From sports to music to activities on Lake Erie, a trip to Cleveland offers visitors the opportunity to stay active from morning until well after dark. Cleveland touts major attractions such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but much of this former industrial city's true charm lies in its up-and-coming sites and venues. When planning a visit, prepare to be pleasantly surprised by what you find in this diverse northern Ohio city.
Museums and Gardens
The city's cultural district in University Circle is home to the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and the Cleveland Botanical Garden. Depending on time, soak in a taste of art and culture or spend a day immersed in each museum. At the gardens, experience firsthand the sights and fragrances of tropical plants from the Costa Rican rain forest. In the same conservatory, compare and contrast local plants found in the deserts of Madagascar.
Lake Erie Excursions
In the Cleveland suburb of Lakewood, several kayaking companies offer half-day, full-day or multiple-day trips for beginners or seasoned boaters. Head to the Emerald Necklace Marina on the Rocky River to join a tour. Kayakers experience a close view of the cliffs of Lakewood and the Cleveland skyline, as well as glimpses of heron, ducks and seagulls. Travelers should prepare for variable weather conditions and occasionally choppy water.
History at the Harbor
Cleveland lies at the mid-section of the Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail, a byway spanning Ohio's northern border. From the Cleveland Harbor, visitors can explore a lighthouse, climb aboard the U.S.S. Cod submarine, explore the World War II steamship William Mather and try out the hand-on activities at the Great Lakes Science Center. Travelers with more time can continue west on US-6 to see other trail landmarks.
Music Scene
Residents celebrated when the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame chose Cleveland as its home. The city's music venues offer an eclectic mix of sound for fans of rock, pop, classical, jazz and blues. From large outdoor arenas to intimate clubs, the Cleveland music scene is a vibrant one. When in Cleveland, check to see what's playing at Blossom Music Center, House of Blues, Nautica Pavilion, the Time Warner Amphitheatre or the Q. Symphony fans can find the Cleveland Orchestra at Severance Hall.
Hiking and Biking
Travelers willing to venture less than a half hour outside the city enjoy nearby hiking and cycling areas. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, a 33,000-acre nature preserve, features the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail for walkers, runners and cyclists. Northeast of Cleveland, Holden Arboretum offers nature classes for children and adults who enjoy exploring their natural surroundings. The arboretum has miles of woodland trails, meadows and formal gardens. Visitors can be found hiking through wooded paths or relaxing at music concerts in the main gardens.
Year-Round Sports
When in Cleveland, join some of the most loyal fans around by rooting on local baseball, basketball and football teams from convenient downtown sports arenas. The Cleveland Indians offer baseball from spring through early fall, and hardy Browns fans brave chilly football weather. For indoor excitement from fall through early spring, catch the Cavaliers on their home basketball court.
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