Don't be fooled by its rust belt location, northeastern Ohio offers more than its fair share of affordable outdoor adventures. From Cleveland's sporty city environs to Akron's basketball and blues, you don't need to spend a lot of dough to get fit and have fun. Get out and get active in northeast Ohio and you're sure to be "hot in Cleveland."
Swim Lake Erie
Located on Lake Erie, Cleveland has surprisingly nice beaches that provide challenging swimming. Try the lower end of Edgewater Park located in the 419-acre Cleveland Lakefront State Park. Edgewater's 900-foot swimming beach features two picnic shelters, restrooms and concessions. Plus, you're only a short walk away from the Edgewater upper pavilion, with playground equipment for the kids and some of the best views of downtown Cleveland.
Go Green at Malabar Farm
Part of the Ohio State park system, Malabar Farm State Park in Lucas, Ohio is a gem of a historic landmark dedicated to conservation and sustainable resource use. Once the home of Louis Bromfield, the park and its foundation preserve this man's legacy as an agriculture and conservation pioneer who also found fame as writer, penning the Pulitzer Prize winning "Early Autumn" and 29 other books. The farm's impressive grounds offer more than environmental education...from an extensive web of hiking trails to cross country skiing, the farm is a sporty retreat in every season. After your walk, tour the Ohio songbird aviary or stop by the petting barn. You can even fish and camp overnight if you like. Check the farm's calendar for special events like the "Haunt Night" hikes and more. Visit malabarfarm.org for details.
Lock in Good Health at Akron's Lock3
Located in downtown Akron next door to the Civic Center, Lock 3 is a popular outdoor entertainment venue. For free and low cost fun, visit on Fridays. You can fuel up on whole foods from the farmer's market and then dance the night away under the stars at Lock 3's free Friday night "Rock the Lock" tribute-band concerts. Wintertime? Check out Lock 3's seasonal ice rink--the largest in Ohio--and shop the Chriskindl Market. For details and to confirm dates, visit Lock 3 online at lock4live.com.
Make Like LeBron James in Akron
In his hometown of Akron--and, well, almost anywhere--basketball star LeBron James needs no introduction. Take a cue from James and get in some hoops in the area that started it all. Try Bettes Park, located on Akron's west side, or take a short trip to Munroe Falls where you can play ball and swim, fish, hike, pedal boat, cross country ski and more. Visit the Summit County Metro Parks website for directions, hours and more information.
Bike Cleveland's Lakeshore
Take in the impressive Cleveland skyline on one side and vast Lake Erie on the other as you zip along the nine-mile Cleveland Lakefront Bike Trail. This near-perfect bike experience lets you enjoy the beauty of nature without leaving the city limits. The trail is part of the 419-acre Cleveland Lakefront State Park, an oasis in the heart of bustling Cleveland. On your way, take a break for a quick swim at Euclid Beach or stop by the East 55th Street Marina to cool off boat-side. Both are accessible from the path. For more information, contact the Ohio State Department of Natural Resources.
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