Regardless what part of town you live in or your child’s interests, Toledo boasts a variety of activities for teens and tweens. From the library’s list of events to the simple pleasures of the great outdoors, there truly is something for everyone. Teens and tweens have plenty of opportunities to spend time with friends and family in healthy, constructive and meaningful ways.
Toledo Lucas County Public Library
Various branches
419-259-5200
TLCPL offers teen events at each branch on a weekly basis, from book clubs to game nights. Each branch offers different activities ranging from Bingo and Nintendo Switch Club at the Mott Branch to Hip Hop Class at the Locke Branch. Those are just a few of the highlights, and readers can find a full list of branches and activities on the TLCPL website.
Point Place Branch hosts the Teen Cocoa Club on Fridays from 4-5 pm. Each week presents new activities. It’s also a time for teens and tweens to connect about books and games. The branch also hosts Dungeons and Dragons for teens every Thursday from 3:30-5 pm.
The Main Library downtown offers teens a space to meet up with friends for video games, as well as activities like the Teen Lit League, chess and collaborations with local organizations like Toledo Grows and Tabletop Games.
Toledo Museum of Art
2445 Monroe St.
419-255-8000
Along with a nationally known art collection, TMA offers multiple classes for adolescents with unique opportunities to learn about mural painting, glass blowing and mixed media art. Members receive a discounted rate on all classes. For more details regarding classes and age limits, check out their website.
Toledo Area Mountain Bikers Association
& Glass City Mountain Bikers
419tamba@gmail.com
These two organizations merged to offer programming that is better than ever! Black Swamp Riders are an interscholastic mountain biking team that includes every member at every practice and race, allowing all riders to develop a strong work ethic and perseverance to promote a lifelong love for riding. Practices are held twice per week at Ottawa Park and Oak Openings. Weekend races take place during the fall in various locations in Michigan. Check the website for dates and times of practices. The whole family can participate in the Glass City Mountain Bikers rides, learning to overcome new challenges together without the competitive aspect. Weekly rides are held on Friday evenings.
YMCA
Various locations
In addition to fitness and sports, the YMCA offers several different programs for teens and tweens to supplement their education and to prepare them for careers. Y Achievers, one of the programs, is offered at three locations: Wayman Palmer, West Toledo and Wolf Creek. Teens, 14-18 years old, receive help with homework, life skills, explore careers and college or trades prep. Find a complete list of other available programs on their website.
2 Hippo Way
419-385-5721
Teens, 13-17 years old, can volunteer with the Toledo Zoo as a part of the ZOOTeen Program. This program is perfect for teens who are interested in education, animal science and conservation. There is a required $75 annual fee to cover the cost of the program. Through this program, teens will have the opportunity to host education activity stations, facilitate and support live animal encounters in the Aquarium and Nature’s Neighborhood, assist with Summer Camp programs and more. To see a list of requirements and other volunteer information, visit their website.
