As the final days of summer approach, Toledo brims with opportunities to savor every moment of the season. From outdoor recreation to waterfront adventures, Toledo offers a wealth of experiences to ensure you make the most of these sun-soaked days. Whether you're a local rediscovering the charm of your hometown or a visitor eager to explore, these are some of the best late summer activities and attractions. Embrace the warmth, the excitement, and the beauty of Toledo as you enjoy the rest of summer!

SANDPIPER BOAT

Experience Toledo like never before with a relaxing river cruise on the historic Sandpiper Boat. Glide along the Maumee River, taking in stunning views of the city skyline, iconic bridges, and riverbanks. Ideal for families, couples, and solo adventurers, the Sandpiper offers themed cruises and private charters for special occasions. Operating through October, this unique adventure provides a tranquil escape and a fresh perspective on Toledo’s natural beauty. Don’t miss the chance to create unforgettable memories on this beloved local treasure! You can view the calendar of cruises at jmcruiselines.com/calendar

 

Photo Provided by Metroparks Toledo

OUTDOOR RECREATION

Paddling
Late summer in Toledo brings hot sunny days, and cool nights and there is no better time to be outside in Ohio! Bring your own kayak, book your kayaking adventure on many of our local waterways and lakes with Pop Up Paddle Adventures, or rent a kayak from a Metroparks Toledo to utilize within the parks.

Camping
Our region has 19 unique metroparks where you can enjoy the outdoors in many different ways. With more than 12,000 acres of protected natural land to explore and 200 miles of trails to traverse, there's plenty of room for everyone to enjoy. In addition to the trails, water activities, and playgrounds for families, Metroparks Toledo also offers camping opportunities at many of the parks. 

Waterfront 
Discover the natural beauty of Maumee Bay State Park, nestled along Lake Erie just outside Toledo. Explore miles of scenic trails, a sandy Lake Erie beach, and vibrant wetlands. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, the park offers activities like hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and golfing, all with a place to kick back and rest inside the Lodge & Conference Center. Whether you're planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, Maumee Bay's recreational opportunities provide a refreshing retreat.

Golfing
Speaking of golfing, Toledo has plenty of wonderful courses to choose from! We already mentioned the course at Maumee Bay State Park, but there are a few more worth mentioning. First is Highland Meadows Golf Club, which is the host course for the LPGA tour each summer. Then there is home of the 2021 Solheim cup, Inverness Club and another option at the Heatherdowns Country Club, to name only a few.

For even more inspiration about outdoor recreation in Toledo, check out all of our outdoor Attractions!

 

Photo provided by GardenView Flowers

GARDENVIEW U-PICK FLOWERS

Enjoy the beauty of nature while picking your very own bouquet of flowers from GardenView’s specialty u-pick flower field. Just Bring a quart sized mason jar or buy a 4” wide vase at check-in to fill with as many flowers as you would like! Guests may borrow clippers from GardenView for picking flowers and receive a complimentary bottle of water with each U-Pick.

GardenView also offers many special events and workshops including flower arranging classes, dinner parties, Pick and Paints, U-Pick and Kayak, and much more. Check out their current programming here. Afterwards, shop the gift shop for treasures and the flower stop to peruse their dried flowers selection. Open daily through the end of September. 

 

DIGITAL TRAILS

419 Ale Trail
Hop on the 419 Ale Trail to begin your northwest Ohio craft brewery adventure. To begin your journey, download the free, digital passport to check in at participating breweries and craft beverage locations in Toledo and throughout northwest Ohio. Guests who sign up for the 419 Ale Trail will receive prizes as they earn points by checking in! A number of breweries also provide special discounts to redeem along the way. For those up to the task, you have until June 17, 2025 to complete the entire Trail. Visit 419AleTrail.com and get started.

Coffee Quest 419
Embark on a caffeinated adventure with Coffee Quest 419, celebrating the vibrant local coffee culture across the Toledo region. Win exciting prizes, access exclusive offers, support local businesses, and uncover your new favorite coffee spots along the way! Questers have until October 31, 2024 to complete the quest and receive their prize!

 

SCHEDEL ARBORETUM & GARDENS

Schedel Arboretum & Gardens is a breathtaking 17-acre garden estate, located just 30 minutes southeast of Toledo. Explore gardens of nearly 20,000 annuals, roses, perennials, irises and lilies, including a Japanese garden complete with Torii, waterfall, pools, lanterns, bridges and a pagoda. 

During your visit, make sure to stop in The Blair Museum of Lithophanes the largest collection of lithophanes in the world. Lithophanes are fine carvings made in wax and a die that is cast to which thin layers of porcelain are added. In its natural state, the lithophane looks like nothing more than a white plaster etching, though when backlit, come to life with detailed intricacy. Schedel is open for the season through the end of October each year.

 

UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO ROCKETS FOOTBALL

Get ready to don your blue and gold, because it's that time of the year again UT Rockets football season begins at the end of August! From the electrifying energy of the pre-game tailgates to the heart-pounding moments on the field, there's an undeniable sense of camaraderie that fills the air. The UT Rockets football season in Toledo is a tradition that embodies the true essence of local pride and sportsmanship. So grab your jerseys, rally your friends and family, and come together to create lasting memories while cheering the Rockets on to victory!

 

Looking for even more inspiration? Check out this related content:

Toledo Savings Pass | German American Festival | Coffee Quest 419