Events are subject to change. Follow our Facebook page for updates and announcements.
Staff can adapt many programs to be accessible to anyone who would like to participate. Please tell us your needs at the time of registration, but no later than 72 business hours prior to the program. For additional information or questions, please contact Metroparks staff by calling 419-407-9700 or by using the 'contact us' form at MetroparksToledo.com.
Star Struck: Star Party with Toledo Astronomical Association (All Ages)
Howard Marsh, east parking lot
Friday, August 1, 9 to 11 p.m.
No Reservations Required, FREE
Escape the light pollution of the big city and experience the wonder of dark, starry night skies. Join amateur astronomers from the Toledo Astronomical Association and peer through a telescope to get up close to the moon, planets, and other astronomy wonders. Night photography enthusiasts will also be on hand to share tips and tricks.
Star Struck: Solar Viewing (All Ages)
Whitehouse Library
Saturday, August 2, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
No Reservations Required, FREE
Explore the star of our solar system, the sun, with a special solar viewing session of star struck. We'll have telescopes equipped with filters for solar viewing and enjoy family-friendly activities that explore the science of the sun. This is an open-house style program; viewers may come and go as they please any time during the designated time frame.
Science Saturday (All Ages)
Providence, Heritage Center
Saturday, August 2, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
No Reservations Required, FREE
May Mammals! Do you know the difference between a muskrat and a woodchuck? Do you know why muskrat were so important to the Providence area? You'll get the chance to touch real mammal pelts, learn about the importance of mammals in our ecosystem, and maybe even spot some in the wild.
Grounds Tours
Wildwood Preserve, Metz Stables
Saturday, August 2, 1 to 2 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $3 [REGISTER]
Discover how the Stranahan Estate transformed into a Metropark. Hear the historic story behind Wildwood Preserve Metropark on a one-mile grounds tour. All Grounds Tours will meet at the Metz Stables at Wildwood. After the Grounds Tour, be sure to save some time to walk through the Ellen Biddle Shipman Garden or hike the trails of Wildwood! Wear comfortable shoes, bring a water bottle, and dress for the weather. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
5 Mile Hike (Ages 16 and up)
Howard Marsh, east parking lot
Saturday, August 2, 1 to 4 p.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]
Enjoy a refreshing hike in the largest marsh restoration east of the Mississippi! The focus of these hikes will be exercise, but we will make occasional nature stops.
Stand Up Paddleboarding: Water Games (Ages 8 and up)
Blue Creek, Nona France Quarry
Sunday, August 3, 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $22 [REGISTER]
Let the games begin! Learn the basics of stand up paddleboarding, then practice your skills by competing in fun games on the water. Work with your team to throw, splash, and maneuver your way to the win! Registration is individual and teams will be formed at the start of the program. Prior stand up paddleboarding experience recommended, but not required.
Try It! Stand Up Paddleboarding (Ages 8 and up)
Blue Creek, Nona France Quarry
Sunday, August 3, 3 to 4 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $18 [REGISTER]
Calling all beginner paddlers! Beat the heat and splash in the cool, clear water at Blue Creek Metropark. Naturalists will teach you the basics during this fun stand up paddleboarding experience.
Toddler Trails (Ages 0-3)
Wildwood Preserve, Metz Stables
Wednesday, August 6, 10 to 11 a.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]
This outdoor, multi-sensory nature play and exploration introduces your toddlers up to three years of age to the natural world and promotes its preservation. Adult companions accompany and assist in their child's experience at the program. Register toddlers only.
Blacksmithing 101 (Ages 16 and up)
Providence, Isaac Ludwig Mill
Saturday, August 9, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $25 [REGISTER]
Ever wanted to learn how blacksmiths make all those cool designs and bend all that metal? Here’s your opportunity to learn the basics of blacksmithing from one of Ludwig Mill’s master blacksmiths. The lesson includes actual forge work as well as making a project to take with you.
River Stomp (Ages 4 and up, Families)
Side Cut, Riverview parking lot
Tuesday, August 12, 6 to 7 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $3 [REGISTER]
The river runs low in August, providing a perfect opportunity for adventurers of all ages to get their feet wet and explore. Wander the fascinating bedrock exposed by the river and stomp around shallow pools and rapids to see what cool critters we can catch.
Try It! Youth Fishing (Ages 17 and Under)
Cannonball Prairie, parking lot
Wednesday, August 13, 4 to 7 p.m.
No Reservations Required, FREE
Whether you are an experienced angler or trying fishing for the first time, we invite you to reel in Metroparks memories at these youth fishing events.
Star Struck: Perseid Meteor Shower (All Ages)
Howard Marsh (Phase 1)
Wednesday, August 13, 10 p.m. to 12 a.m.
No Reservations Required, FREE
Few events inspire awe and capture the imagination like the brilliant light show of a meteor shower. Experience the dark skies at Howard Marsh Metropark and enjoy one of the year's best and most reliable meteor showers. Bring a lawn chair or blankets, and sit back to enjoy the show. The park is open from 10:00 pm to midnight for self-guided viewing. A naturalist will be on-site to answer questions and lead a short informational program from 10:30-11:00 pm near the map kiosk. This year a bright moon will outshine the fainter meteors. This accessible program location has flat, gravel areas directly adjacent to the parking lot. Flush restrooms are available at this site. For additional information or questions, please contact Erin Paquette at 419-654-2558.
Try It! Kayaking (Ages 8 and up) CANCELLED
Wiregrass Lake, boat launch
Saturday, August 14, 6 to 7 p.m.
Paint & Sip (Ages 8 and up)
Farnsworth, Roche de bout
Friday, August 15, 6 to 8 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $15 [REGISTER]
Celebrate Summer with our two-hour guided painting classes! No experience is necessary for this Summer-inspired painting. We'll provide step-by-step instruction, plenty of time to be creative, and a cup of lemonade! Bring a friend and your comfiest painting clothes. All other materials will be provided.
MetroBarks Yappy Hour presented by Pet Supplies Plus (Ages 18 and up)
Oak Openings Preserve, Beach Ridge Area, The Wheelhouse
Saturday, August 16, 4 to 6 p.m.
No Reservations Required, FREE
It’s a tail-wagging good time for dogs and their humans. Enjoy dog-friendly activities, giveaways, and treats. An added bonus - Pet Supplies Plus will be on hand to offer their expertise too! It’s a casual way to hang out, meet other dog lovers and let your pups play. Learn about becoming a Metroparks Member, and how to add your dog as a MetroBarks Member, too.
Heart & Sol Forest Therapy (Ages 18 and up)
Wildwood Preserve, Metroparks Hall
Sunday, August 17, 7 to 10 a.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]
Join us in Heart & Sol Forest Therapy, presented by Mercy Health, for a full mind, body and wellness experience. Soak in the vital energy of the sun as you immerse yourself in the healing elements of Wildwood Preserve Metropark and reconnect with your untamed roots through invitations and sharing circles. The fee includes the complete sequence of the Forest Therapy experience, as recognized by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy, and led by an ANFT-certified guide.
Try It! Canoeing (Ages 4 and up, Families, Dog Friendly)
Side Cut, Silver Lake parking lot
August 17, 1 to 2 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $4 [REGISTER]
Enjoy a relaxing paddle around Silver Lake and learn basic paddle strokes during this beginner friendly 1 hour program. This program is dog friendly for friendly dogs! Participants must be 8 years or older to paddle, minors must be accompanied by an adult. Register all paddlers 8 years and older. Up to two children ages 4 to 7 may ride for free along with two paddlers that are ages 8+. For dog owners: We recommend that you bring a well-fitted dog life vest for your pooch. Please also remember that an important park rule is to keep your pets on a leash. The canoe dock at Silver Lake is accessible.
1 Hour Fitness Hike (Ages 16 and up, Dog Friendly)
Manhattan Marsh Preserve, parking lot
Sunday, August 17, 1 to 2 p.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]
Enjoy hiking on the Buckeye Basin trail around the marsh and take a step toward your fitness goals! The focus of these hikes will be exercise, but we'll make occasional nature stops.
Try It! Adaptive Equipment (All Ages)
Wildwood Preserve, Whitetail Shelter parking lot
Tuesday, August 19, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
No Reservations Required, FREE
Hit the trails and set out on an adventure with the freedom of Metroparks Adaptive Bike Rides, Tricycles, Action Track Chair and more! This equipment is making its way around to various Metroparks. Come during these open hours to give one--or all of them--a try. To learn more visit MetroparksToledo.com/recreation-equipment-catalog.
Wildwood 50th: The Beaver Wars (Ages 16 and up)
Wildwood Preserve, Metroparks Hall
Tuesday, August 19, 6:30 to 8 p.m.
No Reservations Required, Fee: $3 [REGISTER]
Celebrate Wildwood's 50 years of citizen support and learn something new! 324 years ago, a century-long series of conflicts that has come to be known as the Beaver Wars finally ended. Join us as we learn about this little-known event that greatly impacted the fates of Native nations and the early European colonies of North America.
Explorer Trolley Picnic & Park Tour
Supported by Otterbein SeniorLife (All Ages)
Glass City, Market Hall parking lot
Wednesday, August 20, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $5 [REGISTER]
Explore Glass City Metropark from the comfort of the open-air Explorer Trolley. A naturalist will take you on an hour-long ride highlighting some of the historical components of Glass City. The hour-long tour will pause for a 30-minute picnic in a scenic park location. Explorer Trolley Park Tours are supported by Otterbein SeniorLife.
Kayak Rescues (Ages 16 and up)
Blue Creek, Nona France Quarry
Wednesday, August 20, 5:30 to 8 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $45 [REGISTER]
Would you know what to do if you or a paddling buddy capsize your boat? Learn about paddling safety and practice multiple kayak rescue techniques in a controlled setting to help you feel more comfortable on larger bodies of water. Paddlers of all experience levels can benefit from this class, but it is not recommended for first time kayakers. Paddlers should be ready and willing to be ""swimmers""- to get out of the kayak to learn capsize skills.
Toledo Tree Tots Preschool Club (Ages 2.5 to 5)
Various Metroparks
Thursdays, August 21, 4 to 5:30 p.m. [REGISTER]
Thursdays, August 21, 6 to 7:30 p.m.[WAITING LIST]
Fridays, August 22, 9 to 10:30 a.m. [REGISTER]
Fridays, August 22, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. [REGISTER]
Reservations Required, Fee: $115
Explore a canal boat, sing campfire songs, play in the mud, and more! Your preschooler will engage in hands-on nature activities throughout the school year that support early childhood development and pre-literacy skills. Preschoolers ages 2.5 – 5 and their adult companions, will meet for monthly immersive outdoor experiences. Each month will feature a different theme and a different park.
Archery Equipment Rentals (Ages 5 and up) CANCELLED
Westwinds, Static Archery Range
Saturday, August 23, 10 a.m. to Noon or 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $8
Rent archery equipment to shoot the 3D course. Each participant will need to show proficiency, safety and range etiquette before entering the 3D course. Instruction will take approximately 20 minutes and you can use the equipment for up to 2 hours. If you have rented or attended a program in the past, instruction might not be necessary, but you still need to show staff that you can complete the safety checklist before taking equipment on the 3D course.
Try It! Kayaking (Ages 8 and up)
Blue Creek, Nona France Quarry
Sunday, August 24, 3 to 4 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $18 [REGISTER]
Kayaking is a fun way to explore the water and stay fit while enjoying nature. Join Metroparks staff to learn basic paddle strokes and give kayaking a try during this beginner friendly 1 hour program.
3 Mile Hike (Ages 16 and up, Dog Friendly)
Swan Creek Preserve, Airport Hwy parking lot
Monday, August 25, 6 to 8 p.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]
Enjoy a refreshing hike through the diverse habitats of Swan Creek Preserve Metropark while taking a step toward your fitness goals! The focus of these hikes will be exercise, but we'll make occasional nature stops.
Nature at Night: Batty About Bats (All Ages)
Pearson, parking lot 5
Tuesday, August 26, 8:15 to 9:15 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $3 [REGISTER]
Experience the wonder of your parks after dark. Watch bats take off for their nightly hunt as twilight falls and learn about these graceful aerial acrobats. This program runs rain or shine and minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Try It! Adaptive Equipment (All Ages)
Side Cut, Riverview parking lot
Thursday, August 28, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
No Reservations Required, FREE
Hit the trails and set out on an adventure with the freedom of Metroparks Adaptive Bike Rides, Tricycles, Action Track Chair and more! This equipment is making its way around to various Metroparks. Come during these open hours to give one--or all of them--a try.
StewardSHIP: Canoe Clean-Up Paddle (Ages 12 and up)
Glass City, parking lot
Thursday, August 28, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]
The Maumee River provides habitat to wildlife, drinking water for many, scenic views, and recreational opportunities. It also faces a constant battle against the litter that gets washed into our waterways. Join Partners for Clean Streams and Metroparks naturalists to help keep this critical natural resource clean. We'll paddle canoes to collect trash from the river and the shoreline on both sides of the river. All trash collected will be tracked and reported to provide data to scientists battling debris pollution in waterways. Dress to get wet and very dirty. All paddling and litter clean up equipment is provided.
Try It! Youth Fishing (Ages 17 and Under)
Cannonball Prairie, parking lot
Saturday, August 30, 9 a.m. to Noon
No Reservations Required, FREE
Whether you are an experienced angler or trying fishing for the first time, we invite you to reel in Metroparks memories at these youth fishing events.
Standup Paddleboarding: Mindful Movement (Ages 18 and up)
Wiregrass Lake, parking lot
Saturday, August 30, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $22 [CANCELLED]
Glass City to Middlegrounds Bridge Walk (4 Miles, Ages 16 an up)
Glass City, Market Hall (1505 Front Street, Toledo, Ohio 43605)
Monday, September 1, Noon to 2:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]
See the best of both downtown Metroparks and hike along the mighty Maumee River that made this city what it is today. This walk will include going over both the MLK Bridge on Cherry Street and the high-level Anthony Wayne Bridge. The focus of these hikes will be exercise, but we'll make occasional nature stops.
Beginner Archery Sasquatch Scramble (Ages 8 and up)
Westwinds, Turkey Foot Shelter
September 2, 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $45 CANCELLED
Toddler Trails (Ages 0-3)
Wildwood Preserve, Metz Stables
September 3, 10 to 11 a.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]
This outdoor, multi-sensory nature play and exploration introduces your toddlers up to three years of age to the natural world and promotes its preservation. Adult companions accompany and assist in their child's experience at the program. Register toddlers only.
Volunteer Hike Leader Training (Ages 18 and up)
Secor, Secor Center
September 4, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]
Help connect people to our beautiful Metroparks through hiking! This training will cover the basics of leading a hike, as well as, the processes and procedures behind the programs. This training will empower volunteers to facilitate hikes with confidence and knowledge. If you have questions about becoming a Volunteer Hike Leader, please contact Alissa Caple at Alissa.Caple@MetroparksToledo.com or 419-280-9235.
Caretaker & Me Forest Therapy (Adults and Ages 0 - 3)
Oak Openings Preserve, Cannaley Treehouse Village
September 4, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $15 [REGISTER]
Become friends with the forest and bond with your little ones (ages 0-3) with this unique Caretaker and Me Forest Therapy experience led by an Association of Nature & Forest Therapy (ANFT)-certified guide. This heart-centered forest therapy experience is created for caretakers and children to grow closer to the More-than-human world, each other, and themselves. The program includes invitations to spend time alone together in nature, sharing circles to reflect, and a final gathering ceremony with child-friendly tea or snacks. Adult companions accompany and assist in their child's experience at the program.
Hook & Cook, Youth Fishing (Ages 17 and Under)
Cannonball Prairie, parking lot
September 6, 9 a.m. to Noon
No Reservations Required, Free
Have you ever wanted to learn how to clean and cook what you catch from your own fishing trips? Join our experts for live fillet demonstrations and enjoy your prepared fish cooked in a mobile kitchen by ODNR Division of Wildlife. Ages 17 and Under (Ages 16 & 17 will need to have an Ohio Fishing License.)
Science Saturday (All Ages)
Providence, Heritage Center
September 6, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
No Reservations Required, FREE
Rept-Tember! Is that a snake in the water? Is it another type of reptile? Or perhaps it's an amphibian? Get a hands on look at some reptiles and amphibians and discover more about their adaptations and roles in our ecosystem.
Build a Wigwam (Families with Kids Ages 4 to 12)
Wildwood Preserve, Metz Stables
September 7, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $5 [REGISTER]
Living in northwest Ohio, the Natives of the Maumee Valley relied on the land's resources for survival. Learn about trading, clothing, style, work, play, and other aspects of daily life and culture on the Ohio frontier then work together to construct a wigwam.
Try it! Archery (Ages 8 and up)
Side Cut, Sledding Hill
September 7, 1 to 2 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $6 [REGISTER]
Nock, draw, loose! Try out archery for the first time, or the first time in a long time, with the instruction and guidance of Metroparks staff. All equipment provided.
Volunteer Orientation (Ages 12 and up)
Glass City, Enrichment Center
September 9, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]
Come learn about Metroparks Toledo’s Volunteer Program! Our Volunteer Orientation are not mandatory, but strongly encouraged for new volunteers or people interested in becoming a volunteer with Metroparks Toledo. It is designed to introduce you to our organization, our mission, and the impactful role you’ll play in helping us achieve our goals. During the orientation, you’ll learn about our core values, key programs, and the community we serve. We’ll also provide you with information about various program responsibilities, the expectations we have for volunteers, and the resources available to support you.
Explorer Trolley Night Ride, supported by Otterbein SeniorLife (All Ages)
Pearson, Macomber Lodge parking lot
September 9, 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $5 [REGISTER]
Explore Pearson Metropark after dark from the comfort of the open-air Explorer Trolley. A naturalist will take you on an hour-long ride highlighting nocturnal animals and nighttime nature in the Great Black Swamp. Explorer Trolley Park Tours are supported by Otterbein SeniorLife. The Explorer Trolley can accommodate two wheelchairs. All other participants must be able to climb two steps. This program runs rain or shine, dress for the weather and minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Try it! Youth Fishing (Ages 17 and Under)
Cannonball Prairie, parking lot
Friday, September 12, 4 to 7 p.m.
No Reservations Required, FREE
Whether you are an experienced angler or trying fishing for the first time, we invite you to reel in Metroparks memories at these youth fishing events. Ages 17 and Under (Ages 16 & 17 will need to have an Ohio Fishing License.)
Blacksmithing 101 (Ages 16 and up)
Providence, Isaac Ludwig Mill
September 13, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $25 [REGISTER]
Ever wanted to learn how blacksmiths make all those cool designs and bend all that metal? Here’s your opportunity to learn the basics of blacksmithing from one of Ludwig Mill’s master blacksmiths. The lesson includes actual forge work as well as making a project to take with you.
Glow Paddle: Rent a Kayak (Ages 8 and up)
Blue Creek, Nona France Quarry
September 13, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: Canoe $45/Kayak $35
REGISTER: [BRING YOUR OWN BOAT] [CANOE] [KAYAK]
Experience the beauty of the Blue Creek Nona France Quarry pond at night. Deck out your boat with lights and glow items for a unique glow experience. No boat, no problem! Rent a Metroparks kayak or canoe, complete with lights. This event is free for paddlers with their own boats, but registration is required. All boats must have some light source on them. To preserve night vision avoid white lights when decorating your paddlecraft, but bring a white light (flashlight or headlamp) that can be turned on to avoid collisions.
Oak Openings Wildflower Walk (Ages 12 and up)
Oak Openings Preserve, Oak Openings Lodge parking lot
September 14, 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]
Discover the beauty of an Oak Openings prairie in bloom and watch how the flowers change as the season progresses. Register for one or all of these walks led by Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalists Chris and Randy Haar.
Wildwood Nature at Night Hike (All Ages)
Wildwood Preserve, Metz Stables
September 14, 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $3 [REGISTER]
Experience the sounds and smells of nature after dark. Take advantage of this rare opportunity to visit the park after hours in search of owls, raccoons, insects and other nocturnal animals. Learn about the moon and night sky. Enjoy activities that heighten your senses and fool your brain.
Monarch Migration (Families with Kids Ages 4 to 10)
Oak Openings Preserve, Oak Openings Lodge
September 17, 6 to 7 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $3 [REGISTER]
The tiny and beautiful Monarch butterfly migrates thousands of miles in the fall to their winter habitats. Learn about this impressive migratory feat, and how you can help this rapidly declining butterfly.
Caretaker & Me Animal Yoga (Ages 3 to 5)
Glass City, Enrichment Center
September 19, 10 to 11 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $3 [REGISTER]
Join us for a fun and engaging Caretaker and Me Animal Yoga class where little ones (ages 3-5) can explore yoga movements inspired by the way animals move! Through story time, playful stretches, and lively music, children will jump like kangaroos, slither like snakes, and roar like lions, all while building strength, balance, and flexibility. This interactive class is a great way for kids and their caretakers to bond while moving and grooving together.
Hike and Hammock (Ages 12 and up)
Oak Openings Preserve, Buehner Center parking lot
September 20, 2 to 4 p.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]
Join us in Hike and Hammock, presented by Mercy Health, for a full mind, body and wellness experience. Lace up your boots and leave your worries behind as you hike through the diverse habitats of Oak Openings Preserve Metropark. Enjoy a relaxing hammock break at the Spot and hike back. This free program is part of a collaborative campaign between Metroparks Toledo and Mercy Health that promotes the power of parks in improving the community’s mental and physical well-being.
Backpacking 101: Moseley Trail (6 Miles, Ages 18 and up)
Secor, Secor Center Parking Lot
Saturday, September 20, 4 p.m. to Sunday, September 21, 11 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $35 [REGISTER]
Backpack your way through dynamic habitats of Secor Metropark, connect to the Moseley Trail, and spend the night camping at the serene Wiregrass Lake. The hiking mileage is very low to make this the perfect backpacking experience for those ready to try it for the very first time.
Try it! Youth Fishing (Ages 17 and Under)
Cannonball Prairie, parking lot
Sunday, September 21, 9 a.m. to Noon
No Reservations Required, FREE
Whether you are an experienced angler or trying fishing for the first time, we invite you to reel in Metroparks memories at these youth fishing events. Ages 17 and Under (Ages 16 & 17 will need to have an Ohio Fishing License.)
Try it! Canoeing (Families 4+, Dog Friendly)
Side Cut, Silver Lake parking lot
September 21, 1 to 2 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $4 [REGISTER]
Enjoy a relaxing paddle around Silver Lake and learn basic paddle strokes during this beginner friendly 1 hour program. This program is dog friendly for friendly dogs! Participants must be 8 years or older to paddle, minors must be accompanied by an adult. Register all paddlers 8 years and older. Up to two children ages 4 to 7 may ride for free along with two paddlers that are ages 8+. For dog owners: We recommend that you bring a well-fitted dog life vest for your pooch. Please also remember that an important park rule is to keep your pets on a leash. The canoe dock at Silver Lake is accessible.
Star Struck: Deep Sky Objects (Ages 12 and up)
Bend View, parking lot
September 22, 9 to 10 p.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]
Escape from the light pollution of the big city and experience the wonder of dark, starry night skies. Discover the stories in the stars as we constellation hop around the night sky with Metroparks naturalists, and get up close with planets, galaxies and distant objects with amateur astronomers John Starr and Jim Gasser and their telescopes. Bring a camp chair, and dress for the weather in layers.
Paint & Sip (Ages 8 and up)
Wildwood Preserve, Farmhouse
September 23, 6 to 8 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $15 [REGISTER]
Celebrate the end of summer with our two-hour guided painting classes! No experience is necessary for this nature-inspired painting. We'll provide step-by-step instruction, plenty of time to be creative, and a cup of lemonade! Bring a friend and your comfiest painting clothes. All other materials will be provided. This will be the same painting as the Uncork & Unwind program on September 29.
River Stomp (Families, Ages 4 and up)
Side Cut, Riverview parking lot
September 24, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $3 [REGISTER]
The river runs low in August, providing a perfect opportunity for adventurers of all ages to get their feet wet and explore. Wander the fascinating bedrock exposed by the river and stomp around shallow pools and rapids to see what cool critters we can catch.
Trivia Night: Wildwood 50th Anniversary Edition (All Ages)
Wildwood Preserve, Manor House
September 24, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $3 [REGISTER]
It's Trivia Night! Join us in the Manor House for two rounds of trivia all about Wildwood and the Stranahans to celebrate Wildwood's 50th Anniversary! The winning team will go home with Metroparks swag. Minors must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.
Heart & Sol Forest Therapy (Ages 18 and up)
Side Cut, Jerome Road Rapids
September 28, 7:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $30 [REGISTER]
Soak in the vital energy of the sun as you immerse yourself in the healing elements of the rapids at Side Cut Metropark and reconnect with your untamed roots through invitations, sharing circles, and a tea gathering led by an Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT)-certified guide. Healthy snacks will follow. Bring an optional sit-upon or lightweight stool, dress for outdoor experiences, and plan for leisurely strolling under 1 mile.
Try it! Tree Climbing (Ages 8 and up)
Toledo Botanical Garden, Crosby Conference Center patio
September 28, 12:30 to 2 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $32 [REGISTER]
Ready for adventure? Take your love for nature to new heights with our fun and safe tree climbing program! Participants will use harnesses and climbing ropes to get to the treetops. All equipment provided.
Try it! Tree Dancing (Ages 12 and up)
Toledo Botanical Garden, parking lot
September 28, 3 to 5 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $40 [REGISTER]
Join us to defy gravity and dance among the leaves in this Tree Climbing Dance program. Combine your love for nature and dance with our fun and safe tree climbing program. This program is ideal for anyone eager to explore the treetops and should feel comfortable with the idea of going upside down. Participants will use a harnesses and climbing system to get to the tree tops. All equipment provided.
Uncork & Unwind (Ages 21 and up)
Wildwood Preserve, Farmhouse
September 29, 6 to 8 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $25 [REGISTER]
Celebrate the end of summer with a glass of wine during this guided painting class. No experience is necessary for these nature-inspired paintings! We'll provide step-by-step instruction, plenty of time to be creative, and a relaxing glass of wine. A non-alcoholic beverage option will also be provided. Bring a friend and your comfiest painting clothes. All other materials will be provided. This will be the same painting as the Paint and Sip program on September 23.
Campfire Cooking: Breakfast for Dinner (All Ages)
Oak Openings Preserve, Oak Openings Lodge
September 30, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $10 [REGISTER]
Level up your camping trips with some fun and fresh campfire meals. Learn new recipes and tips that will make your campfire cooking a highlight of your adventures. Metroparks staff will guide participants in making their own haystacks breakfast with shredded hashbrows, eggs, and your choice of sausage/veggie sausage, peppers and onions. This complete breakfast includes fresh fruit, OJ and coffee.
UPDATED: 08/08/2025
Staff can adapt many programs to be accessible to anyone who would like to participate. Please tell us your needs at the time of registration, but no later than 72 business hours prior to the program. For additional information or questions, please contact Metroparks staff by calling 419-407-9700 or by using the 'contact us' form at MetroparksToledo.com. All other participants must be able to climb two steps. Program runs rain or shine, dress for the weather and minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Supported by Otterbein SeniorLife
Explorer Trolley Picnic & Park Tour (All Ages)
Glass City, Market Hall
August 20, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $ [REGISTER]
Explore Glass City Metropark from the comfort of the open-air Explorer Trolley. A naturalist will take you on an hour-long ride highlighting some of the historical components of Glass City. The hour-long tour will pause for a 30-minute picnic in a scenic park location.
Explorer Trolley Night Ride (All Ages)
Pearson, Macomber Lodge parking lot
September 9, 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $ [REGISTER]
Explore Pearson Metropark after dark from the comfort of the open-air Explorer Trolley. A naturalist will take you on an hour-long ride highlighting nocturnal animals and nighttime nature in the Great Black Swamp.
Fall Color Explorer Trolley Picnic & Park Tour (All Ages)
Secor, Secor Center parking lot
October 29, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $5 [REGISTER]
Explore Secor Metropark from the cozy fall comfort of the open-air Explorer Trolley. A naturalist will take you on an hour-long ride highlighting the colorful sights, sounds, and smells of the fall season. The hour-long tour will pause for a 30-minute picnic in a scenic park location.
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Celebrate Blue Week! Explorer Trolley Park Tour (All Ages)
Oak Openings Preserve, parking lot
May 3, 3 to 4 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $5 ; [REGISTER]
Celebrate Blue Week and explore Oak Openings Preserve Metropark from the comfort of the open-air Explorer Trolley. A naturalist will take you on an hour-long ride highlighting the blue plants and animals that help make this globally rare region so unique.
Explorer Trolley Picnic & Park Tour (All Ages)
Howard Marsh, parking lot
June 11, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $ [REGISTER]
Explore Howard Marsh Metropark from the comfort of the open-air Explorer Trolley. Experience the peace of the marsh and search for birds and other wildlife as you ride through this restored wetland with a naturalist. The hour-long tour will pause for a 30-minute picnic in a scenic park location.
Explorer Trolley Picnic & Park Tour (All Ages)
Side Cut, Riverview parking lot
July 18, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $5 [REGISTER]
Explore Side Cut Metropark from the comfort of the open-air Explorer Trolley. A naturalist will take you on an hour-long ride highlighting plants and animals that make their home along the mighty Maumee River. The tour will pause for a 30-minute picnic in a scenic park location.