The modern era has turned out to be a renaissance for many Rust Belt cities. Here in Cleveland, there’s something to do for locals of all ages. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly, romantic, popular, or non-touristy things to do in Cleveland, this magnificent, colorful city has something poised to enchant you. Read on for a taste of what this city has to offer – the best things to do in Cleveland.

 

Table of Contents

Top Tourist Attractions in Cleveland

You might not think of The Land as a touristy city but, as it turns out, vacationing in Cleveland is a real treat. Whether you’re an out-of-town tourist or a local hoping for a staycation, we have a variety of world-class attractions that are perfect for adventurers of all ages. From excellent museums to stunning landscapes, you’ll love checking out top tourist attractions in Cleveland, Ohio.

1. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
The rock and roll hall of fame is one of the best things to do in cleveland
kelrain2015/TripAdvisor
  • Address: 1100 E 9th St, Cleveland, OH 44114 | Video Tour
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Cleveland
  • Website: https://www.rockhall.com/
  • What to Do: After you've seen all the artifacts and memorabilia from your favorite rock ‘n’ roll legends, check out the interactive mini studios where you can play electric guitars and drum sets. They even have how-to videos to help you unleash your inner rock star.

Did you know that the term rock and roll was coined in Cleveland and that the first rock and roll concert was held here in 1952? That's a big part of why Cleveland beat out New York City as the location for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Located right on Lake Erie in an iconic geometric building designed by famed architect I M PEi, this museum houses 6 floors of memorabilia and exhibits that follow the history and development of Rock and Roll.

Starting at level 0 you'll familiarize yourself with the Hall of Fame inductees, then progressing through an incredible collection of memorabilia from legends such as Jimi Hendrix and John Lennon. You can also expect to see temporary exhibits from their incredibly well stocked library and archives such as "Women of Rock'' and "The Songs that Shaped Us".

The true rock aficionados can also catch a lecture and panel discussions or even participate in classes and workshops, while the rest of the family can enjoy the outdoor patio cafe and gift shop. Plan ahead and you can catch some live music at the Rock Hall or watch the Hall of Fame induction ceremony if you happen to be there in April. General Admission is $35 and, according to their FAQ, visitors can expect to explore the museum in about 3 hours.

10 Minutes Away: If you need to relax after all that walking, we suggest heading to Voinovich Bicentennial Park and enjoy a beautiful view of Lake Erie during sunset.
2. West Side Market
west side market is a top cleveland attraction
Peter Miller/Flickr

Many people don’t realize just how old and historic the Cleveland area is. A prime example of its long-spanning history is the West Side Market in Ohio City, which has been operating since 1840 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

This famous market is located in a Byzantine-inspired Neoclassical building with a 137-foot-tall clock tower rising above more than a hundred vendor stalls that offer produce, meat, fish, baked items, artisanal crafts, flowers, and much more. During your visit, check out the prepared and ready-to-eat foods from West Side Market vendors Steve’s Gyros, Frank’s Bratwurst, and Pierogi Palace.

You can dig into your food in the market, but we recommend taking it to-go and heading to the small but lovely Market Square Park right across the street. The market is open five days a week, and parking is free for the first 90 minutes of your visit. However, remember to bring cash during your visit… many vendors have a minimum spend limit for cards, and you’ll likely want to pick up a variety of goodies from different vendors.

5 Minutes Away: If you're looking to refuel after exploring, you might consider swinging by Market Garden Brewery, Great Lakes Brewery, or Forest City Brewery. They're all within walking distance of the market!
3. Cleveland Museum of Art
Tim Evanson/Flickr
  • Address: 11150 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106 | Video Tour
  • Neighborhood: University Circle
  • Website: https://clevelandart.org/
  • What to Do: The museum does a great job of integrating its collection with a digital experience. You can plot a tour by selecting pieces that appeal to you on a big wall near the entrance and then use their app which will guide you to those pieces. You can also see other tours from visitors and curators that have been saved in the app.

Founded in 1913 "for the benefit of all the people forever," the Cleveland Museum of Art is one of the country’s most distinguished cultural institutions and one of the top Cleveland attractions. The museum has a fantastic collection of more than 60,000 artworks that span over 5,000 years; some of the collections boast works from ancient Egypt, as well as world-renowned masterpieces from Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Its Egyptian exhibit is particularly well loved, thanks to early contributions by none other than Howard Carter, the man that discovered King Tut's long-sought tomb. In keeping with its mission of bringing art to the people of Cleveland, Ohio the museum also fills its calendar with special exhibitions, lectures, films, and musical programs for the public, as well as community-based programs and performing arts series.

Today, the museum remains free for the public to visit, and it is among the most popular museums in the world with circa a million annual visitors. Housed in a neoclassical building of white Georgian marble, the museum lies at the center of the city’s Fine Arts Garden, just north of the Wade Lagoon.

10 Minutes Away: Ready for a break from the hustle and bustle of University Circle traffic? Cleveland Lakefront Preserve is less than 10 minutes away, and it's a natural oasis right on the lakeshore.
4. A Christmas Story House
Facebook/A Christmas Story House

"Oh my god, I shot my eye out!" You know and love A Christmas Story, the iconic holiday classic from 1983 that was shot right here in Cleveland. Today, Ralphie Parker's home is a museum that is open to the public.

Inside the museum, you'll find props from the movie (including rare behind-the-scenes photos) and a flawless restoration that will make you feel like you're actually standing in a scene from the movie. From leg lamps to one iconic snowsuit, this tourist attraction in Cleveland is renowned for good reason.

You can even spend the night in A Christmas Story House; Overnight visits are $665, which includes use of the private third floor loft and whole-house access after the museum closes. If you’re just swinging by for a 30-minute guided tour, general admission is just $15, and on-site parking is free. Don't forget to swing by the gift shop after your visit!

5 Minutes Away: Love local history? The Midwest Railway Preservation Society operates just around the corner, and it's open to the public on select locations. Their Halloween events are particularly fun!
5. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Kyle Lanzer

The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo spans nearly 200 acres of pure beauty, and it’s free for Cuyahoga County and Hinckley residents to visit on Mondays. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals; From the 15-acre space at the Elephant Crossing to the eight-acre Australian Adventure exhibit, to the 140,000-square-foot Primate Forest which includes one of the largest primate populations in North America. There’s something for everyone at this world-class zoo.

We recommend exploring the zoo via the narrated golf cart tours and planning to budget 2 to 4 hours for your visit, as this 200+ acre attraction has much to offer. You can bring your own food for a picnic or swing by the food court… or any of the numerous cafes and eateries throughout the campus. The Amazon Cafe, located in the zoo’s two-story RainForest exhibit, is always a huge draw.

In recent years, one of the biggest annual draws at the zoo is the Asian Lantern Festival, known for it's massive paper lanterns, live acrobatic performances, and culturally-inspired cuisine.

5 Minutes Away: While you're in Old Brooklyn, you have to swing by one of Cleveland's quirkiest and coolest museums. The Buckland Museum of Witchcraft and Magick is well worth a visit!

Things to Do in Cleveland with Kids

While many big cities are not ideal for children, the Cleveland area is a fun place for all ages to explore. It’s not as big or as busy as many comparably influential cities, but it’s just right for family fun to unfold. There are plenty of fun things to do with kids in Cleveland, from our parks to our kid-focused attractions.

6. Greater Cleveland Aquarium
Greater Cleveland Aquarium, 2000 Sycamore St, Cleveland, OH 44113, USA
Erik Drost/Flickr

The Greater Cleveland Aquarium opened in the Flats in 2012, offering Clevelanders the opportunity to set foot in a local aquarium with over 70,000 square feet of exhibit space.

There are many unique creatures that live here, including a Giant Pacific Octopus and glow-in-the-dark jellyfish. One of the biggest draws here is the Shark Gallery & SeaTube, where 230,000 gallons of water host sharks, stingrays, eels, and more. (And if you’re a stingray fan, be sure to swing by the touch tanks at the aquarium’s Coastal Boardwalk.)

Get up close and personal with sea creatures, see the local underwater life, catch one of the daily feedings, and attend special events (the holiday events, in particular, are super fun, especially if you've never seen a scuba-diving Santa Claus before) at this one-of-a-kind local attraction. After-hours Adult Swim cocktail hours are especially memorable! Right above the aquarium is Windows on the River, a venue with incredible views of the mighty Cuyahoga River.

10 Minutes Away: Discovery awaits! Just ten minutes up the road, you'll find the Great Lakes Science Center. Pay it a visit to keep the educational fun going!
7. The Children's Museum of Cleveland
The Children's Museum of Cleveland/Google Images

One of the best family-friendly attractions in Cleveland is the wonderful, weird, and wild Children's Museum of Cleveland.

Get hands-on in the Wonder Lab, explore Adventure City, or set your mind to work at the Arts & Parts exhibit. Everything here is kid-friendly and, most importantly, kid-sized. Your little ones will feel like a giant in the ​Making Miniatures exhibits, and they’ll feel like a celebrity at the costume-stocked theater and as they rock out with pretend instruments in the ​Playlist exhibit. If you’re bringing infants to the museum, the Meadow area should be at the top of your to-do list… it’s tranquil and sensory-rich!

The Children's Museum of Cleveland is fully ADA accessible, and it maintains the same charm today as it did when it originally opened in 1981 with a number of inspiring and innovative exhibits that allow kids and adults alike to get hands-on and creative. Prepare to step into a world of pure imagination - creativity knows no limits at this family-friendly museum in Cleveland.

5 Minutes Away: After your session of play at the museum, you might find yourself ready to refuel. Fortunately, AsiaTown is just up the road, and it's full of locally coveted restaurants.
8. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Doug Kerr/Flickr
  • Address: Cleveland, OH | Video Tour
  • Neighborhood: Peninsula | Greater Cleveland
  • Website: https://www.nps.gov/cuva/index.htm
  • What to Do: If you don't mind hiking, a trip to Brandywine Falls is 100 percent worth it to see this majestic waterfall. Another top attraction is the Beaver Marsh which is always teeming with frogs, turtles, and you guessed it, beavers enjoying their natural habitat.

There's only one national park in all of Ohio, and it's close enough to Cleveland for a quick day trip! Hiking in Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP) is a treat like no other. With more than 32,000 acres to explore, nature lovers of all ages will be enchanted by waterfalls, sandstone cliffs, fishing in the Cuyahoga River, and discoveries of unique plants and animals.

With over 125 miles of trails, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is arguably the best place to hike near Cleveland. Each trail is stunning throughout every season, and many trails in Cuyahoga Valley National Park are open after dark for night sky viewing.

Bike-friendly trails (with bike rental shops in the area) and horse-riding trails add some diversity to the local landscape. Of course, with trails leading to area waterfalls like Blue Hen Falls and Brandywine Falls, there’s much to love here. There's even a a train ride attraction to allow visitors an opportunity to see the park in a totally different way.

This Summit County attraction is a must for nature lovers, fitness aficionados, and those seeking a different pace in life.

10 Minutes Away: If you find yourself longing to cool off after some fun in the sun, you can go swimming in the Peninsula Quarry just around the corner.

What to Do in Cleveland for Couples

Love is in the air, as romance is bound to bloom in a place like Forest City. Cleveland is an endlessly romantic place for couples to explore, from the artsy and intimate dining opportunities in town to romantic sunsets over our scenic landscape. If you’re looking for romantic things to do for couples in Cleveland, the whole city is your oyster.

9. University Circle
Tim Evanson/Flickr

Nothing is more romantic than dinosaurs. Nothing. Okay, so maybe that's not true for everyone, but nothing quite compares to the thrill of exploring the museums and institutions of University Circle. From the Cleveland Museum of Natural History (pictured) to the perfectly-manicured grounds of the Botanical Garden, there's enough to do in this charming neighborhood to spend a whole day in the area.

At the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, you'll learn about international history and local history alike after being greeted by Steggie, the stegosaurus statue right outside. You can even see fossils discovered in the Cleveland Metroparks, like the famous Dunkleosteus terrelli, an ancient armored fish that lived in the area over 360 million years ago. There’s also an on-site T-rex in the Kirtland Hall of Prehistoric Life, a recreation of Lucy (one of the oldest known human ancestors) in the Hamann-Todd Collection, and an incredible Planetarium exhibit. Outside, modern-day critters like bobcats roam at the 2-acre Perkins Wildlife Center.

The Cleveland Botanical Garden offers an incredible contrast to this history, showcasing even more modern-day plants and animals (and hiding ruins of the former Cleveland zoo in its outdoor gardens). University Circle is considered among the most beautiful places in the nation, and the cherry-blossom-lined Wade Lagoon (and its Fine Arts Garden) is undeniably romantic.

10 Minutes Away: A natural paradise is awaiting you just down the road. The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes is beautiful, and it's a fun destination for hikers of all ages.
10. Lakewood Solstice Steps
Jeff K/TripAdvisor

If you don't think a Lake Erie sunset is romantic, then you probably haven't seen a Lake Erie sunset. The Lakewood Solstice Steps are uniquely designed for sunset-watching, and they stretch 480 feet across the lake shore. They rise 36 feet high in five tiers along the lakeshore, providing park-goers with incredible views of Lake Erie.

The Solstice Steps in Lakewood Park off the perfect place to cuddle up with your loved one and watch the rays of the waning sun bleed into the reflective waters of the lake. Lake Erie clouds have a particularly powerful presence, and they create unique designs across the evening sky. These sunsets are truly one of a kind!

Nearby, the lakefront promenades, walking paths, and gazebo add an almost fairytale-like element to this city-owned park. Plus, at 31 acres in size (and boasting pools, sports fields and courts, playgrounds, and a bandstand that features free summertime concerts), you could practically spend an entire day exploring all that Lakewood Park has to offer. In the warmer months, you’ll also love their Friday Night Flicks movie series, which is free to attend and picnic-friendly.

5 Minutes Away: Who doesn't love snacks? You'll find Lakewood Truck Park right up the road, and you'll love its wide selection of food trucks to choose from.
11. Edgewater Park
Erik Drost/Flickr

The only thing that can top the Solstice Steps is a beachy picnic at sunset! Edgewater Park is one of the loveliest parks in the Cleveland Metroparks, and its expanse includes a beach, hiking trails, and one of several iconic Cleveland script signs.

With some 9,000 feet of shoreline, there are plenty of intimate places to cozy up and dig into a good meal as the sun begins to dip below the horizon. At 147 acres, there's much to see and do in Edgewater Park. While the beach is a huge draw here, the walking trails, lined with benches offering scenic views, are worth checking out. Check out views of the Downtown Cleveland skyline from afar, and enjoy an opportunity to explore one of the area’s coolest birding sites. Believe it or not, this pretty beach in Cleveland has been entertaining locals for generations.

5 Minutes Away: Nature is a work of art, but a game of I Spy can easily focus on man-made art in the Detroit - Shoreway neighborhood. Keep your eyes peeled for bluebird statues throughout this neighborhood!
12. Cleveland Cultural Gardens
Erik Drost/Flickr

This is a landscape you can easily fall in love with. The Cleveland Cultural Gardens allow you and your beloved to travel the world without ever leaving the city. These well-manicured gardens are stunning year-round, and many portions feel as if you've stumbled upon ancient ruins in the heart of the bustling city. You might even stop by when a festival, opera, or performance is taking place... and, truth be told, the energy only adds to the experience.

The first cultural garden to open was the British Garden, which was dedicated in 1916. Believe it or not, this garden (which was originally called the Shakespeare Garden) actually predates the founding of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. It wasn't until 1927 that the city decided to honor a multitude of cultures in Rockefeller Park, and it wasn't until the 1930s that the garden was given a new identity. Today, it is undergoing further redevelopment.

Elsewhere in Rockefeller Park are additional gardens that are free to visit. The Italian Garden is a fan favorite, and it is one of many gardens where annual celebrations and events take place. While these architectural and landscaping elements in Rockefeller Park may feel like ancient ruins, many features are actually new. The Vietnamese Garden, for example, was unveiled in 2020. No matter which attraction you visit, you can rest assured that this free attraction is one of the finest hidden gems in Cleveland.

 
10 Minutes Away:Right around the corner, you'll easily spot Nela Park. This local landmark is especially stunning during the winter holidays, when it comes to life with a seemingly endless number of twinkle lights.
13. JACK Cleveland Casino
JACK Cleveland Casino/Google Images

As they say, Cleveland is a bit like Vegas... only, you know, cold for half of every year. Located in the former Higbee Building (which fans of A Christmas Story will instantly recognize), this exquisite casino offers visitors nearly 2,000 unique games where they can win big. Try your hand at the slot machines, play poker, or get lucky at a wide variety of table and electronic games at JACK Cleveland Casino. It's open 24 hours, so you can swing by after a romantic evening on the town!

Back in 2012, this cool local landmark opened as the Horseshoe Cleveland. At the time of its unveiling, this spot was Ohio's first casino. The grand opening followed a 2009 state constitutional amendment that legalized gambling in Ohio's largest cities, and it was met with much enthusiasm. If you're looking to check it out, you can enter from the street at Public Square, or you can enter via the Terminal Tower. For your comfort, the casino has partnered with a variety of local hotels and restaurants to ensure your needs are catered to.

 
5 Minutes Away: Now's your chance to swing by an iconic sports and history-centric landmark. When you drive over Hope Memorial Bridge, the Guardians of Traffic will eagerly greet you.

Where to Go in Cleveland at Night

Nightlife is the name of the game here in CLE! Once the sun sets, neon signs illuminate our streets, and the energy becomes highly infectious. You’ll have so much fun traversing the city at night, whether you’re trying local bars or catching a performance, you’ll never run out of things to do at night in Cleveland.

14. Playhouse Square
Michael (Miche) Spring/Flickr

Outside Broadway, Playhouse Square is the largest theater district in the nation. This colorful Jazz Age addition to the city has entertained locals for a century, and its historic theaters are an architectural treat. Believe it or not, however, this unique Cleveland neighborhood was almost lost to time. As early television grew in popularity, interest in live performances declined. As the 1960s marched on, Playhouse Square fell into disrepair, and some local leaders proposed demolition. However, the spot was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978, and it has grown in beauty ever since.

The shows held in the neighborhood are always incredible, the dining scene is worth writing home about, and outdoor features like a massive chandelier (which is, by the way, the largest outdoor chandelier in the world) make this area one of the most unique neighborhoods in Cleveland. The 20-foot-tall outdoor chandelier over the intersection of E. 14th Street and Euclid Avenue is the neighborhood's greatest tourist attraction. Since its implementation in 2014, it has dazzled visitors with its 4,200 crystals. Plus, it is a true feat of engineering; the chandelier is designed to handle 32,000 pounds of added weight, so wintertime ice and snow won't impact its integrity.

5 Minutes Away: Indulge in delicious dining at Slyman's Restaurant and Deli, an iconic dining destination where corned beef takes center stage.
15. Superelectric Pinball Parlor
B-Man/Google Images

There's something so undeniably nostalgic about the glow of old arcade games. At Superelectric Pinball Parlor in the Gordon Square Arts District, you can enjoy the thrill of old pinball games in a colorful, energetic environment that's complete with an on-site bar. Admission is just $6, and it includes all-you-can-play access. If you find a game you love, you'll be pleased to know that most games are actually for sale!

Since new food options are coming soon, visitors are encouraged to explore the restaurants in Gordon Square. You can bring food in to fuel up, and you're allowed to leave and come back (since they stamp your hand to verify admission). You can always check out their menu online before your visit, and you might as well research things to do in Gordon Square to make the most of your visit. There's a ton of local art in this neighborhood, and it is pedestrian-friendly. Superelectric Pinball Parlor is open late, closing at 11 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and midnight on Friday and Saturdays. It closes at 6 p.m. on Sundays, so make sure you check their hours (as well as the hours of any neighboring businesses you'd like to check out) before you visit.

5 Minutes Away: Longing for more local fun? Check out Forest City Shuffleboard, which is just a short drive away.
16. Good Night John Boy
Patrick Shepherd/Google Images

If nostalgia keeps you inspired, then Good Night John Boy belongs on your bucket list. This club will take you back to the glory days of the 1970s with disco balls, funky patterns, and one iconic Farrah Fawcett poster (which was actually commissioned and printed by Pro Arts in Medina, Ohio, believe it or not). This cool Cleveland club is open Wednesday through Sunday, closing at midnight on Wednesday and Thursday, 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 p.m. on Sunday. It truly offers a unique nightlife experience on the East Bank of the Flats.

Dig into delicious pizzas, enjoy a cold beer, and get your boogie on at this one-of-a-kind nighttime attraction in Cleveland. While the vibe is a huge hit with locals, the menu is something to celebrate. With funky fresh drinks like Disco Punch, Guava Lava, and the Stop Light Shot, you'll be able to add some flavor to your experience.

10 Minutes Away: Want to escape from the concrete jungle that is The Flats? Swing by Wendy Park, where views of the historic Coast Guard Station and Lake Erie await.

Free Things to Do in Cleveland

They say the best things in life are free. Cleveland is a surprisingly affordable city, and there are all sorts of amazing free attractions in Cleveland that won’t cost you a penny.

17. Rockefeller Park Greenhouse
Rockefeller Park Greenhouse, 750 E 88th St, Cleveland, OH 44108, USA
Erik Drost/Flickr

Rockefeller Park is among the oldest parks in Cleveland, with roots stretching all the way back to 1896. This 200-acre park was donated to the city by none other than John D. Rockefeller, and its landscape includes features designed by famous Clevelander Charles Frederick Schweinfurth. Schweinfurth's vision lives on at various Ohio landmarks, including Old Stone Church, Cuyahoga County Courthouse, and Trinity Cathedral.

The park, which hosts the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, is also home to one fascinating greenhouse that offers both free parking and admission. The Rockefeller Park Greenhouse is where the city cultivates plants used in landscaping, and it also has a variety of permanent botanical exhibits. You'll feel like you're in a much more tropical landscape as you observe unique plants like cacti alongside plants that thrive in local weather conditions. Rockefeller Park Greenhouse has been open to the public since 1905, and it offers a warm and pleasant escape from Cleveland weather year-round. However, if you visit during the warmer months, you might want to explore the themed gardens right outside the greenhouse, as well.

10 Minutes Away: History and natural beauty meet at Euclid Beach Park, just up the road. This area was once an amusement park, and pieces of the old entertainment space are still visible today.
18. Lake View Cemetery
Lake View Cemetery, 12316 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
Erik Drost/Flickr

While not the oldest cemetery in Cleveland, Lake View Cemetery is doubtlessly one of the most historic and beautiful attractions in the city. It's a massive 285-acre landscape, and it is considered to be a Victorian garden-style cemetery.

It was founded in 1869, but the first burial at the site wouldn't take place until 1870. The first interment was a Civil War soldier by the name of Captain Louise Germain DeForest, who was one of nearly 900 soldiers from the era who would be laid to rest in the cemetery. Today, those soldiers are just a small fraction of the more than 100,000 graves at the site.

While there are so many Clevelanders eternally resting at Lake View Cemetery, it's almost park-like. The landscape is highly hikeable, and it includes famous attractions like a Tiffany glass cathedral, a presidential resting place, and the Haserot Angel (pictured). The landscape is also home to Daffodil Hill, where circa 100,000 daffodil blooms pop up each spring. It opens daily at 7:30 a.m., closing at 5:30 p.m. during the colder and darker months and at 7:30 p.m. during the warmer and brighter months. Points of interest also include picturesque ponds, obelisks, memorial walkway, and graves of famous Clevelanders like Garrett Morgan and Alan Freed.

Bring your camera, because this beautiful cemetery is one of the most peaceful places in all of Cleveland!

5 Minutes Away: The charming and oh-so-artsy neighborhood of Coventry Village is just five minutes away from the cemetery, and it is downright enchanting. Pay it a visit to soak up the vibes of a truly modern artistic haven.
19. Cleveland Public Library
Cleveland Public Library, 325 Superior Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114, USA
Mark Souther/Flickr
  • Address: 325 Superior Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114 | Video Tour
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Cleveland
  • Website: www.cpl.org/
  • What To Do: Admire the unique architecture of the five-story building, enjoy the six curated exhibitions and installations curated by Front International, and settle into a comfy chair with a good book.

The magnificent Cleveland Public Library is an architectural gem, and its walls are filled to the brim with knowledge. It opened in 1869 as the Public School Library, and interestingly, it was the first Cleveland library to adopt the open-shelf plan to allow patrons to borrow books from most of its circulating collection, a process that is considered standard in libraries around the country today.

Nowadays bookworms can find familiar and welcoming literary works, as well as special and rare collections in this massive library. With so much space, finding your own private reading nook and comfy chair won’t be hard at all.

Outside the library is a charming reading garden, which includes surprising pieces of urban art. It's no secret that libraries are a cultural hub, but the Cleveland Public Library in particular is a local gem that shouldn't be passed up. It is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day but Sunday, so be sure to budget time to pay it a visit!

5 Minutes Away: Hidden in the terminal of Burke Lakefront Airport is the incredible International Women’s Air & Space Museum. Exhibits are free to tour and are open to the public seven days a week.

Honorable Mentions

Truth be told, there’s so much to do in the city that we couldn’t just end our list of attractions here! There are several incredible destinations that could comfortably fit in several of these categories, and many that command a respect of their own. Here are a few more destinations to round out your Cleveland attractions bucket list:

20. For Nature Lovers - Cleveland Botanical Garden
Cleveland Botanical Garden, 11030 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
Eddie~S/Flickr
Love nature? Then the Cleveland Botanical Garden belongs on your bucket list. This botanical wonderland has two distinct biomes inside the greenhouse, an 18,000 square feet glasshouse, plus a Japanese garden and several others. Located just across the street from the Art Museum, this gem is right in the heart of the University Circle action.
21. For History Buffs - USS Cod Submarine
USS COD, 1201 N Marginal Rd, Cleveland, OH 44114, USA
Joanna Poe/Flickr
The USS Cod is a fascinating landmark in Cleveland, as you wouldn't typically expect to see a World War era submarine on the city's shore. Her diesel engines were actually manufactured right here in town, and she is considered a National Historic Landmark at her permanently-moored site. For more historic boats nearby, checkout the William G. Mather Steamship along Cleveland's North Coast Harbor.
22. For Foodies - Little Italy
Little Italy, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
Anthony G. Reyes/Flickr
Cleveland's Little Italy, a cultural hub and a purported former gangster hangout, is an artsy city district today. Its romantic restaurants and decadent bakery draw foodies from all around the world, and you truly can't go wrong with any restaurant in this neighborhood.
23. For Shopaholics - The Arcade
The Arcade, 401 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA
Erik Drost/Flickr
The Old Arcade, underneath the Hyatt Regency, is one of three distinct shopping centers in Cleveland, and it's the oldest and most beautiful. Many consider it one of the first shopping malls in the nation, and it continues to entertain shoppers to this day.
24. For Party Animals - The Flats
The Flats, Cleveland, OH 44113, USA
Erik Drost/Flickr
The Cleveland Flats have enjoyed new life in recent years. The area once housed the earliest settlers in Cleveland, but now, it's a mishmash of live music venues, clubs, restaurants, and all sorts of nightlife.
25. For People Watching - Public Square
Public Square, Cleveland, OH, USA
Erik Drost/Flickr
Moses Cleaveland, the namesake and founder of our city, originally included Public Square in the first city plans. This 10-acre hub of landmarks is right at the center of Downtown, and it's a fascinating spot for people-watching.
26. For Sports Fans - Progressive Field
Progressive Field, 2401 Ontario St, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA
Erik Drost/Flickr
Home to the Cleveland Guardians (formerly known as the Cleveland Indians, and still affectionally called "The Jake" by many old-school locals), Progressive Field is regarded as one of the MLB's finest ballparks. Since 1994, this awesome stadium has hosted millions of sports fans. Another stadium to check out is FirstEnergy Field, where the Cleveland Browns play every Sunday.
27. For Architecture - Heinen’s Downtown
Heinen's of Downtown Cleveland, 900 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA
Erik Drost/Flickr
Located inside the old Cleveland Trust Rotunda, Heinen's Downtown is arguably the most unique grocery store in Northeast Ohio. This unique shopping center maintains the original elements of the 1908 structure, which formerly sat vacant and was rarely seen by the public for decades. Today, it's one of Cleveland's most iconic landmarks.
28. For Music Lovers - Severance Hall
If you are a lover of classical music and incredible architecture, Severance Hall is a must visit. Regarded by many as one of the best concert halls in the country, Severance Hall is home to the Cleveland Orchestra and visitors can catch concerts most weekends of the year.
29. For a Day Trip - Cedar Point
For an action packed day trip from Cleveland that the whole family will enjoy, Cedar Point should be at the top of your list. Home to over 70 rides, there's a reason it's known as the Roller Coaster Capital of the World. Cedar Point is located about 60 miles west of Cleveland, which makes it a perfect distance for a quick day trip.
30. For Best Views of the City - Terminal Tower Observation Deck
For a fantastic view of Downtown Cleveland, Lake Erie and the surrounding areas, there is no place quite like the Terminal Tower Observation Deck. This observation area is 668 feet in the air, can be reached via a quick elevator ride, and on a clear day you can see 30 miles in every direction. The Observation Deck is from April to December on weekends.

While you might not think of Cleveland as a touristy city, the truth is that the Best Location in the Nation has done much to earn its nickname. There’s so much to see and do in Cleveland… and these destinations are just the tip of the iceberg. Explore the rest of our Things to Do in Cleveland series to discover more hidden gems near you!

Discover the Best Things to Do in Cleveland:

 

    1. Ultimate Guide: The 27 Best Things to Do in Cleveland

 

  1. More Things to Do in Cleveland:

 

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