded senior SMP supporters as we ride and explore various trails. We will gather to socialize and determine the route, distance and pace before rolling out. Expect to ride at least 10 to 12 miles, at a casual (10-12 mph) pace. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required. Arrive 15 minutes […] Lil’ SproutsThis biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. Nature CollageLet's make a beautiful nature-inspired collage using recycled paper! Join our interpretive artist for this easy, fun lesson. All materials will be provided.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
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3 events,Clever CorvidsRavens and crows and jays, oh my! Enjoy a brief presentation on corvids followed by a bird walk on the 1.2-mile Pheasant Run Trail in hopes of spotting them.
Silver Creek Metro Park
Gone Fishin’Come try your hand at fishing! We'll provide the rods and bait, so all you have to do is show up. Anyone over the age of 16 will need a valid Ohio fishing license.
Furnace Run Metro Park
Evening River WalkJoin a naturalist on this 1.2-mile hike overlooking the Cuyahoga River. Along the way, we will discuss why this is such an important waterway both for us and local wildlife.
Cascade Valley Metro Park
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5 events,Grassland Bird ExplorationJoin a naturalist in collaboration with The University of Akron Field Station to search for meadowlarks, bobolinks and other exciting grassland birds. Some binoculars will be provided. Meet at the field station, past the main parking lot off Ira Rd. and all the way down the driveway. Intro To Mountain BikingAre you mountain bike curious but nervous to hit the trail by yourself? Then this program is for you! Join us to go over mountain biking safety and trail tips, followed by a ride on the beginner and moderate mountain biking loops. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required.
Hampton Hills Metro Park
Family Camp WorkshopFamilies are invited to join naturalists for a fun-filled summer camp experience! Try your hand at canoeing, s'more-making, tent-pitching, fishing, a nature activity and craft. All necessary equipment provided. Optional: pack a lunch or snacks and folding chairs to relax between activities!
Silver Creek Metro Park
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1 event,When Is A Bug Not A Bug?Join a naturalist as we scour the plants and hedgerows for bugs, caterpillars, spiders, lady beetles and other cool critters! Learn that all bugs are insects, but not all insects are bugs! Nets and jars will be available for use. Bring a hat, sunscreen and water.
Liberty Park
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0 events,
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1 event,Music In The ParkEnjoy a performance by the Metro Parks Ensemble. Please bring your own chairs and blankets, and a picnic if you prefer. The concert will be moved indoors if it rains.
Firestone Metro Park
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1 event,Kinderealm: MothsChildren 3 to 6 and their adult companions will take a closer look at what makes these amazing, night-flying, butterfly cousins so special. A craft and short walk are included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
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2 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. Good Garden Talks: Pest ManagementJoin us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron and OSU Extension to learn to encourage wildlife and manage for the undesirable critters in the vegetable garden. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held indoors.
Goodyear Heights Metro Park
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2 events,Mussels For KidsHiding beneath the rocks and mud of our streambeds, these humble bivalves help keep our waterways clean and clear. Join a naturalist to learn about these one-foot wonders through a shell-full of crafts and demos!
Goodyear Heights Metro Park
Nature SaunterAppreciate the outdoors at a leisurely pace with a stroll along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail to observe and enjoy summertime nature. Enjoy a beverage and nature conversation afterward.
Wood Hollow Metro Park
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2 events,Bird Nerds: AnatomyNewbies and experts alike are welcome to join us in this lively series for a fun, approachable discussion on a new bird topic each month. This month, we'll delve into the unique adaptations of the bird's body that make them masters of their trade.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Sounds Of The NightAs our vision becomes unreliable in the dark of night, a cavalcade of wildlife emerge to take advantage of the daily transformation. Join a naturalist to hike the 2-mile Chippewa Trail and listen for the phenomena of night. Flashlights aren’t necessary, but sturdy hiking boots are recommended.
Silver Creek Metro Park
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5 events,Intro To Stand-Up PaddleboardingLearn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. 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. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person.
Silver Creek Metro Park
National Ice Cream Day CycleCelebrate National Ice Cream Day! We'll ride north at a casual pace, stopping at Skoops Ice Cream for a sweet treat before returning. This is a 12- to 15-mile ride. Please bring a bicycle, helmet and money for ice cream. Helmets are required. Intro To Stand-Up PaddleboardingLearn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. 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. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person.
Silver Creek Metro Park
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1 event,Chipmunks & Squirrels For KidsKids and their adult companions are invited to learn about our acrobatic neighbors through activities and a .25-mile hike along Maple Loop Trail in search of these "nutty" creatures, their nests and the food they like best.
Liberty Park
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1 event,Christmas In July At The Summit Lake Farmers MarketBring the family out to this inclusive workshop to re- and upcycle bicycle parts into Christmas ornament keepsakes. Cookies and cocoa will fill your bellies while the sounds of Christmas fill the air. |
2 events,Drawing OutdoorsBring 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 in the event of inclement weather.
Liberty Park
Kinderealm: MothsChildren 3 to 6 and their adult companions will take a closer look at what makes these amazing, night-flying, butterfly cousins so special. A craft and short walk are included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers.
Liberty Park
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4 events,Senior CyclingJoin like-minded senior SMP supporters as we ride and explore various trails. We will gather to socialize and determine the route, distance and pace before rolling out. Expect to ride at least 10 to 12 miles at a casual (10-12 mph) pace. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required. Arrive 15 minutes […] Lil’ SproutsThis biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. Reptiles And Amphibians For KidsKids and their adult companions: Join a naturalist to learn about the crawling and slithering creatures found in our parks. Meet some of our animal ambassadors before taking a walk in search of turtles, frogs and more in their natural habitat.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
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2 events,Summer Nature TalesYoung children and their adult companions can enjoy an interactive summer-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
Learn Fire BuildingWhether you need to stay warm on a camping trip or just have a hankering for some s’mores, fire building is a fun and valuable skill. Learn the basics of fire building and make your own mini fires using various methods. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Recommended for ages 8 and up.
Silver Creek Metro Park
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1 event,The Poetry Path: Creative Writing & Hiking Workshop With Poet XposyurAges 10 and up: Hike and explore using all five senses to contemplate life's journey. The workshop will encourage participants to pen poetry about life's challenges, pivots and aspirations while surrounded by nature. Journals and writing tools will be provided. This program is presented in partnership with Akron Black Artist Guild.
Munroe Falls Metro Park
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4 events,Intro To KayakingLearn how to kayak and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. 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. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person.
Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park
Family Camp WorkshopFamilies are invited to join naturalists for a for a fun-filled summer camp experience! Try your hand at canoeing, s'more-making, tent-pitching, fishing, a nature activity and a craft. All necessary equipment provided. Optional: pack a lunch or snacks and some folding chairs to relax in between activities!
Munroe Falls Metro Park
Intro To KayakingLearn how to kayak and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. 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. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person.
Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park
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0 events,
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0 events,
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2 events,Kinderealm: MothsChildren 3 to 6 and their adult companions will take a closer look at what makes these amazing, night-flying, butterfly cousins so special. A craft and short walk are included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Stand-Up Paddleboarding Open HouseStop by to learn basic paddleboard techniques and take a short self-guided paddle under the guidance of certified instructors. 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. All equipment will be provided. Space is limited and paddleboards are available […]
Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park
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4 events,Senior CyclingJoin like-minded senior SMP supporters as we ride and explore various trails. We will gather to socialize and determine the route, distance and pace before rolling out. Expect to ride at least 10 to 12 miles at a casual (10-12 mph) pace. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required. Arrive 15 minutes […] 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: CompostingJoin us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron and OSU Extension to learn the basics of composting and soil health in the vegetable garden. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held indoors. |
1 event,Kinderealm: Sandhill CranesChildren ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about sandhill cranes, unique birds dating back to prehistoric times that dance, yell, build floating nests and are celebrated as a symbol of good fortune. Children will enjoy a craft, educational activities, a game and music. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable […]
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
|
4 events,Intro To Stand-Up PaddleboardingLearn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. 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. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person.
Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park
Touch-A-Truck: Autism And Sensory-Friendly HourAll ages can sit in and explore more than a dozen Summit Metro Parks and local emergency response vehicles, free of horns and flashing lights. Later in the day, Air Bear from Akron Children’s Hospital will make a special appearance, and food will be available for purchase. The presence of emergency response vehicles, including Air […]
Munroe Falls Metro Park
Touch-A-TruckAll ages can sit in and explore more than a dozen Summit Metro Parks and local emergency response vehicles. Air Bear from Akron Children’s Hospital will make a special appearance, and food will be available for purchase. The presence of emergency response vehicles, including Air Bear, is subject to availability. Presented by Wayside Furniture.
Munroe Falls Metro Park
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Stop by to learn basic kayak techniques and take a short self-guided paddle on the lake under the guidance of certified instructors. 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. Wear clothes that can get wet and bring a water bottle. All equipment, including…
It’s a birthday party and you’re invited! Come to the Summit Lake Nature Center to celebrate the anniversary of the center’s opening.
Join us online to learn why limiting plastic is important and take part in the growing movement to reduce plastic use. Join the challenge and "choose to refuse" single-use plastic during the month of July.
Browse a variety of fresh produce and sweets at the Summit Lake Neighborhood Farmer's Market before the ride. As we ride, we will make stops to discuss the neighborhood's history and evolution. This is a casually paced, 6- to 8-mile ride. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required.
Enjoy a performance by the Metro Parks Ensemble. Please bring your own chairs and blankets, and a picnic if you prefer. Cycling without Age trishaw bikes will be available beginning at 6 p.m. to carry riders with limited mobility on a bench seat for an unobstructed view of nature and the feeling of riding a bike outdoors. Cycling without Age…
What’s better than fireworks? Fireflies! Enjoy basking in the glow of nature’s light show as we hike the 1.6-mile Prairie Trail looking for the many firefly species that call Summit County home.
Join us on Independence Day to celebrate the eagle, a raptor revered by many cultures as the regal "king of the sky." Enjoy hands-on activities inside, take a self-guided hike and make your own s'more over a campfire (while supplies last).
Enjoy nature's bioluminescent fireworks this holiday! Learn about this charismatic insect through engaging activities, then catch some fireflies of your own. Please bring your own flashlight and bug jar. Enjoy sparklers, while supplies last.
Summer is in full bloom! Take a walk among the wildflowers through portions of Seneca Trail, the Rock & Herb Garden and the Arboretum as we discuss and identify Ohio's native wildflowers.
Young children and their adult companions can enjoy an interactive summer-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the Nature Play area after the program.
Did you know moths outnumber butterflies by about 20 to one? Join a naturalist to learn how to use black lights to attract these amazing creatures and observe their beautiful colors, shapes and patterns up close. Bring a flashlight and camera if you'd like to take photos. Bug spray is highly recommended.
Learn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. 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. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person.
Learn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. 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. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person.
Enjoy some exercise and fun exploration following a self-guided story trail based on the book "Vulture View." Look for it along the 1.2-mile Coyote Run Trail between July 7 and 28.
Have you ever wanted to try archery, kayaking or fishing? Now's your chance! Join us for a morning of hands-on recreational opportunities. All equipment and materials are provided on a first come, first-served basis. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and dress to be outdoors and get wet. Archery: ages 9 and up. Kayaking: ages 13 and up, must be able…
Waterfowl are wonderful! Bring your 2- to 6-year-old to enjoy a story, craft and games – all about ducks!
Kids and their adult companions can join a naturalist while exploring the stream to hunt for fossils and learn about the ancient creatures that once called this park home. Dress to get wet; closed-toe shoes required.
Enjoy a performance by the Metro Parks Ensemble. Please bring your own chairs and blankets, and a picnic if you prefer. The concert will be canceled if it rains. Call 330-865-8060 if wet weather is in the forecast. Music by the Lake is presented by Wayside Furniture.
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 in the event of inclement weather.
Join like-minded senior SMP supporters as we ride and explore various trails. We will gather to socialize and determine the route, distance and pace before rolling out. Expect to ride at least 10 to 12 miles, at a casual (10-12 mph) pace. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required. Arrive 15 minutes early to check in.
This biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program.
Let's make a beautiful nature-inspired collage using recycled paper! Join our interpretive artist for this easy, fun lesson. All materials will be provided.
Ravens and crows and jays, oh my! Enjoy a brief presentation on corvids followed by a bird walk on the 1.2-mile Pheasant Run Trail in hopes of spotting them.
Come try your hand at fishing! We'll provide the rods and bait, so all you have to do is show up. Anyone over the age of 16 will need a valid Ohio fishing license.
Join a naturalist on this 1.2-mile hike overlooking the Cuyahoga River. Along the way, we will discuss why this is such an important waterway both for us and local wildlife.
Join a naturalist in collaboration with The University of Akron Field Station to search for meadowlarks, bobolinks and other exciting grassland birds. Some binoculars will be provided. Meet at the field station, past the main parking lot off Ira Rd. and all the way down the driveway.
Are you mountain bike curious but nervous to hit the trail by yourself? Then this program is for you! Join us to go over mountain biking safety and trail tips, followed by a ride on the beginner and moderate mountain biking loops. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required.
Families are invited to join naturalists for a fun-filled summer camp experience! Try your hand at canoeing, s'more-making, tent-pitching, fishing, a nature activity and craft. All necessary equipment provided. Optional: pack a lunch or snacks and folding chairs to relax between activities!
Join a naturalist as we scour the plants and hedgerows for bugs, caterpillars, spiders, lady beetles and other cool critters! Learn that all bugs are insects, but not all insects are bugs! Nets and jars will be available for use. Bring a hat, sunscreen and water.
Enjoy a performance by the Metro Parks Ensemble. Please bring your own chairs and blankets, and a picnic if you prefer. The concert will be moved indoors if it rains.
Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will take a closer look at what makes these amazing, night-flying, butterfly cousins so special. A craft and short walk are included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers.
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.
Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron and OSU Extension to learn to encourage wildlife and manage for the undesirable critters in the vegetable garden. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held indoors.
Hiding beneath the rocks and mud of our streambeds, these humble bivalves help keep our waterways clean and clear. Join a naturalist to learn about these one-foot wonders through a shell-full of crafts and demos!
Appreciate the outdoors at a leisurely pace with a stroll along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail to observe and enjoy summertime nature. Enjoy a beverage and nature conversation afterward.
Newbies and experts alike are welcome to join us in this lively series for a fun, approachable discussion on a new bird topic each month. This month, we'll delve into the unique adaptations of the bird's body that make them masters of their trade.
As our vision becomes unreliable in the dark of night, a cavalcade of wildlife emerge to take advantage of the daily transformation. Join a naturalist to hike the 2-mile Chippewa Trail and listen for the phenomena of night. Flashlights aren’t necessary, but sturdy hiking boots are recommended.
Learn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. 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. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person.
Celebrate National Ice Cream Day! We'll ride north at a casual pace, stopping at Skoops Ice Cream for a sweet treat before returning. This is a 12- to 15-mile ride. Please bring a bicycle, helmet and money for ice cream. Helmets are required.
Learn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. 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. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person.
Kids and their adult companions are invited to learn about our acrobatic neighbors through activities and a .25-mile hike along Maple Loop Trail in search of these "nutty" creatures, their nests and the food they like best.
Bring the family out to this inclusive workshop to re- and upcycle bicycle parts into Christmas ornament keepsakes. Cookies and cocoa will fill your bellies while the sounds of Christmas fill the air.
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 in the event of inclement weather.
Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will take a closer look at what makes these amazing, night-flying, butterfly cousins so special. A craft and short walk are included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers.
Join like-minded senior SMP supporters as we ride and explore various trails. We will gather to socialize and determine the route, distance and pace before rolling out. Expect to ride at least 10 to 12 miles at a casual (10-12 mph) pace. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required. Arrive 15 minutes early to check in.
This biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program.
Kids and their adult companions: Join a naturalist to learn about the crawling and slithering creatures found in our parks. Meet some of our animal ambassadors before taking a walk in search of turtles, frogs and more in their natural habitat.
Young children and their adult companions can enjoy an interactive summer-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the Nature Play area after the program.
Whether you need to stay warm on a camping trip or just have a hankering for some s’mores, fire building is a fun and valuable skill. Learn the basics of fire building and make your own mini fires using various methods. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Recommended for ages 8 and up.
Ages 10 and up: Hike and explore using all five senses to contemplate life's journey. The workshop will encourage participants to pen poetry about life's challenges, pivots and aspirations while surrounded by nature. Journals and writing tools will be provided. This program is presented in partnership with Akron Black Artist Guild.
Learn how to kayak and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. 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. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person.
Families are invited to join naturalists for a for a fun-filled summer camp experience! Try your hand at canoeing, s'more-making, tent-pitching, fishing, a nature activity and a craft. All necessary equipment provided. Optional: pack a lunch or snacks and some folding chairs to relax in between activities!
Learn how to kayak and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. 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. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person.
Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will take a closer look at what makes these amazing, night-flying, butterfly cousins so special. A craft and short walk are included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers.
Stop by to learn basic paddleboard techniques and take a short self-guided paddle under the guidance of certified instructors. 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. All equipment will be provided. Space is limited and paddleboards are available on a first come, first-served…
Join like-minded senior SMP supporters as we ride and explore various trails. We will gather to socialize and determine the route, distance and pace before rolling out. Expect to ride at least 10 to 12 miles at a casual (10-12 mph) pace. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required. Arrive 15 minutes early to check in.
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.
Join us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron and OSU Extension to learn the basics of composting and soil health in the vegetable garden. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held indoors.
Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about sandhill cranes, unique birds dating back to prehistoric times that dance, yell, build floating nests and are celebrated as a symbol of good fortune. Children will enjoy a craft, educational activities, a game and music. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats…
Learn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. 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. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person.
All ages can sit in and explore more than a dozen Summit Metro Parks and local emergency response vehicles, free of horns and flashing lights. Later in the day, Air Bear from Akron Children’s Hospital will make a special appearance, and food will be available for purchase. The presence of emergency response vehicles, including Air Bear, is subject to availability.…
All ages can sit in and explore more than a dozen Summit Metro Parks and local emergency response vehicles. Air Bear from Akron Children’s Hospital will make a special appearance, and food will be available for purchase. The presence of emergency response vehicles, including Air Bear, is subject to availability. Presented by Wayside Furniture.