The Dayton region boasts a wealth of outdoor destinations and opportunities, and planning a special day in the great outdoors is easy and often affordable.
1. BUST A MOVE AND BRUCH
Free fitness classes are offered most Saturdays during the summer at RiverScape MetroPark in downtown Dayton and are the perfect option for moms who enjoy getting active. Grab your tennis shoes and head to RiverScape Pavilion this Saturday, May 13 for a Zumba session from 10 to 11 a.m. After, treat your mom to brunch at the 2nd Street Market or one of the many restaurants located in downtown Dayton.
2. PICTURE PERFECT
Tell mom you’re heading to Hills & Dales MetroPark to hit the kid-friendly playgrounds and to take a stroll along the wetlands boardwalk. Before playtime begins, surprise mom with a family photo session at the Adirondack-style shelter overlooking Dogwood Pond. Professional photographers are required to have a permit and may acquire one at metroparks.org/permits.
3. RESERVE A SUMMER STAYCATION
Surprise mom with reservations for a summer staycation! Get away from it all in your favorite park and enjoy a long weekend of family time. Frontcountry campsites are available in Possum Creek, Englewood, Germantown, Twin Creek MetroPark and at many area locations.
Hone your camping skills before your nature staycation by attending MetroParks’ Family Camping program on Saturday, May 20 at 3 p.m. This hands-on, family-friendly overnight allows you to learn basic outdoor skills so you can have successful camping experiences with your kids. Registration is required and is available online. The program includes equipment, dinner, and breakfast for up to five people. Fee: $50
4. GARDENING INSPIRATION
Instead of gifting flowers that have a shelf life of a week, opt to create a small garden for your mom, so she can enjoy fresh blooms all season long. Visit Wegerzyn Gardens or Aullwood Garden MetroPark for some inspiration, and then sit down for lunch and plan your garden. After creating your mom’s garden, take her one of MetroParks’ gardening programs to learn new tips and tricks.
5. PLAN A PICNIC
Pack a basket filled with your mom’s favorite goodies and head to Possum Creek MetroPark for an outdoor picnic. Hike the purple trail loop to see traces of the former Argonne Forest amusement park before you sit down for lunch at the nearby picnic tables. Visit the Edible Farm for some farm-to-table inspiration, and then snap a family selfie in front of the beautiful Argonne Lake.