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September
19
19
What To Do in Cleveland, Ohio | The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary
Cleveland is a fantastic city worth exploring — whether you're a visitor just passing through or you've lived in the region for decades. In fact, many Ohioans have yet to experience all that this vibrant city has to offer!
Take a look at our weekend itinerary for Cleveland, offering a general overview of some highlights of the city. Here are some of the best things to do in Cleveland if you only have a couple of days to see it all!
While you're in Tremont, you cannot pass up a visit to the Christmas Story house. Opt for a quick photo op outside the house, which includes the iconic leg lamp in the window, or linger a bit longer to explore the museum across the street. The museum features original props, costumes and various memorabilia from the film, in addition to hundreds of rare behind-the-scenes photos. This legendary house and its accompanying museum are open year-round seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Linger in Ohio City a bit longer (and work off the food you just devoured) and explore West Side Market, Cleveland's oldest public market, which is home to 100 vendors offering meats, seafood, fruits, vegetables, baked goods, dairy, flowers, ready-to-eat foods, spices and nuts. Continue to wander throughout this trendy neighborhood, popping in and out of shops, like Room Service, Wild Cactus Boutique and XHIBITION. Top off your visit with a sweet treat at Mitchell's Ice Cream, considered the best ice cream shop in Cleveland. The Mitchell's flagship is located in a former theater in the heart of Ohio City, which is where all of the production is done!
The downtown area of Cleveland has experienced a renaissance in recent years, ultimately making it one of America's hottest cities in 2016. From gorgeous historic structures to shiny modern skyscrapers, the city is teeming with excitement and history. The Cleveland Museum of Art was ranked the second best museum in America by Business Insider in 2016 — and it's easy to see why. The mission statement of this award-winning museum is to create "transformative experiences through art, for the benefit of all the people forever." That also means admission is free to all!
Admire an impressive work of art in the form of architecture at The Arcade, America's first indoor shopping center established in 1890. Today, this stunning building is home to the Hyatt Regency Cleveland, boutique shops, various services, a food court and fine dining destinations.
Take a stroll through the new Public Square, a beautifully landscaped two-block central plaza in the heart of the city. The square was part of the original town plat overseen by Moses Cleaveland in 1796 and now acts as an integral part of the city's landscape. The three tallest buildings in Cleveland all face the square, including Key Tower, 200 Public Square and the Terminal Tower.
DAY ONE
Start With Coffee
Any good day starts with a cup of coffee and a pastry. Cleveland has no shortage of local coffee shops, like duck-rabbit coffee in Tremont. This vibrant cafe roasts its own coffee in-house and offers a simple menu of tried-and-true options, ranging from pour overs to lattes, and cold brew to turmeric and ginger tea. Starting your day at this particular shop means you're not far from the rest of the activities on the morning's itinerary!Must-Visit Attraction
While you're in Tremont, you cannot pass up a visit to the Christmas Story house. Opt for a quick photo op outside the house, which includes the iconic leg lamp in the window, or linger a bit longer to explore the museum across the street. The museum features original props, costumes and various memorabilia from the film, in addition to hundreds of rare behind-the-scenes photos. This legendary house and its accompanying museum are open year-round seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Eat Lunch
Make your way to the nearby Ohio City neighborhood, filled with endless things to do and see. For a list of other ideas during your visit, take a look at the many things to do in Ohio City — from theaters to churches and ice cream shops to restaurants. Some of our favorite lunch spots in Ohio City include The Flying Fig, Bakersfield, Town Hall and Crop Bistro.Explore Ohio City
Linger in Ohio City a bit longer (and work off the food you just devoured) and explore West Side Market, Cleveland's oldest public market, which is home to 100 vendors offering meats, seafood, fruits, vegetables, baked goods, dairy, flowers, ready-to-eat foods, spices and nuts. Continue to wander throughout this trendy neighborhood, popping in and out of shops, like Room Service, Wild Cactus Boutique and XHIBITION. Top off your visit with a sweet treat at Mitchell's Ice Cream, considered the best ice cream shop in Cleveland. The Mitchell's flagship is located in a former theater in the heart of Ohio City, which is where all of the production is done!
Visit a Brewery
This area has no shortage of breweries either, including the renowned Great Lakes Brewing Company, which has a brewpub and a seven-barrel brewhouse situated side-by-side. Other nearby favorites include Market Garden Brewery and Hansa Brewery. Venture out of the area to visit Noble Beast or Masthead Brewing Co., or fit in several breweries by hopping on board the Cleveland Brew Bus, which makes stops at some of the city's best breweries, including Platform, Terrestrial and Forest City Brewery.Grab Dinner
Photo Courtesy of Megann Galehouse via Salt+
If you can't get enough of Ohio City, you may consider visiting SOHO Chicken + Whiskey for a delicious and hearty Southern dinner focused on — you guessed it — chicken and whiskey! Otherwise, some of the best dinner spots in the city include Il Rione Pizzeria, Edwins, Gigi's on Fairmount, Red, the Steakhouse, Salt+, and The Greenhouse Tavern. If you're looking for a particularly fancy option, you might want to make a reservation at one of the most romantic restaurants in Cleveland!See a Concert or Show
Top off your eventful day with a show at one of the best venues in the city. Check out the line-up for upcoming shows at any of the many music venues in Cleveland, such as The Beachland Ballroom in Waterloo, the Grog Shop in Coventry, or the famous Agora Ballroom. If theater is more your scene, take a look at the schedules for Playhouse Square, considered one of the nation's largest theater districts, boasting nine venues attracting acts of all sizes and styles. More affordable venues include the Cleveland Public Theatre in Gordon Square and Dobama Theatre in Cleveland Heights.DAY TWO
Start With Coffee
Photo Courtesy of Pour Cleveland
Try out another exceptional coffee shop to kick off day two, this time sticking closer to the heart of downtown. Pour Cleveland is a bright and modern multi-roaster pour over and espresso bar with a simple menu and a focus on crafting exceptional coffee. Ask about the current pour over or opt for a latte or hot cocoa.Must-Visit Attraction
Considered one of the most renowned attractions in the region, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a must-visit for both visitors and locals alike. This beautiful modern museum nestled along the shore of Lake Erie showcases some of the best-known and most influential artists, producers, engineers and musical figures throughout history. Explore six levels of exhibits spanning decades of rock and roll history seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Wednesdays until 9 p.m.Go to the Beach
While you're near the water, make a point to visit Edgewater Park, a massive park along the shore of Lake Erie. This 147-acre park features 9,000 feet of shoreline, dog and swim beaches, boat ramps, a fishing pier, picnic area and grills, and a rentable pavilion. The Edgewater Beach House is a modern lakefront eatery with a great selection of beer and delicious food.View this post on Instagram
Eat Lunch
Speaking of dining along the lake, there are plenty of waterfront restaurants in Cleveland to choose from! Alley Cat Oyster Bar is an excellent oyster bar along the Cuyahoga River in the Flats East Bank entertainment district. Mainstays include oysters, mussels, clams, lobster, fresh fish, chicken, steak, chowders, soups and salads. Nuevo Modern Mexican & Tequila Bar is a modern Mexican eatery situated along Lake Erie serving an array of Mexican fare complemented by a robust tequila menu. The lush patios both upstairs and down offer beautiful lake views and cozy fire pits. Coastal Taco Bar + Chill is a casual and vibrant Mexican eatery nestled along the river next door to Punch Bowl Social. Coastal Taco offers an incredible selection of tacos, chips and guacamole, and unbeatable margaritas.Explore Downtown Cleveland
The downtown area of Cleveland has experienced a renaissance in recent years, ultimately making it one of America's hottest cities in 2016. From gorgeous historic structures to shiny modern skyscrapers, the city is teeming with excitement and history. The Cleveland Museum of Art was ranked the second best museum in America by Business Insider in 2016 — and it's easy to see why. The mission statement of this award-winning museum is to create "transformative experiences through art, for the benefit of all the people forever." That also means admission is free to all!
Admire an impressive work of art in the form of architecture at The Arcade, America's first indoor shopping center established in 1890. Today, this stunning building is home to the Hyatt Regency Cleveland, boutique shops, various services, a food court and fine dining destinations.
Take a stroll through the new Public Square, a beautifully landscaped two-block central plaza in the heart of the city. The square was part of the original town plat overseen by Moses Cleaveland in 1796 and now acts as an integral part of the city's landscape. The three tallest buildings in Cleveland all face the square, including Key Tower, 200 Public Square and the Terminal Tower.
Visit the Cultural Gardens
If time allows, escape the busyness of downtown with a visit to the Cleveland Cultural Gardens in Rockefeller Park just outside the city. The lush grounds host more than 30 gardens, all designed and cultivated by distinct cultural or nationality groups, representing the diversity and multiculturalism of the city. The gardens are often driven through rather than explored by foot and admission is free!Grab Dinner
Photo Courtesy of Butcher and the Brewer
The renowned East Fourth block is home to some of the most exceptional eateries in the city. In fact, one celebrity chef (and James Beard Award-winner!) runs two restaurants in this adorable pedestrian-only alleyway adorned with string lights. Michael Symon runs Lola Bistro, a sleek New American eatery, and Mabel's BBQ, a swanky, industrial-chic BBQ joint with a wide selection of bourbons. Also, don't miss Butcher and the Brewer for delicious brews and a wide array of seasonal and local bites.Find a Speakeasy
Top off the ultimate Cleveland weekend with a visit to one of the most secretive (and not-so-secretive) watering holes in the city. Visit the Prohibition-era Speakeasy in Cleveland Heights, Society Lounge on East Fourth, or Luxe Kitchen & Lounge, each of which offer an exclusive and sophisticated feel, serving up some of the best creative concoctions in the city.Happy Exploring!
Which hotspots would you add to the itinerary? Let us know in the comments below!
September
12
12
The 13 Best Pumpkin Patches, Apple Orchards and Corn Mazes to Visit Near Cleveland, Mapped
This post was updated on August 20, 2019, to reflect current information.
Fall is officially here! Though we had a tough time bidding summer farewell, we are thrilled at the prospect of a new season filled with vibrant colors, warm apple cider and plenty of pumpkins. Visiting a pumpkin patch or an apple orchard is a beloved tradition here in Ohio, as it allows us to soak up some autumn sunshine, take a hayride and gather some amazing fall bounty. Whether you're looking to gather some apples for making pie, pick-your-own pumpkin to carve into a jack-o-lantern or simply wanting to enjoy some good old-fashioned family fun, these local orchards and patches should provide you with some incredible fall memories. Enjoy!Bauman Orchards
161 Rittman Avenue, Rittman
Photo courtesy of Bauman Orchards
If you make the hour-long journey to Bauman Orchards in Rittman, you will be treated to more than 40,000 apple trees and 18 different varieties (10 available to pick yourself). Visitors can pick their own apples from September 1 through October 13, and afterwards, are invited to enjoy fresh-pressed apple cider (and maybe a few baked goods) in the market. Looking for a pumpkin, gourd or squash for eating or decorating? You can find those in the market as well. Tip: Don't miss the Fall Festival on September 21, September 28 and October 5! There will be pick-your-own apples as well as live music, pony rides, a hay maze, homemade caramel apples, a petting zoo and more.Beriswill's Farm Market and Corn Maze
2200 Station Road, Valley City Since 1955, the family at Beriswill Farms has grown and raised a wide range of agricultural products including corn, soybeans, vegetables, pumpkins and cattle. During the fall months, you can come get lost in the giant corn maze and pick the perfect pumpkin to carve!Brasee's Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch
18421 State Route 58, Wellington A day full of family fun awaits you at Brasee's Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch. The farm is open this fall on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from September 15 to October 29, where you can get lost in the eight-acre maze, explore the petting zoo, enjoy a cup of cider and pick the perfect pumpkin to carve at home.Derthick's Corn Maze
5182 Twinsburg Warren Road, Mantua Derthick's Corn Maze is a favorite amongst northeast Ohio families for a number of reasons — the gigantic and ornate maze, the cow train, the two 300-foot ziplines, and the pick-your-own pumpkin patch are just a few of those reasons! Come see what all of the fuss is about starting opening day (September 14) and on weekends through the end of October.Hillcrest Orchards
50336 Telegraph Road, Amherst
Hillcrest Orchards strives to grow the highest quality apples, the largest pumpkins, the juiciest peaches and the happiest family memories. On weekends during the fall, you will be treated to a fun wagon ride out to the apple orchard or pumpkin patch, as well as sage picking advice to help you harvest the cream of the crop. Make sure to check the 2018 ripening calendar before planning your visit.
Mapleside Farms
294 Pearl Road, Brunswick Mapleside Farms is nothing short of idyllic. The orchard is set on rolling hills and includes more than 4,000 apple trees with 17 different varieties of apples. For this reason, it's a popular destination for stocking up on fruit, but the venue also hosts concerts and other fun community events year-round. It's a great destination for building new seasonal traditions — watching the fall sunsets, enjoying hayrides or digging into a freshly baked apple pie!Miller's Apple Hill, Ltd.
50549 Telegraph Road, Amherst This family-owned market is a favorite year-round, but especially during the fall months. Starting in September, bring the family and pick-your-own-apples in the scenic orchards. After you have picked your fill, peruse the market for fresh pastries, baking supplies and more. The Apple Pickin' Spree on September 29 offers free admission, wagon rides, great food, crafts and pick-your-own apples. Pumpkin Land (set up throughout the fall) includes fun photo opportunities and a large play area for the kiddos.Monroe's Orchard and Farm Market
6313 Pioneer Trail, Hiram
Photo courtesy of Monroe's Orchard and Farm Market
Monroe's Orchard is a must-visit location for families looking for a fun day out in the sun. You'll find fresh fruits year-round, but it would be a shame to miss the sight of the bountiful apple orchards and the pick-your-own pumpkins during the fall months. The Apple Harvest Festival begins on the last Saturday of September, and is also when the pumpkins are available!Patterson Fruit Farm
11414 Caves Road, Chesterland The team at Patterson Fruit Farm enjoys providing food for their local community and sharing the farming experience with families who stop by for a day of adventuring! During apple season (August through early winter), the farm invites you to take a wagon ride and pick-your-own apples from more than 30 varieties grown on site. And if you're looking for a true dose of seasonal fun (and maybe a pumpkin or two), Fun Fest runs from September 15 through October 28. The festival boasts a full lineup of family-friendly activities, including horse-drawn wagon rides, giant haystacks, a corn maze, pumpkin painting and more!Pick 'N' Save Orchard
1222 Ledge Road, Medina Most of the customers at Pick 'n' Save Orchard are regulars that return year after year. This is likely due to the unparalleled hospitality and family-friendly environment that has become a tradition here. The farm is a wonderful destination for fruit picking year-round (raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, oh my), but the apples are the main event. Stop by between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tuesdays-Sundays to see for yourself!Red Wagon Farm
16081 East River Road, Columbia Station
Red Wagon Farm is known for its incredible selection of local produce, which (depending on the season) includes pick-your-own strawberries, peaches, sweet corn, tomatoes and more. During the fall months, don't miss the pumpkin festival, which runs on weekends from September 22 to October 28 this year. Activities include wagon rides, a corn maze, face painting, delicious food, and a selection of seasonal homegrown produce in the market — including pumpkins, of course.
Rittman Orchards & Farm Market
13548 Mount Eaton Road, Doylestown Rittman Orchards has a reputation for being one of the most fun (and most scenic) destinations in the fall! The market (open year-round) offers a wide variety of baked goods and fresh produce, but fruit-picking is the real draw of this location. Strawberries, peaches, apples and more are all available for you to grab straight from the source. View the apple chart to see what's ripe.Sage's Apples
11355 Chardon Road, Chardon
Photo courtesy of Sage's Apples
Sage's Apples is celebrating its 151st anniversary this year and it's no surprise why it has been so successful for so long! The farm grows more than 50 varieties of apples and sells a wide range of fresh produce in its market year-round. While you aren't actually able to pick-your-own apples at this location, the market offers several delicious varieties that you won't be able to find anywhere else, as well as a spectacular selection of melons, berries, peppers, corn and other local fruits and vegetables. It's certainly worth a visit!Enjoy the fall season!
Do you have a favorite spot you frequent this time of year? Share them with us in the comments!
July
6
6
The 10 Most Picturesque Waterfalls Near Cleveland, Mapped
TLC once sang "don't go chasing waterfalls," but they must not have lived in Cleveland. In this gem of a city, we are lucky to be surrounded by abundant natural beauty, including a number of sparkling waterfalls within easy reach. If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few moments, chasing waterfalls might be just what the doctor ordered.
We rounded up 10 incredible waterfall hikes (or leisurely walks) in the area, so grab your camera, your loved ones, your favorite picnic lunch, and explore one of these local treasures!
Brandywine Falls
Brandywine Falls is among the most popular attractions in Cuyahoga Valley National Park and there's no mystery as to why. The spectacular falls cascade 65 feet into a lush gorge surrounded by natural moss and colorful foliage. The boardwalk allows you to view the waterfall from an elevated platform — and you can also take stairs down to the gorge to explore the sandstone below. There are two ways to get there. You can either start at the Brandywine Gorge Trailhead and hike the easy 1.5 miles to the platform, or extend the hike by parking at Stanford House and walk 3.8 miles to your destination. The longer hike takes you past gorgeous vistas, colorful wildflowers and serene forests, so you will hardly notice the additional distance.
The falls are a wonderful place to spend a hot summer afternoon, but for your safety, the National Park Service asks that visitors refrain from climbing the rocks or jumping the fences.
Brandywine Falls
Brandywine Falls is among the most popular attractions in Cuyahoga Valley National Park and there's no mystery as to why. The spectacular falls cascade 65 feet into a lush gorge surrounded by natural moss and colorful foliage. The boardwalk allows you to view the waterfall from an elevated platform — and you can also take stairs down to the gorge to explore the sandstone below. There are two ways to get there. You can either start at the Brandywine Gorge Trailhead and hike the easy 1.5 miles to the platform, or extend the hike by parking at Stanford House and walk 3.8 miles to your destination. The longer hike takes you past gorgeous vistas, colorful wildflowers and serene forests, so you will hardly notice the additional distance.
The falls are a wonderful place to spend a hot summer afternoon, but for your safety, the National Park Service asks that visitors refrain from climbing the rocks or jumping the fences.
Mill Creek Falls
Standing 48 feet in the air, Mill Creek Falls is the tallest waterfall in Cuyahoga County. The falls are tucked away in the Garfield Park Reservation of the Cleveland Metroparks, and the picturesque surroundings make for a gorgeous hike during any season. Hike just over a mile and a half from the trailhead in Garfield Park to reach Mill Creek Falls. Once you're there, you can take in the majesty from one of two different observation decks!Great Falls of Tinker's Creek
There are so many metroparks in the Cleveland area, it can be tough to decide which one to visit first. But here's one reason that Viaduct Park deserves your attention — the Great Falls at Tinker's Creek are nothing short of picturesque, surrounded by charming woodlands and gorgeous cliffs. It's the perfect destination for a romantic picnic, or for simply enjoying some peace and quiet.Blue Hen Falls
Photo courtesy of the National Park Service
Visit one of the prettiest destinations in Cuyahoga Valley National Park! Spring Creek drops fifteen feet over smooth Berea sandstone to a layer of Bedford shale below — and when the sun is sparkling through the trees just right, it's a photographer's dream! The hike to get there is not strenuous. Walk a half mile on the Blue Hen Falls Trail from the trailhead at 2001 Boston Mills Road, crossing Spring Creek via an old wooden bridge, until you reach your destination.Buttermilk Falls
If you'd like to see two waterfalls in one day, we recommend linking Blue Hen Falls and Buttermilk Falls. These two idyllic destinations are located within easy reach of each other — in fact, you can hike between them! Take the hike up to Blue Hen Falls using the instructions listed above, and then trek an additional 1.2 miles down to Buttermilk Falls. The hike is a bit steep (and sometimes slippery) so make sure to wear hardy footwear! But the reward at the end is definitely worth it. Splash around in the falls to cool off before returning to the Blue Hen trailhead.Paine Falls Park
Photo courtesy of Lake Metroparks
If you're looking for minimum hiking with maximum views, Paine Falls Park is your spot. Conveniently located along I-90, the small metropark features restrooms, grills, a picnic area, picturesque bridges and a stunning, two-tiered waterfall. It's the perfect rest stop on a trip, but also a wonderful destination for a peaceful afternoon.Bridal Veil Falls
Named for the veil-like effect the water makes when flowing over small pieces of sandstone, Bridal Veil Falls measures 30 feet tall in the heart of Walton Hills, Ohio. You can reach the falls easily from the Buckeye Trailhead! Walk just a quarter mile down to the perfect viewing platform. The area is spectacular with or without water, but we recommend visiting after a heavy rain to ensure that the falls are flowing.Chagrin Falls
Photo courtesy of Chagrin Falls
Chagrin Falls (the namesake of the small town they reside in) are unique in that they are located smack dab in the center of an urban area. The falls are perfect for an afternoon picnic, fishing or even a quick dip! In fact, they made our list of the best swimming holes near Cleveland. Walk down the stairs from the street to access all of it!East Falls and West Falls at Cascade Park
Visit two falls in one trip by heading to the aptly named Cascade Park in Elyria, Ohio. Flanking the Black River, the 135-acre park is filled with lush greenery, wildlife and several pedestrian trails for exploring. The West Falls (the taller of the two), stand at 35 feet and shadow a 50-foot cave that allows you to view the cascade from the other side — a fun adventure on warm weather days. The East Falls are slightly smaller but definitely worth the visit! The water tumbles over impressive rock formations and sandstone to crash into the basin below. While you're here, look out for the remains of an old mill on the banks of the Black River!Lanterman's Falls
Lanterman's Mill dates back to 1845, and is recognized as one of Mahoning County's most historic landmarks — and one of its most picturesque! The mill overlooks Lanterman's Falls, which makes for a great photo from the outside. But don't leave without venturing in — the mill still offers stone-ground flours and gifts to the public, and is staffed by knowledgeable people who can inform you about the history of the area!Enjoy your waterfall adventure!
June
29
29
9 Romantic Lodges on Lake Erie to Escape to This Season
Those living on America's East or West coast might have the ocean at their doorstep, but they don't know what they're missing. Lake Erie, which spans Ohio's entire northern border and stretches all the way to Buffalo, New York, boasts pristine sandy beaches, lush surroundings, nearby vineyards and plenty of romantic lodges to take it all in. Regardless of the season, a vacation to Lake Erie is always a great idea. That's why we rounded up 10 of the most irresistibly romantic lodges near the coast!
Next time you're booking a getaway, look to one of these charming inns — each guaranteed to provide you with memories to last you a lifetime.
The Lakehouse Inn
5653 Lake Road East, Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio
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