Surfing … in Dayton, Ohio?

Is surfing on your bucket list? Or maybe you’re looking to improve those surfing skills. Look no further than the Miami River.

You read that right — no ocean needed! Catch a wave on two whitewater features on the edge of downtown Dayton, Ohio. Local shop Surf Dayton has everything you need to hang ten, including equipment rentals and river surfing lessons. Private and group sessions are available.

The Beach Boys certainly nailed it: “You gotta catch a wave and you’re sittin’ on top of the world!”

— Sarah Cook

Cincinnati Staycation

Our family is enjoying a “Cincinnati staycation” summer — my wife and I, our three kids and their families. Each group is responsible for planning one day of staycation for the seven adults and seven grandkids (all under the age of 8), which includes a morning activity, an evening get-together and time in between for naps.

Day One started in Over-the-Rhine with breakfast at Findlay Market, followed by a scavenger hunt on the streetcar — each kid with a clipboard and parents serving as spotters. At Washington Park, the little ones ran through the fountains. Later that evening, it was bowling at Madison Bowl in Madisonville and dinner at the Oakley Food Hall.

Day Two started at the Cincinnati Nature Center in Milford, with hiking and exploring. We fed a snapping turtle in “Matt’s Pond” and “caught” some “seaweed.” The bears (all adults) also trapped screaming kids in a log cabin. That night, we enjoyed a movie night with pizza, popcorn and “The Lego Batman Movie.”

Can’t wait for Days Three and Four.

— Nick Vehr

Sorbetto and treasure hunting

My local bucket list stars a few perennial favorites every summer: Enjoying a half-passionfruit/half-strawberry sorbetto in a waffle cone from La Grassa in Madeira or a Hawaiian shave ice from Paradise Ice in Milford. Checking out the food trucks and wares at the Off Market at Summit Park or City Flea. Treasure hunting at the Burlington Antique Show.

It’s not summer without these favorites.

— Stacy Delk

Warning: Splashing ahead

My family’s big thing this summer: Splash pads. My 4-year-old and 2-year-old are big fans of the aquatic playgrounds at Washington Park and Ziegler Park in Over-the-Rhine. In fact, we’ve been known to hit both in one day! They’re fun, clean and safe. Both provide a great way to beat the heat but don’t require the prep of going to the pool (which we also enjoy).

If you visit on a Saturday or Sunday, you’ll likely see us there. Don’t be surprised if one of the Schwass boys splashes you upon arrival. You’ve been warned!

— Darcy Schwass

Lots to love in Loveland

My hometown of Loveland has become quite the destination for summer fun. The heartbeat of it all is the Loveland Bike Trail, which runs the former railroad line and extends through the state for more than 70 miles.

Historic buildings and houses neighboring the trail have been transformed into restaurants, bars and boutique shops, including the wonderfully quirky and boho Blume.

Catch some live music on the rooftop of Bishop’s Quarter, the gravel patio of Wicked Pickle or the patio of the new taproom Hops & Berry, featuring 60 beer taps. Munch on avocado quinoa salad at Ramsey’s Trailside or burgers at Paxton’s Grill. Throw a Frisbee or skip stones on the Little Miami River from Nisbet Park, then put in at Loveland Canoe & Kayak.

Want to go longer? Night owls, power up at the Dolph’s Dogs street cart. My recommendation: a spicy dog with hot banana peppers, jalapenos and spicy mustard.

— Karen Bells