Middlefield – Although summer break has barely begun, it won’t be long before your kids will say, “I’m bored. There’s nothing to do.” When you hear those words, or if you’re just ready for a little summer fun yourself, here are some ways to enjoy summertime with your kids without spending a fortune.
For a fun, free way to cool off on a hot day, visit the Eagle Park Sprayground in the nearby Village of Middlefield. This public park is home to two splash pad areas – motion-activated systems of sprinklers, fountains and tipping buckets just begging to help your kids cut loose and bust the boredom. For dry fun, there’s a playground, paved walking paths and a gazebo nearby. The park is open from 10 am to 8 pm, weather permitting, and from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Restrooms and water fountains are available; adult supervision is required. Pack lunch to enjoy at a picnic table, or pick up something at one of the many nearby take-out restaurants. Eagle Park is located at 14730 Springdale Avenue in Middlefield.
To enjoy a trip back in time, less than eight miles to the east of the Sprayground, head to the End of The Commons General Store. Located in the heart of the country’s fourth-largest Amish community, this old fashioned General Store in Mesopotamia has been in operation since 1840. Inside, you’ll find old time memorabilia, penny candy, specialty baking items, popcorn, hard-to-find kitchen gadgets and over 150 varieties of glass bottle soda. Browse the store to check out the items of yesteryear, or enjoy some hand-dipped ice cream in their café or outside on the front porch. For hours of operation or directions, visit endofthecommons.com.
Check out either boredom-busting option, or spend the afternoon visiting both. Either choice will provide a great way to spend a summer day sharing some fun, and some local gems, with your kids.
