The bright sun, the sweaty heat, and the gleeful cheers of children playing in neighborhoods only can mean one thing: summer has finally arrived. This is the time that most kids spend nine Ohio months dreaming about (and parents sometimes dread). But, soon the excitement of the first beautiful 7-day forecast and sleeping in begins to fade. As parents, we find ourselves scrambling for things to do and activities to keep our minds sane and the kids busy.
Being rated one of ohiomagazine.com’s “Ohio’s Best Hometowns” has its advantages to help beat the dog days of summer. Bowling Green has plenty to offer not only our residents but also welcomes folks from all over Wood County. Below you will find some ideas to help you enjoy the season.
Books A-Bound
For the bookworm or the casual reader, Bowling Green has many opportunities to grab a book and immerse yourself in an alternate world.
Teens can check out Novel Blends Teen Banned Book Club and get a first-hand look at the forbidden literature that “they don’t want you to see”. This club meets to read and discuss the books that have made a lasting impact on culture and society. Bring an inquisitive mind and thoughtful questions. You may be inspired to be the next banned author. Their summer drink menu is impressive too, we suggest the raspberry lemonade!
For pre-school-aged children, the Wood County Library offers a program to encourage your little one to read “1000 books before Kindergarten”. This program helps track your child’s progress and even offers incentive prizes! Jump-start your student and help develop a love for reading. Readers are leaders!
Grounds for Thought offers over 250,000 pre-owned books to browse and even offers a variety of beany beverages to enjoy as you shop. So grab a book, a drink, and a comfy seat on the parklet and enjoy the summer sun!
Those Summer Nights
Firefly Nights is a monthly festival held on the third Friday of June, July, and August offering a variety of lively entertainment, music, food, and friends. Bowling Green has always been proud of our community and this event celebrates everything that our town loves. Mark your calendars and gather the family for an exciting evening on the town!
Park It Like It’s Hot
Want to get out and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature? Take a stroll through Wintergarden Park and St. John’s Nature Preserve. The wildlife window in the Rotary Nature Center peers out at feeding stations and a flowing stream that attracts local birds, squirrels, and the occasional deer. Explore the many acres of forests and prairies through miles of walking trails.
If you need a little color in your life be sure to visit Simpson Garden Park and browse the 11 acres of beautifully manicured floral gardens. With a Child’s Sensory Garden, Japanese Gardens, and sculptures throughout, this adventure is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of Bowling Green.
Looking for a faster pace or some exercise? The Slippery Elm Trail is a 13-mile asphalt trail that connects Bowling Green to North Baltimore. This path is great for biking, rollerblading, and walking. There are various access points throughout for easy trail entry. Take a ride and enjoy the many sights along the way!
Eats and Sweet Treats
The City of Bowling Green Parks & Recreation Department hosts Lunch in the Park every Friday in June and July from 11:30 AM-1:00 PM. Get a bite to eat from one of our amazing BG eateries and enjoy some live music at City Park with the kids.
The Farmer’s Market in Bowling Green, presented by Work Leads to Independence, offers a wide variety of local produce, flowers, baked goods, and other homemade items in the historic downtown area of Bowling Green. Pack up the kids every Wednesday, from 4:00 PM-7:00 PM, and take a stroll downtown to get a taste of what BG has to offer.
Don’t take our word for it! Instead, trust the thousands of people who voted The Sundae Station WTOL 11 Munch Madness Champion of 2021. A hot summer day deserves ice cream! Or a slush! Or a lemon shake-up! Hungry? What goes better with a nice frozen treat than a BBQ Pork Sandwich? The Sundae Station has an extensive menu to help cure the Summertime Blues!
A History Lesson
Connect with our past, submerse yourself in the present, and imagine the future of Bowling Green and Wood County through stories and exhibits at the Wood County Museum. Be sure to visit on the first Friday of every month and admission is FREE!
Demonstration Day – Honor Independence – On July 9th, 2022, visit the Wood County Museum to witness the life of a soldier and meet with revolutionary reenactors to learn about the patriotic fight for American independence. This event is a great way to celebrate a star-spangled summer!
Beat the Heat
Take a dip at City Pool & Waterpark this summer with the family. Daily admissions are offered, as well as season passes. The facility is open to the public, with a discount for BG residents. Shelter and Splash Pad rentals are also available for your event. Contact Parks & Recreation for details!
Swing into Summer
Dixie Driving Range and the John Powers Golf Academy offer Junior Golf Clinics, open to all skill levels, to help teach the basics and fundamentals of golf. Visit their Facebook page for registration info and get your golfer ready to hit the links!
Ready to take it to the next level? PGA Jr. League at Stone Ridge Golf Club offers a weekly development as well as games against area teams throughout the summer. This golf league provides expert coaching, a welcoming and inclusive environment for all levels, and most importantly, FUN! Click HERE for details!
The activities listed above are just a few things that can help keep your family busy during the hot BG summer months. There are many hidden gems in and around town, so be sure to explore a little and share your favorite experiences, tips, and fun finds in the comments below!
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