River Cruiser Kayaking
See the city as you likely never have before with a three-hour kayak adventure. Beginning off Harvard Avenue in Cuyahoga Heights, the Blue Run tour winds 12 miles along the Cuyahoga River behind Steelyard Commons, through the industrial flats, behind the Terminal Tower and concludes at Wendy Park at Whiskey Island. Other guided or nonguided tours explore the Ohio and Erie Canal and Rocky River for unique views of nature and wildlife. "You really get to see behind the scenes of downtown Cleveland," says tour guide Dan Hudak.
Flick 'n Float
Consider this annual movie night at Lorain County Metro Parks Splash Zone a cross between the drive-in and whitewater rafting. While the movie is always water-themed and family-friendly (Free Willy has been shown in the past), the atmosphere is loose and fun as kids frolic and float in the large indoor pool. "Kids are trying to jump in and out of tubes," says Laurie Johnson, facilities coordinator. Children 48 inches and under can also check out the frog and tadpole sprinkle area.
Headlands BeachFest
Carl Jara, former world champion sand sculptor, returns for the second year of this event. He'll carve it up against two others for Ohio's first master sand sculpting competition. There will also be local bands, a scavenger hunt, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, a Windsurf Simulator and the work of more than 20 art vendors. "We will be decorating the sky with kites, the sand with sculptures, music, dancing and crafts all day," says Kathie Pohl, event organizer.
