Cleveland is not the typical place where you would think to visit, but there are a lot of great things to do if you are in the area, decide to visit or want to explore your own city.
Nature Parks
Usually you do not think of nature parks when it comes to cities. Cleveland has several nature trails and parks to offer, some of them even with waterfalls.
Rocky River Reservation Park: There are a lot of paved trails that are great for bike riding and several parks with picnic tables. Nearby there is even a place where you can go horseback riding. On Saturdays they have a farmers market. It is one of my favorite parks in the area just because it is so extensive.
Olmsted Falls East River Bank: This is a hidden gem and it may be a little bit of a drive if you are staying downtown Cleveland, but if you are nearby it is worth the stop. There is an actual waterfall and a really cute covered bridge. A great place to take a dog for a walk or just a little stroll. The historic downtown is in walking distance and they have a bunch of cute little shops and restaurants. Make sure you stop and get some ice cream it is so good!
Beaches
Without knowing much about Ohio you may think that they are landlocked, but Northern Ohio is actually surrounded by Lake Erie, one of the Great Lakes.
Huntington Beach is in Bay Village and is really pretty to go even if you are not going to swim.
Edgewater Beach is closer to downtown. I have never been there but it is an option if you are looking for something that is closer to the city. I think they may even have concerts there sometimes in the summer.
Museums
If you love checking out museums, Cleveland has several great options. The three below are the most popular but there are also some very niche museums if you are really into history.
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: If you love music and music history, this is a must see stop. It is still odd to me that this is located in Cleveland but apparently there is the claim that Rock & Roll started in Cleveland. Also check while you are in the area because they could be having an event like inducting a new artist or having a concert.
Price: $28 for adults | $18 Children (6-12) | Free for Cleveland Residents
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Cleveland Museum of Arts: This is one of my favorites in Cleveland. First of the Outside of the Museum is so grand, I have even seen weddings take place there. There is a variety of art, both historical and contemporary. And if you go be sure to check out what exhibits they have as some of them require a ticket purchased in advance.
Admission: Free except for some exhibits.
Natural History Museum: Right next door to the Cleveland Museum of Arts this is another popular museum. If you are into dinosaurs and other historical discoveries or have kids that are obsessed with dinosaurs then this may be a great spot to visit.
West Side Market
West side market has about 30-40 food vendors and they are all so delicious. My personal favorite is the Crepe place it is so good. I also highly recommend the smoothies, empanadas and macaroons. In the one area they have fresh fruit and veggie vendors which are always at a great price.
These are just some of my favorite things to do in and near the city. I didn’t even mention Little Italy which has some of the best restaurants. There are many more things to do especially if you live close. And if you do not live close hopefully this inspires you to give Cleveland a chance take a visit.