Cleveland, Ohio: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you ready to explore Cleveland, Ohio? This city by Lake Erie is full of amazing attractions. You can visit the famous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame or see beautiful buildings. Cleveland has something for everyone, whether you love museums, food, or outdoor fun.

Let's find out the best things to do in this exciting city. We'll show you the top spots and how to enjoy them.

Key Takeaways

• Explore Cleveland's diverse range of museums, including the renowned Cleveland Museum of Art with its free admission.
• Indulge in the city's thriving culinary scene, from the iconic West Side Market to unique local spots like Brewnuts.
• Discover the vibrant arts and culture, from the grand Playhouse Square to the captivating street art throughout the city.
• Enjoy outdoor recreation at Edgewater Park, offering stunning views of the Cleveland skyline and Lake Erie.
• Immerse yourself in the city's rich history and architecture, from the Hyatt Regency at The Arcade to the serene Lake View Cemetery.

Iconic Downtown Attractions

Begin your day in downtown Cleveland with a visit to the Arcade and Addy's Diner. The Arcade is a 19th-century indoor mall with a grand European design. It feels like stepping back in time. Enjoy a tasty breakfast at Addy's Diner, famous for its cozy vibe and delicious breakfast dishes.

For a morning coffee, visit Rising Star Coffee Roasters. This local roastery focuses on ethical coffee. Enjoy a specialty coffee while admiring the Arcade's beauty and imagining the past.

The Arcade and Addy's Diner

The Arcade, built in 1890, is one of the first indoor malls in the US. It has a glass atrium, balconies, and detailed architecture. Explore the Arcade's shops and eateries, enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Close by is Addy's Diner, a beloved spot for breakfast. It's known for its cozy feel, quick service, and tasty breakfasts. Enjoy a meal here, surrounded by the Arcade's charm, for a memorable experience.

"Start out with a some local coffee. Stop in to Rising Star Coffee Roasters inside the Cleveland Arcade for locally-roasted coffee AND a look at one of the city's architectural gems."

Unique Breakfast Spot: Brewnuts

For a unique breakfast in Cleveland, visit Brewnuts. It's a donut shop that uses craft beer in their small-batch donuts. This place is also a coffee shop and bar, offering a creative twist on breakfast treats.

Open Wednesday through Sunday, Brewnuts is a must-try for its beer-infused donuts. The menu changes every two weeks, so each visit is new and exciting. They offer creative flavors and shapes like mini and letter donuts, making breakfast special.

While Brewnuts doesn't deliver, they offer catering and event collaborations. You can also buy gift cards for the craft beer donuts lover in your life.

For those with dietary needs, Brewnuts has vegan donut options daily. But, their Cleveland breakfast treats are not gluten-free because they're beer-based and contain gluten.

In the Ohio City neighborhood, Brewnuts is the ideal place for a unique and tasty breakfast. It's a great spot to try during your Cleveland visit.

"I can't talk about breakfast without sharing this unique spot called Brewnuts. This corner donut joint doubles (triples?) as a coffee shop and bar and actually makes their donuts with local craft beer!"

Cleveland Museum of Art

The Cleveland Museum of Art is a top spot for art lovers in Cleveland. It opened in 1913 with support from local industrialists. Since 1916, it has welcomed everyone for free.

It has over 45,000 pieces from all over the world. You can see amazing Asian and African art. Plus, works by famous artists like Picasso and Monet are on display.

Stunning Architecture and Exhibits

The museum's design is as impressive as its art. A huge, open atrium welcomes visitors. It's the perfect backdrop for exploring art, from Egyptian art to medieval armor.

Don't miss the digital Korean folding screen exhibit and the Impressionist and contemporary art collections. It's a place where art comes alive.

Visiting the Cleveland Museum of Art is an unforgettable experience. With free entry and a wide range of art, it's a key stop for anyone in Cleveland.

"The reason I loved it so much was that the exhibits were truly one of a kind."

West Side Market

For a taste of Cleveland's vibrant food culture, head to the iconic West Side Market. This market, dating back to 1840, is the city's oldest publicly-owned market. It offers an amazing array of local produce, meats, cheeses, and ready-to-eat delights. With over 100 diverse vendors, the West Side Market is a true culinary destination, drawing in over a million visitors annually.

Wander through the market's stunning yellow brick architecture. It was designed by the same architects behind the Cleveland Museum of Art. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. Browse the stalls offering everything from Ohio buckeyes (a beloved peanut butter confection) to freshly-made pierogies, gyros, and crepes. The market's diverse selection caters to all tastes, making it the perfect spot for a delicious lunch or to stock up on local ingredients.

The West Side Market is more than just a food destination. It's a vibrant hub that captures the essence of Cleveland's thriving local vendor community. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, a trip to this iconic market is a must-do on your Cleveland itinerary.

Cleveland, Ohio: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Cleveland, Ohio, is a gem on the shores of Lake Erie. It has a rich history, vibrant culture, and lots to see. Whether you love museums, outdoor fun, or food, Cleveland has it all.

Begin at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It's all about rock music legends. You'll see interactive exhibits and memorabilia that will amaze you.

Art lovers will adore the Cleveland Museum of Art. It's one of the top art museums in the country. The architecture is stunning, and the art collection is incredible, featuring Monet, Van Gogh, and Warhol.

• Learn about Cleveland's industrial past at the Cleveland History Center. It's a deep dive into the city's manufacturing history.
• Visit the West Side Market for a taste of local flavors. It's a lively place with many vendors and delicious food.
• See the city from above at the Terminal Tower Observation Deck. It offers amazing views of Cleveland's skyline.

Edgewater Park is perfect for those who love nature. It has beautiful beaches, trails, and sunsets over Lake Erie. It's a peaceful place to enjoy the outdoors.

The Playhouse Square theater district is a hub of arts and entertainment. It's home to Broadway shows, opera, and symphony performances. It's a great place to experience Cleveland's culture.

Cleveland, Ohio, has something for everyone. From museums to food and outdoor activities, it's a city full of life. Discover Cleveland's heart and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

A visit to Cleveland isn't complete without the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It celebrates rock and roll's history and impact. You'll see exhibits on the genre's roots, famous artists, and legendary instruments.

Explore six floors of interactive displays, including the Hall of Fame. Even if you're not into music, the building's design and cultural focus are worth seeing.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation chose Cleveland in 1985. The city's financial support was key. Cleveland beat out New York, San Francisco, Memphis, and Chicago. Since 1995, it welcomes over 500,000 visitors every year.

Adult tickets cost $30. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Thursdays from September to June, it stays open until 9 p.m. From July to August, it closes at 8 p.m. on some days.

It's in downtown Cleveland, near the Huntington Convention Center and FirstEnergy Stadium. Many hotels are within a 15-minute walk or less.

Whether you love music or just its cultural impact, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a must-see. Dive into the museum's vast collection and learn about the genre that has shaped our world.

Outdoor Exploration at Edgewater Park

Edgewater Park is a lively spot by Lake Erie, perfect for fun and calm. It has big sandy beaches, amazing views of the city, and beautiful sunsets. It's a top place to enjoy the outdoors in Cleveland.

Beaches, Skyline Views, and Sunsets

The park's beach is a big draw, covering 240 acres. It's great for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying Lake Erie's calm. From the top, you can see the Cleveland skyline, including famous spots like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

At sunset, Edgewater Park is the best place to see Lake Erie's colors. The Solstice Steps at Lakewood Park give you a great view of the sky. It's perfect for watching the sunset.

Looking for a quiet beach day, a beautiful photo spot, or a sunset view? Edgewater Park is the perfect place in Cleveland for outdoor fun.

Dining in Cleveland's Neighborhoods

After exploring Cleveland's famous spots, enjoy the city's varied dining scene. From Ohio City's craft beer to Tremont's upscale Italian, and Lakewood's cozy spots, there's something for everyone.

In Ohio City, begin your food journey at places like Market Garden Brewery, Great Lakes Brewing Co, and Avo Modern Mexican. For dinner, Tremont has many options, from The South Side's Southern dishes to Dante's elegant Italian.

In Lakewood, try Rood Food & Pie, Forage Public House, and Harlow's Pizza for a cozy meal. Cleveland offers craft beer, American, and international flavors for every taste.

Cleveland's dining scene is always changing. Old favorites return, and new places open. Keep an eye out for these changes as the city's food scene continues to thrill locals and visitors.

Playhouse Square Theater District

In the heart of Cleveland, the historic Playhouse Square is a key spot for culture lovers. It's the biggest performing arts center in the U.S. outside New York City. The Cleveland theater district is known for its stunning 1920s architecture.

The theaters here were built in the early 1900s. They've been restored to keep Cleveland's history alive. Now, they host a wide range of live shows, from Broadway hits to local talents.

"Playhouse Square is the old theater district of Cleveland and it's actually the largest performing arts center in the US outside of New York City! The theaters were built in the 1920's and were revived recently keeping this important part of Cleveland's history alive. The theaters were so pretty and I would have loved to make a show!"

Visiting Playhouse Square is unforgettable. You can watch a show or just admire the architecture. The grand exteriors and detailed designs are awe-inspiring. It's a key part of Cleveland's cultural heritage.

Playhouse Square shows Cleveland's vibrant spirit and love for the arts. It's a top spot for anyone in the city. Experience the magic of live shows, the beauty of historic buildings, and the lasting impact of this theater district.

Vibrant Street Art

Cleveland's urban landscape is alive with Cleveland street art and public murals. Visit the Gordon Arts District to see murals that show the community's creativity. The "Greetings from Cleveland" mural is a must-see for its color and iconic status.

Throughout the city, you'll find more public art. It celebrates Cleveland's history and cultural diversity.

The Gordon Arts District is home to over 60 creative businesses. It hosts Third Fridays, where artists show their work in galleries and studios. The Blue Habanero restaurant has a Dia de los Muertos-inspired dining room. The LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland is a vibrant, accessible space.

"I love fun colorful murals, especially ones that are unique to the city they're in like the Greetings From Cleveland mural! I've now taken photos with "Greetings From" murals in at least 5 cities now. I think it'll be super cute to see them all together at some point ;D This mural is only a 5 min walk from the West Side Market, another must do activity in Cleveland."

Cleveland's love for public art goes beyond the Gordon Arts District. In 2016, the Cleveland Foundation supported artists to create murals in Ohio City/Hingetown. The "Song of the Whales" mural by Wyland has been on the Cleveland Public Power plant since 1997.

Serene Lake View Cemetery

Lake View Cemetery in Cleveland is a peaceful escape from city life. It's a European-inspired cemetery covering 285 acres with over 100,000 residents. It's a key landmark known for its stunning architecture and calm atmosphere.

Walking through, you'll see the James A. Garfield Memorial, a grand tribute to the 20th U.S. President. The Wade Chapel is also a highlight, with its Tiffany-designed interior. It shows Cleveland's rich history.

Lake View Cemetery is where many famous people rest, like John D. Rockefeller and Eliot Ness. It's a place to learn about Cleveland's history and enjoy its natural beauty. It's a calm break from the city's hustle.

"This has to be one of the prettiest cemeteries I've ever been to! It's a little bit outside of town but if you have some time, it's a pretty spot to visit, especially the beautiful pond area which was very serene. The architecture of the old buildings and mausoleums there was amazing too."

Looking for a quiet walk, a peek into Cleveland's past, or a moment of peace? Lake View Cemetery is the place. It beautifully combines the city's history, present, and natural beauty.

Conclusion

As your journey through Cleveland, Ohio comes to an end, you can't help but feel a sense of awe. The city offers so much, from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to the historic West Side Market. These attractions draw visitors from all walks of life.

Whether you love art or outdoor adventures, Cleveland has it all. The Cleveland Museum of Art and Cleveland Metroparks Zoo are just the beginning. The city also offers family-friendly spots like the A Christmas Story House and Great Lakes Science Center.

Looking back on your 3-day visit to Cleveland in July 2023, you'll be inspired. The city's history, culture, and attractions are world-class. Cleveland's growth into a major city is a story of resilience and progress. Start planning your Cleveland travel and Ohio travel to explore this amazing city.