Hey, Lykkers! Looking for a travel destination that’s off the beaten path? Cleveland, Ohio, could be your next adventure. A city filled with rich history, unique art, and wonderful green spaces, Cleveland might just surprise you.
In this article, we’ll give you the inside scoop on the best places to visit in Cleveland, with all the practical details you need—like prices, opening hours, and transportation tips—to make your trip unforgettable!
Exploring Cleveland Ohio | A Great American City in Decline?
video by At Home Anywhere
The Heart of Cleveland: A Brief City Overview
Cleveland is located at the mouth of the Cuyahoga River, on the southern shore of Lake Erie, in Cuyahoga County, Ohio. The city was once a booming industrial hub, but now it’s a modern, diverse city offering everything from museums and historic landmarks to sports and nature. The population has dwindled over the decades, but Cleveland is still Ohio’s second-largest city, with around 478,000 residents.
Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Cleveland are in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer (June to August) is also great for outdoor activities, but be prepared for higher hotel prices and larger crowds.
Transportation: Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) is the city’s main airport. From there, you can take a taxi, Uber, or the Red Line rapid transit to downtown Cleveland, which takes about 30 minutes. The city's public transportation system, RTA, also includes buses and the "Rapid" light rail.
Cleveland Museum of Art: A Cultural Gem
One of Cleveland’s top attractions is the Cleveland Museum of Art. It’s considered one of the finest art museums in the United States, boasting over 45,000 works of art from around the world. Admission is free, though special exhibits may charge an entry fee. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM, and it’s closed on Mondays.
Ticket Price: General admission is free, but special exhibitions range from $10 to $20.
How to Get There: The museum is located in the University Circle neighborhood. You can take the RTA Red Line from downtown Cleveland to the University Circle station, and the museum is just a short walk from there.
Lake View Cemetery: A Quiet Escape with Rich History
If you’re looking for something unique, don’t miss a visit to Lake View Cemetery. Located right by the lake, this cemetery is not just a resting place—it’s an outdoor museum filled with historical monuments. You can visit the James A. Garfield Memorial, which is an architectural masterpiece.
Opening Hours: The cemetery is open every day from 8 AM to 5 PM.
Ticket Price: Free, though guided tours are available for $10 per person.
How to Get There: The cemetery is located at 12316 Euclid Ave, and it’s best to drive or take a taxi. It’s about a 15-minute drive from downtown Cleveland.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are ideal for a peaceful visit with fewer tourists. The colorful autumn leaves make the cemetery’s grounds even more beautiful.
Cleveland Zoo: A Green Oasis in the City
For a day out in nature, visit the Cleveland Zoo, one of the oldest and most popular zoos in the country. The zoo houses over 3,000 animals from around the world, including lions, giraffes, and pandas. It’s a great family destination, and you can also participate in interactive experiences like animal feeding and behind-the-scenes tours.
Opening Hours: The zoo is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, but during the summer, it stays open until 7 PM.
Ticket Price:
Adults (ages 12 and up): $15
Children (ages 2-11): $10
Children under 2: Free
Parking: $8
How to Get There: The zoo is located at 3900 Wildlife Way, about 10 minutes from downtown Cleveland by car. There’s also a bus that goes directly to the zoo from the downtown area.
Best Time to Visit: The zoo is busiest in the summer, but visiting during off-peak months (spring or fall) provides a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds.
A Cultural Hub
University Circle is a vibrant area of Cleveland, known for its universities, museums, and cultural institutions. The area includes Case Western Reserve University, as well as a collection of art galleries, museums, and music venues. It’s a great spot for anyone interested in culture and education.
Best Time to Visit: Fall and spring are perfect to enjoy both the academic atmosphere and the cultural events. During the summer, there are plenty of outdoor concerts and festivals.
How to Get There: The area is easily accessible from downtown Cleveland via the RTA Red Line (University Circle stop), or you can take a bus to Euclid Avenue.
Must-See Spots in University Circle:
Cleveland Botanical Garden: Admission is $12 for adults and $6 for children.
Cleveland Orchestra at Severance Hall: Tickets range from $30 to $150 depending on the performance.
Breaking the Curse: Cleveland’s Sports Comeback
Cleveland has long been known for its “curse” in sports, but all of that changed in 2016 when the Cleveland Cavaliers won the NBA Championship. After decades of near misses, this victory brought the city together. Whether you’re a basketball fan or not, attending a game at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse is a must for sports enthusiasts.
Ticket Prices:
Cavaliers games: Prices start at $30 for upper-level seating, but premium seats can go up to $200 or more.
Browns and Indians games also offer a range of ticket prices, with general admission starting at around $20-$30.
How to Get There: Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse is located in the heart of downtown Cleveland. It’s easily accessible by the RTA Red Line or a short walk from downtown hotels.
Cleveland Awaits!
Cleveland is an exciting city with a lot to offer, from its rich history and amazing museums to peaceful parks and vibrant sports culture. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, there’s something here for everyone. With affordable attractions, friendly locals, and a diverse culture, Cleveland is definitely worth exploring.
Lykkers, are you ready to pack your bags and explore the hidden treasures of Cleveland? Let us know your favorite Cleveland spots, and we can’t wait to hear all about your adventures!
