NORTHEAST OHIO
FAMILY FUN GUIDE SPRING 2020
2020
SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 4 WAYS KIDS BENEFIT FROM
SUMMER CAMP
SPRING FREEBIES
EXCITING DAY TRIPS THINGS TO BOOK NOW FOR
SUMMER FUN!
WANT MORE FAMILY FUN IDEAS? VISIT NORTHEASTOHIOFAMILYFUN.COM
savetoday! Multiple locations throughout Northeast Ohio! Extended day hours available at select locations!
2 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Spring 2020
Welcome! Cue the confetti, it’s the inaugural issue of Northeast Ohio Family Fun Guide. Our new, seasonal digital magazine is another way we can help you easily plan fun family outings, find activities for your kids and experience the exciting and events that take place right here in our community. Northeast Ohio is a wonderful place to raise a family and we are honored to be alongside you as you do just that! Birds chirping, sun shining and flowers blooming, the spring season is such a beautiful time of year. Want to stop and smell the roses? Check out our favorite spots to get your flower fix this spring. Wondering what to do for spring break? If you’re staying in town, check out our list of Spring Freebies, or go on an adventure with a day trip to an exciting Ohio destination! Plus, your fun-filled summer begins with our huge Summer Camp Guide. From day camps to overnight camps with themes for every age and interest, you’re sure to find one (or more!) for your child. Have a beautiful spring!
Our Team
Danielle Weiler - Publisher Jen Zils - Client Engagement Manager Elise Egbert - Graphic Designer Nikki Doyle - Contributor Darlene Walker- Contributor
Join Our Community NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com Facebook.com/neohiofamilyfun Instagram.com/neohiofamilyfun NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com/Subscribe
DISCLAIMER: ©2020 Northeast Ohio Family Fun, All rights reserved. We are not responsible for errors and omissions. Reproduction in whole or in part granted only by written permission of the publisher in accordance with our legal statement.
Spring 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 3
4 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Spring 2020
What’s Inside 04 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 06 BENEFITS OF SUMMER CAMP 08 THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING A CAMP FOR YOUR CHILD 10 GET YOUR CHILD READY FOR OVERNIGHT CAMP 12 THINGS TO BOOK NOW FOR SUMMER FUN 14 GARDENS TO EXPLORE 16 OHIO DAY TRIPS 18 SPRING FREEBIES FOR FAMILIES
FREE DOWNLOAD:
SPRING FUN BUCKET LIST VISIT NORTHEASTOHIOFAMILYFUN.COM TO DOWNLOAD OUR FREE PRINTABLE SPRING FUN BUCKET LIST! Spring 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 5
SUMMER CAMP GUIDE
Summer camps are a great way to keep your kids active and learning while school is out of session. From Day Camps to Overnight Camps and themes for every age and interest, our Summer Camp Guide will help you find one (or more) for your kids. Begin your search here to find a great camp and continue your search online at northeastohiofamilyfun.com/summer-camps-in-northeast-ohio/
Camp Roosevelt Firebird 4141 Dublin Road SW, Bowerston Traditional Camp with an Unconventional Vibe. Amazing activities for everyone - sporty, artsy and unique -- and a spectacular lakefront. Commitment to: Diversity * Being Green * Camper Choice * Making the World a Better Place. $300 discount for new campers. (2 week minimum) Use coupon code: FAMILY FUN. Call (740) 269-0137 or visit camprooseveltfirebird.com
Falcon Camp 251 Delta Road SW, Carrollton Recognized throughout the Midwest as Ohio’s premier summer camp and selected as the “Coolest Camp in Ohio”. Beautiful lakefront setting, talented experienced staff, great food and an extensive variety of activities. $100 discount for all New Campers - write NE Ohio Family Fun in the “Where did you hear about Falcon?” section of the application. Call (216) 991-2489 or visit falconcamp.com
6 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Spring 2020
Camp Curiosity: Summer Science Camps Great Lakes Science Center Help your kids ‘Stay Curious’ over summer with engaging, hands-on fun at Camp Curiosity! Kids make new friends, and memories, while they build skills in science, technology, engineering and math! More than 30 new camps, offering new challenges and unforgettable adventures for kids in preschool through eighth grade. Call (216) 621-2400 or visit GreatScience.com
Camp Fitch YMCA 12600 Abels Road North Springfield, PA Camp Fitch’s century-old, classic sleep-away summer camp provides boys and girls aged 6–16 with a holistically safe, values-driven community where they discover friendship and achievement. Lake Erie waterfront, state-of-the-art equestrian center, climbing tower, swimming pool, inland lake, and visual arts center. Call (814) 922-3219 or visit campfitchymca.org
Camp Invention Multiple Locations in Northeast Ohio Imaginations will soar this summer in the all-new Camp Invention program, Elevate! Campers in kindergarten through sixth grade will collaborate in hands-on STEM activities exploring concepts of flights, Earth’s ecosystems and sports innovations. Register Early & Save! Use promo code LOCAL25 to save $25 (expires 3/31) or LOCAL15 to save $15 (expires 5/12). Call (800) 968-4332 or visit invent.org/camp
iD Tech Camp 10900 Euclid Ave. Cleveland With over 20 years of experience and a track record of incredible student outcomes, iD Tech is an investment in your child’s future. Learn to code, design video games, engineer robots, work with AI, design 3D models, discover the secrets of cybersecurity, produce and stream videos, create digital music and more! Call 1 (888) 709-8324 or visit iDTech.com Spring 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 7
Camp Lead Multiple Locations in Northeast Ohio Leaders are made, not born! Effective Leadership Academy is proud to present Camp LEAD: “The Amazing Chase”, a fun and dynamic summer experience focused on healthy competition and team collaboration. The weeklong day camp engages 5th-8th grade boys and girls at a pivotal point in their development. Call (216) 292-8775 or visit effectivela.org
Esports Summer Camp The University of Akron The only collegiate esports summer camp in the Midwest! State of the art facility, small group setting, coaching sessions with high level college gaming athletes, daily workouts and gym sessions, classes on careers in esports and end of week live show match. Students aged 12-17. Day and overnight camps available. Email ntm2@uakron.edu or visit uakron. edu/esports/ events/summer-camp
Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) Multiple Locations in Northeast Ohio Whether your child is a young performer or a budding engineer, Tri-C Summer Camps will help them discover their passions and talents. Choose from 32 camps featuring culinary, film, game design, music, performing arts, recreation and STEM. Camps are offered at five different locations and are designed for children ages 4-18.
Parent Poll
Call (216) 987-3075 and select option 1 or visit tri-c. edu/summercamps Why do you think it’s important to send your child to summer camp? • Help them gain independence and critical thinking skills in a safe environment away from home. ~ Joan F. • Helps break up the summer and gives them something fun to look forward to. ~Susie D. • To allow them to try new activities and meet new friends. ~ Jennifer J.
8 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Spring 2020
Jr. Ranger Summer Day Camp Cuyahoga Valley Environmental Education Center An outdoor adventure in the heart of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Campers are sure to have an adventurous summer discovering nature through hands-on explorations, day hikes, games, and crafts. Made-fromscratch lunches and snacks are included each day of camp. Designed for children entering grades 1-6. Call (330) 657-2796 or visit cvnpedu.org/summer-camp
Classroom Antics Summer STEAM Camps Multiple Locations in Northeast Ohio Kids ages 6-13 get to learn what they love in STEAM camp, including LEGO robotics, computer programming, Minecraft coding, video production, video game design, engineering and stop-motion animation camps! Register early, as space is limited. Use coupon code NEOFF10 to save $10 per camp (expires 4/30) Call (800) 595-37766 or visit classroomantics.com/ cleveland-summer-camps/
Challenge Island STEAMtastic Summer Camps Multiple Locations in Northeast Ohio Challenge Island is a high-energy, hands-on fusion of STEAM, 21st Century Skills, problem-solving adventure, project based learning and a trademark STEAMbuilding experience. Campers embark on fantastical themed STEAM journeys where they work in collaborative teams to tackle various exciting challenges. Visit challenge-island.com
Make Believe Summer Camps 8303 Day Dr, Parma, OH 44129 Kids will run, jump, play, explore, and make friends from the minute you drop them off until the minute they leave. Activities include “Ballocity� 3 Story Indoor Playground, ropes course, rock wall, Ninja Wall, bumper cars, mini bowling, arcade games, laser tag, arts and crafts, reading, story time and cooking experiments. Call (440) 385-5500 or visit makebelieveparma.com/camp-2
Spring 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 9
Home Away From Home Summer Programs Ss. Robert & William School - Euclid Spend the summer at SRW! Students entering 1st through 6th grade are invited to participate in teacherled weekly camps. Camp themes include: Super Hero Academy, Arts & Crafts, Vacation Bible School, STEM Week, Space Adventure, Nature Explorers, Olympics and Stage Stars. Early bird pricing available until April 1 Call (216) 731-3060 ext. 256 or visit srweuclid.cc/ summer-camps
Beck Center for the Arts 17801 Detroit Ave. Lakewood, Ohio 44107 Get creative and have fun at Beck Center! Over 200 award-winning classes, programs, and lessons. Halfday and full-day camps for ages 5-19 in dance, theater, music, and visual arts. Beck Center provides over 200 award-winning classes, programs, and lessons every week. Call 216-521-2540 or visit beckcenter.org
Akron Children’s Museum
Cleveland Botanical Garden
Akron YMCA Camps
Cleveland Metroparks Summer Nature Camps
216 South Main St. Akron Call (330) 396-6103 or visit akronkids.org/ calendar/programs
Multiple Locations in Northeast Ohio
Multiple Locations in Northeast Ohio Visit clevelandmetroparks.com/parks/ education/summer-nature-camps
Visit akronymca.org/GotCamp/
Beech Creek Botanical Gardens and Nature Preserve
Cleveland Play House Summer Theatre Academy
11929 Beech St. NE, Alliance, OH 44601 Call (330) 829-7050 or visit beechcreekgardens.org/nature-camps
CPH Education Center - Cleveland Call (216) 414-7111 or visit clevelandplayhouse.com/academy
Camp Carl
8054 Calvin Rd. Ravenna
Stark State College Kids’ College Summer Program
Call (330) 315-5665 or visit campcarl.life
Akron Children’s Museum
216 South Main St. Akron Call (330) 396-6103 or visit akronkids.org/ calendar/programs
Akron YMCA Camps
Multiple Locations in Northeast Ohio Visit akronymca.org/GotCamp/
Beech Creek Botanical Gardens and Nature Preserve
11929 Beech St. NE, Alliance, OH 44601 Call (330) 829-7050 or visit beechcreekgardens.org/nature-camps
Camp Carl
8054 Calvin Rd. Ravenna Call (330) 315-5665 or visit campcarl.life
11030 East Blvd. Cleveland Call (216) 721-1600 or visit cbgarden.org/ education
6200 Frank Ave. NW North Canton Call (330) 494-6170 or visit starkstate.edu/ kidscollege
Summer Farm & Science Camp Crown Point Ecology Center - Bath Call (330) 668-8992 or visit crownpointecology.org/summer-camp
YMCA Camp Tippecanoe
81300 Stewart Rd Tippecanoe Call 1 (800) 922-0679 or visit ymcastark. org/camp-tippecanoe
ZooCamp at the Akron Zoo
500 Edgewood Ave, Akron Call (330) 375-2550 or visit akronzoo.org/ zoo-camp
Children’s Museum of Cleveland
3813 Euclid Ave. Cleveland Call (216) 791-7114 or visit cmcleveland. org/visitcmc/cmcdiscoverycamp
Spring 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 11
12 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Spring 2020
BENEFITS OF SUMMER CAMP Camp is an opportunity for children to thrive in a new learning environment with positive adult role models. The experiential education atmosphere provides an opportunity to create lasting friendships and learn important life skills in a different kind of “classroom�. Whether indoors or up in the mountains, the summer camp atmosphere creates a sense of community that helps children learn compassion, communication, confidence, and connection.
CAMP IS A VALUABLE LEARNING OPPORTUNITY Camp staff provide powerful learning experiences for their campers. Through various activities and experiences, they teach children respect for nature and real-life applications of physical science. They also provide a safe atmosphere to learn about and form interpersonal relationships, building and nurturing those relationships in new situations. The memories and friendships made at camp are built to last a lifetime. Shared experiences in camp settings and the vulnerability of learning together helps to foster valuable connections for children. By cultivating new friendships and navigating relationships on their own, campers gain self-confidence and strengthen social skills they will use the rest of their lives. Many camp activities are structured specifically toward creating these relationships and learning to work well as a team. Continued on pg. 14
Spring 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 13
ATTENDING CAMP IS BENFICIAL TO PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT For many kids, summer camp is their first experience with extended time away from home and the security of their parents. Although nerves can be high, campers are known to face this new setting with bravery. Recognizing that they can thrive in this independent setting helps them recognize their resilience. It’s not uncommon for campers to experience feelings of homesickness and worry. In the camp environment, they can learn to cope with those feelings, begin to recognize feelings of safety with friends and counselors, and focus on the fun things this new place has to offer them.
CAMP PROVIDES A SAFE PLACE TO TRY NEW THINGS Camp is also a great opportunity for kids to try new things. Whether it’s new meals or activities, trying new things is a valuable skill for children to gain. Spending time outdoors and participating in camp activities can introduce your camper to new hobbies and interests. Many camps are making an effort to offer healthier, more balanced meals. Summer camp can be a great model for healthy living as campers eat balanced meals, spend time participating in outdoor recreation, and engage in positive social interactions. The benefits of personal development that summer camp can offer are immeasurable. The foundational skills campers learn will benefit them throughout their lives. It can help them to thrive in society, be team-players, gain leadership skills, and create memories that they’ll remember for years to come.
14 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Spring 2020
4 WAYS CAMPERS BENEFIT FROM
SUMMER CAMP
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT Camp helps teach foundational skills like compassion, communication, confidence, and connection. They have the opportunity to learn independence, teamwork, leadership, and resilience.
MEMORIES AND FRIENDSHIPS Shared experiences in camp settings and the vulnerability of learning together helps to foster valuable connections for children and create memories that last a lifetime.
NEW HOBBIES AND INTERESTS Spending time at camp can introduce campers to new hobbies and interests and help them gain confidence in trying new things.
INCREASED CONFIDENCE As they learn new skills and try new things, campers will discover a sense of self-confidence.
Spring 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 15
7 Things to Consider Before Choosing a Camp for Your Child Although summer camp is for everyone, not every camp will meet your child’s needs. When choosing a summer camp for your young camper, it’s important to weigh the options and consider your child’s personality, interests, and abilities so you can choose a camp that will benefit your child the most. Here are seven things to consider before you sign your child up for camp:
1
COST
2
TYPE OF CAMP: DAY CAMP VS. SLEEPAWAY CAMP
Although camps strive to keep their programs affordable and accessible for youth, not all camps are in the same price range. Prices change depending on the facility, activities and resources available, and whether or not your child will spend the night at camp.
Many sleepaway, or resident camps, offer a variety of options-- co-ed, single sex, and specialty programs. It’s important to look into the sleeping arrangements (typically teepees, tents, cabins, or dorms) and consider the atmosphere where your child will thrive best. Day camps are often available for younger campers (often as early as age 4) and everyone returns home at the end of the day. Some older children may have a better experience at day camps, while others will thrive independently when spending a few nights away from home.
16 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Spring 2020
3
SESSION LENGTH
Camp session lengths vary. Ranging from a single-day camp to multiple weeks, there are session lengths available for every child’s needs and family’s budget.
4
TYPE OF CAMP: INDOOR VS. OUTDOOR
Although we typically picture summer camp happening outside, often in the mountains, there are a variety of programs available in indoor settings as well. Camp programs are available at parks, in the mountains, at libraries, schools, and other indoor facilities. Consider how your child will respond to each of these learning atmospheres as you make your decision.
5
ACTIVITIES
6
FRIENDS
Many single-day camps focus on one theme or activity, while longer camps have the opportunity to expand on a theme or provide a variety of activities. Some camps are accredited for STEAM learning programs, while others focus on outdoor recreation and crafts. Consider your child’s interests and learning needs as you look specifically at the activities offered during their camp experience.
Although camp can provide a great opportunity for kids to learn independence and bravery, it’s often helpful for kids to have a friend to lean on in this new experience. As you select a camp, talk to the parents of your child’s peers and consider where they’ll be sending their children.
7
FOOD
Parent Poll
Will your child need to bring their own food and snacks to camp? If food is provided, what is the meal schedule like? For children with special dietary needs, make sure your camp offers adjusted or specialized meal options.
How do you help prevent your child from getting homesick? • Notes for them to read everyday ~ Marlene H. • Lots of letters! Hide notes in clothes pockets and shoes. Include jokes, words of encouragement and love. ~ Tricia T.
Spring 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 17
18 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Spring 2020
GETTING YOUR CHILD READY FOR OVERNIGHT CAMP Ah, summer camp. You can almost hear the crackling fire and smell the burning marshmallows just with the thought of it. Although you may have fond memories and ideas of summer camp, your child may not have that association yet. Here are some tips for getting your child ready, both mentally and physically, for overnight camp this summer.
CHOOSE A CAMP TOGETHER: As you consider which camp will be the best fit for your child, let your child help weigh the options. Researching together can help build excitement for them and help them feel confident in what they’ll be participating in because they’ll have better, more realistic expectations. Our article, “7 Things to Consider Before Choosing a Camp for Your Child” (Pg. 16) can be a helpful guide as you research camp options together.
LOOK AT CAMP PHOTOS AND ASK QUESTIONS THAT WILL HELP WITH ANY CONCERNS: Many camp websites and Facebook pages have pictures that showcase the facility, the activities, and help provide an idea of what camp will be like. After looking at the camp’s website, program outline, and photos, sit down together and write a list of questions you’d like to research or ask the camp director. Here are some questions your child may want to ask: • What is the best thing about camp? Continued on pg. 20 • What will I do all day? Spring 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 19
• • •
Do I get to choose my activities? What are some of the activities? What if I have a problem or a medical need?
SUMMER CAMP PACKING GUIDE
These answers will be specific to each camp, but knowing the answers can help your child anticipate camp with excitement. If any concerns arise, you can address them and help your child feel prepared to deal with any potential challenges or worries.
PACK TOGETHER: It’s never too early to pack for camp. By packing in advance, you’ll have more time to shop for anything you need to purchase, and make any necessary changes in the weeks leading up to camp. By involving your camper in the packing, you’ll have the opportunity to talk more about their concerns and excitement. This will also help ensure they’re ready to take care of themselves during their stay. Our packing guide on the next page can help your camper fill in the blanks and choose specific items they want to bring as you create your packing list.
PLAN YOUR CORRESPONDENCE: If your child will have the opportunity to write or call home, make sure they are prepared with what they will need. A 3x5 card with your phone number and emergency numbers is useful to pack in case any emergencies happen outside of their allotted phone call time. If they’ll be writing home, have a pre-addressed envelope with a stamp, paper and a pen. Let them know what the camp correspondence guidelines are so they have realistic expectations about contacting you while they’re away.
BUILD EXCITEMENT AND ANTICIPATION: In the months and weeks leading up to camp, talk about it frequently. By becoming familiar with what will happen at camp and anticipating the fun, you can help to calm nerves and worries. This will help your child feel more confident as they prepare for camp, and more comfortable when they arrive. Help your camper know in advance that they may experience feelings of homesickness or uncertainty-- they need to know that these feelings are normal. You can provide them with tools to overcome these feelings: deep breaths, hugging a blanket or stuffed animal from home, writing their feelings in a journal or a letter home, or finding a new activity to enjoy. By helping them feel prepared to deal with these worries, they can focus more on their excitement. Make sure they know how excited you are for them to participate in this experience, and how excited you’ll be to hear all about it when they return home. 20 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Spring 2020
SUMMER CAMP PACKING GUIDE It’s time to pack for camp! Here’s a fill-in-the-blank list of things you’ll want to include. (Don’t forget to use this in conjunction with the packing list from your camp director.) Click here for a printable version.
BEDDING NEEDS: Camp will provide_____________ so, I need to pack_____________.
A COMFORT OBJECT: My favorite, small stuffed animal is:_____________.
BATHROOM NEEDS: Camp will provide_____________ so, I need to pack_____________.
CLOTHING NEEDS: I will be at camp for ___ days and ___ nights. This means I need ___ shirts, ____ pairs of pants, ___ sets of pajamas, ___ socks, ___ pairs of underwear, and ___ shoes. (Don’t forget to list types of shoes!)
FOOD NEEDS: Camp will provide_____________ so, I need to pack_____________.
MEDICATION NEEDS: I take ________ medicine. I need it (every day/multiple times a day/ every night), so I need to pack ___ doses.
MONEY NEEDS: In case of emergency, I will pack $____. For spending money, I will pack $____.
OTHER NEEDS: Make a list of activities you’ll be participating in. Do you need special shoes for these activities? What will the weather be like? Will you need a coat, rain jacket, umbrella, boots, or a hat? How can you stay healthy and safe? Think of items you’ll need like sunscreen, bug spray, an inhaler, aSpring flashlight, a water bottle, etc. 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 21
22 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Spring 2020
Things to book now for summer fun Summer fun is right around the corner. Are you ready to break out the pool and sprinkler, fire up the grill and enjoy the sunshine and warm weather? If so, make these reservations now if you want to rock your summer!
CHILD CARE Plan out your summer child care now. Book summer camps, sitters, nannies or other options as soon as you can. Popular options fill up fast and you don’t want to miss out.
ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT Beat the summer slide and prevent your child from losing valuable skills while school is out. Academic enrichment classes are available and cover a variety of skills including reading, writing, mathematics, test prep and more.
SWIM LESSONS Breathe easier this summer knowing your kids are strong, confident swimmers. Trust us, swimming lessons will make days spent at the pool or lake much more enjoyable.
Continued on pg. 24
Spring 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 23
CAMPSITES, RVS, HOTELS, FLIGHTS AND CAR RENTALS Book those vacation rentals now to avoid disappointment later. This is especially important if you are visiting during popular holiday weekends.
PET BOARDING Many popular locations fill up quickly. Reserve your dates now to ensure your furbaby is in good hands while you are away on vacation.
SUMMER CAMP Sign up now to take advantage of early bird registration discounts. Check out our Summer Camp Guide on page 6 to find the perfect camp.
SUMMER FUN CHALLENGE Join us for our annual Summer Fun Challenge! It’s a 12-week fun, easy to follow challenge for parents who want to be intentional about prioritizing fun this summer. Sign up at neohiofamilyfun.com/summer-fun-challenge/
24 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Spring 2020
Spring 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 25
Gardens to Explore Rockefeller Park Greenhouse & Botanical Garden 750 E. 88th Street, Cleveland Walk the grounds through the themed gardens and step inside the greenhouse where it’s warm and the flowers are always blooming. Be sure to visit the Betty Ott Talking Garden for the Blind. Open daily. FREE
Cleveland Botanical Gardens 11030 East Blvd, Cleveland Visit the Glasshouse to enjoy a rainforest filled with butterflies and a desert oasis with unique plants and animals. Make time to explore the interactive Hershey Children’s Garden. Open Daily.
Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens 714 N. Portage Path, Akron Explore the picturesque 70-acre garden and take a tour of the historic 65 room Manor House. Children of all ages will enjoy the interactive children’s Playgarden. Estate Opens in April, Playgarden Opens in May.
Secrest Arboretum & Gardens 1680 Madison Ave, Wooster Take a leisurely walk along the trails that wind through forests, meadows and themed gardens. Make a special stop at the natural play fortress and ride down the huge slide built into the side of a hill. Open daily. FREE
26 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Spring 2020
Schoepfle Garden 11106 Market Street, Wakeman Stroll along the two-mile Schoepfle Garden Nature Trail, stop to play in the musically themed Children’s Garden and ride on the restored carousel. Open daily. Carousel opens for the season in May. FREE
Fellows Riverside Gardens 123 McKinley Ave, Youngstown Snap photos of the abundant daffodils and tulips in the Perennial Garden and explore the whimsical Family Garden. Plan to visit MetroParks Farm and Lanterman’s Mill while we are in the area. Open daily. FREE
Beech Creek Gardens 11929 Beech St. NE, Alliance Wander through garden and wooded trails, stop by the nature play area that features treehouses and experience over 20 interactive activities in the nature center. Hours vary seasonally.
Spring 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 27
Where Good Things Happen By Design
At Falcon Camp, we believe that good things happen when you make them. That’s why we’ve spent many years designing the best program for your child, where they will have a great time while also learning and growing. Each day, campers choose their activities through our intentional programming, increasing their independence, while also having the best summer ever! Ohio’s Premier Summer Camp!
Only two hours south of Cleveland!
www.falconcamp.com
28 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Spring 2020
Ohio Day Trips Whether you are looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, these kid friendly destinations will allow you to take a break from the day-to-day without leaving the state!
COLUMBUS OHIO See the animals at the Columbus Zoo, experience hands-on science fun at COSI, discover what's blooming at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, schedule a tour of Ohio Stadium, stroll through the unique Topiary Park or snap a few pictures at the Field of Corn. Top off the day with a scoop of Jeni's ice cream.
CINCINNATI OHIO Enjoy the beautiful Smale Riverfront Park, walk along the bridges over the Ohio River, visit historic Union Terminal and explore the museums inside, see animals at the Cincinnati zoo and Newport Aquarium, or go on an art scavenger hunt at the Cincinnati Art Museum. When you eat, remember to order the 5 way Cincinnati Style Chilli.
AMISH COUNTRY OHIO Enjoy a slower, more peaceful and relaxed pace and experience a completely different way of living in Amish Country. Visit the Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center, schedule a tour of an Amish Home, go on a Buggy Ride and enjoy a delicious meal at an Amish Restaurant. Continued on pg. 30
Spring 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 29
WARREN COUNTY OHIO Have some high flying fun at Ozone Zipline Adventure and experience history at Fort Ancient Earthworks and Nature Preserve. Finish up your day with a Chuck Wagon Dinner at Bonnybrook Farms.
TOLEDO OHIO Schedule a behind the scenes tour at Toledo Zoo & Aquarium, check out the handson exhibits at Imagination Station, stop by the family center at the Toledo Museum of Art, hunt for treasures at Fossil Park or experience history at Fort Meigs.
Parent Poll
Want more details on these and even more road trip ideas? Visit northeastohiofamilyfun.com/family-travel/
What is the #1 thing you never forget to pack for summer camp? • Sunblock ~ Liz B. • Bug Spray ~ Joni S. • Shower Shoes ~ James R. • For overnight camp, we always send two towels with our kids ~ Helen F.
30 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Spring 2020
Spring Freebies for Families Check out our favorite free activities for families.
CHOCOLATE FACTORY TOUR 750 E. 88th Street, Cleveland | (800) 321-0044, Ext. 119 Go on a 45 minute guided tour where you watch chocolate being made and enjoy samples of the delicious chocolate. Tours offered Monday through Thursday. Reservations required.
ART MUSEUMS Get in free to the Akron Art Museum on Thursdays or visit the Cleveland Art Museum which offers free admission every day.
PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS Burn off energy at the playground, take a hike along the trails and play Frisbee or a game of catch. There are an abundance of great parks across Northeast Ohio. Find our favorites northeastohiofamilyfun.com/parks-playgrounds/
FAMILY OPEN ART STUDIO 3119 Denison Ave, Cleveland | (216) 398-8556 Monthly art workshops for families are held the third Saturday of every month. Workshops are led by a professional artist and have a new theme each month. Reservations required. ontinued on C
pg. 3 2
Spring 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 31
HOME DEPOT KIDS WORKSHOPS DIY projects for young builders! Have fun building a different project each month. Each child also receives a workshop apron and a special project pin. Registration required. homedepot.com/workshops/
LOWE'S DIY KIDS' WORKSHOPS The popular workshops are back! New building projects each month. Space is limited and reservations are required. diy.lowes.com/
WARD BEECHER PLANETARIUM Ward Beecher Science Hall at Youngstown State University Observe the stars at one of the public planetarium programs offered during the weekends. Visit wbplanetarium.org/programs to view the schedule.
CLEVELAND MONEY MUSEUM Learn about the history of money, try to identify counterfeit bills, make your own currency and more fun interactive exhibits. Open Monday through Thursday. (216) 579-3188
32 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Spring 2020
Spring 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 33
34 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Spring 2020