5 FUN THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN CLEVELAND BEFORE SUMMER ENDS
Wondering what to do before summer ends in Cleveland, Ohio?
As the long days of summer wind down and the back-to-school countdown creeps to a close, our family is trying our best to soak up the last bits of sunshine while scrambling to do all the things we meant to do months ago. There are so many fun summer things to do in Northeast Ohio, and I often feel like there isn’t enough time on the calendar. So, if you’re anything like me and feel like summer flew by in a whirlwind, then don’t fret!
Before the backpacks and school routines return, there’s still some time to make some memories with your family. Whether you’re hoping to squeeze in some last-minute fun with some free activities or you’re hoping to slow things down and make some meaningful memories, this list of what to do before summer ends was made with you in mind.
5 Fun Summer Things to do in northeast ohio
1. Visit the FREE Butterfly House at
Miller Nature Preserve in Avon
Miller Nature Preserve
2739 Center Rd, Avon, OH 44011
Daily 11a - 3:30p until August 31
The Miller Nature Preserve is a real gem consisting of more than 145 acres of woodland in Avon, Ohio. And while you do have to pay to get into the Conservatory in the Visitor Center (admission is only $3 and worth a visit if you love greenhouses), many people don’t realize that the Butterfly House near the Visitor Center is completely FREE! It’s open daily from 11a-3:30p until AUGUST 31, 2025.
We’ve been visiting the butterfly house for years, and it’s become one of the summer traditions I look forward to most each summer. It’s so peaceful, and my kids love it. There are lots of butterflies, and they will often land on your fingers or shoulder if you’re able to stay still long enough.
It’s also free to walk the outdoor garden area, and there are some nice trails on the other side of the parking lot. More info about the Miller Nature Preserve can be found here.
2. Visit a unique Cleveland ice cream shop
Dairy grove
35455 Center Ridge Rd,
North Ridgeville, OH 44039
Call me old-fashioned, but I think one of the best things to do in summer is get ice cream! For me, nothing captures the magic of summertime like ordering ice cream from a walk-up window and then sitting down outside to eat your favorite frozen treat.
One of my family’s absolute favorite local ice cream spots is Dairy Grove in North Ridgeville. We love that they have a playground for the kids to play on while waiting for their ice cream and that they have shaded seating. I’d say it’s definitely one worth visiting before summer ends!
Cleveland has a lot of great ice cream shops, so there are plenty of options to choose from. If you’re looking for other unique, local ice cream shops, check out our blog of 8 of the most unique ice cream shops in Cleveland.
3. Visit a NEW playground in the Cleveland area
Northeast Ohio has no shortage of awesome playgrounds, so if you’re looking for fun summer things to do in the Cleveland area, a new-to-you playground deserves to be at the top of your list.
We've been loving the new playground by the Olmsted Falls Public Library. It’s toddler friendly, has a soft rubber ground, is accessible, and shaded. It’s also not too large, so it’s easy to keep your eyes on your kid, but big enough to keep them occupied and having fun.
If you’re looking for a different new playground, then check out our list of new playgrounds in the Cleveland area. And if you’re looking for a comprehensive list of a ton of playgrounds in the Northeast Ohio area, then check out our list of the best playgrounds in the Cleveland area.
4. Go to MovieS in the Park at Crocker Park
union square lawn
186 Union Street
Westlake, OH 44145
What better way to end your summer nights than with a little movie magic? Every Thursday at sundown, Crocker Park transforms into an open-air theater with free outdoor movies on the Union Square Lawn (next to Regal) . It's the perfect low-key evening. Just bring a blanket or lawn chairs, some snacks, and the whole crew. It’s a really fun, family friendly summer evening. Find the films and more details HERE.
Upcoming Films:
August 14 – The Wild Robot (PG)
August 21 – Dog Man (PG)
August 28 – Wicked (PG)
5. Have a picnic at Huntington Beach in Bay Village
Huntington Beach
28492-28648 Lake Rd,
Bay Village, OH 44140
Nothing says summer like a beach day on the lake, and Huntington Beach is one of the best spots in Northeast Ohio to enjoy our beautiful lake! Pack a picnic, let the kids explore the nature-themed playground, then head down the hill to play in the sand or dip your toes in Lake Erie.
This Bay Village gem is a favorite for families thanks to its scenic views, picnic tables, and easy access to both beach and playground fun.
Looking to explore even more beaches before summer ends? Check out our list of the best local beaches and piers here (90 - 93 on the list).
That’s our summer fun list!
We hope you’re able to carve out some time to spend together as a family before summer ends. And if you’re feeling the stress of cramming everything in before school starts, don’t worry! There will be plenty more opportunities to make memories as a family this fall (fall is one of the best seasons in Northeast Ohio!)
