Just a couple of miles to the east of Lakewood, Edgewater Beach offers a broad sandy beach with a fair extent of shallows before it drops off. Access to the beach is off the Shoreway -- this part of the park is known as "Lower Edgewater."  Down here, there are also ball fields, fishing piers and concession stands. It's a big kite-flying venue, too. "Upper Edgewater," reached via West Boulevard and Edgewater Drive, has picnic facilities, including a covered pavilion, and a selection of playground equipment. A paved bike and fitness trail connects the two levels.

Lakewood natives know this enormous park at the western edge of the city as "The Valley."  While there are no formal playgrounds, the Rocky River Reservation -- and all the reservations in the greater Cleveland Metroparks system -- offer trails, bike/walk paths and access to the wonders of nature. There are meadows just waiting for a young energetic runner, or a burgeoning dancer to celebrate the seasons. Look for the herons who nest in the sycamores along the river, watch the ducks, go fishing, or fly a kite. 

There's a boat launch at the northern end of the park, at the Detroit/Sloane entrance, and there are a few swings (including baby swings) at the little pavilion picnic and barbecue area. Lakewood city softball recreational leagues use the ball fields down by the "Green Barn."  

For outstanding programs throughout the year, check out the Cleveland Metroparks website -- particularly what's happening at the Rocky River Nature Center.

And don't forget about the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo -- which is free on Mondays!