Hey, y’all — Aaron here.
Kiddos across Fayette County are heading back to school this week, my kiddo included. FCPS starts back on Wed., Aug. 10. That being said, parents + grandparents alike will start to see a bit less of their kids in the coming days.
To encourage you to spend some extra time with the little ones in your life, I’m sharing a few of my favorite spots for a snack + a stroll.
Don’t have a kiddo in your life? No worries. Anyone can enjoy the sweet pairing of a local dessert shop with a nearby park. What’s important is to get out there and enjoy those fleeting summer days.
Crank & Boom , 3101 Clays Mill Rd., Ste. 301 + Wellington Park , 565 Wellington Way | This ice cream shop is right across the street from a city park that has a 1.3-mile paved loop trail. Calories in + calories out, right? Grab a scoop and go for an evening stroll.
Editor’s note: I always want to try a new flavor at Crank & Boom, but I can’t bring myself to order anything except the Kentucky Blackberry + Buttermilk flavor. It’s so good.
Freshie’s , 3851 Kenesaw Dr. + Veterans Park , 650 Southpoint Dr. | If you like hiking, this one’s for you. Freshie’s is a vintage-style ice cream + soda fountain. All of the employees wear bowties + aprons. It’s adorable. Two miles down the road is Veterans Park — a city park with a ~4-mile hiking trail. Here is a link to the trail map .
Bruster’s , 3090 Helmsdale Pl. + Jacobson Park , 4001 Athens-Boonesboro Rd. | Bruster’s has a ton of both flavors + customizable topping options. After you’ve satiated your sweet tooth, consider giving disc golf a try at Jacobson Park.
Pro tip: We’ve got a disc golf guide to help you get started. Consider playing two-three holes to start, instead of the full 18.
The Press Juice and Health Bar
, 191 Kentucky Ave. + Woodland Park
, 601 E. High St. | Here’s a healthier option if you are looking for a little less sugar in your life. Grab a smoothie or acai bowl from The Press before taking a shaded stroll in the 19-acre, ~100-year-old Woodland Park.