Come early, stay late. Cooper River Park has so much going on. You can start your day with an early morning jog along the 1 ¼ mile cinder track and end it with an outdoor concert or other special event. In between, there is volleyball, miniature golf, a driving range, a few softball fields and more than five miles of bike paths that wind through the trees and by the river’s edge.

Bring a picnic lunch and sit under the mini-pavilions that overlook the modern kiddie playground equipped with really cool equipment that will keep kids entertained for hours. Or treat yourself to lunch or dinner at the on-site restaurant. Get there early to snag one of the seats on the enclosed porch that offers lovely views of the river.

At Cooper River Park, you don’t have to leave your four-legged friends at home. The Park features a special Pooch Park, where Fido can romp around with his canine buddies. Two vinyl-coated enclosed dog runs – one for pups under 30 lbs and another for bigger dogs – lets man’s best friend get some exercise. There’s even a canine fountain, but during the winter, you’ll have to bring your own water.

One of the newest additions to the Park is a sleek boathouse that serves as headquarters for the many regattas that are held along the River.