Unveiling the Top Attractions and Culinary Delights of Cleveland: Your Ultimate Guide
Whether you've heard it referred to as "Believe-land," "The Land," or "Forest City," people still often ask...
"What's in Cleveland?" or “Is Cleveland worth visiting?”
I've been asked this question too many times to count.
But what I can tell you after moving back to Cleveland after 7 years away, is
Yes! Cleveland is definitely worth visiting. Especially now.
Previously referred to as "The Mistake on the Lake," Cleveland has come a long way from its industrial beginnings.
Over the past couple of decades, Cleveland has revitalized itself as a major hub for healthcare, biotechnology, and the arts.
Cleveland has everything to offer, without the price tag of living in a major metropolitan city like Chicago or New York - including great food, beautiful national parks, top-rated Universities & Hospitals, along with three major sports teams.
This city (and its residents) embody a spirit of resilience and ambition that's felt by every person that visits.
So, if you're still wondering if Cleveland is worth visiting or what Cleveland is known for,
Keep reading to find out what this city has to offer.
Start Planning Your Trip To Cleveland
Discover The Best Places To Eat IN ClEveland
You won't find any chain restaurants on this list, but you will discover some seriously delicious food. And we can thank Cleveland's ethnic diversity for that and the array of food offerings in this city.
Ranging from pierogies to corned beef sandwiches to Polish boys, Cleveland's food scene has it all.
Cilantro Taqueria
Comparing this restaurant to Chipotle or Qdoba or any other fast-service Mexican spot would be a disservice to Cilantro Taqueria. Cilantro Taqueria offers authentic Mexican food with a wide assortment of toppings and protein choices, including seafood options that are lacking from other chain restaurant menus. This taqueria also offers traditional tortas, delicious (and strong) margaritas, and my personal favorite = elote or Mexican street corn. If you live in the Cleveland area, there's honestly no reason to get your taco or burrito bowl from anywhere else.
Blackbox Fix
Located in Legacy Village, Blackbox Fix is a gourmet sandwich restaurant with unique menu items like the "OMG Philly," "Stoner Fries," and the "Railroader Burger." Created by local chef Eric Rogers, Blackbox Fix offers delicious Creole-inspired tastings that Cleveland has been craving. When I tell you that I've tried almost every item on this menu, don't judge me. But trust me when I say, EVERY dish at Blackbox Fix is good.
Slyman's
I can't talk about Cleveland food without mentioning Slyman's Corned Beef. Slyman's is a Cleveland staple that's been around since 1964 and continues to expand its legacy with three Slyman's Tavern spread across the Cleveland area. Slyman's prides itself on having the best corned-beef sandwich, and I can't argue with that. If you're in Cleveland on a Sunday, try out Slyman's Tavern all you can eat Sunday brunch with their delicious bloody marys!
Ohio City Galley (Sauce The City)
If you're looking for a unique dining experience, this is the place to eat. Recently opened in 2018, Ohio City Galley is a food hall located on W. 25th in Cleveland's Ohio City neighborhood. In this food hall, there are currently three restaurant concepts to choose from, including Sauce The City, Tinman, and Forest City Steaks, along with a gorgeous bar. Whether you're looking for a quick meal or a place to socialize and meet new friends, Ohio City Galley is an exceptional option for both.
Mr. Hero’s
When I was in college, Mr. Hero's was always on the list of food spots I had to have when I came home during winter and summer breaks. Since it's inception, Mr. Hero's has grown from one sole location to 20 locations across the Cleveland-Akron area. Known for its cheesesteak and roman-burger, Mr. Hero's cooks everything to order, resulting in freshly made submarines, burgers, and fries.
Soho Chicken & Whiskey
Soho Chicken & Whiskey is easily my favorite restaurant in Cleveland. Located on W. 25th, in the heart of Ohio City, Soho offers Southern-inspired fare and a fantastic brunch that’s out of this world. Just be sure to make a reservation at least a day in advance, especially if you have more than a party of two. The restaurant is relatively small and very popular on the weekend.
The Fairmount
Located on Fairmount Blvd. in Cleveland Heights, The Fairmount Cocktail Bar is more than just a bar. The Fairmount goes a step further in assuring their cocktails are the best by making their ginger beer in-house and using fresh herbs from their patio garden. And even better, their food is just as good as their cocktails. If you're looking for a nice dinner or late-night spot, the Fairmount is a great option.
Sokolowski's University Inn
If you're looking for classic Eastern European dishes with a comforting welcome, look no further than Sokolowsi's University Inn. Sokolowski's is the oldest family-owned restaurant in Cleveland and is a winner of the high-achieving James Beard "America's Classics" Award. This restaurant is an excellent homage to Polish and Eastern Europe immigrants that settled in Cleveland in the 19th and early 20th centuries
Mia Bella
Located in Cleveland's Little Italy, Mia Bella offers a taste of authentic Italian dishes without the need for your passport. Take some time to explore this historic neighborhood before dinner, and be sure to try one of their most popular dishes, the Shrimp Saganaki.
Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream
Mitchell's Ice Cream is a Cleveland staple and prides itself on using sustainable ingredients for their homemade ice cream. Their flagship store in Ohio city offers a unique experience with their tasting tours and group tours. If you're not a fan of dairy, they also have a selection of fresh fruit smoothies and vegan ice cream.
Honey Hut Ice Cream
Mitchell's Ice Cream is pretty iconic in this city, but my personal favorite is Honey Hut Ice Cream. Over the years, they have expanded their locations across Northeast Ohio, and I couldn't be happier. Back when I was in high school, I remember taking 30-minute voyages across town just to get my favorite mint chocolate chip ice cream from here. I'm not sure what it is, but there's something about their addition of pure honey and their perfect ratio of chocolate chips: ice cream that makes my heart happy.
Sweet Moses Soda Fountain & Treat Shop
Sweet Moses is holding on to the charm and nostalgia of the early 1900s Soda Fountain Shops and doing it well. Named after Cleveland's founder, Moses Cleaveland, Sweet Moses offers a variety of homemade ice cream, phosphates, floats, and sweet treats.
Malley’s Chocolates
Created in 1935, Malley's Chocolates has been a Cleveland favorite from the start. Growing up in Cleveland, I enjoyed touring their chocolate factory as a young 3rd grader, intrigued by the process, and to learn about Albert "Mike" Malley's dream-turned-into-reality. If you're looking for a souvenir or gifts to bring home, Malley's is the perfect spot. Ranging from chocolate covered pretzels to fudge to peanut brittle, Malley's has it all.
Discover The Best Things To DO IN ClEveland
Cleveland has a range of entertainment options to suit every visitor. Whether you love theatre, music, sports, or nature, you have plenty of options.
Watch a Game at a Local Bar
There’s nothing like Cleveland Sports’ Fans. When I say we’re loyal (to a fault sometimes), I mean it. If you want to experience Cleveland like a native, I suggest popping into a local bar on game day and enjoy the fun.
Go to a Game
Whether you like baseball, football, basketball - or all three - Cleveland is home to three major sports teams including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Cleveland Browns, and Cleveland Indians. Regardless of when you’re visiting, I’m sure there will be at least one game you can choose to attend.
Visit the Pro Football Hall of Fame
Although not technically in Cleveland, the Pro Football Hall of Fame is a must-see for all football fans. Located in Canton, Ohio, it's about 45 minutes to an hour away from downtown Cleveland.
Visit the Cuyahoga Valley National Park
The Cuyahoga Valley National Park follows along the Cuyahoga River with numerous hiking and bike trails, an abundance of wildlife, and gorgeous scenery. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beautiful sights.
Hike through the Cleveland Metroparks
Visit one of Cleveland's beaches
Due to Cleveland's proximity to Lake Erie, there are a handful of beaches to enjoy, especially in the summer months. You can rent a cabana, play various water sports, or just lounge on the shoreline. The closest and most popular beach near downtown Cleveland would be Edgewater beach.
Tour Cleveland's Botanical Gardens
The Cleveland Botanical Gardens houses plant life from all over the world. If you have a green thumb, or you're just interested in nature's beauty, these gardens are definitely worth seeing.
Visit the Cleveland Art Museum
The Cleveland Art Museum is one of the most popular art musuems in the world with over 760,000 people visiting from around the world in 2018. This museum has a massive collection of Egyptian and Asian art pieces along with various exhibits.
Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art
Make art at The Glass Bubble Project
The Glass Bubble Project is a glassblowing studio that offers demonstrations as well as glassblowing workshops where visitors get the chance to create their own glass masterpiece.
Make a candle at the Cleveland Candle Company
Create your custom candle with your personalized scent at the Cleveland Candle Company. Take home your candle as a souvenir or as a gift for a loved one.
Visit the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
If you love music at all, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is the best place to learn about the history of music and some of its greatest artists including the iconic Michael Jackson, the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix and the Rolling Stones.
Listen to the Cleveland Orchestra play at Severance Hall
Listen to live jazz at the Velvet Tango Room
Tour the iconic A Christmas Story House
Take some time to tour the actual house that was used to film the classic holiday movie, A Christmas Story. The house features original props used in the movie including the memorable leg lamp.
Explore Cleveland's famous West Side Market
Visit Cleveland's oldest and largest public market and experience a taste of Cleveland's history.
Ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
Ride the train on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad and participate in a murder mystery dinner, a wine tasting excursion, or a biking excursion. Be sure to check out their events calendar and book your tickets in advance.
Take a brewery tour at Great Lakes Brewing Company
See a show at the Playhouse Square
Whether it’s the Nutcracker, Hamilton, or the Lion King, make time to see a spectacular broadway show at the historical Playhouse Square.