Free activities in Cleveland
Findley State Park
Findley State Park was once a state forest, and it remains densely wooden with beautiful pines and hardwoods. An area of the park is a dedicated sanctuary for the rare Duke’s skipper butterfly. The park’s 931 acres offer camping, hiking, bike rentals, nature programs, boating, fishing, swimming, and winter sports. There are cabins for rent for overnight stays.
Address: 25381 State Route 58 Wellington, OH 44090-9010
Phone: 440.647.4490
Website: findleystatepark.org
Ohio Bird Sanctuary
Located on 72 acres of forest and marsh that border the Clearfork Reservoir, the Ohio Bird Sanctuary is a non-profit rehabilitation and education center for Ohio’s birds of prey and songbirds. There are eight scenic trails that will take you through groves of pine, marshland, meadows, and the Clearfork River. The sanctuary takes care of many species of eagles, hawks, and owls that have been injured and cannot be released back into nature. Children can purchase meal worms to feed songbirds in the large aviary. Their frequent tours and education programs are fascinating.
Address: 3774 Orweiler Rd. Mansfield, OH 44903
Phone: 419.884.4295
Website: ohiobirdsanctuary.com
Lake Erie Islands State Park
Limestone cliffs, historic wineries, crystal caverns and a shimmering Great Lake greet visitors to the Lake Erie Islands state parks. These three state parks offer unique island retreats where fishing, boating and swimming can be enjoyed. The parks are Catawba Island State Park, South Bass Island, and Kelley’s Island State Park. Cabins are available for rent.
Address: 4049 East Moore’s Dock Road, Port Clinton, OH 43452
Website: www.dnr.state.oh.us
NASA Glenn Research Center
When people think of NASA, they usually think of Cape Canaveral, but Cleveland is home to an important NASA research station: the Glenn Research Center where scientists advance exploration of the solar system and beyond. Areas of the center are open to the public free of charge. Children can learn about space shuttles, satellites, zero gravity, and wind tunnels through interactive exhibits. The Apollo Command Module is the most popular area and the Launch Control Center lets you simulate a rocket launch with a countdown sequence.
Address: 21000 Brookpark Road, Cleveland, OH 44135
Phone: 216-433-4000
Website:www.nasa.gov
Leave a Comment