Discover Cleveland’s Charm: 12 Unforgettable Experiences in Ohio’s Second City

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you discover Cleveland’s charm, ensuring seamless communication while exploring 12 unforgettable experiences in Ohio’s second city, from cultural landmarks to scenic attractions.

Cleveland packs a punch. This unassuming Midwest city on the shores of Lake Erie is filled with surprises, from world-class attractions to delectable dining spots. With a stunning skyline and spirited sports scene, Ohio’s “Comeback City” has shed its rust belt reputation and emerged as a vibrant urban destination. Here’s why Cleveland Ohio attractions deserve a spot on your travel itinerary.

Top 12 Cleveland Ohio Attractions

1. Marvel at the Cleveland Museum of Art

Start your exploration of Cleveland Ohio attractions at the renowned Cleveland Museum of Art. Things to see in this Cleveland Ohio cultural treasure trove houses over 61,000 works spanning 6,000 years. A few highlights:

• Gallery One offers hands-on digital interactives

• The Armor Court showcases knights in shining armor

• Works by Picasso, Monet, and Warhol await in the modern wing

• Admission is free for the permanent collection

Insider Tip: On the first Thursday of each month, the museum stays open until 9 pm with live music and a cash bar.

2. Get Wild at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Animal lovers can’t miss the 183-acre Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, home to over 3,000 animals representing more than 600 species. Must-see exhibits include:

Insider Tip: Beat the crowds by arriving early and heading straight to the popular African Elephant Crossing.

3. Step Back in Time at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History

Dive into 4.6 billion years of natural history at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Wander through prehistoric forests, excavate dinosaur bones, and marvel at the sheer diversity of life on Earth. Top things to see:

• Steggie the Stegosaurus: A 3,000-pound, 20-foot-long full skeleton

• The Planetarium: Immersive shows exploring the secrets of the cosmos

• Smead Discovery Centre: Hands-on science fun for curious kids

4. Root for the Home Team

Cleveland is a serious sports town. Cheer on the Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium, catch an Indians game at Progressive Field, or watch the Cavaliers shoot hoops at Quicken Loans Arena. No matter the season, joining the local fans is one of the essential things to do in Cleveland, Ohio.

5. Browse the West Side Market

Foodies flock to Ohio City’s historic West Side Market, Cleveland’s oldest publicly owned market. The 1912 building houses over 100 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses to prepared foods. Tasty options include:

• Steve’s Gyros: Authentic Greek fare with house tzatziki

• Orale! Contemporary Mexican: Creative tacos and tostadas

• Crepes De Luxe: Sweet or savory French-style crepes

Travel Tip: The market is open Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 7 am to 6 pm.

6. Feast at Cleveland’s Top Restaurants

Cleveland restaurants are making waves on the national culinary scene. For upscale dining, try:

• Lola Bistro: Iron Chef Michael Symon’s flagship spot for modern Midwest fare

• Greenhouse Tavern: Inventive farm-to-table cuisine in a LEED-certified space

For more casual bites, head to Cleveland restaurants like:

• Barrio: Build-your-own tacos with creative fillings like Thai chilli tofu

• Happy Dog: Gourmet hot dogs with 50+ toppings, from Froot Loops to Sriracha

7. Stroll Through the Cleveland Botanical Garden

Escape the urban bustle at the serene Cleveland Botanical Garden. Ten acres of outdoor gardens showcase native Ohio flora, while the stunning 18,000-square-foot glasshouse features plants and animals from the Madagascar desert and Costa Rican rainforest.

Insider Tip: Check the events calendar for cooking demos, yoga classes, and cocktail nights hosted at the gardens.

8. Rock Out at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Music history comes alive at Cleveland Ohio attraction, the iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Seven floors celebrate rock legends through memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and live performances. Highlights include:

• Michael Jackson’s rhinestone glove

• Jimi Hendrix’s purple velvet jacket

• Hand-written lyrics from John Lennon and Jim Morrison

• The giant “Long Live Rock” sign illuminating the shores of Lake Erie

9. See a Show in Playhouse Square

Playhouse Square isn’t just one theatre – it’s a whole district of them. With nine performance spaces, it’s the largest performing arts centre in the U.S. outside of New York and a must on the list of things to see in Cleveland, Ohio. Catch Broadway musicals, concerts, dance performances, and more in these stunning 1920s theatres.

10. Tour Lake View Cemetery

Lake View Cemetery is the resting place of many famous Clevelanders, including John D. Rockefeller and President James Garfield. Beyond the gravesites, the cemetery functions as an arboretum and sculpture garden. Key sights include:

• The James A. Garfield Memorial: A towering 180-foot-tall monument

• Wade Memorial Chapel: Features an original Tiffany stained-glass window

• The Haserot Angel: Striking sculpture watching over the graves

11. Appreciate Art at the Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland

The Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland, or MOCA, showcases cutting-edge works by emerging and established artists and is a top Cleveland Ohio attraction for art enthusiasts. Exhibitions change several times a year, so there’s always something new to see in this striking geometric building. Admission is free for visitors 18 and under.

12. See the World at the Cleveland Cultural Gardens

Over 30 distinct gardens in Rockefeller Park honour the diverse ethnic groups that shape Cleveland’s cultural fabric. Stroll through the Italian Renaissance garden, admire Hungarian Folk Art, and pay your respects at the German garden’s Goethe-Schiller monument. This beautiful park is one of the more unique places to visit in Cleveland.

Explore Cleveland with Airtel

From world-class museums to quaint cultural corners, there is no shortage of things to see in Cleveland, Ohio. Whether you’re travelling with family, friends, or solo, this friendly Midwestern city is sure to surprise and delight. One last tip – as you hop between Cleveland, Ohio, attractions, stay connected with an international roaming plan from Airtel. With data to navigate the city, you can make the most of every moment in this up-and-coming urban gem.