Explore the Best in the Midwest: 27 Things to Do in Cleveland, Ohio Next Weekend

Discover Cleveland: Surprising Attractions and Must-See Spots

We are heading back to Cleveland for the second time soon! At first glance, Cleveland might not scream “must-see destination,” but this city will definitely surprise you. With tier-one professional sports teams in football, basketball, and baseball, Cleveland has more to offer than you might think. Cleveland is packed with attractions, from world-class museums and breathtaking nature trails to stunning architecture and cool eateries. There’s so much to do that there’s no way we’ll be able to cover even half of it, so we’ll concentrate on the things that will bring me joy. But here are the highlights of what we’ve done and more exciting things to do in Cleveland in the future. Don’t miss out on exploring this underrated city!

Table of Contents

• Museums
• History and Monuments
• Curiosities in Cleveland
• Natural Wonders
• Architecture
• Food
• Day Trips
• Conclusion
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Museums

Cleveland Museum of Contemporary Art:

We’re heading out for another road trip. This time, we’re going to Cleveland, the first stop at the Cleveland Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), a vibrant hub for modern art lovers. From the moment you approach the striking, angular building, you know you’re in for a unique experience. Inside, the ever-changing exhibits offer a kaleidoscope of creativity, showcasing both local and international artists. One of the highlights is the giant hand sculpture outside, a popular spot for photos. Admission is free, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy thought-provoking and innovative art. Whether you’re an art aficionado or just looking for an inspiring outing, MOCA provides a stimulating environment that encourages exploration and reflection.

Website | Map

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame:

• Designed by the renowned architect I.M. Pei.
• Explore music history with exhibits on legends like The Beatles and Elvis.
• Try playing instruments on one of the museum floors.
• Plan to spend a whole day here for an immersive experience.
• Don’t miss the “Long Live Rock” sign in front of the museum, perfect for memorable photos.

Cleveland History Center:

• Discover exhibits like the Euclid Beach Park carousel and vintage cars.
• Learn about the city’s past through personal stories and memorabilia.
• Located near the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.

Website | Map

Baseball Heritage Museum:

• See memorabilia and rare photos in this small museum.
• Learn about Cleveland’s baseball history at the original League Park complex.
• Discover the connection to legends like Babe Ruth.

Website | Map

History and Monuments

USS Cod Submarine

• Tour this historic WWII submarine moored in Cleveland Harbor.
• Hear stories of wartime resilience from guides or explore self-guided.
• Note: Tight spaces may not be suitable for claustrophobic visitors.

Soldiers and Sailors Monument

• Located in Cleveland’s Public Square, commemorating Civil War soldiers.
• Explore inside to see the names of local soldiers and learn about their valor.
• A symbol of the city for over a century.

Curiosities in Cleveland

Superman’s House

Superman, the iconic comic book hero, has a fictional home in the city of Metropolis. However, his real-world origins trace back to Cleveland, Ohio. Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster created Superman while high school students in Cleveland during the 1930s. Their experiences and the city itself influenced the character and his story. Cleveland is often celebrated for its role in the creation of Superman, serving as the birthplace of this globally recognized superhero. This connection is a point of pride for the city and is commemorated by fans and the local community. For more information, check out the website for more details.

A Christmas Story House:

• Relive scenes from the classic holiday movie in this restored house.
• Explore the museum and take photos with iconic sets.
• Option to stay overnight for an immersive experience.

Free Stamp Sculpture:

• See the world’s largest rubber stamp in Willard Park.
• Stands 28 feet tall and symbolizes art and freedom.
• A notable downtown landmark.

Voinovich Park Cleveland Sign:

• Located in Voinovich Park near the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
• Offers a great photo opportunity with the Cleveland skyline and Lake Erie in the background.
• A perfect spot to capture your Cleveland visit.

Natural Wonders

Take a Hike Tour

Take a Hike® offers free tours of unique and historic neighborhoods in Cleveland!  Since 2009, our award-winning program has entertained and educated more than 50,000 guests. With 14 in-person guided and self-guided tours, you can explore the city in some form every day of the year.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park:

• Hike, see waterfalls, and enjoy nature at this nearby park.
• Marvel at Brandywine Falls and explore the towpath.
• A great day trip to disconnect from city life.

Tinker’s Creek Gorge:

• Hike and explore waterfalls and overlooks in this scenic gorge.
• Drive along Gorge Parkway for beautiful views and playgrounds.
• Don’t miss Tinker’s Creek Falls.

Mill Creek Falls:

• Visit this urban waterfall near the highway.
• Take in views from the top overlook or walk down for a better vantage point.
• Note: There may be some trash at the base, but the falls are still beautiful.

Edgewater Park:

• Relax at the beach, playground, and scenic sunset views over Lake Erie.
• A popular spot for photos with the Cleveland sign.
• A good place to spend a few hours in the city.

Cleveland Botanical Garden:

• Explore beautiful gardens and indoor exhibits.
• See a variety of plants from around the world.
• Enjoy seasonal events and educational programs.

Architecture

Cleveland Public Library:

The Cleveland Public Library is not just a haven for book lovers but also an architectural gem in the heart of the city. Marvel at its beautiful design and enjoy the revolving art exhibits. Visit the observation deck on the 10th floor for stunning views of Cleveland. The library is home to the world’s largest chess-related collection, featuring numerous chess sets and extensive literature on the game. It’s a perfect spot to combine a love of reading with an appreciation for architectural beauty.

• Heinen’s Grocery Store:
  • Marvel at the stunning rotunda and glass dome in this historic bank building.
  • Enjoy grocery shopping in a unique architectural setting.
  • Grab lunch or wine from various food stalls.
• Cleveland Arcades:
  • Visit the historic and Fifth Street Arcades for shopping and architecture.
  • The original arcade is known for its stunning design.
  • Fifth Street Arcade offers fun shops, food, and a large selfie gallery.

Food

Cleveland has great Eastern European foods like pierogis, kielbasa, and chicken paprikash due to its large Eastern European population. The most prominent Eastern European communities are predominantly from Poland, Ukraine, and Slovenia.

Little Polish Diner:

• Savor pierogis from this popular takeout spot.
• Located about 20 minutes outside of town.
• Delicious, pillowy dumplings stuffed with savory fillings.

West Side Market:

West Side Market is a bustling food hall located in a historic building in Cleveland. It offers a vibrant atmosphere with diverse food stalls that showcase a wide variety of produce, sweet treats, and international delicacies. The market’s historic architecture adds to its charm, making it not just a place to shop but an experience in itself. After exploring the various vendors, you can sit and eat at the overlook, enjoying a great view of the market’s activity below. With its rich history and eclectic food offerings, West Side Market is a must-visit for food lovers.

Slyman’s Deli:

• Try the iconic corned beef sandwich, a Cleveland institution.
• Known for its towering servings of tender, savory meat.
• Open since 1964, perfect for sharing with a friend.

Mabel’s BBQ:

• Enjoy a unique Polish Girl sandwich and other BBQ delights.
• Features a floor-to-ceiling neon wall and great BBQ sauces.
• A must-visit spot for barbecue lovers.

Lola’s Bistro & Grill:

• Enjoy innovative American cuisine in a stylish setting.
• Known for its emphasis on local ingredients and creative dishes.
• A popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for a high-quality dining experience.

Sweet Treats

Mitchell’s Fine Chocolates:

• Taste handcrafted chocolates, especially the Buckeye treat.
• Over 83 years of making delicious treats in Cleveland.
• A small storefront with a wide variety of chocolates.

Mitchell’s Ice Cream:

• Indulge in delicious ice cream, with the wild berry crumble being a standout.
• Not affiliated with the chocolate shop.
• Known for high-quality, creative ice cream flavors.

Jack Frost Donuts:

• Enjoy scratch-made donuts from this Cleveland staple.
• Open since 1937 with multiple locations.
• The Fat Elvis donut is a favorite choice.

Brew Nuts:

• Experience upscale donuts paired with craft beer.
• Features a rotating seasonal menu and house staples.
• A trendy spot for unique and delicious donuts.

Day Trips

Ohio State Reformatory:

I love movie locations, and the Ohio State Reformatory, located about an hour’s drive from Cleveland, is a must-visit for fans of the movie “The Shawshank Redemption.” This eerie yet fascinating place was the backdrop for many iconic scenes from one of my favorite films. Walking through its halls, you can almost feel the history and the stories embedded in its walls. The reformatory offers guided tours, but exploring it at your own pace can be equally rewarding. Don’t forget to stop at Grandpa’s Cheese Bar on your way back to Cleveland for a tasty treat.

• Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton:
  • Located 45 minutes south of Cleveland.
  • Interactive exhibits and stories of football legends.
  • It’s a bit pricey but worth it for football fans.
• Cedar Point:
  • My parents took us to Cedar Point when we were kids. It’s still known as the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” it is located about an hour west of Cleveland.
  • Features thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions, and live entertainment.
  • It is a great destination for adventure and fun.

Conclusion

I wrote this blog post about a recent trip to Cleveland. I didn’t expect to enjoy the city as much as I did because I had visited several times when I was younger. During my college days, I worked at Packer Electric and visited Cleveland several times. On this latest trip, I met Anna Brown, a local realtor, while we were both enjoying the view of the lake. I’m usually spontaneous, so I’m a bit disappointed I didn’t join her in watching the filming of the latest Superman movie. However, I wasn’t wearing comfortable shoes, and it started to rain. Despite that, I enjoyed her company and hope to hang out with her again the next time I visit Cleveland.

So, if you’re in the market for a new home, hit her up.

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