James Day Park: Let the kids run around the big playground while you cook on the outdoor grills. After your picnic, burn off some of that meal by hitting the hiking and exercise trails and sports fields. 11828 W. Pleasant Valley Road, Parma, 440-885-8144, cityofparma-oh.gov
Penitentiary Glen: The deep gorge at the center of this park gave it its name. You’ll want to stay awhile, though, thanks to the 8.5 miles of trails, nature center and picnic areas. 8668 Kirtland Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440-256-1404, lakemetroparks.com
Solstice Steps: This amazing stone monument covers nearly 500 feet of Lake Erie shoreline with a set of leveled steps that resemble bleachers positioned for primo sunset-watching spots. Lakewood Park, Lakewood, facebook.com/solstice-steps
Squire’s Castle: Built in the 1890s by Standard Oil executive Feargus B. Squire but never completed, this impressive siltstone building is great for hide-and-seek or lounging in one of its rooms. North Chagrin Reservation, Willoughby Hills, 440-473-3370, clevelandmetroparks.com
