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On this video, join me as we dive head first into the eclectic and endearing world of Cleveland, Ohio. From hidden waterfalls to the hollowed halls of music, Cleveland is well worth a weekend of exploration. Here are some of my favorite things to do in the city, and be sure to let me know what I left off in the comments.
We're starting with museums. My first recommendation is the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Here, you can dive into the history of music legends with some of the greatest rock exhibits you will ever see. Every corner of every exhibit breathes life into the stories of musical icons who have shaped both generations and genres. It's a pilgrimage for music lovers and a place you can spend the whole day exploring. You can even practice your musical journey with the provided instruments on one of the museum's floors.
Next up, check out the Cleveland History Center. This museum has a time capsule where the city's past meets the energy of personal memories and shared heritage. Explore exhibits that range from the luxurious Euclid Beach Park carousel to the rows of vintage cars. I found a lot to like here and could easily have spent a few hours. I did want to note that the Cleveland Museum of Natural History is right across the street as well. It was closed for renovations when I went, so I can't share much about it other than that I know they have dinosaur bones there, so it's probably a good museum to see as well.
Following that, check out the Baseball Heritage Museum. This is an excellent stop for enthusiasts of America's pastime. In the small museum, you can explore memorabilia and rare photos while learning more about how this area shaped baseball in the city. The museum is located on the original League Park complex, which was the former home of the Cleveland Guardians and has a history dating back to Babe Ruth. Don't miss it if you're a baseball fan.
Next up, check out the Cleveland Museum of Contemporary Art. Here, you'll step into a kaleidoscope of creativity from the moment you walk up to the building, with the ever-shifting exhibits. This space is a canvas for thought-provoking art, urging you to explore the narratives within and beyond the walls. The free museum is well worth seeking out, and one of my favorite parts was the giant hand sculpture that you can see right outside its front door.
Next, soar into inspiring stories of pioneering women at the International Women's Air and Space Museum, inside of a local airport. The small museum celebrates the unbeatable spirit of female aviators and astronauts who reached for the stars against all odds. You can read individual stories and even see some of the artifacts that encouraged these journeys. It's free to visit, and you can walk over easily from the USS Cod, which is our next recommendation.
Leaving museums, let's head into history and talk about the USS Cod. The USS Cod is a vessel of history and heroism, moored in the Cleveland Harbor that you can climb aboard. Here, the stories of maritime and wartime resilience are enclosed within the steel walls of the submarine, which launched in 1943. They often have docents who will walk you through and tell you more of the history, or you can go self-guided and explore at your own pace. Do not; it's pretty tight, so it's not great if you're claustrophobic.
Following that, we have the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. This monument in the heart of the city at Cleveland's Public Square tells tales of valor in America's Civil War. It's a striking monument to drive by, but if you have the time, go inside and explore the walls of names and dive into this part of Ohio's history. All the men listed inside are from Cuyahoga County, and it's been a symbol of Cleveland since it was built over a century ago.
Next up, check out the Cleveland Library. This library isn't just a symbol of knowledge; it's a beautiful piece of architecture in the city's heart. It's a great spot to visit, as it often has revolving art projects and it has a fantastic observation deck on the 10th floor. Also, if you're a fan of chess, this library has the largest collection of chess-related knowledge in the world, and it has a vast collection of chess sets on display. It's a fun and unique stop in the city.
Next up, we have Lake View Cemetery. Here, you can pay homage at the tomb of President Garfield, taking breathtaking views from the Garfield Monument, visit John Rockefeller's grave, and see the famous Hazzard Angel, among other things.
Next, let's head to some of the more fun and unique recommendations in Cleveland. First, visit the Christmas Story House and step into the whimsical world of Ralphie's classic adventure from the iconic movie. Relive the nostalgia of this famous tale and all the heartwarming moments in this perfectly restored piece of cinematic history. It feels like a time capsule for the holiday movie, and I love taking the tour, exploring the museum, and snapping photos from some of the classic sets. Plus, you can even pay to stay here if you're interested.
Following that, we have the Free Stamp sculpture at Willard Park. This sculpture stands as a monumental ode to art and freedom in Willard Park. It's said to be the world's largest rubber stamp, and it stands at 28 feet tall. If you're walking around downtown Cleveland, it's definitely worth stopping by to see it.
Next up, step into Heinen's Grocery Store, a place not just for grocery shopping but for the inspiring architecture housed within a historic bank building. Here, you can marvel at the stunning rotunda, the vivid glass dome that fills the space with light and grandeur. It really transforms grocery shopping into a memorable experience, and you can grab lunch or even a glass of wine from the many different food stalls if you want to have a meal.
Following that, head over to The Arcade. Both the original Arcade and the Fifth Street Arcade in Cleveland are not mere shopping destinations but architectural marvels. Walk the long halls where the past and present converge in a symphony of light, glass, and ironwork. The classic Arcade is the most visited, and for good reason, since it has such stunning architecture. However, if you're looking for fun shops and food, head across the street to Fifth Street Arcade, which has more of these to explore. There's also a large selfie gallery there if you want to have fun with friends taking some photos.
My last unique spot recommendation is to check out Super Electric Pinball, where pinball machines, nostalgic chimes, and flashing lights greet you as soon as you enter. This bar is a fun spot for an evening drink, and you can pay a small fee to play any of the pinball machines as much as you like. I'm a huge pinball fan, so I spent a good amount of time here while I was in the city.
Now, let's head into some outdoor recommendations in Cleveland. First up, check out Cuyahoga Valley National Park with its rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and adventurous towpath. This park invites you to disconnect from the city for a morning of hiking in the wilderness. Whether exploring the winding trails, marveling at Brandywine Falls, or simply picnicking among the greenery, this park is a charming escape from the hustle of Cleveland and well worth the day of your time. I have a full video on this park in the description.
Next up, check out Tinker Creek Gorge. Nestled like a hidden gem near Cuyahoga Valley, Tinker Creek Gorge is a fun spot for a quick hike or pleasant drive along Gorge Parkway. There are a couple of nice waterfalls you can see, overlooks to take in, and a playground for the kids. Take a morning and just drive along the gorge, and I'm sure you'll find something to enjoy there. I highly recommend that you don't miss Tinker Creek Falls when you're there.
Next up is Mill Creek Falls, nestled in one of the city's urban parks. Mill Creek Falls is a waterfall you would not expect to see right off the highway. You could take it in from the top overlook or walk the stairs down to a better vantage point. Unfortunately, there was some trash at the base of the falls when I was there, but it was still beautiful.
My last outdoor recommendation is Edgewater Park. Edgewater Park is an urban oasis where the city's skyline meets natural beauty and where you can watch the sunset over Lake Erie. It's often home to one of the Cleveland signs that's popular for photos, and it has a nice beach and a large playground for children. It's a good place to spend a few hours in the city.
All right, now let's head into some of my favorite food recommendations in Cleveland. First up, one of my favorite things to do in the city is to immerse myself in the bustling West Side Market, Cleveland's historic food hall. Stroll past the stalls of produce, delicious sweet treats, and the sizzle of international delicacies as the market's historic architecture towers above you. It really does have something for everyone, and I recommend you grab food and head up to the overlook where you can sit and eat while enjoying the view.
Next up is Slyman's Corned Beef Sandwich. This sandwich isn't just a meal; it's a Cleveland institution, towering with tender, savory meat, literally more meat than should ever be on a sandwich. Slyman's has been making this iconic sandwich since 1964. You really can't go to Cleveland without trying it, and you probably should bring someone who can share it with you.
Next up, getting a Polish Boy is a must in Cleveland, but I also love the Polish Girl at Mabel's BBQ, which is their own unique take. Mabel's is a great spot for barbecue in the city with an awesome floor-to-ceiling neon wall and some of my favorite barbecue sauce in Cleveland.
Following that, Cleveland is really known for its pierogi, and one of the best places to get that is the Little Polish Diner, which is about 20 minutes outside of town. This spot is takeout only, but it does the dish so well that you won't even mind eating in your car. Every bite into these pillowy delicacies stuffed with savory fillings is a transformative experience that will leave you happy and also ready for a nap.
Next, check out Mitchell's Fine Chocolates. For over 83 years, Mitchell's Fine Chocolates has been making handcrafted treats right in Cleveland. The small storefront has hundreds of different things you can try, but be sure to get a Buckeye, which is a peanut butter and chocolate ball that the state is known for.
Next up, if you want to wash down the chocolate, head over to Mitchell's Ice Cream, which is not affiliated with the chocolate shop. The ice cream here is incredible, and I highly recommend you try the Wild Berry Crumble. I can never bring myself to get anything else here.
My last two spots are donut recommendations, with the first being Jack Frost Donuts. Jack Frost is a Cleveland staple since 1937, and every batch is made from scratch, and they have multiple locations throughout the city. I'm partial to the Fat Elvis donut myself. Lastly, check out Brewella's, which features both donuts and beer. Depending on when you go in, it's more of an upscale donut shop compared to Jack Frost, but wow, are the donuts good here. You can get something crazy from the rotating seasonal menu, but be sure to try one of the house staples as well.
All right, I know this video is getting long, but before ending, I wanted to give two fantastic day trips that you can take within Cleveland. First, touchdown in Canton for a journey through the heart of America's beloved sport at the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Here, stories of legends, victories, and the spirit of the game come alive through its interactive exhibits. It's located about 45 minutes south of the city, and while it's pretty pricey, it's a fun experience at least once if you're a football fan.
Lastly, if you're a fan of The Shawshank Redemption like I am, you should take the 1-hour drive to the Ohio State Reformatory, which was the backdrop for the famous film. It's an eerie place to explore, but I spent over an hour here, and I could have spent a lot more time walking its halls. Be sure to stop at Grandpa's Cheese Bar while returning to the city.
All right, if you see it all the way to the end, then thank you. And that's it for my recommendations in Cleveland. I hope you found some new spots to explore in the city, and let me know what I left off in the comments. We'll see you on the next video.