If you have little ones ready to play, learn, and discover, we have a list of the best spots for you to visit! There are places throughout Northeast Ohio that offer a variety of things to do with toddlers. From museums and zoos to playgrounds and play places, there is something you and your little one will enjoy together.
Cleveland Children’s Museum
Get ready to play at Cleveland Children’s Museum! Experiment with water in the Wonder Lab. Climb, run, and build in Adventure City, featuring a two-story climber. Let your imagination run wild as you create in the Arts & Parts exhibit. Interact in your tiny world in the Making Miniatures. Make bubbles in a bubble laboratory. There is hands-on fun around every corner.
Check out the website for a full listing of exhibits. You can also view admission details, as well as membership opportunities for your family. The Cleveland Children’s Museum offers classes and events, and you can even book a birthday party with them.
Cleveland Children’s Museum
3813 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44115
Website
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DiscoveryWorks at Avon Lake Public Library
DiscoveryWorks at Avon Lake Public Library truly is a local gem! Not only is a visit to the center free of charge, but it also offers children a place to play, learn, and explore indoors. The library has two designated discovery areas for children that require different color wristbands: one for wee explorers and another for mighty explorers. From hands-on toddler activity tables to STEM activities, there are a variety of projects to keep your little one busy.
Please note that the DiscoveryWorks at Avon Lake Public Library has different hours than the Avon Lake Public Library itself. Be sure to check out the hours before your visit. You can plan group visits with playgroups or friends as well.
DiscoveryWorks at Avon Lake Public Library
32649 Electric Blvd, Avon Lake, OH 44012
Website
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Goldfish Swim School
Your little one can learn to swim or keep up their skills no matter what the time of year at Goldfish Swim School. This indoor pool center offers kids swimming lessons from ages 4 months to 12 years old. They have programs for beginners to those just looking to continue practicing throughout the year. Their “shiver-free” pools are set at 90 degrees year-round! Their parent-watching viewing galleries allow you to follow along with lessons through a floor-to-ceiling window and also offer free Wi-Fi.
Goldfish Swim School
Locations in Cleveland and Hudson
Website
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Memphis Kiddie Park
Memphis Kiddie Park is an amusement park designed specifically for young children and their families. They have 11 amusement park-style kiddie rides in a very manageable-sized park, easy to maneuver around. Memphis Kiddie Park also offers mini golf, as well as on-site concessions.
The rides are made specifically for kids under 50 inches tall, and as long as they can sit up, unassisted, they are big enough for the rides. Three rides have no height restrictions and parents can join their child on the ride. The park is easy to walk and stroller-friendly.
Memphis Kiddie Park
10340 Memphis Ave, Cleveland, OH 44144
Website
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Akron Zoo
Get ready for an up-close look at more than 1,000 animals from around the world at the Akron Zoo. The zoo packs in a lot of activities, exhibits, and animals within a fairly manageable amount of walking, which is ideal when visiting with little ones. Don’t miss out on the train, carousel, or interactive animal opportunities during your visit.
We recommend planning at least 2-4 hours for your visit. You can bring a stroller or wagon or rent one onsite. You are permitted to bring your food into the zoo, however, they have several cafes and food trucks throughout the zoo.
Akron Zoo
500 Edgewood Ave, Akron, OH 44307
Website
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Lake Erie Nature & Science Center
An ideal spot for little ones is the Lake Erie Nature & Science Center. It not only offers interactive experiences with animals, it also has a planetarium. There are a variety of hands-on exhibits that teach the history and details of native nature and wildlife. A couple of the center’s most popular exhibits are the make-your-own constellation display and the log.
The outdoor exhibit is a permanent home to animals that have been injured or can no longer live on their own in the wild. The website includes a full program calendar. You can register for an array of classes for all ages via the website as well.
Lake Erie Nature & Science Center
28728 Wolf Rd, Bay Village, OH 44140
Website
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Take the Stroller to a Paved Trail
Are you searching for a fun park to take your toddler on a walk? Northeast Ohio offers a variety of trails that are not only great spots to visit, but they have paved trails that allow for an easy walk with a stroller or wagon. Enjoy covered bridges and catch a glimpse of the Goodyear Blimp at Wingfoot Lake State Park or have fun at the large playground and nature center at Fort Island/Griffith’s Park.
Check out the list of paved trails in Northeast Ohio.
Majestic Meadows Alpacas
Majestic Meadows Alpacas is an ideal place for little ones to get up close with a variety of adorable animals! The low-key atmosphere of Majestic Meadows Alpacas allows visitors to travel around the 20-acre property at their own pace. You can walk between fields through the fences or pop into the small barns. Buy some feed and feed the animals as you adventure throughout the farm.
We recommend wearing clothing and shoes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty! You can bring a stroller or wagon and push it through the fields with you.
Majestic Meadows Alpacas
4195 Abbeyville Rd, Medina, OH 44256
Website
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Lake Metroparks Farmpark
Get ready for a day of fun on the farm with the family at Lake Metroparks Farmpark! Watch them milk a cow, feed animals in the petting zoo, take a ride on a pony, attend one of their educational sessions and so much more! Lake Metroparks Farmpark has both an indoor and outdoor playground. The outdoor farm-themed playground is complete with a giant pig and tractor-themed climber.
Be sure you check out the educational opportunities throughout the year. From watching and participating in the maple syrup process to their Horse Fest to Fall Harvest weekends, there is something for everyone. Check out the website for additional details, pricing, and hours.
Lake Metroparks Farmpark
8800 Euclid Chardon Rd, Kirtland, OH 44094
Website
Touch a Truck Events
Climb on a firetruck, press the siren of the police car, and sit in the driver’s seat of a tractor! Those are just a few of the things your toddler can experience at a touch-a-truck event. Let your little one live out their dreams of their desired future professions with the professionals there to answer questions and offer support. Make sure to bring your camera along to snap photos of your little one on their favorite vehicles.
Get all the details on the upcoming touch a truck events in Northeast Ohio
Splash Pad
Do you want to cool down without a trip to the pool? A splash pad is a great way to have water fun but doesn’t require your child to swim. They can run around and splash to their heart’s desire at a local splash pad. Be sure to bring all the normal gear you would to a pool. We recommend swimsuits, sunscreen, swim shoes (for slippery surfaces), goggles, sun protection, and towels.
Find out where all the best splash pads in Northeast Ohio.
Edgewater Park
Take a trip with your little one to your very own sandy beach on Lake Eerie at Edgewater Park. The park includes beach and lake access, a large playground, concessions, walking trails, and much more. Just outside of the city, you can take in views of the Cleveland skyline right from the lake shore. The beach has 2,400 feet of shoreline, 1,000 feet of which has swimming access.
We recommend packing a bag with a change of clothes if you plan on going from the playground to the water. Be sure to bring towels, sunscreen, and sand toys for your visit. Take a look at the website for additional details.
Edgewater Park
Lakefront Reservation, Cleveland, OH
Website
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Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
All aboard! Your little choo-choo-loving kiddo will get the full train experience right in our very own national park. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad offers a variety of train excursions for all ages and interests. With stations and visitor/exploration centers located from Independence to Akron, Ohio, there are plenty of spots to board the train and learn more. The customer service office is located at the Peninsula station.
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is known for its special events such as its family fun loop and its seasonal North Pole Adventure. Be sure to check the website for updates on special events, tickets, locations, and more.
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
1630 Mill Street West in Peninsula, Ohio
Website
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Library
The public libraries throughout Northeast Ohio offer residents a wide collection of resources, tools, and programs. Most library cards work within the county system, so you can use your card at any one of the qualifying libraries. Many of the children’s centers have hands-on toys for your little ones to play with, as well as free story times and seasonal events. Any Ohio resident can register for a library card, and there is no age restriction on a card, so your little ones can begin their love for reading at any age!
Playgrounds
There is no shortage of fun at Northeast Ohio’s playgrounds. From climbing structures to swings to green spaces and lakes, there is a little something for every toddler. We’ve compiled a list of more than 80 playgrounds your little one will love!
Clark Field Playground and Splash Pad
Beautifully renovated park in Cleveland with a new playground and splash pad. The playground has a bouncy rubber surface, slides, swings, and things to spin and climb. A covered area is located next to the playground and offers a variety of shaded picnic tables and seating. The park also has walking paths, basketball courts, tennis courts, a fenced dog park, and more! Bring your bikes as it’s next to the towpath trail.
Clark Field Playground and Splash Pad
Clark Field Cleveland, OH 44113
Website
SOAR Fully Accessible Playground
This Silver Springs park has so many sporting options, including basketball, tennis, volleyball, and soccer. The courts and fields are in the front section of the park. Located at the back of the park is a very large fully accessible playground with a rubber surface. It is also home to Bow Wow Beach Dog Park.
SOAR Fully Accessible Playground
Location: 5027 Stow Road, Stow Ohio 44224
Website
Get Air Trampoline Park
If you are looking for a spot to let your little ones get their energy out, then Get Air Trampoline Park is the place for you! From foam pits to trampolines to ninja courses, you can jump, run, climb, and explore. They also have a kiddie court, designed specifically for children under 46 inches tall. Check out Get Air Trampoline Park’s weekly events, featuring toddler time on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Get Air Trampoline Park
Locations in Akron, Middleburg Heights, and Toledo
Website
The Ninja Hive
Do you have a little ninja on your hands? The Ninja Hive is your very own American Warrior Gym. The gym offers obstacles for all ages and skill levels. Check the website to sign an e-waiver before your visit. You can also reserve the place for birthday parties. View the website for additional details on classes, pricing, and more.
The Ninja Hive
2653 S Arlington Rd, Akron, OH 44319
Website
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Kingsway Pumpkin Patch
Take a trip to the pumpkin patch! At Kingsway Pumpkin Patch your little one will have so much more to do than just pick out a pumpkin. From wagon rides, a petting zoo, a corn box and straw tunnel, a corn maze, and photo display opportunities galore, you will spend the day having fun. There is even a mini Old West town to explore and a kiddie train for your little ones to ride around the farm.
Be sure to check ahead for the seasonal hours and pricing, as well as their group information. You can also get a sneak peek of each year’s corn maze design on the website before your visit. Feel free to bring along a wagon or stroller.
Kingsway Pumpkin Patch
1555 Andrews St NE, Hartville, OH 44632
Website
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Maria’s Fields of Hope Sunflower Field
A trip to a sunflower field is always a special experience, but a trip to Maria’s Fields of Hope Sunflower Field supports an even greater mission: childhood cancer funding and research. The McNamara family encountered cancer, when their 7-year old daughter, Maria, passed away from a brain tumor. The Maria’s Fields of Hope Sunflower Field was born to honor their daughter’s life and other children who are fighting for their lives as well. The flowers now span two different locations.
Photographers can get a special pass to come out and take professional photographs. However, you can visit with your little ones, family, and friends and take photos at your leisure. We recommend you dress for the weather, as it can be muddy in spots at times. Also, check the website and social media for updates on when each field is in bloom. A visit to the fields is free, but you can donate. Check out the website for additional details on how to support their mission.
Maria’s Fields of Hope Sunflower Field
Locations in Avon and at Cedar Point
Website
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Akron Children’s Museum
Let your little one play, learn, and explore at a place designed just for them! The Akron Children’s Museum provides a variety of hands-on exhibits. Your child can be an artist, a builder, a performer, a race car driver, a farmer and so much more. There is even a baby zone designed for babies 0-2 years old to play.
Check out the website for their hours and a calendar of events and special programs. You can take a virtual tour of the museum. They also offer virtual events, home time activities, and STEM learning. The museum is available to rent for birthdays.
Akron Children’s Museum
51. W. State Street, 216 S Main St, Akron, OH 44308
Website
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Party at the Barn
Come join in the fun on the farm at Party at the Barn! The farm offers pony rides, a petting zoo, birthday parties, and even a gem mine. Be sure to check out their animal-focused farm events throughout the year. Visit Santa at the barn or even send a “bunny gram” to someone you love.
Are you hoping to give your little cowboy or cowgirl an extra special birthday party? Birthday parties can feature pony/unicorn rides. You can also plan field trips, group events and rent the farm.
Party at the Barn
945 Bartlett Rd, Aurora, OH 44202
Website
Szalay’s Farm
Szalay’s Farm is a sweet corn farm and old-fashioned farm market running four generations strong! Open June through October you can come shop a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and seasonal treats. The farm also has three outdoor huts and a fun outdoor eating area with swing tables and live music.
You won’t want to miss a visit in the fall! You can experience their interactive corn maze, shop the market, filled with a variety of pumpkins, and enjoy photo opportunities around every corner. Find out specific hours, seasonal selections, and more on the website.
Szalay’s Farm
4563 Riverview Rd, Peninsula, OH 44264
Website
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Monroe’s Orchard
If you want to take your toddler on a true fruit-picking trip, then Monroe’s Orchard is the place for you! The orchard invites you to “make a memory” with your family and friends as you pick seasonal fruit and visit their year-round market. The farm offers a variety of festivals and tours throughout the year, including their fall festivals, which have a pick-your-own pumpkin patch.
From strawberries to apples to sunflowers, you will truly experience the freshest things a farm has to offer. Monroe’s Orchard has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere perfect for little ones picking for the first time.
Monroe’s Orchard
6313 Pioneer Trail, Hiram, OH 44234
Website
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Sweetie’s Golf Land
If you are looking to give your toddler a sweet experience then Sweetie’s Golf Land is a must. The park includes a duo of 18-hole mini golf courses. The adorable candy-themed courses look delicious and will have you hungry to visit their soda shop. With a variety of ice cream options, you can enjoy your sweet treat in their dairy-themed sitting area, complete with table swings! Then don’t miss out on their gigantic candy store. The store carries the largest variety of candy available anywhere in the world.
Don’t forget your camera to snap photos of this iconic spot. You will certainly satisfy your sweet tooth while having a fun day of mini-golfing. Check the website for details on their seasonal hours.
Sweetie’s Golf Land
6770 Brookpark Rd, Cleveland, OH 44129
Website
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More Ohio Fun
- Things to do in Ohio – Ideas and inspiration for the best things to do across the state for all ages!
