Try something new for memorable summer evening outing

by Laura Straub

As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, Clevelanders finally shake their winter blues and head out to explore. And if you’re looking for something new to try on your next summer night out with friends, unique experiences might be closer than you realize.

You don’t need to travel to Napa to spend a balmy summer night among the grapevines, just plan a visit to Sarah’s Vineyard, in Cuyahoga Falls. The winery boasts an outdoor covered patio, complete with a fireplace, which is an ideal pairing for a warm summer night.

“Another great casual option is our butterfly garden, which are picnic tables out front,” said general manager Sarah Altieri. “Surrounding the picnic tables are plants that attract butterflies and hummingbirds and large hibiscus flowers.”

On June 21 through 23, the vineyard hosts its annual Summer Solstice Festival, complete with live music, local artisans, food vendors, and of course, plenty of wine.

Wine also serves as the perfect muse to get creative juices flowing, with paint and sip events like the ones hosted at Painting with a Twist in Fairlawn or So So Artsy in Northfield Village. Whether you plan an exclusive party for friends or drop into an open studio for a date night, you’ll have a fun evening out, and leave with an original creation.

Have you always pictured yourself winning big on Jeopardy? Get your start by rounding up a group of friends and hitting up a local trivia night. Stop by the Tavern of Independence on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. as well to show off your smarts. Other trivia hotspots include Danny Boys in Broadview Heights with themed night like Seinfeld or Grey’s Anatomy, or the Rush Hour Grill in Twinsburg.

If moving is more your style, the Wild Eagle Saloon in Broadview Heights features indoor bocce ball courts, duckpin bowling and shuffleboard, while the soon-to-be-open Samson Dubina Table Tennis Academy, hosts open play for table tennis enthusiasts. To work you mind, rather than muscle, stop by Malted Meeple in Hudson with its hobby games or one of the many escape rooms that are cropping up around the area.