Summer in Chagrin Valley is the perfect time to pack a picnic basket and enjoy the great outdoors. After all, there’s no better way to spend a sunny morning or afternoon than in a scenic spot surrounded by lush greenery. The following locations are ideal for one of the beloved outdoor activities in Chagrin Valley.
- Riverside Park
E Orange Street, Chagrin Falls, OHIn downtown Chagrin Falls lies the picturesque Riverside Park. As its name suggests, it’s located along the Chagrin River shoreline, so you can hear the water rush by during your picnic. There is ample green space in the park to lay out a picnic mat, as well as play a friendly game – or two– of frisbee. You can also pick any of the picnic tables scattered throughout the park if you prefer a more stable surface for your activity. Mature trees provide lots of shade, even on especially sunny days. Since you’re already in the area, drop by the Chagrin Falls Popcorn Shop for additional snacks.
- Henry Church, Jr. Rock Picnic Area
Hawthorn Parkway, Bentleyville, OHLocated within the South Chagrin Reservation, the Henry Church, Jr. Rock Picnic Area is an underrated spot for summer picnics. The surrounding woods, the Chagrin River rushing along the area, and the historic rock itself all create a serene environment for a relaxing picnic. Tables, shelters, grills, and restrooms are all available in the vicinity. Other outdoor activities you can enjoy in this Chagrin Valley gem include hiking and fishing.
- Quarry Rock Picnic Area
36000-36050 Solon Road, Bentleyville, OHAn alternative picnic spot in the South Chagrin Reservation is the Quarry Rock Picnic Area, which is roughly a 40-minute hike from the Henry Church, Jr. Picnic Area. Stunning rock formations surround the picnic facilities in the vicinity, which include tables, shelters, and restrooms. There is also an overlook, where visitors can catch glimpses of Chagrin River’s Aurora branch as it flows through the landscape.
- Forest Hill Park
2370 Lee Boulevard, Cleveland Heights, OHForest Hill Park is a historic and beautiful park that spans over 235 acres of rolling hills, woodlands, as well as a picturesque lagoon. As you can imagine, the park has no shortage of scenic picnic spots. But if you would like to make use of the park’s facilities, there are two covered picnic shelters located near the playground and tennis courts.
Since it is home to a number of other features (including ballfields, a playground, and a multi-purpose field, Forest Hill Park gets its fair share of visitors especially during clear summer days. This makes the area a fantastic spot for people-watching and playing friendly sports matches with other groups.
- Hudson Springs Park
7095 Stow Road, Hudson, OHThe centerpiece of this large, family-friendly park in Hudson is the 50-acre lake, where visitors can go fishing for bass and bluegill. If you would rather stay on dry land, the 260-acre Hudson Springs Park has a network of trails you can explore, an open play meadow perfect for casual sports and games, and a children’s playground and hedge maze.
There are three picnic pavilions where you can set up at Hudson Springs Park: Clark, Galloway, and May. All three are open from dawn to dusk and feature grills for those who want to cook their food on-site. Take note, however, that Galloway doesn’t have electricity, while the May pavilion has its own volleyball court nearby.
Find more outdoor activities to do in Chagrin Valley this summer. And when you’re ready to explore your real estate opportunities in the area, connect with me, Michelle McQuade, at 440.823.2448 or send me an email.