The excitement of traveling to a new city! Cleveland, Ohio, is a vibrant destination filled with rich history, cultural attractions, and exciting entertainment options. However, let's face it - sometimes, the last thing you want to do is play games or engage in touristy activities. You might be looking for ways to skip the games in Cleveland and enjoy the city in a more relaxed, low-key way.
Luckily, Cleveland has plenty to offer beyond the usual tourist attractions. Here are five ways to skip the games in Cleveland and explore the city at your own pace.
1. Explore Cleveland's Thriving Food Scene
Cleveland is renowned for its culinary delights, with a mix of traditional and modern eateries serving up everything from classic Polish cuisine to contemporary American fare. Instead of visiting the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame or playing games at the casino, spend the day exploring the city's food scene.
Start with a visit to the West Side Market, Ohio's oldest public market, where you can sample local specialties like pierogies, kielbasa, and freshly baked bread. Next, head to the trendy Tremont neighborhood, known for its artsy vibe and eclectic restaurants. Be sure to try some of the city's famous Polish Boy sandwiches, featuring kielbasa, barbecue sauce, and coleslaw.
Some must-try spots include:
- Lola, a trendy eatery serving up creative American cuisine
- Melt Bar & Grilled, famous for its gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches
- Sokolowski's University Inn, a beloved Polish restaurant with a lively atmosphere
2. Discover Cleveland's Natural Beauty
While many visitors flock to Cleveland's urban attractions, the city is also home to some stunning natural beauty. Take a break from the hustle and bustle and explore the great outdoors.
Start with a visit to the Cleveland Metroparks, a sprawling network of parks and nature reserves that offer hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks. Be sure to check out the scenic Lake Link Trail, which takes you on a 1.5-mile journey along the shores of Lake Erie.
Other natural attractions include:
- The Cleveland Botanical Garden, featuring over 350 species of plants and flowers
- The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, offering educational programs and nature walks
- The Rocky River Reservation, a scenic park with hiking trails and stunning views of the Rocky River
3. Visit Cleveland's World-Class Museums
Cleveland is home to a range of world-class museums that offer a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture. Instead of playing games or visiting theme parks, spend the day exploring the city's many museums.
Start with a visit to the Cleveland Museum of Art, one of the top art museums in the country. With a collection of over 45,000 works of art, you'll find everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary installations.
Other must-visit museums include:
- The Cleveland Museum of Natural History, featuring a vast collection of natural history specimens and artifacts
- The Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland, showcasing innovative and thought-provoking works of art
- The Western Reserve Historical Society, exploring the history of Northeast Ohio and the Western Reserve
4. Take a Stroll Through Cleveland's Neighborhoods
Cleveland is a city with a rich history and a strong sense of community, and one of the best ways to experience this is by exploring the city's many neighborhoods. From trendy Tremont to historic Little Italy, each neighborhood has its own unique character and charm.
Start with a visit to the Gordon Square Arts District, a vibrant neighborhood filled with independent shops, galleries, and restaurants. Next, head to the historic Asiatown neighborhood, where you can sample delicious Asian cuisine and browse the many shops and markets.
Other neighborhoods to explore include:
- The Warehouse District, a historic neighborhood with converted warehouses and trendy bars
- The Hingetown neighborhood, known for its artsy vibe and eclectic shops
- The Detroit-Shoreway neighborhood, featuring a mix of historic homes and trendy restaurants
5. Enjoy Cleveland's Vibrant Nightlife
Cleveland may not be the first city that comes to mind when thinking of nightlife, but the city has a thriving scene that's sure to impress. From trendy bars to live music venues, there's something for everyone in Cleveland.
Start with a visit to the Tremont neighborhood, which is home to some of the city's best bars and clubs. Be sure to check out the famous Prosperity Social Club, a historic bar with live music and a lively atmosphere.
Other nightlife spots include:
- The Greenhouse Tavern, a trendy bar with a focus on sustainable living
- The Velvet Tango Room, a sophisticated cocktail bar with live music
- The Beachland Ballroom, a historic music venue with live performances
In conclusion, Cleveland has plenty to offer beyond the usual tourist attractions. Whether you're interested in food, nature, museums, neighborhoods, or nightlife, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city. So why not skip the games and explore the real Cleveland?
What are some popular food destinations in Cleveland?
+Cleveland is known for its Polish cuisine, as well as its contemporary American fare. Some popular food destinations include the West Side Market, Lola, Melt Bar & Grilled, and Sokolowski's University Inn.
What are some natural attractions in Cleveland?
+Cleveland has a range of natural attractions, including the Cleveland Metroparks, the Cleveland Botanical Garden, and the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes.
What are some popular museums in Cleveland?
+Cleveland is home to a range of world-class museums, including the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, and the Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland.