Top 25 Attractions and Activities in Cleveland, Ohio

Experience the vibrant city of Cleveland and explore its remarkable attractions. The renowned Rock and Roll Hall of Fame serves as a significant draw for tourists, showcasing the timeless legacy of music.

Efforts to enhance Cleveland’s appeal to visitors include revitalizing previously neglected areas and increasing the availability of modern hotels and dining options in the downtown district. This comprehensive initiative has successfully transformed Cleveland into a captivating destination.

Here are the 25 best activities to engage in while visiting Cleveland:

1. Admire some contemporary art

The Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland, commonly referred to as MOCA, features an impressive collection of contemporary art from both local and international talent.

Completed in 2012, the museum’s architecture is strikingly modern, constructed entirely from tinted glass and featuring an atypical shape.

The structure begins as a hexagon at ground level, transitioning to a square format at the roof, with reflective glass walls adding to its allure.

2. Watch something at the Playhouse Square Center

Situated in the heart of Cleveland’s vibrant performing arts district, the Playhouse Square Center features nine theaters, including the famous State and Palace theaters.

Many of these theaters date back to the 1920s and were rescued from decline through dedicated local restoration efforts in the 1990s, successfully returning them to their former splendor.

3. Stroll around the city’s outdoor museum

Known as an outdoor museum, Lake View Cemetery spans a vast area, containing over 100,000 graves.

Established in 1869, the cemetery continues to conduct approximately 700 burials each year. Notable burial sites include those of President James Garfield and oil magnate John Rockefeller.

Visitors can appreciate monuments commemorating these figures, as well as the Wade Chapel, dedicated in memory of J. Wade.

4. See the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Located just outside downtown Cleveland, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is among the oldest in the United States.

The zoo features a diverse range of animals, from Western Lowland Gorillas to aquatic species and even an insectarium for the more adventurous visitors.

Notably, it boasts the largest collection of primates in North America alongside a year-round botanical garden.

5. Get aboard a submarine

The iconic USS Cod Submarine Memorial is prominently positioned along the shores of Lake Erie.

This submarine served during World War II and is renowned for its rich history, including its role as the first vessel to accomplish a submarine-to-submarine rescue in 1945.

In summer, visitors can explore the submarine by entering through the original hatches and touring various sections of the vessel.

6. Visit Japanese and woodland gardens

The Cleveland Botanical Gardens offer a stunning array of plant species.

This living museum encompasses many themed areas, such as the Inspiration Area, designed to inspire visitors to cultivate their own gardens.

Additional highlights include the Japanese Garden, Woodland Garden, and Butterfly Garden, featuring flora chosen specifically to attract butterflies.

7. Grab a bargain at the West Side Market

The West Side Market, which has been operating since 1912, stands as Cleveland’s oldest market.

Following a significant restoration in 2002, the market regained its popularity and now consistently attracts bargain hunters, gourmet food enthusiasts, and souvenir seekers.

The market house retains much of its historical charm from 1912 and serves as a major attraction for visitors. Open five days a week, it features over 100 vendors selling a variety of goods.

8. Learn at the Great Lakes Science Center

The Great Lakes Science Center provides an engaging learning environment situated on the shores of Lake Erie. The center features a broad range of exhibits, including the NASA Glenn Visitor Center and the Science Phenomena Zone to explore scientific principles through interactive experiments.

Additionally, the facility houses a state-of-the-art Omnimax theater that presents various educational films, offering a visually captivating experience.

Be sure to consult the center’s calendar to discover upcoming events.

9. Visit the city’s best museum

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is often regarded as the premier museum in the city.

Noteworthy exhibits include a three-million-year-old direct human ancestor, affectionately dubbed “Lucy,” which has made significant contributions to the field of anthropology. Additionally, the museum showcases impressive dinosaur skeletons that are a favorite among visitors.

Beyond living organisms, the museum also encompasses geology and precious gem displays.

10. Admire art from around the world

The Cleveland Museum of Art boasts an extensive collection of American art, in addition to a diverse range of medieval, European, and Asian art pieces, reflecting a vast array of cultural heritage.

Recent expansions have introduced additional artworks from countries such as Japan, China, and India, along with new galleries dedicated to exploring various Asian nations.

The museum features ever-changing exhibitions and events, alongside an incredible permanent collection, making it a continually relevant destination.

11. Rock out at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame stands out as one of Cleveland’s most iconic attractions. Designed by architect I.M. Pei, the structure houses a vast collection of music memorabilia.

Visitors can embark on a journey through the evolution of this genre, admiring historic artifacts such as Jimi Hendrix’s handwritten lyrics for “Purple Haze.”

For enthusiasts of rock and roll, the museum can easily consume an entire day (or more) with its rich offerings.

12. Hang out on the East or West Bank

The Flats, originally an industrial district, has transformed into a vibrant nightlife area along the banks of the Cuyahoga River.

The East Bank features a lively boardwalk replete with a variety of restaurants, bars, and an outdoor concert pavilion.

Conversely, the West Bank offers a more casual atmosphere, hosting a skate park, brewery, and traditional dive bars.

13. See the biggest rubber stamp in the world

Located in Willard Park, the world’s largest rubber stamp, imprinted with the word “free,” was created by sculptor Claes Oldenburg.

This landmark is an ideal spot for souvenir photos and serves as a meeting point for various food trucks, often featuring live music on Fridays.

Visit for a picture, and savor the ambiance with food and music.

14. Visit a film set

If you are a fan of the beloved holiday film “A Christmas Story,” you will be delighted to know that you can visit the very house where it was filmed, complete with iconic props.

This location is a must-see for fans, while those unfamiliar with the film may find it less appealing due to a lack of context.

15. See the biggest outdoor chandelier in the world

Cleveland is also home to the world’s largest outdoor chandelier, suspended above Playhouse Square.

This impressive structure is a popular photo opportunity and is particularly breathtaking when illuminated at night.

16. Visit the Greater Cleveland Aquarium

The Greater Cleveland Aquarium, situated in the First Energy Powerhouse building, features over 50 exhibits that delve into the world’s oceans and their inhabitants.

In addition, the aquarium provides knowledge about the diverse freshwater fish that thrive in lakes and rivers.

Its mission is to educate the public on marine ecosystems and preservation initiatives.

17. Get lucky at the Jack Casino

Opened in 2012, Jack Casino made history as Ohio’s first casino.

Inside, the casino offers an ambiance reminiscent of Las Vegas, featuring the largest gaming area in the city, complete with high limits and substantial jackpots.

Moreover, several bars and dining options, including the Spread Buffet, enhance the casino experience.

18. Learn about the city and state

The Western Reserve Historical Society, established in 1867, is dedicated to preserving and educating the public on the cultural heritage of Ohio, highlighting topics such as the Cleveland garment industry, local fashion, and notable entrepreneurs.

An exhibit showcases the history of Native Americans in the region, dating back 10,000 years.

The society also features a remarkable collection of vintage vehicles in the Crawford Auto Aviation Museum.

19. Get excited by the Cleveland Children’s Museum

Situated in the University Circle neighborhood (though a relocation to Midtown is planned), the Cleveland Children’s Museum is a dynamic space designed for young children to learn through play.

Exhibits include a magic-themed area and interactive displays depicting the various lifestyles of children throughout history.

20. Learn about the women of the air and space world

The International Women Air and Space Museum in Cleveland aims to honor and preserve the contributions of women in the aviation and space industries throughout history.

Founded in 1998, the museum offers free admission and features exhibits highlighting figures such as North Carolina’s first woman pilot, Viola Gentry, as well as well-known aviation pioneers like Amelia Earhart and Jackie Cochran.

Due to its frequently changing exhibits, even repeat visitors find new experiences worth exploring.

21. Get the best views of the city

One of the best vantage points in Cleveland is the observation deck of Terminal Tower, which soars 52 stories (over 250 meters).

Though not open every day, accessing the observation deck is relatively straightforward. Simply arrive, purchase tickets for $6, and pass through security to ascend to the top. The vistas are stunning both day and night.

22. Visit the Cathedral of St John

Completed in 1852, the Cathedral of St John features architecture that merits appreciation both inside and out.

The cathedral is centrally located within a flourishing performing arts district and serves approximately 1100 congregants.

23. Tour Gotta Groove Records

Gotta Groove Records operates three locations across the United States, including ones in Cincinnati and Columbus, alongside its Cleveland branch.

This vinyl pressing facility, established in 2009, is capable of producing 70,000 records monthly and offers tours that provide insights into a lesser-known facet of the recording industry.

24. Watch baseball at Progressive Field

Progressive Field is the home stadium of the Cleveland Indians, a Major League Baseball team.

Whether a novice or longtime fan, attending a game is a rewarding experience. Guided tours of the stadium are also available from May through September.

These tours last approximately an hour and include exclusive access to off-limits areas, such as the press box and party suite.

25. See a Playoff game

In addition to baseball, Cleveland boasts enthusiastic basketball (the Cleveland Cavaliers) and football (the Browns) teams. While visiting, you might have the opportunity to attend a playoff or championship game.

If the chance arises, seize it. Experiencing these local sports events will give you insight into the profound significance they hold for the community.