Kennsington Patio during lunch time.

Beyond the Trails: Outdoor Activities in the Youngstown Area

/in /by

Youngstown and Mahoning County may be known for the natural beauty of Mill Creek Park, including well-known outdoor recreation spots like Lanterman’s Mill and the “Cinderella Bridge,” but if hiking and kayaking aren’t your thing, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the fresh air. From summer festivals and open-air markets to wineries and patios, the Mahoning Valley offers a surprising variety of outdoor activities for your next weekend getaway.

Sip and Dine Al Fresco: Patios & Wineries

Sometimes the best outdoor activity is simply good food and drinks under the sky. Mahoning County is full of places to enjoy brunch, dinner or drinks out in the fresh air.

Top Patio Spots

Wineries Worth Visiting

Find Hidden Gems at Outdoor Markets & Fleas

Prefer your outdoor time with a side of shopping? Check out these vibrant outdoor markets.

  • Four Seasons Flea & Farm Market: Open year-round, but even better when the vendors spill outside during warm months.
  • Angiuli’s Farm Market: Family-owned market known for homegrown produce, fresh flowers and hanging baskets.
  • Youngstown Flea: Held monthly downtown near Youngstown State University’s campus, with hand-crafted, artisan and small-batch goods.

Roll, Ride & Cruise: Car Shows and Bike Nights

Classic cars and motorcycles are a big part of Mahoning Valley culture.

  • Dave and Ed’s Super Auto Events: Can’t-miss swap meet that comes to the Canfield Fairgrounds three times a year.
  • Cruise Nights: Casual weekly events at Quaker Steak & Lube, Dairy Queens and other local lots.
  • Bike Nights: Motorcycle meetups at Youngstown Harley-Davidson and local taverns, complete with live music and food.

Golf Courses for Every Skill Level

If your perfect day includes a few rounds under the sun, Mahoning County has you covered:

  • Mill Creek Golf Courses: Two Donald Ross-designed 18-hole courses, known as one of Ohio’s top-rated public golf courses.
  • Reserve Run Golf Course: Located in Poland, it’s known for fast greens and well-maintained fairways.
  • Kennsington Golf Club: A beautifully landscaped 18-hole championship course with an on-site restaurant and bar.

If you’re on a road trip through northeast Ohio, save on costs with Stay and Play Packages to combine your stay with your round.

Hit the Chains: Disc Golf Around Mahoning County

Disc golf is a fun, low-cost way to stay active outdoors, and Mahoning County has some great courses for players of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned thrower or just learning the ropes, there’s a course nearby that’s perfect for you.

  • Boardman Park Disc Golf Course
    With two 9-hole courses, it’s great for beginners and families. It’s scenic, shaded and easy to navigate, perfect for a casual weekend round.
  • Austintown Township Park
    This course offers a relaxed layout with a mix of wooded and open holes, ideal for both new and experienced players. The park itself also has walking trails, a splash pad and picnic tables, making it a solid pick for a full family outing.
  • The Osprey Disc Golf Course
    Located at Lake Milton State Park, it’s a unique, wooded 18-hole course covering three different areas of land. It’s a great stop for those looking to pair disc golf with fishing, kayaking or other lakeside activities.

Most courses are free and open year-round. Bring your discs, lace up your walking shoes and get ready to enjoy one of the fastest-growing outdoor sports in the country.

Wick Recreation Area: Sports, Play and Picnics

One of the most outdoor activity-packed spaces in Youngstown, Wick Recreation Area is perfect for families and casual fun.

  • Tennis, pickleball, sand volleyball and basketball courts.
  • A beginner-friendly par 3 golf course.
  • Large playground for kids.
  • Paved walking paths, shaded picnic areas and beautiful green spaces.
  • Winter sled riding and cross-country skiing when the snow hits.

Farm Fresh Fun at White House Fruit Farm

Located in Canfield, White House Fruit Farm is a seasonal favorite and outdoor haven for families and foodies alike.

  • Legendary Blueberry Donuts: Worth the drive all on their own.
  • Pick-Your-Own: Strawberries in early summer, blueberries in July and apples/pumpkins in the fall.
  • Fall Festival Weekends: Wagon rides, pumpkin displays, vendors and photo ops.
  • Every Day Fun: Feed the fish, enjoy a picnic and shop at the market.

Kayak the Mahoning River

For water lovers, the Mahoning River Water Trail offers peaceful paddling past wooded areas, wildlife and small towns.

Launch from Lowellville, Struthers or downtown Youngstown for a half- or full-day float. Rentals and guided trips are available through local outfitters like Mahoning Paddle and Pedal.

Fishing Spots Abound

Prefer peace and quiet with a line in the water? Before you head out to these spots, make sure you have a valid Ohio fishing license.

  • Lake Newport & Lake Glacier: Accessible and scenic.
  • Berlin Lake: Great for both fishing and kayaking.
  • Lake Milton: Known for its scenic shoreline and diverse fish.

Enjoy Music Under the Stars

Outdoor concerts and special events are a summer staple in the Valley.

Relax and Recharge at Fellows Riverside Gardens

If you’re looking for something calm and beautiful, Fellows Riverside Gardens is a must-visit. Located in Mill Creek MetroParks, this free public garden overlooks Lake Glacier and features seasonal flowers, walking paths and quiet spots to unwind.

Stop by the D.D. and Velma Davis Education & Visitor Center for coffee, art exhibits or a quick break. Whether you’re into photography, flowers or just want a peaceful stroll, it’s one of the most relaxing outdoor experiences in Youngstown.

Ready to Explore?

Whether you’re browsing the Youngstown Flea, paddling the river or savoring world-famous donuts, Mahoning County is packed with ways to enjoy the outdoors, even if you’re not a hiking trail kind of person.

From music and food to markets, sports and festivals, there’s always something happening under the sun (or stars).

Pro Tip: Many of these events are weather-dependent. Check event pages and social media for updates before heading out.

Check out our event page at ExploreMahoning.com and never miss out on outdoor fun.