The Cleveland Metroparks Was Named Among The Best Parks In The Nation & We Wholeheartedly Agree
By Nikki Rhoades|Published October 26, 2021
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
With 300 miles of trails, thousands of acres of park land, and a history dating back to 1917, the Cleveland Metroparks are hard to overlook. Known colloquially as The Emerald Necklace, this chain of nature preserves, reservations, and parks encircles much of Northeast Ohio and immerses visitors in views that are almost otherworldly at times. While Clevelanders know and love the Metroparks, the secret about its splendor is out… again. Find out how the Cleveland Metroparks was recognized as the best in the nation:
Locals know that the Cleveland Metroparks are an area gem, but the cat's out of the bag!
The Cleveland Metroparks have long been cherished by locals. The first plot of land in the park system was purchased over a century ago, and since then the parks have enjoyed an identity intertwined with that of Cleveland. In fact, some of the area's most interesting fossils have been found within the parks.
Recently, the local park district was honored with the 2021 National Gold Medal “Best in Nation” Award for Excellence in Parks and Recreation Management. This is the fifth time the Cleveland Metroparks have scored this honor.
Also in recent news, the Metroparks are dedicated to making our city and region healthier. In a partnership with MetroHealth, they will be offering services like wellness screenings at future events and building upon their app to encourage fitness and exercise while locals enjoy their trails.
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This award, which is the highest national honor a park can receive, celebrates excellence in everything from stewardship to program development...
The press release states, "Cleveland Metroparks generates an annual regional economic impact of $873 million by enhancing property values, reducing stormwater runoff, improving local health and wellness, and generating tourism." Wow! Now that's huge.
Locals have long known that the Cleveland Metroparks are a gem. However, the recent recognition as one of the best park districts in the nation definitely is helping to spread the word. Which local park is your favorite? We’d love to hear your thoughts!
Love the Metroparks? You can take some of their shortest and sweetest hikes for a quick adventure through nature.
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