Until mankind first stepped outside in 1934, nature was thought to be a fanciful myth, like yogurt or the clutch hitter. Spend a few hours frolicking through the fresh air of truth with today's Groupon: for $32, you get a household membership to the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes (a $65 value).

The eco-stewards at the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes work to conserve a natural bundle of lakes, streams, marshes, fields, ravines, and forests on the lush site's 20 acres, in addition to teaching environmental-education classes and hosting community-building events. The household membership contributes to the cause and nets families a grab bag of nature-center goodies, including discounts on programs and workshops, facility rentals, and early registration for all outdoor adventure camps. Lapsed naturalists can hopscotch along two trails, where flora such as sycamores, hickory, and sassafras surround the habitats of raccoons, red-tailed hawks, red foxes, Redd Foxx, and salamanders. Or feel free to spy on the flight patterns of local birds; the Audubon Society dubbed Shaker Lakes as an Important Bird Area for its population of autonomous aviators.

The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes has also earned the distinguished appellation of National Environmental Education Landmark.

Reviews

Seven lilaguide reviewers give the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes an average of 4.5 stars, and more than 1,000 Facebookers are fans:

• We are lucky enough to live within walking distance to this beautiful area of Cleveland. We have seen many wildlife, gotten some good exercise and really enjoyed nature out here. Shaker Lakes is a hidden treasure in Cleveland. – abbysmom, lilaguide
• This place was a nice change in things. it was very calm and we enjoyed the sights. – kaykaymommy, lilaguide