Some people say that fall is best enjoyed outdoors. I wholeheartedly agree! The following family-friendly activities will let you experience the best of Cleveland and northeast Ohio during this colorful season.
- 1. Go on a day trip to Cuyahoga River
The lush wilderness that surrounds Cuyahoga River turns into a blaze of gold, red, and yellow come autumn. Enjoy the foliage and, at the same time, some of the most popular activities in the area. Cuyahoga River is often frequented by nature enthusiasts and anglers. Other river activities include kayaking and rafting, both of which will definitely help burn some calories. Trekking to any of the nearby waterfalls is also a must.
- 2. Hike in any of the following hiking spots
Fall is one of the best times to go hiking in Cleveland. You can dedicate one whole day with the family to explore a specific trail, or even go and do several hikes in one day. Here are some of the best hiking areas to experience Cleveland’s beautiful fall foliage.
- Brandywine Falls – Open from dawn ’til dusk, Brandywine Falls is a 65-feet high waterfall accessible by a 1.5-mile hiking trail. It’s deep within the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, with facilities accessible should you need any help. A boardwalk and upper observation platform are located on top of the falls to give visitors a breathtaking view of the falls and the surrounding forest. Overall, the trail is family-friendly and can take up to an hour to complete.
- Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail – One of the most popular trails in all of Northeast Ohio, the Towpath trail is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Its total length spans approximately 85 miles and can be biked. Although the trail is long, you can start from several trailheads. The trail is also relatively flat throughout, making it one of the friendliest trails in the area for families.
- 3. Tour downtown Cleveland on a bike
Cleveland is home to several tour operators that offer bike tours in downtown Cleveland every day. Aside from seeing the city in a different light, the whole family will also get to enjoy some exercise and even build a skill. Check Cleveland Bike Tours along 1050 East 9th Street or Ohio City Bicycle Co-op at 1840 Columbus Road for more information about bike tours and social rides around Cleveland.
- 4. Jump all you want in an indoor trampoline park
Indoor trampoline parks are all the rage right now, so why not give it a go? One of the nearest trampoline parks from Cleveland is Sky Zone in Westlake, about less than an hour’s drive away. There’s also another branch in Highland Heights, which is also a relatively short drive away. Bring extra shirts just in case, because jumping around with the whole family will definitely make you sweat and burn some calories.
Fall in Cleveland is a great time to explore the sights and sounds of the city.
Check my blog for more tips on how to make the most out of the season in Cleveland, OH from activities to home improvement projects.