10 Best Things to Do in Cleveland, OH

Looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city while you’re in town? With over 21,000 acres, the Cleveland Metroparks system has endless opportunities to hike, bike, or simply unwind in nature. Exploring some of Cleveland's metro parks is an essential part of any trip to this city.

One of the most popular parks within the system is the Rocky River Reservation. This park features stunning views of the river and plenty of scenic hiking trails for all levels. It’s not uncommon to see sightings of a variety of wildlife, such as deer, foxes, and birds.

Another must-visit park is Edgewater Park, located on Lake Erie just west of downtown. Here you’ll find beautiful beaches along the shoreline with stunning views of downtown Cleveland. This is one of the few lakes you can actually surf on! You can also rent kayaks or paddle boards to explore the lake, go fishing, or take a leisurely walk along the waterfront trail.

In addition to recreational activities, many of the Metroparks offer events throughout the year — from concerts and festivals to fitness classes that are free for visitors to attend.

The Terminal Tower, also known as Tower City Center, is a historic 52-story landmark in Cleveland and the second-tallest building in the city. It was completed in 1930, and its observation deck has become a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike.

As you make your way up to the observation deck, you'll get to see some of the stunning architecture of the building up close. From its iconic art deco exterior to its grand lobby with marble floors and ornate ceilings, every detail of the Terminal Tower is worth admiring.

Once you reach the top, you'll be greeted with a breathtaking 360-degree view of Cleveland's skyline, Lake Erie, and surrounding areas. This makes it a great spot for those interested in photography or if you’re just looking for a unique vantage point for Instagram-worthy shots. The golden hour light reflecting off downtown buildings creates stunning photo opportunities that will impress.

The Terminal Tower Observation Deck is a must-visit while you’re in town. Just keep in mind that the observation deck is open from 3 PM to 7 PM on Saturday and Sunday only, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.

Are you a die-hard music fan? Then you won’t want to miss the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame downtown. This museum is known as one of the best things to do in Cleveland, with its variety of exhibits that showcase the history and impact of rock & roll music. From iconic costumes and instruments to interactive displays, visitors can immerse themselves in the world of modern music.

One of the most popular exhibits at the Rock Hall is the Hall of Fame itself, which honors musicians who have made significant contributions to the genre — from Oasis and Ozzy Osbourne to Mary J. Blige and Mariah Carey. Inductees are chosen by a committee of industry professionals, making it a prestigious honor for any musician. One of the perks is that kids under the age of 5 are free!

If you haven’t heard of the West Side Market yet, just know that it’s a staple in Cleveland's food scene. It’s one of the oldest operating indoor fresh markets in the country and has become an iconic landmark for both locals and tourists.

Throughout the market, there are over 100 vendors offering samples of their delicious products. From locally-grown fruits and vegetables to freshly baked bread and pastries, there’s food and products from all over the world here. Whether you're craving a hot dog or fresh seafood, you'll likely find it at one of the many stands.

While visiting the market during peak hours (Saturday mornings) can get quite busy, it only adds to the lively atmosphere and allows visitors to experience a true taste of Cleveland culture.

The Metroparks Zoo is synonymous with Cleveland. If you plan on walking through all of the exhibits, you can expect to spend about three to four hours at this huge 183-acre zoo.

So, what can you expect to see here? The zoo is known for its extensive collection of primates, including Western lowland gorillas, orangutans, and lemurs. Visitors can observe these intelligent creatures up close and learn about their behaviors and conservation efforts to protect them.

It also has an impressive array of big cats, such as lions, tigers, and snow leopards. Seeing these majestic animals in person is a thrill for any animal lover. On the other hand, if marine life is more up your alley, there’s an exhibit featuring a large aquatic area with playful sea lions swimming around. You can even watch penguins waddle around on land or swim gracefully underwater.

If you plan on stopping by, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is open year-round (except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas) with varying hours depending on the season.

The Arcade Cleveland is a must-see destination for its stunning architecture alone. Built in 1890, this five-story structure features an intricate glass skylight made up of over 1000 panes of glass and allows natural light to flood the interior.

This historic landmark has been beautifully preserved and restored, making it a popular spot for photography and special events such as weddings. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the elegant corridors or sit and admire the grandeur of the building's design.

The Arcade also offers a variety of unique shops perfect for browsing or shopping. From boutique clothing stores to artisanal gift shops, there is something here for every personal style.

If all that shopping works up an appetite, take your pick from several dining options within The Arcade. Whether you're craving Italian from Pizza 216 or just need a quick coffee break, you'll find it all here.