Ways to Spice Up the End of Your Summer

A few weeks ago I shared some . Though days continue to pass at an astonishing speed, I’d like to reiterate, there is still fun to be had this summer.

Other possibilities include:

• Embark on a jaunt down the Cuyahoga River on a Falls River Cruise. Boats run daily through August 21. Saturday and Sunday excursions are scheduled from August 27 - September 25. Tickets range from $4-$5, depending on age. Tots 2 and under are free.

• Combine bike and train rides into one picturesque adventure with Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad’s Bike Aboard! program. Travelers can bike the Towpath trail in one direction, and return by train in the other direction. Cost for each biker is $3. No planning needed; simply wave down an engine at a boarding station. Seats are not guaranteed. Trains operate Wednesday - Sunday until the end of October. Click here to view the time schedule.

• Two evenings of free live music remain in the 2011 Rockin’ on the River series. Jukebox Heroes and Bad Medicine play Friday, Aug. 19. Strangehold and Thunderstruck play Friday, Aug. 26.

• Support local dramatic art and see ANTIC Theatre’s production of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit. Follow Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf and the characters of Middle Earth on their epic adventure in a live performance. The final two dates of the show are Aug. 19 and Aug. 20 at 8 p. m. Tickets range from $6-$10. ANTIC is located in the Newell Theatre on the third floor of the

• Take the family out to a ballgame. The Akron Aeros and Cleveland Indians still have many games and promotional nights on the schedule. On Thurs., Aug. 25 the Aeros play Richmond and host The Price is Right Night. Or make the drive to see the Tribe play the Mariners and participate in Puppypalooza Night on Tuesday, Aug. 23.

Though the first day of school marks the end of vacation, remember, summer doesn’t officially end until the Fall Equinox on September 22.