Find a world of family fun in
our northern climes
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo - explore an indoor rainforest, take Australian Adventures, and travel to the new African Elephant Crossing exhibit. Home to the largest collection of primates in North America, the zoo offers a great Canalway day.
Just off the Byway - W. 25th St. area
Fishing along the Ohio & Erie Canal - BYOG - Bring your own Gear and head to the Northernmost section of the Towpath Trail.
In the heart of the Cleveland Metroparks (CM) Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation: You’ll find about a half-mile section that’s stocked twice a year.
Visitor’s Note: Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) rules apply - so you’ll need a fishing license for anyone over 16.
Ride the Rails and Trail to the National Park
Train Rides on the Scenic Rail - the regular excursion fee is good for round-trips or all day adventures; on-board audio tours tell stories and keep kids entertained.
Bike Aboard! - lets you and the kids bike one way on the Towpath and ride the rail the other - for a $3 fee
Canalway Sampler #16 - Bike Aboard! Family Style - suggests
a mini-version of Bike Aboard! for families with small children.
Bike Aboard! will resume full service in August.
For more information visit www.cvsr.com.
Scenic Rail Visitor’s Note: Boarding Station Changes
Currently, ticketed boarding is only available at:
Brecksville Station, Peninsula Depot or Akron Northside.
Rockside & Canal Visitor Center are temporarily closed to all boarding.
Bike Aboard! riders can board at any station from Brecksville heading South.
Head to the “Rail” section for full details.
Family Outings in the Parks
Quest away an afternoon - Two Quests from our fun, free outdoor adventure series are available in Cuyahoga County.
A Quest for What Moves You - starts in the Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation
Hell’s Half Acre Quest - combine this Canal Visitor Center-based Quest with Canalway Sampler #22 - Exploring Early Life on the Canal! - built around this Quest.
Check what’s on the schedule for fun - anytime - on the NPS Schedule of Events!
And that’s just for starters ...
Take in The Rock Hall of Fame and Museum and the Great Lakes Science Center along Lake Erie Canalway Sampler #12 points the way
Head over to the Museums of University Circle - find dinosaurs at the Museum of Natural History or kid-sized fun at the Hershey’s Children’s Garden in the Cleveland Botanic Garden
Did You Know?
Groups of 10 or more can request their own Cleveland Metroparks Program.
What might you find? A touch table - a guided nature walk & lots of natural fun
Note: Call to book ahead as programs are scheduled as staffing allows
Nature Centers at seven Cleveland Metroparks Reservations in the Canalway offer exhibits and more to explore.
Key Tips from those who’ve gone before you :)
On Towpath Trail outings bring maps, water, sunscreen, be aware of weather conditions, and your child’s limitations.
Canalway Alerts
Check before you go! Each of the Park Districts and the National Park post temporary trail closures. Find them here.