Ahh, sweet summer — the weather is warm, the sun is high, and it is time to celebrate! We've been in summer mode since early May, but with the first official day of summer coming up on June 22, we're realizing just how fast time flies. Fall will be here before you know it, so maximize your summer plans and take advantage of the fun opportunities our region has to offer. From adventuring on Lake Erie, to exploring the best of city life in Cleveland, we've rounded up a list of our favorite summer activities in the area. Challenge yourself to try at least one, if not all of them! You might just have some fun and make some memories while you're at it.

Try a New Water Sport

Photo courtesy of Jill Jankowski, owner of SUP Cleveland

The calm waters of Lake Erie are popular during the summer months for a variety of exciting water sports — but stand up paddle boarding is one our absolute favorites. Paddle boarding offers the opportunity to work the core, legs and arms while soaking up the sun and enjoying the lake scene! Make it a point this summer to try something it out. SUP Cleveland offers adventurers the chance to try stand up paddle boarding in a fun group environment, including yoga classes and events on the water. Rentals, lessons and a good time are all provided!

Find a New Swimming Hole

With the sun shining high and temps in the 90s, summer is the best time to cool off in the water — but sometimes Cleveland's public pools can get a bit overrun. When that happens, adventure outside the city and discover one of the area's many swimming holes! Whether it's hidden at the end of a hike or a well-traveled destination, we're sure a dive or a toe-dip at these spots are more fun than a pool (and chlorine free to boot). A few of our favorites include Chagrin Falls, Nelson Ledges Quarry Park, and Dundee falls, but there are many more to choose from.

Go on a Brewery Tour

Photo courtesy of Great Lakes Brewing Co

After all that adventuring, why not wind down the day with a pint? There are plenty of breweries in town to choose from if you're just looking to sip a cold one, but taking a tour enriches the experience. Our favorite tour is the option at Great Lakes Brewing Co, which leads you through a major brewery's production facility as well as giving you a glimpse into Cleveland's history. Of course, drinking beer is a quintessential part of the tour, so grab a brew and join in the fun!

... Or Visit a Local Winery

Not a beer fan? That's okay, we've got an option for you, too. Thorn Creek Winery is nestled just south of Cleveland in Aurora, and offers award-winning wines alongside stunning gardens. Come to enjoy a night of live music and share a bottle with friends, and bring your four legged friend to Yappy Hour on the first Wednesday of the month during summer! Check out the events calendar for a full list of the fun things coming up, including farm-to-table dinners and painting classes.

Explore a New MetroPark

Photo courtesy of Cleveland Metroparks

If you ever thought out connections to the outdoors were limited, think again. Cleveland is home to 18 metroparks featuring more than 100 trails to choose from. Some of the parks host fun concerts throughout the summer, and eight of the parks have spectacular lake views perfect for watersports or picnicking. All you have to do is pick one and get ready for a new adventure! Bonus: Don't miss out on the Centennial Fireworks event on July 22, which will celebrate the Cleveland Metroparks' 100th anniversary! Expect live music, food trucks and outdoor recreation activities during the day, concluded with a spectacular fireworks show over the water at Edgewater Beach.  

Spend an Evening Under the Stars

The warm weather is certainly inviting for outdoor adventures, but why not extend your stay in mother nature? Our state is home to plenty of places to pitch a tent, from enchanting forests to nearby islands. Here are our 15 favorite campgrounds in Ohio to get you started — all you're missing is the s'more supplies and the campfire stories.

… Or Marvel at the Stars at the Lake Erie Nature and Science Center

The Lake Erie Nature and Science Center, located in Bay Village, offers free admission every day and a chance to interact with the wonders of our world (and beyond). While the wildlife exhibits are fantastic, our favorite part of the center is the planetarium, which allows you to spend an evening under the stars without going outside. Sit back and marvel as the skies change almost instantaneously, and the staff explains the wonders of the universe.

Hit up a Festival

It's summertime — aka time to celebrate. Grab your party shoes and get ready to rumble, because there are plenty of festivals planned this summer in Cleveland and the surrounding areas. Here are a few we're looking forward to. Huron River Fest | July 7-9 A roadshow, a pet parade, live music, vendors, fireworks and a duck race — what more could you want? Cleveland Pizza Fest | June 23-25 Endless pizza — need we say more? We will. There's also live music, family-friendly games and activities, a motorcycle and car show, a 5K and more than 20,000 pizza lovers from near and far joining in the festivities. Island Fest | July 14-16   The Island Fest features the best of Kelleys Island, including great food, great beer, nighttime dancing, watersports and fireworks — and was voted the number one festival by readers in Lake Erie Living Magazine. Christmas in July | July 21-23 It's the most wonderful time of the year! Well, almost. Luckily you don't have to wait until December to celebrate Christmas. This jolly festival features all of your holiday favorites, including garlands, Santa hats, holiday drinks and a Christmas parade.

Shop at a Farmers' Market

Sure, super markets are great — but no one can deny that meals taste better when prepped with farm-fresh ingredients. Cleveland hosts a variety of farmers' markets during the summer months, each filled with fresh fruits and veggies, warm pastries, hanging flower baskets and more. Whether you're looking to stock up on groceries or simply take in the sights, visiting a farmers' market is a quintessential summer activity. Check out the North Union Farmers Market, which actually hosts nine markets around Northeastern Ohio. You're sure to find one nearby!

Find a Deal at the Cleveland Flea

Celebrate our small businesses by hitting up the Cleveland Flea! This market was founded in 2013 as a way to support local artisans and build a community around their talent. You'll find a mix of more than 170 vendors selling charcuterie, vintage-style leather purses, freshly baked breads, crafts, jewelry, art and furniture. In short, anything you could dream of buying, you'll find here under one roof.

Scream for Ice Cream

No summer day is complete without dessert! Make it a point to stop by a new ice cream shop this season — in your neighborhood or elsewhere. Treat yourself and support the local community! If you're willing to venture south, here are some of our favorites in Akron and Canton.