Inclusive Summer Recreational Activities
Ahhh…. Summer at last! The sun is shining and the great outdoors are calling. That means it’s officially time to start planning your summer of inclusive outdoor adventure! Check out the activities and organizations listed below for some great accessible recreational opportunities right here in our own backyard!
Explore the Cuyahoga Valley without Limits:
New for 2026! The Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park is excited to offer a new way for visitors with disabilities or mobility challenges to explore the national park. Through a community-led effort, the GRIT Freedom Chair is now available for visitors to borrow at no cost! The GRIT Freedom Chair is a rugged, all-terrain wheelchair built for the outdoors and is able to roll over rocks, roots, gravel, mud, puddles, and uneven terrain found in CVNP. Hitting the trails in our local national park has never been more accessible! Check out the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park’s website for all the details and to submit a reservation.
Let’s Ride!
Using an adaptive tricycle, 3Wheel Therapy is a non-profit organization that provides free therapeutic riding experiences for those who are unable ride a traditional bicycle. Volunteer peddlers (called Pilots) provide the leg work for a unique bicycle ride through tree-lined trails, at local parks or other community spaces. The team rides along the trail with conversation, appreciation of the natural environment, smiles and laughs. Riders of all ages and abilities are welcome! Learn how to schedule your Akron/Summit County area ride on 3WheelTherapy’s website.
Accessible Summer Programming with Cuyahoga Falls Parks and Recreation:
Cuyahoga Falls Parks and Recreation has launched a new adaptive summer programming for people with developmental disabilities to get active and have fun together – AdaptAble! AdaptAble is a new program series in the evenings that aims to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for adults with developmental disabilities to participate, connect and have fun! Programs are adapted to support people who can participate as much – or as little – as they choose. Everyone is welcome to be themselves. A caregiver such as a family member or DSP is required to attend.To learn more, explore the Cuyahoga Falls Parks and Recreation program calendar and registration page.
Cast a line for an inclusive day of fishing!
Our friends at the Summit MetroParks are once again hosting their annual Special Needs Fishing Derby. The event will be held on June 23, 2026 from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm at Firestone Metro Park – Little Turtle Pond.Adults and children with special needs are invited to cast a line into Little Turtle Pond for a fun and welcoming day of fishing. This free, inclusive event is open to the public. No registration required! For more details, visit the Special Needs Fishing Derby event page.
Outdoors For All:
Taking your summer adventures on the road? The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has you covered!
- Hit the trails by exploring a list of over 50 Accessible Trails throughout the state to accommodate various mobility needs.
- Spend some time on the water with accessible boat and kayaking launches, providing opportunities for anyone to get out on the water around the state.
- Book your overnight stay at one of Ohio’s State Parks with lodging options that include ADA accommodations and are intended for visitors with an accessibility need.
- Looking for even more adventure? Visit the ODNR’s website for accessible fishing, hunting, and other outdoor recreation activities!
Explore our Community Resources page for ongoing activities outside of seasonal events!
Disclaimer: Unless specially noted, the events listed on this page are not endorsed, sponsored, or facilitated by Summit DD. This listing is created to help connect you with some of the family-friendly, inclusive activities happening in our community. This guide isn’t intended to be a complete list of every event or activity, but we hope it gives you some fun local options to explore. Please note that Summit DD does not oversee the content, fees, availability, or services provided by these community organizations.