Top 28 Things to Do in Cleveland: Ultimate Explorer's Guide

Visit the enchanting Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and learn about more than 3,000 animals representing 600 species from around the world. The unique RainForest showcases tropical creatures, while Australian Adventure offers up-close encounters with kangaroos. Don't miss the awe-inspiring African Elephant Crossing experience. Nearby, the sprawling Rockefeller Park Greenhouse is a calming sanctuary and the perfect place for a leisurely stroll after your zoo adventure. The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is truly a trip around the world in your own backyard. A must-see for all animal lovers!

Immerse yourself in an electrifying journey through the music world's greatest and most influential acts at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. It's packed with extraordinary collections, exciting exhibits and once-in-a-lifetime experiences like special performances and film screenings. Nearby, you can also explore the bustling East 4th Street dining district or visit the spectacular Great Lakes Science Center for an added dash of knowledge and excitement. So, get ready to rock. Your unforgettable experience is waiting for you!

The Cleveland Museum of Art is a treasure trove for art connoisseurs and novices alike. It houses an extensive and diverse collection of impressive works spanning 6,000 years and featuring world-renowned artists. Admission is free, making the art accessible to all. Don't miss the Armory, where medieval weapons are on display. Of particular interest: the charming Fine Arts Garden in front of the building, a paradise for selfie lovers. Just a 10-minute drive away is another gem: the Museum of Natural History. An artful and enlightening day trip indeed!

A major jewel in Cleveland's Metroparks system, Edgewater Park offers breathtaking water views, beautiful sunset vistas, and a lively summer beach house with live music and events. A real treat is a stroll along the Cleveland sign, a popular photo op overlooking the city skyline. On the park's expansive boardwalk, you absolutely must feel the sand between your toes. Finally, it's just a stone's throw to the vibrant Gordon Square Arts District, the perfect spot for foodies and art lovers.

Make your movie dreams come true at "A Christmas Story House" in Cleveland! This is the real house from the 1983 Christmas classic. Tour all the rooms, stand in front of the iconic "leg lamp" and even buy a replica in the gift store. Afterwards, take a trip to the nearby Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, just a ten-minute drive away. Perfect for those who love movie nostalgia and encounters with wild animals. Don't forget to ask about the history of the infamous "tongue on the flagpole" scene!

Visit the Cleveland Botanical Garden and enjoy the tranquility in the midst of the bustling city. Explore the ten acres of lush gardens and exotic biomes at the Eleanor Armstrong Smith Glasshouse. Don't miss the Japanese Garden, which is bursting with tranquility.

Visit the bustling West Side Market in Cleveland! This foodie paradise features over 100 vendors selling a variety of foods from cheese to exotic spices. Immerse yourself in Cleveland's rich history, as the market opened back in 1912, and admire the ornate architecture. Don't forget to try the apple pies, a favorite among locals! Just a few blocks away you'll find Mitchell's Ice Cream, a must for creamy, delicious homemade ice cream.

Experience the amazing world of natural wonders at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History! The museum brings the history of our planet to life with its exhibits such as dinosaur bones, precious gems, and wildlife from different ecosystems. Don't miss the live animal demonstrations where you can get up close and personal with nature's inhabitants. Just a short walk away is University Circle, which provides an enriching cultural experience with other cultural gems like the Cleveland Art Museum.

Immerse yourself in a world of underwater life at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium. Housed in a historic power plant, the aquarium fascinates with its Shark SeaTube - a captivating 175-foot-long underwater view of sand tiger sharks and stingrays. And don't forget to join in on the interactive stingray feeding and feel their silky wings! With its downtown location just steps from the scenic Cuyahoga River, it's the perfect place to enjoy Cleveland's charm. After exploring the underwater world, stroll to the nearby West Side Market to stock up on local produce.

Discover the wonders of science at the Great Lakes Science Center! It's full of interactive exhibits for kids and adults and is home to the incredible NASA Glenn Visitor Center, where authentic artifacts from space missions are on display! Just a stone's throw away is the famous Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Take a trip to the enchanting Huntington Beach Reserve and discover Cleveland's hidden gem! Experience golden sunsets, feel the sand beneath your toes, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Lake Erie. Observe rare bird species and enjoy picturesque natural scenes. As the crown jewel of Bay Village, you'll see locals relaxing and enjoying a picnic here. And the icing on the cake? Just a short drive away is Lake Erie Nature & Science Center - an animal lover's paradise!

Immerse yourself in the heart of Cleveland at Cleveland Public Square, a vibrant community plaza with captivating monuments, interactive water features and year-round activities. It's known for its festive Christmas lights, regular live performances and impressive Soldiers and Sailors Monument. The historic Terminal Tower is just two blocks away and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a short walk away. Experience local culture right in the heart of the city!

A visit to the USS COD Submarine Memorial is a leap into history. Here you can explore an original WWII fleet submarine that is still fully intact. You can walk through authentic hatches and imagine life in the boots of a submariner. Explore the torpedo rooms and accommodations and hear real-life stories from knowledgeable guides. Remember, the ship has not been altered, no gangways have been added. Experience it like a sailor! Nearby, you can also admire Cleveland's waterfront at Burke Lakefront Airport.

A visit to Castle Noel in Cleveland is a year-round Christmas treat! It's America's largest indoor Christmas attraction with iconic movie props, historic Christmas department store window displays and a swirling Blizzard Vortex tunnel! Literature buffs shouldn't forget it's owned by Mark Klaus, author of "Santa My Life & Times." Want more? Medina's Historic Public Square is a feast for the eyes and is just around the corner. Here you'll find charming vintage stores and delicious restaurants.

Venture off the beaten path and discover the rustic charm of Mill Stream Run Reservation in Cleveland. It's bursting with idyllic beauty, lush forests, scenic wetlands and meandering streams. Try disc golf, go horseback riding or marvel at Berea's sandstone bluffs - remnants of ancient river deltas. Discover the secrets of the region and visit the century-old Strongsville's Historical Village nearby. A mix of pure nature and behind-the-scenes history to round out your urban exploration!

The epicenter of classical music, Severance Hall, home to the Cleveland Orchestra, is a true architectural gem. Incredibly majestic, with Art Deco interiors, its beauty shines brightly. The orchestra is among the world's best and offers outstanding performances. Sneak a peek at the hidden inscription on the ceiling. The nearby Fine Arts Garden is a place of rest and relaxation, or visit the Cleveland Museum of Art across the street to add to your day!

Venture to Rockefeller Park & Greenhouse, Cleveland's urban oasis where nature meets culture. Discover over 200 species of exotic plants, take a selfie with the enchanting waterfall, and traverse the historic Rockefeller Monument Garden. It's the perfect balance of serenity and city life. Best of all, admission is free all year round! Nearby, the wonders of the Cleveland Museum of Art and Botanical Gardens are waiting for you to explore.

The James A. Garfield National Historic Site is a tribute to the life and political career of America's 20th president. U.S. President. The highlight is the beautifully restored Garfield residence, complete with original furniture and artifacts. On guided tours, you'll learn interesting, lesser-known facts about Garfield, such as his passion for jigsaw puzzles. Also, don't miss the interesting exhibits at the visitor center. Explore the quaint downtown area of Mentor with its nostalgic flair, quaint stores and delicious restaurants nearby. A true paradise for history buffs!

The Arcade" in Cleveland is a historic treasure to be discovered. One of the city's oldest landmarks, it features stunning Victorian architecture and an eclectic mix of stores, offices and eateries. Be sure to admire the intricate details of the five-story balconies! Located in the heart of the city center, it's just steps away from other attractions like Tower City and Public Square. Discovering "The Arcade" is a wonderful walk back in time, an exciting blend of old world charm and modern amenities.

Embark on an enriching journey through history at Lake View Cemetery. This 285-acre "open-air museum" houses the ornate memorial to President Garfield and the final resting place of John D. Rockefeller, and offers a serene landscape filled with stories. Don't miss the stunning Wade Chapel with its Tiffany glass, a hidden gem inside. Just a short drive away is the Cleveland Museum of Art, where you can continue your cultural exploration. Timeless stories and beautiful landscapes await you at Lake View Cemetery in Cleveland.

A visit to the "Cleveland Script Sign - Edgewater Park" is a must! It's the perfect place for an iconic photo capturing the breathtaking skyline and endless blue of Lake Erie. Be the envy of your online friends with great Instagram photos. Don't miss the nearby "Edgewater Beach" with its beautiful sandy beach for walking, sunbathing and swimming. Plus, local food trucks often stop by to serve tasty treats to local visitors. Just a stone's throw away is also the wonderful West Side Market!

A visit to the Cleveland Script Sign in Tremont is a truly picturesque moment. This Instagram-worthy landmark is the perfect backdrop to the Cleveland skyline, making it a must-see. It's also just a short walk from the historic Tremont neighborhood, known for its vibrant arts scene and diverse culinary delights.

The Children's Museum of Cleveland is an interactive wonderland that stimulates children's creativity. The playful exhibits inspire imagination and curiosity - from science exhibits to vividly designed playscapes! Reserve your tickets online, as it is often very crowded with families. Just a few blocks away is the historic Dunham Tavern Museum, a 19th-century gem surrounded by urban hustle and bustle for another exciting exploration opportunity.

Experience the tranquility of nature at Big Creek Reservation in Cleveland, where lush green trails offer you a retreat from the urban environment. Immerse yourself in the beauty of diverse habitats such as wetlands, forests and bluffs - perfect for bird watching in the area. History buffs will marvel at Isaac Lake, a remnant of the Ice Age. The nearby Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a treat for animal lovers.

Experience the iconic GOODTIME III, the largest four-deck luxury cruise ship on the Great Lakes. Marvel at the dazzling Cleveland skyline and experience breathtaking views of the Cuyahoga River. Enjoy an unforgettable journey with live entertainment, captivating history and impressive buffet options. Don't forget to include a visit to the nearby Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, just a short walk away, to round out your Cleveland experience.

Heritage Park is a true gem in Cleveland's crown, full of lush, beautifully manicured spaces perfect for a family picnic or a quiet stroll. As the former estate of industrialist Gordon Park, the park is full of history for history buffs. Be sure to spot the occasional deer! It's also just a scenic drive from the famous Cleveland Metroparks Zoo - a double treat for nature lovers.

Immerse yourself in Cleveland's diversity at the enchanting Cleveland Cultural Gardens. This showcase of more than 30 carefully designed gardens, each representing a different nationality, is perfect for a tranquil stroll. Nestled in Rockefeller Park, it is a treasure trove of global culture. Each garden embodies local heritage; the replicas of famous statues in the Greek Garden are a standout! Within walking distance of University Circle are the world-famous Cleveland Museum of Art and the fascinating Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Marvel at the gardens where the beauty of nature blends with art.

For nature lovers, Bedford Reservation is a must-see in Cleveland. This oasis offers 15 miles of hiking trails with waterfalls, views of the winding Tinker's Creek Gorge and lush flora and fauna. At Shawnee Hills, you can play wilderness-style golf. After your exploration, don't miss historic and charming downtown Bedford, just minutes away, teeming with unique stores, restaurants and galleries. An idyllic escape in the midst of the bustling city!