Curator’s statement
Before meeting my Clevelander husband, I had all the usual assumptions about this city—industrial grit, burning rivers, heartbreaking sports teams. One visit changed everything. Skepticism turned to surprise, then to wedding vows at those very botanical gardens I'd once have dismissed. Sure, I'm biased now (getting married somewhere will do that), but as someone who had to be completely won over, I'm the perfect guide to show you what makes Cleveland so unexpectedly special. This is your guide from a former doubter who learned the Forest City has much more than meets the eye.
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Things to do in Cleveland
Museums: Sure, the Rock Hall gets all the glory, but University Circle's cultural gems like the Cleveland Museum of Art and Natural History Museum are worth ditching your playlist for. Stroll the botanical gardens or parks surrounding the museums afterward.
Sports: Three downtown teams, three chances to yell at referees: Browns at Huntington Bank Field, Guardians at Progressive Field, and Cavaliers at Rocket Arena.
Theater: Playhouse Square has been wowing crowds since 1921 with Broadway shows under North America's largest outdoor chandelier. With over 1,000 events annually, there will be one for any interest!
Ohio City: Hit the historic West Side Market for snacks, Great Lakes Brewing for drinks, Mitchell's for ice cream (all batches made in their Ohio City location!), and 16-Bit Bar for nostalgic gaming. It's like a greatest hits album, but edible.
East 4th Street: This pedestrian paradise downtown serves up Cleveland's best bites, drinks, and gear all in one walkable strip. Your feet and stomach will thank you.
Tremont: Home to the Christmas Story house and Porco's tiki vibes, plus charming streets perfect for wandering between coffee shops and creative restaurants. Leg lamp not included.
Outdoor adventures: From the Towpath Trail to Edgewater Beach, Cleveland's got trails for walking, water for kayaking, and plenty of Instagram-worthy spots at those famous script signs scattered around town.
Places to eat & drink in Cleveland
One of many quirky murals at STEAK Cleveland
Cordelia: East 4th Street's farm-to-table darling that's so committed to transparency, they'll tell you which cow your burger came from. Creative American cuisine for when you want to feel good about your food choices and try dishes that will surprise and delight!
Society Lounge: Hidden in a basement behind a "broom closet" on East 4th Street with surprising furniture and amazing cocktails. Perfect whether you're warming up for dinner or winding down after.
STEAK Cleveland: Your grandpa's steakhouse got a neon makeover and started serving cocktails with personality. Free popcorn, quirky vibes, and no, they won't judge you for ordering the veggie option.
Astoria Cafe & Market: Don't let the fancy market fool you—their brunch menu is secretly spectacular and approachable for the sweet and savory brunchers.
The W Sports Bar: Finally, a bar where you can watch actual current women's sports instead of that one playoff game from 2019. Revolutionary concept, excellent execution.
Juneberry Table: No reservations, no pretense, just thoughtfully crafted dishes in a gorgeous space. Community dining at its finest—show up and see what happens.
Little Italy: Your carb-loading headquarters. Presti's for pastries that'll ruin your appetite, Rosso for gelato that's worth the brain freeze, Mia Bella for Mediterranean vibes, and Trattoria Roman Garden for traditional Italian with prime people-watching patios.
Need to know
Getting around: Cleveland's neighborhoods are delightfully walkable once you arrive, but you'll need wheels to hop between them.
Local etiquette: Clevelanders have mastered the art of self-deprecating sports talk while being fiercely proud of their city. They'll happily share their favorite spots and insider tips, but maybe let them handle the Browns jokes—it's a privilege that comes with residency.
"Beach" expectations: Yes, Lake Erie technically has beaches, and yes, they'll appear on your maps. Just remember you're dealing with a Great Lake, not the Caribbean. Adjust your beach day expectations accordingly, but the sunsets are genuinely spectacular.
Weather wisdom: Lake Erie likes to remind you who's boss by dropping the temperature when you least expect it. Pack that extra layer even if it's blazing hot at noon—evening Cleveland has a sneaky way of making you regret leaving the jacket at home.
Travel Advisor
Alaina Gallagher
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