I came across some quick excursions here in Oxford that I thought I'd share. These are bite-sized little trips, great for an afternoon when you have an extra 20 minutes to hold your kid's hand and wonder at nature for a little while.
The first is the Black (Pugh's Mill) covered bridge (LINK), which is on Corso Rd. off 732. It's a very short drive from the Doctor's Park, the pediatrician, and the dentist and vet offices near there (look for a sign on the left), so I've taken my kids there as a treat sometimes after an appointment. The bridge itself is fun to walk across, and at the end, there's a small but rather steep path down to a little creek where my boys love to throw rocks and pebbles. There's also a lovely flower garden and a picnic bench.
I also recently discovered the sculptures on the back lawn of the art museum on campus (LINK). SS and I found some well-groomed trails to walk along and stumbled across one exhibit we like to call the Hobbit Hole. It was hot, though, so bring water, or a hat, or a parasol... Also, note that the indoor galleries are closed for renovations until Sept. 15, according to their web site.
Finally, if you haven't been to the Miami's formal gardens, on Patterson Ave. across from the Miami Inn (LINK), summer is a great time to check it out. Lots of pretty flowers were in bloom the last time we went there for a picnic lunch -- great spot for photos. Enjoy!
