Fun Things to Do in Cleveland, Ohio This Year

Discover Unforgettable Experiences in Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland, Ohio, is a vibrant city packed with excitement, culture, and surprises. Whether you are into sports, history, arts, music, or mouthwatering cuisine, Cleveland offers a wide range of fun things to do throughout the year. From family-friendly attractions to outdoor adventures, you will find endless activities to enjoy in this lakeside city. Start exploring the best places to visit and fun activities in Cleveland for singles, couples, or families.

Explore Top Attractions in Downtown Cleveland

The heart of Cleveland beats strongest in its downtown area. If you’re looking for popular tourist destinations or weekend getaways, you’ll want to check out these must-see spots:

• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Dive into musical history. You can see artifacts, interactive exhibits, and memorabilia from some of the world’s most famous musicians.
• Progressive Field: Catch a Cleveland Guardians game and enjoy top-notch Major League Baseball action.
• Playhouse Square: Experience Broadway-caliber theater, comedy, and concerts in this historic district.
• Downtown Cleveland Historic Arcades: Shop, dine, and marvel at stunning architecture in the city’s iconic arcades, including the Cleveland Arcade.
• Terminal Tower Observation Deck: Get a panoramic view of Cleveland’s skyline from the city’s most recognizable skyscraper.

Family-Friendly Activities in Cleveland

If you’re visiting with children or searching for things to do in Cleveland with kids, you have lots of options. These attractions offer fun for all ages:

• Cleveland Metroparks Zoo: Home to over 3,000 animals, this zoo is a favorite for both locals and visitors, featuring themed areas like African Savanna and Asian Highlands.
• Greater Cleveland Aquarium: Enjoy hands-on exhibits and underwater tunnels, perfect for sparking curiosity.
• Children’s Museum of Cleveland: Interactive exhibits and imaginative play pull in kids under 10 for hours of learning and entertainment.
• Great Lakes Science Center: Spark your family’s love of science and space exploration with fascinating exhibits and an up-close look at the NASA Glenn Visitor Center.

Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Spots

Cleveland gives you lots of ways to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor recreation year-round. These destination gems are ideal for picnics, hikes, and fresh-air fun:

• Cleveland Metroparks: Often called the "Emerald Necklace," this park system provides over 23,000 acres of green space, hiking trails, golf courses, and adventure areas.
• Edgewater Park: Sunbathe, swim, or bike along Lake Erie’s coastline. The views are fantastic, and the sunsets are some of the best in Ohio.
• Wade Oval: Located in University Circle, Wade Oval is great for relaxing, outdoor concerts, and cultural festivals.
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Just a short drive from downtown, this national park boasts waterfalls, train rides, and the famous Towpath Trail.

Best Museums and Cultural Experiences in Cleveland

If you’re a lover of history, art, and culture, Cleveland is brimming with enriching places to visit all year. Plan your day around these highlights:

• Cleveland Museum of Art: Admire collections from around the globe. The museum offers free admission, making it a budget-friendly stop.
• Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa) Cleveland: Modern architecture and thought-provoking exhibits make moCa a must-visit for contemporary art fans.
• Western Reserve Historical Society: Dive into local history and see vintage cars at the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum inside the complex.
• Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: Yes, it deserves to be mentioned again! Special events and exhibits mean there’s always something new to discover.

Eat, Drink, and Savor Cleveland’s Food Scene

Cleveland’s culinary adventures are legendary. Foodies will be delighted by the city’s robust dining options, from casual bites to fine dining. Some of the top spots and local delicacies include:

• West Side Market: Grab gourmet sandwiches, international foods, and locally made treats in Cleveland’s oldest public market.
• East 4th Street: This lively stretch in downtown Cleveland is packed with trendy restaurants, bars, and live music venues.
• Little Italy: Savor classic pasta, fresh bread, and pastries from legendary bakeries and bistros.
• Breweries and Distilleries: Visit renowned breweries like Great Lakes Brewing Company or Platform Beer Co. for tastings and tours.

Unique Cleveland Experiences and Hidden Gems

Looking for something off the beaten path? Discover these fun and unusual things to do in Cleveland that are local favorites:

• A Christmas Story House: Tour the original house from the classic holiday film. Don’t forget to take a photo with the famous leg lamp!
• Cleveland Script Signs: Snap an iconic Cleveland photo at one of the city’s giant script signs in locations like Edgewater Park and North Coast Harbor.
• Heinen’s Rotunda: Grocery shopping meets architecture in this breathtaking downtown landmark housed under a glass dome.
• Lake View Cemetery: Explore gardens, sculptures, and the ornate Garfield Memorial. It’s peaceful, historic, and unexpectedly beautiful.

Seasonal Events and Festivals in Cleveland

Cleveland shines in every season, with local events that bring people together for food, music, art, and community spirit. Consider attending:

• Cleveland International Film Festival (spring): Watch world premieres and indie films at one of the largest film festivals in the Midwest.
• Front International: Cleveland Triennial for Contemporary Art (summer): Enjoy public art installations and gallery shows across the city.
• Taste of Cleveland (summer): Sample local cuisine and meet top chefs.
• Winterfest (winter): Outdoor ice skating, light displays, and holiday concerts in Public Square create a magical winter experience.

Best Free Things to Do in Cleveland, Ohio

Many top-rated Cleveland attractions are free or budget-friendly, making them perfect for every traveler:

• Walk or bike along the Cleveland Lakefront Reservation
• Tour the free galleries at Cleveland Museum of Art
• Stroll through Rockefeller Park Greenhouse
• Watch the sunset at Whiskey Island
• Experience unique neighborhoods with cultural festivals and open-air art

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleveland Attractions and Activities

What are some fun things to do in Cleveland at night?

Cleveland nightlife offers live music clubs on East 4th Street, sports games at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, comedy nights at local venues, and rooftop bars. Theater fans can catch a show at Playhouse Square or catch late-night bites at the West Side Market area.

What is Cleveland Ohio best known for?

Cleveland is famous for its sports teams, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, vibrant food scene, and historic neighborhoods. It also has top-ranked museums and is close to beautiful Lake Erie beaches.

Is Cleveland a good place to visit with kids?

Yes, Cleveland is family-friendly with top attractions like Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Great Lakes Science Center, and many parks and play areas. There are interactive museums, sports events, and outdoor recreation for all ages.

Are there free things to do in Cleveland, Ohio?

You can enjoy the Cleveland Museum of Art, Rockefeller Park Greenhouse, lakefront trails, and public festivals without spending any money. Local parks and outdoor events are free and open all year round.

Where can I find events in Cleveland this weekend?

Check local event calendars, the Downtown Cleveland Alliance website, or Cleveland Scene for updated lists of concerts, art shows, festivals, and sports games happening every weekend.