20 Things to Do in Cleveland Ohio

Nestled along the shores of Lake Erie, the city of Cleveland is a true gem that sparkles with a rich cultural heritage, world-class attractions, and a diverse array of experiences waiting to be discovered. From iconic landmarks and world-renowned museums to thriving culinary and entertainment scenes, this resilient metropolis offers something for every traveler. Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Cleveland as we unveil 20 must-do experiences that will leave you captivated by this extraordinary city.

1. Marvel at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: Pay homage to the legends of rock music by exploring the iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, a world-class museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history and cultural significance of this iconic genre.
2. Explore the Cleveland Museum of Art: Lose yourself in the awe-inspiring collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, spanning over 6,000 years of human history and encompassing an incredible array of artistic masterpieces from around the globe.
3. Indulge in the West Side Market: Step into a world of culinary delights at the historic West Side Market, where you can savor locally sourced produce, artisanal goods, and mouthwatering ethnic delicacies from Cleveland’s diverse communities.
4. Attend a Cleveland Guardians Game: Experience the electric atmosphere of a Major League Baseball game by catching the Cleveland Guardians (formerly the Indians) in action at their iconic Progressive Field.
5. Discover the Cleveland Metroparks: Escape into nature by exploring the stunning Cleveland Metroparks, a vast network of nature reserves, parks, and trails that offer a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.
6. Embark on a Brewery Tour: Quench your thirst for adventure by embarking on a brewery tour, sampling the finest craft beers from Cleveland’s thriving brewing scene and learning about the art and science of beer-making.
7. Visit the Cleveland Botanical Garden: Immerse yourself in a world of natural beauty at the Cleveland Botanical Garden, where you can stroll through meticulously curated gardens, attend horticultural workshops, and appreciate the beauty of nature in all its splendor.
8. Explore the Cleveland Script Signs: Embark on a scavenger hunt to discover the iconic Cleveland Script Signs, massive block letters spelling out the city’s name and serving as beloved landmarks and photo opportunities.
9. Attend a Performance at Playhouse Square: Experience the magic of live theater by attending a performance at the iconic Playhouse Square, one of the largest performing arts centers in the United States.
10. Indulge in the Culinary Delights of Little Italy: Savor the authentic flavors of Italy by exploring the vibrant Little Italy neighborhood, where you can indulge in delectable Italian cuisine, sip espresso at cozy cafes, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural traditions of this enclave.
11. Explore the Cleveland Museum of Natural History: Embark on a journey through time and discover the wonders of the natural world at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, featuring captivating exhibits on dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, and the diversity of life on our planet.
12. Visit the Great Lakes Science Center: Ignite your curiosity at the Great Lakes Science Center, where interactive exhibits, hands-on displays, and immersive experiences bring science and technology to life in engaging and educational ways.
13. Stroll Through the Cleveland Cultural Gardens: Celebrate the city’s rich cultural diversity by exploring the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, a unique collection of gardens representing different cultures and nationalities from around the world.
14. Attend a Festival or Event: Immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Cleveland by attending one of the city’s numerous festivals and events, ranging from music and food celebrations to cultural and arts festivals.
15. Discover the Outdoor Public Art: Embark on a self-guided tour of Cleveland’s impressive collection of outdoor public art, featuring over 100 sculptures and installations scattered throughout the city’s parks and public spaces.
16. Visit the Cleveland Aquarium: Dive into an underwater adventure at the Cleveland Aquarium, where you can encounter a fascinating array of marine life, from colorful tropical fish to majestic sharks and rays.
17. Explore the Historic Theaters: Step back in time by visiting Cleveland’s historic theaters, including the iconic Playhouse Square, the Cleveland Cinema, and the Capitol Theatre, each offering a glimpse into the city’s rich theatrical heritage.
18. Indulge in Sweet Treats at Mitchell’s Ice Cream: Satisfy your sweet tooth by visiting Mitchell’s Ice Cream, a beloved local institution known for its delicious homemade ice cream and unique flavors that celebrate Cleveland’s culinary traditions.
19. Visit the A Christmas Story House: Relive the magic of the classic holiday movie “A Christmas Story” by visiting the iconic A Christmas Story House and Museum, where you can explore the original set and immerse yourself in the beloved film’s nostalgia.
20. Attend a Cleveland Orchestra Performance: Experience the pinnacle of musical excellence by attending a performance by the world-renowned Cleveland Orchestra, recognized as one of the finest ensembles in the world.

From iconic cultural landmarks and world-class museums to thriving culinary scenes and outdoor adventures, Cleveland offers a diverse tapestry of experiences that will captivate and delight visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, a foodie, or an outdoor adventurer, this resilient city promises unforgettable memories and a chance to discover the vibrant spirit that makes Cleveland truly one of a kind.