4 Summer Date Ideas in Ohio

Smale Riverfront Park, Cincinnati 
Enjoy a romantic summer stroll along the water at Smale Riverfront Park. The 45-acre park has downtown Cincinnati on one side and the mighty Ohio River on the other. Take in views of colorful flowers and the historic Roebling Bridge or grab a seat on one of the swinging benches along the path. Plan your visit during the Rockin’ the Roebling or Music at the Esplanade summer music series events. cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks

Adventure Zone, Geneva-on-the-Lake
Located along the Lake Erie shore, Adventure Zone Family Fun Center has been providing accessible adventures since 1996. Experience a full slate of entertainment, such as an arcade, merry-go-round, go-karts, a climbing wall and bumper boats. Popular date-night options at this lakeside locale include mini golf and sunset zip-line experiences. Adventure Zone is a perfect place to combine a day at the beach with a touch of theme-park nostalgia. adventurezonefun.com

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Columbus 
Stroll through 13 acres of flora at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Columbus. Explore the conservatory’s different indoor biomes — from the rainforest to the desert — and take in the beauty of the outdoor grounds. Select summer evenings bring special after-hours events like Cocktails at the Conservatory, with cocktails, food trucks and the chance to see Franklin Park in a new light. fpconservatory.org

The Ribbon at Glass City Metropark, Toledo 
Since its opening in June 2023, Glass City Metropark in Toledo has seen over 1 million visitors, and The Ribbon is one of the reasons why. This flowing, 1,000-foot-long loop is a great summer stop for roller skating. If you don’t own your own skates, rent a pair from the counter and enjoy views of the Maumee River as you roll along. After-hours glow skates are held on select dates through the season. metroparkstoledo.com

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