Summer is in Full Swing at the Cleveland Metroparks: Upcoming Events and Activities

As the sun stretches its golden arms across Northeast Ohio and Lake Erie glistens under the heat of a long-awaited summer, there’s no better way to soak it all in than with a visit to one of the Cleveland Metroparks’ 18 reservations. From nature lovers and fitness junkies to music buffs and families on the go, summer 2025 promises a packed season of adventure, entertainment, and pure outdoor magic.

Whether you're paddling through the Cuyahoga River, dancing under the stars at Edgewater Live, or picnicking beside a shaded trail in the Rocky River Reservation, the Metroparks have something for everyone, and this year’s event lineup is as vibrant as ever.

Music, Food, and Sunsets: Edgewater Live & Euclid Beach Live Return

Edgewater Live is officially back every Thursday evening from 4:30 to 9:00 PM, and it’s bigger than ever. Thousands gather each week at the Edgewater Beach House for Cleveland’s favorite summer celebration by the water. With live bands playing everything from funk to indie rock, and local food trucks serving up gyros, tacos, and gourmet popsicles, it’s the perfect after-work or weekend jumpstart.

Meanwhile, Euclid Beach Live returns on select Friday nights, bringing the rhythm to Cleveland’s east side. The performances this year feature a mix of reggae, Motown, jazz, and Caribbean steel drum bands, all set against the scenic backdrop of the lake.

Paddle the Parks: Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddleboarding & More

Want to explore Cleveland from a whole new angle? Look no further than the Metroparks’ water-based recreation offerings. With warm weather settling in, kayak and paddleboard rentals are available daily at:

• Hinckley Lake Boathouse

• Edgewater Beach

• Rocky River Reservation (Rocky River Marina)

• Merwin’s Wharf (on the Cuyahoga River)

For those looking to sharpen their skills, beginner-friendly classes such as Intro to Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga, and Paddle + Pints Nights (where you finish with a cold local brew) are being offered through Cleveland Metroparks Outdoor Recreation.

Pedal, Hike, and Trek Across 24,000+ Acres

Summer is when the Metroparks trail systems really shine. With over 300 miles of trails, ranging from paved, accessible paths to rugged dirt tracks, there’s a route for every skill level and age. Key trails and destinations include:

• The All-Purpose Trail through the Rocky River Reservation, perfect for cycling, running, or leisurely walks.

• The Fort Hill Stairs (155 steps!) with scenic overlooks of the river valley.

• Bedford Reservation’s Bridal Veil Falls hike, with peaceful forest canopies and Instagram-worthy views.

• The Mountain Bike Trail in the Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation, which offers loops for beginner to expert riders.

Ranger-led hikes, wildlife walks, and fitness-focused outings like “Hike & HIIT” and “Trail Yoga” are on the calendar all summer long.

Family Fun & Educational Programs for All Ages

Looking for something to keep the kids entertained (and off their screens)? The Metroparks host dozens of free and low-cost events for families throughout the summer. These include:

• Nature Storytime for toddlers at nature centers like North Chagrin and Brecksville.

• Live animal encounters featuring hawks, owls, snakes, and even foxes.

• Night hikes and insect-spotting safaris for curious young minds.

• EcoExplorer Workshops, where kids become junior rangers for a day.

Parents and educators alike praise these hands-on learning events for making science feel like an adventure.

Picnic Spots, Pop-Ups, and Dining by the River

Whether you're packing a basket or grabbing grub from a food truck, summer is peak picnic season. Prime spots to roll out your blanket include:

• Edgewater Park, with sunset views over the water

• Hinckley Reservation, nestled among the sandstone cliffs

• Big Creek Reservation, shaded by sycamores and perfect for mid-day respites

And don’t forget about Merwin’s Wharf, a full-service restaurant right on the Cuyahoga River Trail. Paddle or pedal up, grab a cold drink, and enjoy live acoustic music on the patio during weekend brunch hours.

Also new this year: "Tastes of the Metroparks" — a weekend pop-up series featuring local chefs, craft beer vendors, and rotating themes (like Taco Trails, BBQ Bonanza, and Vegan on the Green).

Eco-Conscious & Community-Centered Events

The Metroparks have long been a leader in conservation, and this summer's event roster reflects that mission:

• Pollinator Week at West Creek (June 24–30) brings focus to bees, butterflies, and native flowers.

• River Sweep Cleanups continue into August — volunteer to help keep Cleveland’s waterways clean.

• Sustainability Saturdays at Watershed Stewardship Center provide hands-on learning about recycling, composting, and rain gardens.

These programs aim to connect city dwellers with the ecosystems around them, promoting climate awareness and community stewardship.

Metroparks After Dark: Star Walks, Fireside Chats, and Campouts

As day turns to night, the parks don’t sleep. Evening programming has expanded for 2025 to include:

• Guided stargazing sessions at North Chagrin and West Creek

• Campfire nights with s’mores and stories

• Full moon hikes led by rangers

• Overnight family campouts (gear included!) with scheduled activities and nature crafts

A Cleveland Summer Tradition

In a city often defined by sports, weather, and grit, the Cleveland Metroparks remind us that we’re also a city of lakes, forests, and rivers.

From sunrise runs along the lakefront to lazy afternoons in shaded meadows and bustling Thursday nights by the beach, the parks are more than green space. They’re Cleveland’s summer heartbeat.

So grab your picnic blanket, your bike, your family, and your curiosity. ONLY in the CLE is Summer complete after a few trips to the Metroparks.