Dayton's RiverScape MetroPark
By Heather Rader
Posted On: Jul 7, 2017
Sitting along the banks of the Great Miami River in the heart of Downtown Dayton is the outdoor recreation playground of RiverScape MetroPark. An inviting urban park with landscaped gardens, reflecting pools and fountains welcomes outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the scenic nature which surrounds the lively southwestern Ohio city. With numerous outdoor activities and family-friendly features, here are 7 activities to take advantage of this summer at RiverScape MetroPark!
1. Stroll Along the Paved Trails
Taking a leisurely summertime stroll is the perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors and Ohio’s warm weather. Marvel at the beautiful bloomed flowers, landscaped gardens, spot the resident and migratory birds (blue herons, waterfowl, gulls and Bald Eagles have been spotted along the river) and catch a glimpse of turtles and other water loving wildlife.
2. Bicycle Along the River
RiverScape MetroPark is at the junction of the Great Miami River and Mad River Trail on the nation’s largest paved trail network. Bicycle enthusiasts have miles of paved trails to ride along the banks of local rivers. Weekends (Memorial Day through Labor Day) RiverScape Rentals offers bicycles for rent and the Bike Hub offers bike lockers, showers and restroom facilities.
3. Paddling Adventures at River Run
Kayakers can make a splash at the park’s newest feature, River Run. This independent-use facility allows both experienced and novice kayakers to paddle the currents of the Great Miami River while connecting them to the Great Miami River corridor (99 miles of waterways and trails that flow through 15 cities). Kayaks and standup paddleboards can be rented at Whitewater Warehouse, less than a mile upstream from River Run.
4. Relax on a Swing while Viewing the River Run Mural
Relaxing swings face the northern floodwall providing a nice view of the River Run Mural. This 16-foot tall and nearly 1,000-foot long art mural depicts vibrant outdoor scenes such as bicyclists, kayakers and wildlife.5. Splash in the Interactive Fountains
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, children will love to make a splash in the interactive fountains that shoot water 20 feet into the air.
6. Five Rivers Fountain of Lights
View one of the largest fountains in the world at RiverScape! Five water jets straddle the confluence of the Great Miami and Mad Rivers, just east of Riverside Bridge, shooting 2,500 gallons of water per minute toward the center of the river. The fountain covers 395,000-square feet across and 800-feet diameter making it an impressive sight!
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