Cleveland Metroparks

Cleveland Metroparks is a comprehensive public park system in Greater Cleveland, Ohio, encompassing 18 reservations that collectively form the "Emerald Necklace" around the city. Spanning over 25,000 acres, these parks offer a diverse array of recreational and educational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Parks and Recreation

The system includes 18 reservations, each offering unique experiences:

• Acacia Reservation: Located in Lyndhurst, this park features trails and event hosting facilities.
• Bedford Reservation: Situated along Tinker's Creek, it offers trails, cross-country skiing, mountain biking, and is recognized as a National Audubon Society's Bird Area.
• Brecksville Reservation: The largest in the system, it spans over 4,300 acres and includes the Sleepy Hollow Golf Course, hiking and cross-country skiing trails, bridle trails, and the Brecksville Nature Center.

Visitors can engage in activities such as hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, paddling, backpacking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and fishing.

The Outdoor Recreation division offers programs, or guests can create their own adventures. The Trail Challenge is a guide for exploring the more than 325 trails in Cleveland Metroparks.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a significant attraction within the park system, offering educational programs, animal encounters, and conservation initiatives.

It hosts day and overnight camps for children, providing immersive experiences in wildlife education. The zoo also offers a "Keeper for a Day" program that allows participants to work alongside animal professionals.

Golf Courses

Cleveland Metroparks manages nine scenic golf courses, including:

• Sleepy Hollow Golf Course: Known for its challenging layout and natural beauty.
• Manakiki Golf Course: Offers a historic setting with a classic design.

These courses cater to golfers of all skill levels and are recognized as some of the region's best.

Conservation and Education

Cleveland Metroparks is committed to conservation efforts that have both regional and global impacts.

Educational programs are offered to create awareness and appreciation for the natural world.

Recent Developments

In May 2025, groundbreaking occurred for a new $18.5 million community sailing center at the East 55th Street Marina in Cleveland.

The center, set to open in 2026, aims to reconnect the city's East Side communities with Lake Erie, offering year-round educational and recreational boating programs for youth.

Additionally, in September 2024, Cleveland Metroparks and Land Studio announced an $11 million federal grant for the construction of Irishtown Bend Park.

This project will transform 25 acres of sloping green space along the west bank of the Cuyahoga River, connecting it with Ohio City and providing views of the downtown skyline.

Cleveland Metroparks continues to enhance the quality of life in the Greater Cleveland area by providing accessible natural spaces, recreational facilities, and educational programs that foster a deep connection with the environment.

Locations

• Cleveland, OH, USA