Things To Do
in Cleveland
Cleveland sits on the southern shore of Lake Erie and is Ohio's cultural and industrial anchor. The downtown core is walkable and anchored by world-class museums like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Museum of Art. The city blends historic neighborhoods, lakefront parks, and a growing culinary scene.
From the Flats to University Circle, Cleveland offers accessible urban exploration with nearby nature escapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic West Side Market, where you can sample delicious local pastries and fresh produce. After indulging in breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the Historic Warehouse District, admiring the stunning architecture and vibrant street art. Don’t forget to stop by the Old Stone Church, a beautiful historical building that showcases Cleveland's rich history.
In the afternoon, head to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to dive deep into the history of music and its legendary artists. Spend time exploring the various exhibits and interactive displays that celebrate the evolution of rock music. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, perhaps trying out some local specialties like pierogi.
As the sun sets, take a scenic walk along the shores of Lake Erie at Edgewater Park, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the skyline. For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at one of Cleveland's renowned restaurants in the downtown area, where farm-to-table dishes await. Finish your day with a live music performance at a local venue, soaking in the vibrant nightlife.
Begin your day at the Cleveland Museum of Art, where you can explore an impressive collection of artworks from around the world. Spend time wandering through the museum's gardens and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere before heading to the nearby Cleveland Botanical Garden. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature and appreciate the diverse flora from different climates.
After lunch at a café in University Circle, visit the Cleveland Natural History Museum to learn about the region’s natural history and explore fascinating exhibits. The interactive displays are perfect for all ages, making it an engaging experience. You can also take a stroll through the adjacent Wade Oval Park for some fresh air and relaxation.
For dinner, try one of the eclectic eateries in the area that offer international cuisine, from Ethiopian to Thai. After your meal, catch a performance at the Cleveland Orchestra, known for its exceptional talent and stunning venue. This evening will leave you with a deep appreciation for Cleveland's vibrant arts scene.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍕Mid-range dinner for two | $30-70 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment in city center (monthly) | $1,200-1,800 |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $60-120 |
| 🛒Grocery bill (weekly for two) | $70-160 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class museums and a thriving arts scene
- Lakefront access and green spaces nearby
- Strong food culture with diverse neighborhoods
- Good value for a big-city experience
- Cold winters and occasional lake-effect snowfall
- Some neighborhoods require car travel to fully explore
- Traffic can be heavy during peak hours around downtown
Places to Visit in Cleveland
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic skyline views with the historic tower and surrounding architecture; best at sunrise or golden hour.
Pictures along the lakefront with the Hall of Fame as a backdrop and the Cleveland skyline across the water.
Architectural detail and the bustle of a century-old market—great for candid street photography and colorful produce shots.
Elegant galleries, fountains, and green spaces; capture sculptures, lawn vistas, and museum exteriors.
Waterfront skyline and industrial-chic scenery with reflective lake views—perfect for evening cityscape shots.
Food in Cleveland
Cleveland Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A kielbasa sandwich topped with french fries, coleslaw, and BBQ sauce. A regional specialty often found in Polish-friendly neighborhoods and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Traditional stuffed dumplings, typically potato-cheese or sauerkraut, served fried or boiled with toppings like onions and sour cream; popular in Polish-influenced areas and many restaurants.
A square-cut style with a thick, buttery crust and generously layered toppings, reflecting the region’s pizza heritage in several local pizzerias.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market in the Ohio City neighborhood offering fresh produce, meats, bakery items, and prepared street-food options that reflect the city’s diverse communities.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments or reservations. A friendly greeting and direct communication are appreciated in business and casual settings.
Respect local neighborhoods and quiet hours in residential areas; be mindful of noise in late-night venues.
Sports loyalties are strong; engage sports talk respectfully and celebrate with enthusiasm but avoid rude behavior in public.
Safety
Tipping in Cleveland
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard US practice of tipping 15-20% at restaurants; 10-15% for bar service. Tip in cash or add to your card; tip for larger parties accordingly.
Most restaurants and shops accept cards (credit/debit) and contactless payments; cash is always welcome as a backup.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and occasionally humid, with frequent thunder storms. Great for lakefront strolls, outdoor festivals, and waterfront dining; stay hydrated and watch for pop-up storms.
Pleasant temperatures and vibrant fall foliage; ideal for walking tours around University Circle and Ohio City, plus harvest-themed events.
Cold and snowy with occasional lake-effect snow; dress in layers, enjoy indoor museums, and take advantage of intimate downtown venues and theatre.
Mild with the possibility of rain; great for street markets, Botanical Garden exhibits, and early-season biking and hiking.
Cleveland at Night
Hiking in Cleveland
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic waterfall trail in nearby Cuyahoga Valley National Park, popular for accessible scenic views.
Rugged rock formations and woods within the Cleveland Metroparks; a favorite for rock-scrambles and photo spots.
Airports
How to reach Cleveland by plane.
The primary airport serving Cleveland; convenient access to downtown via car, taxi, or rideshare.
A smaller, general-aviation airport located near downtown; not a major commercial hub.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant presence on the East Side with vibrant cultural communities and events.
A large portion of suburban and some city neighborhoods with diverse sub-communities.
Growing communities contributing to a diverse culinary and cultural scene.
Increasing presence across suburbs with cultural and dining contributions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cleveland Browns are the city's NFL team with a storied, loyal fan base.
Cavaliers (Cavs) compete in the NBA; downtown arena hosts many games and events.
Cleveland Guardians play at Progressive Field; a staple of summer sports in the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cleveland.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Cleveland’s dining scene includes vegetarian-friendly options across many restaurants, with plenty of produce-forward dishes, plant-based proteins, and sides like vegetables, grains, and salads. When dining out, ask for plant-based sauces and clarify dairy or egg inclusions if needed.