Outside is the place to be in Cincinnati right now and you don't have to go far to enjoy it. With so many parks in and around the city, you can likely step out your door and experience an exciting, natural oasis right in your neighborhood. Cincinnati's suburbs have realized that we enjoy these amenities to help keep us active and interacting with the outdoors, so there is no shortage of parks to choose from. If you live out in the suburbs, see if your favorite neighborhood park made our list of the eight best parks that truly have it all.
1. Voice of America MetroPark
Voice of America is a large, 435-acre park in the heart of West Chester. It's a natural oasis for this rapidly growing area that includes a 35-acre stocked lake, nine miles of paved and natural walking trails, playgrounds, sports fields, a sledding hill, and plenty of open space and beautiful scenery. In the warmer months, you can rent a paddle boat, and when it snows, check out Chill Hill Sledding Hill. It has a little bit of something for everyone. Voice of American MetroPark is located at 7850 VOA Park Dr., West Chester Township, OH 45069.
2. Miami Whitewater Forest
Miami Whitewater is the largest of the Great Parks of Hamilton County destinations, and it truly has it all. Located on the west side of Cincinnati, it's perfect for a family looking to burn off energy, or a relaxing day fishing by the lake. You can rent a variety of boats and bikes, take to the water or trails, and then grab an ice cream cone and take in the views. The park also has a large playground and splash park near the boathouse, several hiking trails, shelters, a golf course, and anything else you can imagine. Miami Whitewater Forest is located at 9001 Mt. Hope Rd., Crosby Township, OH 45030.
3. Summit Park
Summit Park has really evolved into its own little town within the city of Blue Ash. You can easily spend all day at this massive destination that already has it all and continues to add more. The land was the former Blue Ash Airport but it now has a large patio with outdoor seating and incredible restaurants, a unique playground, plenty of walking trails, and abundant natural beauty. The park also hosts a variety of events, such as a farmers market and movie nights. Summit Park is located at 4335 Glendale Milford Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242.
4. Beech Acres Park
Beech Acres Park is a favorite among Anderson Township residents, as it has plenty to offer visitors of all ages. This large park also hosts many community events and it features a large playground, splash park, skate park, paved walking and biking trails, and more. If you're looking for a park with many options for play and relaxation, pack a picnic and check out Beech Acres. Beech Acres Park is located at 6910 Salem Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45230.
5. Lunken Playfield
Historic Lunken Airport on the east side of Cincinnati offers much more than travel. Surrounding the airport, you'll find the Land of Make Believe playground, which is a large, fenced-off area that has a fun playset and plenty of shade. There is also a five-mile paved loop around the airport that is ideal for biking or running. Lunken Airport is located at 262 Wilmer Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226.
6. Cottell Park
Cottell Park is located in Deerfield Township and is a favorite spot for the many surrounding neighborhoods. Especially known for its sunflower field in late summer, the 46-acre park also offers playgrounds, a walking path, multi-use fields, and more. Cottell Park is located at 5847 Irwin Simpson Rd., Mason, OH 45040.
7. West Fork Park
This little park in Green Township may not boast the size or variety of amenities as the others, but its unique-factor earns it a spot on this list. The park recently reopened as a brand new play space for all ages and is a vibrant, fun, imaginative area that's truly one-of-a-kind in Cincinnati. There are multiple areas for play - there's even a zip line - as well as a shelter, plenty of bench seating, and restrooms. West Fork Park is located at 4764 W. Fork Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45247.
8. England-Idlewild Park
This 290-acre park in Burlington is a popular outdoor destination for those living in Northern Kentucky. It offers a wide variety of activities, such as a large playground, hiking/biking/walking trails, stocked ponds, a dog park, and mountain bike trails. It features a wide variety of landscape and is a lovely place to relax and recharge. England-Idlewild Park is located at 5550 Idlewild,
Burlington, KY 41005.
With so many parks in our area, there's no excuse to not get out and enjoy them! Is your favorite on this list? Let us know in the comments!
And for more chances to get outside around Cincinnati, check out these hiking destinations here.
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