Albert Lea Parks and Recreation is offering you an excuse to visit at least 15 of the 42 local parks with the Passport to the Parks program.

Whether the trip is for a family outing, a backyard barbecue or just another excuse to get outside and enjoy the day, the local parks can offer you your weekend escapes and more.

But why visit just one park, when you can visit many?

“I think it’s important to be outside,” said Jennifer Davis, the Albert Lea Recreation Program supervisor. “Not just for the exercise but also to just be in nature.”

The program challenges families in the community to get out and explore all that the outdoor parks have to offer, by getting to know all of the parks and not just those that you frequently visit. The challenge began on May 2 and will run until Aug. 31.

“It has been done in other counties as well,” Davis said. “A lot of people don’t realize what we have here in Albert Lea.”

When you and your family travel to the parks take a picture next to the park sign or the distinguishing feature of the area. Once you have 15 you can submit them for a chance at a prize.

The best part about the program is that it’s free. If you visit the largest park in Albert Lea’s arsenal, you’ll be enjoying the 62.6 acres at Edgewater. The park is full of outdoor fireplaces, horseshoe courts and a playing apparatus. Not to mention the countless picnic tables and flowing green fields.

Or if water sports are your summer passion check out City Beach. Here you can swim in Albert Lea Lake or host a beach volleyball game on the sandy court.

Parks and Recreation are offering rewards for getting outside and enjoying the amenities each of the parks have to offer.

“(The prizes) won’t be anything huge,” Davis said. “It will promote healthy activity.”

Once you have compiled your 15 photos you can email them to jdavis@city.albertlea.org or mail them in to Park and Recreation — Attn: Jenny, 221 E. Clark St. Albert Lea, MN 56007 for a chance to win prizes from local businesses.

Get out and enjoy the summer while it’s here. Kayak on the lake, take a walk though area trails or get creative and find any outdoor activity you enjoy.