If you’re looking for a city with lakefront views, amazing museums, and real rock ‘n’ roll energy, I think you’ll love Cleveland. You’ll find it right on the edge of Lake Erie. I always feel like it offers the perfect mix of culture, history, and fun. I’ve spent days exploring galleries, checking out local eats, and even catching a Guardians game. You can do it all here.
Whether you want a laid-back walk through a museum or an exciting night out, I think you’ll find something in Cleveland that feels just right for you.
Best Time to Visit
I find it enjoyable to visit the late spring through early fall (May to October). This period offers ideal weather for lakefront activities, festivals, and exploring the city. Winters are cold and snowy but festive with holiday markets and indoor attractions.
How to Get There
- By Car: Cleveland is easily accessible via I-71, I-77, and I-90. It’s about 2 hours from Columbus and 2.5 hours from Pittsburgh.
- By Air: Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) is the city’s primary airport, located about 15 miles southwest of downtown.
- By Train: Amtrak provides service via the Capitol Limited and Lake Shore Limited lines to Cleveland’s downtown station.
Where to Stay
- Metropolitan at The 9 – Upscale boutique hotel in the heart of downtown with chic decor and rooftop bar.
- Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland Downtown – Historic property with modern comfort and complimentary breakfast and evening snacks.
- Hilton Cleveland Downtown – Sleek hotel connected to the Huntington Convention Center with lake and skyline views.
Best Things to Do in Cleveland, Ohio
Spend a Culture-Filled Day Exploring University Circle -
Get Inspired by Masterpieces at the Cleveland Museum of Art -
Taste Global Flavors at West Side Market -
Stroll Through History at the Cleveland Cultural Gardens -
Dive Into Aquatic Adventures at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium -
Celebrate Aviation Pioneers at the International Women's Air and Space Museum -
Experience Bold Creativity at MOCA Cleveland -
Savor Italian Charm and Cuisine in Little Italy -
Explore Student Innovation at the Cleveland Institute of Art -
Rock Out at the Iconic Rock and Roll Hall of Fame -
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Spend a Culture-Filled Day Exploring University Circle
- • Get Inspired by Masterpieces at the Cleveland Museum of Art
- • Taste Global Flavors at West Side Market
- • Stroll Through History at the Cleveland Cultural Gardens
- • Dive Into Aquatic Adventures at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium
- • Celebrate Aviation Pioneers at the International Women's Air and Space Museum
- • Experience Bold Creativity at MOCA Cleveland
- • Savor Italian Charm and Cuisine in Little Italy
- • Explore Student Innovation at the Cleveland Institute of Art
- • Rock Out at the Iconic Rock and Roll Hall of Fame