AAre you looking for a new lake to fish? A new track to pedal? Or just want to try something new? The Great Miami Riverway offers dozens of fun, free places to explore this summer. From mountain bike trails to river surfing, there’s something for all levels and interests. Here are some of the best spots along the river to explore this summer.
Fishing at Lake Tawawa
With over 220 wooded acres, Tawawa Park home to the iconic William Ross Covered Bridge and two lakes for fishing. Tawawa and Amos lakes are open for fishing and a free fishing license is available from the parks office or the police department. Don’t like fishing? There are sand volleyball courts, basketball courts, new playgrounds and wooded trails to enjoy.
Bike the scenic trails of Taylorsville MetroPark
The 10 mile flat bike ride to Taylorsville Metropolitan Park takes you through scenic tree-lined trails, overlooking the Great Miami River and past the Miami Conservancy District’s impressive Taylorsville Dam. Get off the bike and hit the trails and choose to stay overnight at the reservable campgrounds.
Cool off at Splashpad in Miamisburg
Kids love the Splashpad in Miamisburg! Fill buckets, turn nozzles and run under sprinklers at waterfront parkthe water play landscape. The whole family can also enjoy a visit to the aquatic center, where there is a slide and a swimming pool.
Attend outdoor concerts at Riversedge
Riversedge at Marcum Park hosts concerts and events along the banks of the Great Miami River. The amphitheater lineup includes Spafford and Karina Rykman on August 6, Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown on August 11, and more. The concerts take place until September.
Kayak Miami’s Great River
Grab a kayak and go for a 5 mile paddle on the Great Miami River at Miami Bend in West Carrollton and float in the peaceful waters. Keep your eyes peeled for the eagles above your head and come out to Case landing in Miamisburg.
Visit the Middletown Murals
Do you like a good treasure hunt? Discover the murals that are on the buildings of the district. With over 16 murals in Middletown, the one mile loop trail takes you through the city where art has been painted on the side of churches and historic buildings.
Have a play date at Smith Park
Bring the whole family to enjoy a day at the park. There is a skate park, a pond with a floating dock, trails, baseball diamonds, shelters, a playground, etc. Pack a picnic and enjoy a day in the sun at Smith Park.
Stay dry on rainy days with aviation heritage
If you’re looking for a free indoor activity, there’s plenty to do along the Great Miami Riverway, but visiting the National Museum of the United States Air Force should be at the top of your list.
Visit Ohio’s Outdoor Attractions
Franklin Historic Post Office was built in 1802, the oldest building in Franklin and where President Thomas Jefferson appointed the first postmaster, William C. Schenck. For a nature-centric destination, admire the meticulous landscaping of The Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum. It is one of the five oldest rural garden cemeteries in the country and a beautiful place to visit all year round, but especially in summer.