33 Fun Things To Do In Cleveland, Ohio For a Memorable Weekend!

Hello adventurers! It’s Nasiba.

I traveled to Cleveland, Ohio, and had one of the best times there. 

This trip also reminded me how sometimes a small gesture can go a long way, and what sometimes seems like a small thing to you might mean a big deal to someone else.

On my flight to Cleveland, I sat next to this old gentleman, in his 60s. He was so polite and we exchanged niceties before take-off. I wear my headphones on flights just to pass the time or to soothe myself to sleep. As we took off, the man turned to me and asked if I could talk to him to distract him. I was like, sure. I had nothing to lose.

Long story short, we ended up talking the entire flight. He had stories for days and kept me entertained. We exchanged contacts and a week later after coming back to my apartment, I received a package from his family thanking me for taking care of their father during the flight. This gesture really warmed my heart.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy the list below!

Cleveland, also known as the City of Cleveland, is a city in Ohio.

Known as a manufacturing hub, the city is also famous for its unique attraction sites ranging from museums to historical sites.

As you will learn, the city is named after its founder General Moses Cleaveland, who was a lawyer and politician.

Treat yourself to the best Ohio resorts for the perfect vacation!

His monument can be found at the Cleveland Public Square, one of the city’s top attractions and premier event venue.

Cleveland receives over 19 million visitors annually, and it is easy to see why once you explore it.

To ease the pressure of decision-making we have created a comprehensive list of the best 33 things to do in Cleveland.

It has different attraction sites that cater to visitors of all ages; families traveling with their kids will be lost for choice when it comes to places that are suitable for their children.

Things To Do In Cleveland, Ohio :

1. Cleveland Museum of Art

Rating: 4.9★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 11150 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106

• It was founded in 1913
• It is located in Wade Park District

Why you should go: If you want to see one of the largest collections of Egyptian and Asian art then the Cleveland Museum of Art is your best shot.

This museum sits in the University Circle neighborhood and boasts attracting over 700,000 visitors annually.

Furthermore, it is one of the most visited museums in the world with a collection of over 61,000 artworks from different parts of the world.

Things to do: The Cleveland Museum of Art invites you to explore its wide collection of art which is divided into 16 exhibitions.

Some of these exhibits are Modern European Art, Decorative Art and Design, European Art, and Greek and Roman Art, among others.

Additionally, the museum hosts one of the largest art libraries in the United States, Ingalls Library.

You can also explore the library’s collection of 500,000 fine arts-related content.

The museum offers educational programs including public lectures and films.

It opens from Tuesday to Sunday.

• It is 22 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

2. Cleveland Cultural Gardens

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 10823 Magnolia Dr, Cleveland, OH 44106

• It is a National Historic Place
• It is located in Rockefeller Gardens

Why you should go: The Cleveland Cultural Gardens are a collection of 33 unique gardens spread across 276 acres of land.

All the gardens have unique stories behind them.

The first garden, the Shakespeare Garden, was established in 1916.

Each garden is created to honor a specific ethnic community that has contributed to the heritage and growth of Cleveland and the United States in General.

Additionally, these gardens represent the economic, cultural, political, and social revolution that has helped shape the country over the last century.

Things to do: You can visit the Cleveland Cultural Gardens to explore its unique gardens and learn the story of the ethnic group behind each.

Visitors are given guided tours during which they are told stories of the immigrants belonging to these communities and their cultural heroes.

Apart from their beautiful history, the gardens are also a great place to unwind, connect with nature, and soak up the beauty of nature.

This is one of the best free things to do in Cleveland.

• It is 22 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

3. Cedar Point

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: Single-day admission: $45

Address: 1 Cedar Point Dr, Sandusky, OH 44870

• It is spread across 364 acres of land
• It was opened in 1870

Why you should go: One would assume for such an old amusement park nothing is exciting to see or do.

However, this couldn’t be further from the truth; as they say, old is gold.

And this is exactly the case with Cedar Point, the second-oldest amusement park in the United States.

Although located in a different city, it is one of the most amazing things to do near Cleveland.

Things to do: Enjoy a drive to Sandusky, about an hour away from Cleveland to access this fun amusement park that will create some of your most thrilling memories.

The park is packed with 18 coasters, 70 rides, and 2 water parks, and has severally been named the best amusement park in the world.

Notably, it has unique attractions like the Valravn dive coaster and the Steel Vengeance, the world’s longest hyper-hybrid rollercoaster.

• It is 1 hour 8 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

4. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: $30 per person

Address: 1100 E 9th St, Cleveland, OH 44114

• It was founded in 1983
• It was founded by Ahmet Ertegun

Why you should go: Fans of rock and roll will love visiting the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum.

This museum was established to document and showcase the history of rock music, including the artists, producers, and other people involved in the production of this music genre.

It displays works by famous rock artists in its permanent and temporary exhibits.

Apart from its impressive collections, the museum is also praised for its architectural design created by I. M. Pei.

The breathtaking structure sits along the shores of Lake Erie and is the perfect reflection of the rock genre of music.

Things to do: Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum to explore works by some of your favorite rock artists.

You can also visit to understand the history of rock music and its influence on society and the world in general.

This is one of the best places to visit with children to foster their interest in this music genre in case they have taken an interest in music.

• It is 17 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

5. Playhouse Square

Rating: 4.8★ 

Entry tickets: Free tours

Address: 1501 Euclid Ave #200, Cleveland, OH 44115

• It is an arts center
• It is located in downtown Cleveland

Why you should go: Playhouse Square is a non-profit arts center that is the second-largest in the United States and the largest outside of New York City.

It is a theater district that is home to 10 theaters.

If you are looking for an evening plan in Cleveland, this is the place to check out.

These theaters host entertaining live performances, events, and shows throughout the year, including dances, plays, operas, and music concerts.

Some of the participating groups are the Cleveland Ballet, DANCECleveland, and Cleveland Playhouse.

Things to do: Live entertainment does not get any better in Cleveland than at Playhouse Square.

And what’s more, you have 10 theaters to choose from! 

It means you have a variety of live performances to select from.

Some of the theaters are Ohio Theater, Connor Palace, and Allen Theater.

Besides watching a live performance, you can attend any of the educational programs offered by the organization.

The programs are meant to encourage the public to take an interest in performing arts.

Playhouse Square is one of the top things to do near Cleveland that’s worth checking out.

• It is 15 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

6. The Ohio and Erie Canalway

Rating: 5.0★ 

Entry tickets: Free 

Address: Richard Howe House, 47 W Exchange St, Akron, OH 44308

• It was constructed between the 1820s and 1830s
• It is a National Historic Place

Why you should go: The Ohio and Erie Canalway was built in the 19th century to ease freight movement across Ohio.

It connected Akron with the Cuyahoga River and later the Ohio River.

Years later, the canal served as a source of water for major towns and industries in Ohio.

However, the canal was abandoned in 1913 as a result of severe flooding in some parts, which affected its use.

Today, the canal serves as a recreational venue for fun activities like horseback riding, cycling, birding, and hiking.

Things to do: Enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities at the Ohio and Erie Canalway.

It is one of the best things to do in Cleveland if you are an outdoor enthusiast.

And whether you know how to ride a horse or not, it doesn’t matter since you will have guides with you for assistance.

Furthermore, you can visit the canal if you are a history buff to learn all about its history and former uses.

• It is 42 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

Planning a trip to other parts of Ohio ? You’ll enjoy our list detailing places to visit in Dayton or the fun things to do in Cincinnati, OH & Top things to do in Columbus!

7. A Christmas Story House

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $15, Seniors: $14, Children (3-12): $11, Children under 3: Free

Address: 3159 W 11th St, Cleveland, OH 44109

• It is open all year round
• It is a museum

Why you should go: A Christmas Story House is a 19th-century Victorian house that is the location for the 1983 comedy film, A Christmas Story.

It belonged to the film’s main character Ralphie Parker, played by Peter Billingsley.

In 2004, the house was bought by a private developer who restored the house to its original filming state.

Today, the house pays homage to the film; both the interior and exterior currently resemble the original set of the movie.

The developers went further ahead and bought the house across the road and turned it into a museum featuring memorabilia from the set of the film, including props.

Things to do: If you are a movie fanatic or love visiting museums with meaningful stories behind them, then A Christmas Story House is one of the most interesting things to do near Cleveland.

It will especially be an interesting visit if you have watched the movie; seeing most of the items used by the film’s characters in real life is quite fascinating.

Some of the original items that you will see are the famous family car and Randy’s snowsuit.

Additionally, the museum also displays behind-the-scenes photos from the original 1983 film set.

There is an onsite gift shop where you can buy souvenirs.

• It is 12 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

8. Cleveland Museum of Natural History

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $17, Children (3-17): $14, Students: $14

Address: 1 Wade Oval Dr, Cleveland, OH 44106

• It was founded in 1920
• It is spread across 550 acres of land

Why you should go: The Cleveland Museum of Natural History was established by Cyrus S. Eaton to collect and develop collections of natural history in the fields of archaeology, anthropology, botany, wildlife, biology, and botany, among others.

The museum aims to educate the public on these fields and aid the study of natural history and science in schools.

It is home to over four million specimens from different scientific subjects spread across two main exhibits namely the Hamann-Todd Collection and Perkins Wildlife Center.

Things to do: If you have children with you, this is one of the top things to do in Cleveland for families with kids.

The museum is designed to educate and entertain visitors of all ages.

It is a great way to introduce your children to the field of natural history and science by sparking an interest in them through the collections in the exhibit.

You will find interesting specimens including 3,100 human skeletons and over 900 primate skeletons dating back to the 19th century.

• It is 23 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

9. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $18, Seniors: $16, Children (2-12): $14, Children under 2: Free

Address: 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109

• It is 183 acres big
• It was founded in 1882

Why you should go: Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is one of the most visited attractions in Ohio.

It boasts over 3,000 animals hosted across eight exhibits like the African Savanna, The Primates, Waterfowl Lakes, the RainForest, Australian Adventure, and Asian Highlands.

Notably, the facility is home to the biggest collection of primates in North America making it one of the top things to do near Cleveland.

Things to do: Explore the zoo to see the different animals hosted and learn more about their habitats as well as how they lead their lives in the jungle.

It is a great place for parents to introduce their kids to wildlife and teach them the importance of wildlife and environmental conservation.

You can tour the zoo on foot, and if you are worried about the little ones getting tired, the zoo operates two trams that take guests around on designated routes.

• It is 10 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

10. Severance Hall

Rating: 4.9★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: Severance, 11001 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106

• It is a concert hall
• It was opened in 1931

Why you should go: Are you a fan of live concerts or simply looking for a place where you can watch an entertaining concert?

Severance Hall is exactly what you are looking for.

The concert hall is famous for being the home of the Cleveland Orchestra, a member of the “Big Five” American orchestras.

Cleveland Orchestra shares the joy of music with audiences from Cleveland and other parts of the world here during the winter season.

Things to do: Severance Hall has a seating capacity of 2,000 in the main auditorium and 400 in the Reinberger Chamber Hall.

You can book to watch a mind-blowing performance by the orchestra depending on the time of year.

Furthermore, you can book a free tour of the hall to see where the magic happens and learn about the history of the facility and the orchestra.

You will also be amazed by the hall’s architectural design which has elements of Egyptian Revival and Art Deco.

• It is 19 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

11. The Harp

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 4408 Detroit Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113

• It is an Irish pub and restaurant
• It is owned by Karen O’Malley

Why you should go: Irish beer is one of the most famous beers in the world and comes highly recommended.

Consequently, The Harp comes highly recommended in Cleveland as the best Irish pub in town, serving a wide range of drinks including the world’s best-selling Irish beer, Guinness.

Apart from beer, the Irish restaurant and pub also serves delicious flavors for lunch and dinner.

The menu has a mix of predominantly Irish flavors and a few local delicacies.

Additionally, you will get a taste of Irish music, including live performances.

Things to do: If you want a meaningful joint where you can try out new food with the promise that you will love it, then you should definitely try out The Harp.

You can visit the joint for either dinner or lunch, from Tuesday to Sunday.

Check out the pub’s beer collection and order your poison.

The lovely pub boasts rustic decor which creates an ambiance that matches the Irish culture.

It is a friendly spot where you can meet new people and make friends over a mug of beer.

• It is 15 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

12. Velvet Tango Room

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 2095 Columbus Rd, Cleveland, OH 44113

• It is a cocktail bar
• It was opened in 1996

Why you should go: After a long day exploring Cleveland, you want to retire to a spot where you can unwind and enjoy your favorite drink.

Velvet Tango Room was established for this purpose.

It is a classic cocktail bar and jazz lounge featuring sophisticated decor and sensually low lighting to create the perfect chill ambiance.

You will be served a cocktail, wine, beer, or any drink of your choice, which you will down as you listen to some beautiful jazz tunes.

Things to do: Jazz music is known to get rid of negative emotions and evoke positive feelings and happiness.

Get ready to experience this after a long day, and sip some drinks as you watch the night wear away.

It is a stylish and classy hangout joint for anyone who wants to enjoy a night out without the usual loud nightclub music.

Note that Velvet Tango Room has a no hats (for men) and no t-shirts policy.

Otherwise, this is one of the most fun things to do in Cleveland. 

• It is 14 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

13. Progressive Field

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $10, Children (14 and below): $8, Seniors: $8

Address: 2401 Ontario St, Cleveland, OH 44115

• It was opened in 1994
• It was previously called Jacobs Field

Why you should go: Progressive Field is a stadium that is home to Cleveland Guardians, Cleveland’s Major League Baseball Team.

If you are a sports buff, you will want to have the stadium on your itinerary so that you can watch a live match.

The field has a huge seating capacity of 35,041.

Furthermore, you can visit the stadium for a tour when there is no live match.

You will learn all about the stadium’s history and the history of the Cleveland Guardians including all matches they have ever played and both current and former members.

Things to do: Check out when a baseball match is taking place at the stadium and book a ticket accordingly.

You will have fun watching a live match and cheering on your favorite team with other fans.

Apart from baseball, Progressive Field also hosts ice hockey, ice skating, and live concerts.

Even if you miss a baseball match, there is a possibility of watching any of the other sports and live events.

Note that tours only take place between 1st May and 5th September.

• It is 13 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

14. North Chagrin Reservation

Rating: 4.8★ 

Address: 3037 Som Center Rd, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094

• It is 2,000 acres big
• It is located in Mayfield Village

Why you should go: Outdoor enthusiasts are well taken care of in Cleveland through the North Chagrin Reservation.

It is a wildlife sanctuary featuring outdoor recreation spots like hiking trails, wildlife reserves, and designated picnic spots.

Furthermore, the park is characteristic of extensive woodlands, wetlands, and meadows that form one of the most beautiful sceneries in Cleveland.

Notably, it is home to A.B. Williams Memorial Woods, Squire’s Castle, North Chagrin Nature Center, and Buttermilk Falls.

Things to do: Set aside a day to visit one of the most popular attractions in Cleveland to enjoy all the attractions it has to offer.

Get some snacks from any of the local restaurants and carry a packed lunch and water.

You can bring your kids along if you have traveled to the city with them.

Among the outdoor activities that you will indulge in are cycling, hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, fishing, and golfing.

There is a play area for children and a field where leashed dogs can hang out.

• It is 35 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

15. James A. Garfield Monument

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $10, Children (15 and below): Free

Address: 12316 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106

• It was established in 1890
• It is located in Lakeview Cemetery

Why you should go: The James A. Garfield Monument is the resting place of America’s 20th president, James A. Garfield.

The monument was established to honor his life which was cut short in 1881 when he was assassinated by Charles J. Guiteau, only six months after becoming president.

It boasts elements of Byzantine, Gothic, and Romanesque styles of architecture, designed by architect George Keller.

Before becoming president, Garfield had served in various government positions and is best remembered for his advocacy for agricultural technology and civil rights for African Americans.

Things to do: There is not much to do here except honor James A. Garfield for his life and legacy that was cut short when he was assassinated.

Here you will learn more about his life and work, including why James A. Garfield felt the need to assassinate him.

Alexander Doyle created a sculpture of the president which you will find on the memorial’s main floor.

• It is 24 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

16. Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland

Rating: 4.3★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 11400 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106

• It was founded in 1968
• It was originally known as The New Gallery

Why you should go: Modern and contemporary art never got better than at the Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland.

The museum is the only one of its kind in the Greater Cleveland region.

It is a non-profit institution that displays contemporary art in permanent and traveling exhibitions.

Formerly known as the Cleveland Centre for Contemporary Art since 1984, the museum rebranded to its current name in 2002.

The museum features artworks by over 2,000 artists from Cleveland and other parts of the country.

Things to do: Explore its art collections to see how much contemporary art has evolved over the years.

Through the traveling exhibitions, you will be able to see new and unique works, some of which have never been displayed anywhere else.

Additionally, this is a fun place to bring your children, especially those that have taken a keen interest in art.

It will inspire them to embrace their creativity and create more.

• It is 21 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

17. Greater Cleveland Aquarium

Rating: 4.3★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $19.95, Children (2-12): $13.95, Children under 2: Free

Address: 2000 Sycamore St, Cleveland, OH 44113

• It was opened in 2012
• It takes between 45 minutes and one and a half hours to explore

Why you should go: If you are looking for exciting things to do in Cleveland for families with kids, then the Greater Cleveland Aquarium is the best place for you to check out.

The aquarium, located along the banks of the Cuyahoga River is the largest in Ohio with over 5,000 animals.

It is 70,000 square feet and hosts 55 exhibits and a 230,000-gallon tank.

Notably, the aquarium features 9 thematic concentrations that host both local and exotic sea creatures.

Things to do: Explore some of the aquarium’s most exciting exhibitions like the Lakes and Rivers of the World, the Coastal and Coral Reef, and the Indo-Pacific Zone.

There is a shark gallery where you will see live sharks in their natural habitat.

If you are a SCUBA-certified diver, you will get an opportunity to dive into the shark gallery courtesy of a special program known as the Shark Dive CLE program.

• It is 18 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

18. West Side Market

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 1979 W 25th St, Cleveland, OH 44113

• It is a municipal market
• It was established in 1912

Why you should go: The West Side Market is the longest and oldest continually-serving market in Cleveland.

It was built to replace the Pearl Street Market in the Ohio City neighborhood.

The market hosts over 100 vendors and is open for the public to dive through the various items sold here.

If you want to explore the market scene in Cleveland to see what is sold and how it compares to other places, this is the right place to check out.

Things to do: Among the things you will find on sale here are fruits, meats, seafood, spices, flowers, and pastries.

Apart from shops, the market has restaurants, bars, and cafes in which you can try out Cleveland cuisine and drinks.

There were three other markets like it but it is the only one remaining.

They had been established to serve the growing population of immigrants in Cleveland in the early 20th century.

• It is 14 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

19. Cleveland Public Square

Rating: 4.5★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 50 Public Square Suite 1700, Cleveland, OH 44113

• It is a National Historic Place
• It is in downtown Cleveland

Why you should go: Cleveland Public Square is a park that functions as the premier outdoor venue in the city.

It hosts hundreds of outdoor events and activities throughout the year.

Its proximity to shops, restaurants, boutiques, and other attraction sites makes it a perfect place to just sit and unwind or watch life in downtown Cleveland.

Things to do: If you get tired of exploring attractions in the city’s downtown area, you can take a break here to catch your breath and relax.

The park’s vibrance and well-manicured lawns make it a perfect chill spot.

You can also catch an event here since there is always something happening.

Dogs are allowed as long as they remain leashed and close to their owners.

• It is 18 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

20. University Circle

Rating: 4.5★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 2025 Random Rd., Cleveland

• It is a cultural hub
• It is located in Cuyahoga County

Why you should go: If you are to visit only one area in Cleveland, you should choose University Circle.

It is a busy neighborhood that is a cultural hub and where many of the city’s major attractions are found.

The district is dotted with museums, gardens, and major historical sites.

For example, the Cleveland Natural History Museum, Severance Hall, and the Museum of Contemporary Art are located here.

Things to do: Visit the lively neighborhood that buzzes with energy and so much life to have an experience of life in Cleveland.

Apart from locals, you will also encounter tourists as this is one of the most visited attraction areas in Cleveland.

You will visit attractions that reflect the education, health, cultural, arts, and religious scene in the city.

It is also a great place to learn the history of Cleveland through the historical sites and the 19th-century structures spread across the area.

• It is 21 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

21. James A. Garfield National Historic Site

Rating: 4.6★

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 8095 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH

• Former residence of the 20th President of the US
• It has an extensive library on the second floor

Why you should go: Nestled near Cleveland, Ohio, the city of Mentor boasts a variety of services that cater to the needs of its residents and visitors. Along with healthcare, technology, education, and local repair shops, the city also features many interesting places to visit.

Things to do: One of the most popular and fascinating attractions is the James A. Garfield National Historic Site.

James A. Garfield National Historic Site is a unique experience for visitors to step back in time and explore the former residence of the 20th U.S. President.

The site is beautifully restored to its original Victorian-era grandeur, and visitors can view the exquisite furnishings and décor from that period.

Aside from admiring the stunning interiors, visitors can also learn about Garfield’s life and legacy through interactive exhibits, including his tenure as a Civil War general and his time in Congress.

One of the highlights of the tour is visiting the second-floor library where Garfield spent countless hours studying and writing.

The site also hosts special events throughout the year, such as concerts, living history presentations, and even a holiday candlelight tour.

Additionally, the site has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs, books, and other items related to Garfield’s life and presidency.

• It is 36 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

22. Edgewater Park

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: Cleveland, OH 44102

• It is 147 acres big
• It is a pet-friendly park

Why you should go: Edgewater Park is one of the most fun things to do in Cleveland for outdoor enthusiasts.

The park is home to several attractions like Perkins Beach, Edgewater Beach, and the Marina and yacht club.

It is packed with a ton of activities suitable for visitors of all ages.

If you are looking for attractions that you can visit as a family with kids or a group, this is a place worth checking out.

Things to do: Visit Edgewater Park to explore fun outdoor activities like fishing, cycling, boating, paddleboarding, sailing, picnicking, and swimming.

You will love sunbathing on the shores of the beautiful Lake Erie too.

Bring your dog with you as the park is pet-friendly.

• It is 17 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

23. Little Italy

Rating: 4.5★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: E 124th St., OH 44106

• It was founded by Joseph Carrabelli
• It is located close to University Circle

Why you should go: One of the most beautiful neighborhoods to explore in Cleveland is Little Italy, founded by Italian sculptor, Joseph Carrabelli.

The charming neighborhood boasts award-winning restaurants, boutiques, shops, art galleries, and historic buildings.

You can feel the Italian influence as you tour the area starting from the architecture to the delicious Italian cuisine served in the restaurants.

Things to do: When Carrabelli settled here, more Italians began to visit the area and settle here.

It became a little Italian town.

Exploring it will teach you so much about the history of the Italian immigrants who lived here; numerous murals tell their stories.

If you enjoy Italian cuisine, check out Little Town and indulge in some delicious flavors.

• It is 28 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

24. Superelectric Pinball Parlor

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: $6 per person

Address: 6500 Detroit Ave, Cleveland, OH 44102

• It is located in the Gordon Square Arts District
• It has over 20 games

Why you should go: Sometimes what you need is a place where you can enjoy a simple but thrilling day without a lot of location movement.

On such days when you feel like that, one of the best places to visit is Superelectric Pinball Parlor which hosts the best pinball games in the city.

It is also an opportunity to meet new people and interact with them as you compete to see who will win the most games.

Things to do: Enjoy a couple of games here and see how you compare to other players.

Furthermore, Superelectric Pinball Parlor features a restaurant where you can take a break to enjoy a drink or one of their delicious meals.

It is also a perfect night chill spot that offers free tokens to players who purchase drinks here on game nights.

• It is 15 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

25. Cleveland History Center

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $15, Seniors: $13, Veterans: $12, Students: $10

Address: 10825 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106

• It is a history museum
• It is located close to the Cleveland Museum of Natural History

Why you should go: Cleveland has a rich history and you can learn all about it by visiting the Cleveland History Center.

The history museum is home to various exhibits displaying artifacts and documents that tell the story of the city’s early community, entrepreneurship, and technological innovation.

Notably, it is the home of the Western Reserve Historical Society, designated with the duty of chronicling the history of Northeast Ohio.

Things to do: If you are a history buff, you will want to check out Cleveland History center and go through all the exhibitions to understand the interesting history of the city.

You will learn about Cleveland’s first permanent settler, Carter, Lorenzo, who arrived in 1797 with his brother-in-law and their families.

It remains one of the best historic attractions in Cleveland.

• It is 26 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

26. Detroit-Superior Bridge

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: Cleveland, OH 44113

• It was built in 1917
• It passes over the Cuyahoga River

Why you should go: The Detroit-Superior Bridge is an arch bridge that connects Detroit Avenue and Superior Avenue across the Cuyahoga River.

Also known as the Veterans Memorial Bridge, the bridge is 949 meters long and is 29 meters above the water.

It used to be one of the world’s largest concrete and steel reinforced bridges.

Furthermore, it was also the first bridge to be used by cars across the Cuyahoga River.

Things to do: In 2003, sections of the bridge were renovated and opened for use by pedestrians and bicycles.

You can take a stroll across the bridge to access either side of the bridge and explore the attraction sites.

Moreover, a walk across the bridge is also a nice opportunity for you to soak up the beautiful views of the Cuyahoga River and maybe catch the sunset.

If you enjoy cycling, the Detroit-Superior Bridge is one of the most best things to do in Cleveland.

• It is 20 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

27. Willard Park

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: $10 per person

Address: Willard Park, Cleveland, OH 44114

• It is located in downtown Cleveland
• It is the home of the Free Stamp

Why you should go: Walking in a park is a great way to unwind, get your thoughts together, and re-energize.

One of the best places to do this in Cleveland is Willard Park, located within the Cleveland Mall historic district.

Of note, the park is famous for being home to the World’s Largest Rubber Stamp, the Free Stamp.

It is a large sculpture of a rubber stamp with the word FREE on the stamping part.

The sculpture was created to symbolize the “emancipation of American slaves” during the Civil War.

Things to do: Visit this park to understand the history behind the giant sculpture including the story of the couple who created it.

You can take photos with the sculpture as your background.

Apart from seeing the sculpture, take a walk around the park or enjoy a picnic on the well-manicured grass.

If you have a dog, this is a nice spot to take it for a walk.

• It is 20 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

28. USS Cod Submarine Memorial

Rating: 4.8★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $10, Veterans/Seniors: $9, Children (6-18): $6

Address: 1201 N Marginal Rd, Cleveland, OH 44114

• It is a National Historic Place
• It was launched in 1943

Why you should go: The USS Cod, named after a food fish, is a Gato-class submarine that served the Navy between 1943 and 1971.

During its service, it destroyed 12 enemy vessels and a total of over 73,000 tons of enemy shipping.

Furthermore, it was awarded seven battle stars for its contributions to World War II.

Today, it serves as the USS Cod Submarine Memorial, located in Cleveland’s North Coast Harbor. T

Things to do: The submarine is open for public tours from 1st May to 30th September every year.

Visitors are welcome to explore the submarine and see what life was like during the war.

You will also learn about the submarine’s rich history and achievements.

Of note, it is the only World War II Fleet submarine that is still intact making it one of the best things to do near Cleveland.

• It is 20 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

29. Cleveland Botanical Garden

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $15, Children (3-12): $10, Children below 3: Free

Address: 11030 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106

• It is located in the University Circle neighborhood
• It takes at least 2 hours to explore it

Why you should go: Opened in 1930, the Cleveland Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful places in Cleveland.

If you enjoy being in nature then you will love exploring the garden characteristic of lush greenery, water ponds, a waterfall, flowers, and indoor gardens.

Furthermore, it is a perfect location for anyone who is seeking to experience an intimate or romantic picnic.

Things to do: Get lost in nature and soak up the beauty of nature at the Cleveland Botanical Garden.

If you are traveling as a family, this is one of the best places to visit for families with kids.

You will all appreciate being outdoors away from the city.

Additionally, the peaceful sanctuary has interesting attractions such as the Eleanor Armstrong Smith glasshouse, Hershey Children’s Garden, and a treehouse.

• It is 26 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

30. Steamship William G. Mather Museum

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $8.95, Seniors: $6.95, Children (2-12): $5.95, Children under 2: Free, Members: Free

Address: 601 Erieside Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114

• It was built in 1925
• It was once a famous freighter

Why you should go: The Steamship William G. Mather was a famous freighter built by the Great Lakes Engineering Works and named after William G. Mather, the company president.

It transported cargo such as grain, coal, and ore, throughout the Great Lakes region.

In 1990, the steamship was moved to its current location and established as the Steamship William G. Mather Museum.

Today, the steamship functions as a maritime museum showing the public what it was like inside a cargo ship back in the early 20th century. 

Things to do: Explore the museum’s chambers and exhibits including guest quarters, the pilothouse, and the four-story engine room.

Apart from showing life inside the steamship, the exhibits also tell the story of the formation of the Great Lakes.

You will learn about the environmental threats that the Great Lakes have suffered over the years and how restoration efforts are going.

• It is 19 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

31. Great Lakes Science Center

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $16.95, Children (2-12): $13.95, Members: Free

Address: 601 Erieside Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114

• It was established in 1996
• It is a science museum

Why you should go: The Great Lakes Science Center is a science museum dedicated to the study of the natural environment in the Great Lakes region.

It features both permanent and traveling exhibits.

Additionally, it features an IMAX Dome theater and is home to one of the 11 NASA Glenn Visitor Centers in the United States.

Things to do: If you are interested in science, then you should check this facility out.

It’s a family-friendly space that is designed to entertain and educate visitors of all ages.

Hence, it is a great attraction to bring your little ones and spark their interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering, math).

Furthermore, the Great Lake Science Center offers educational programs and field trips for students and other interested visitors.

• It is 19 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

32. International Women’s Air & Space Museum

Rating: 4.4★ 

Entry tickets: Free, Parking: $7

Address: 1501 N Marginal Rd Ste. 165, Cleveland, OH 44114

• It was established in 1986
• It is located in a building at Burke Lakefront Airport

Why you should go: Often, the women in aviation and space go unnoticed and uncelebrated.

This is why the International Women’s Air & Space Museum in Cleveland was established.

It preserves and honors the achievements and contributions of women pilots in the areas of aviation and space.

The museum collects historical facts and memorabilia to preserve them and inspire a generation of other women to embrace this field.

It was originally located in Centerville before being moved to its current location in 1998, after outgrowing its former location.

Things to do: If you would like to appreciate and recognize the work done by women in aviation and space then you should have this museum on your itinerary.

A visit to the museum is also a great way to educate yourself on what women can achieve in any field when given opportunities.

You will receive a guided tour through a series of permanent and temporary exhibitions.

It will take you between 45 minutes and an hour to explore the whole museum.

This is indeed one of the most educative things to do in Cleveland.

• It is 19 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

33. Rocky River Reservation

Rating: 4.8★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: Valley Pkwy, North Olmsted, OH 44070

• It is 2,500 acres big
• It sits along the Rocky River

Why you should go: One of the most amazing free things to do in Cleveland is the Rocky River Reservation.

It is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts as it is packed with exciting activities.

The beautiful park is dotted with lush greenery, thick forest vegetation, a river, waterfalls, nature trails, valleys, meadows, and wetlands.

Things to do: Visit this park to enjoy thrilling outdoor activities like horseback riding, cycling, hiking, nature trailing, paddleboarding, boating, exploring culture and history, and fishing, among others.

It is a great place to unwind when you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

And what’s more, it’s absolutely free to explore!

• It is 10 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

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