Cleveland may be best known for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and for being the filming location for the classic holiday film "A Christmas Story," but it is also a city of great parks, culture and food. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River, while foodies may want to check out Iron Chef Michael Symon's restaurants, Lola and Lolita.
When to Visit
Cleveland has four distinct seasons, with flowers blooming in the spring and colorful foliage in the fall. The summer months can get hot and humid, while the winters are frigid and snowy. Depending on your tolerance for extreme temperatures, mid-April through October are the best months for visiting Cleveland. During the spring and fall, dress in layers so that you can adjust to the fluctuating temperatures.
Paddle or Float
Kayaking and canoeing are a great way to enjoy the scenery of Cleveland while getting a workout. If you are new to paddling, 41 Degrees North Coastal Kayak Adventures offers courses that are taught by American Canoe Association-certified instructors. All equipment is included in the cost of the course, so you don't even have to worry about bringing your own kayak. Once you have the skills, you may want to consider joining the Keelhaulers Canoe Club. The club, which has about 400 members, organizes a variety of paddling adventures throughout the year, including sea kayaking, canoeing and whitewater rafting.
Hit the Trails
Cleveland Metroparks maintains more than 60 miles of paved all-purpose trails that are used for biking, running, hiking and horseback riding. For a long trail run or ride, try the 13-mile Valley Parkway Trail in the Rocky River Reservation that continues for another 8.5 miles through the Mill Stream Run Reservation. If you are new to outdoor adventures, check out Cleveland Metroparks Institute of the Great Outdoors. The IGO offers courses in camping and backpacking, canoeing and kayaking, fly fishing and biking so you can learn more about the local environment and how to safely enjoy an array of outdoor activities.
Biking Around Town
Whether you are interested in off-road biking or cycling on the city streets, setting out on two wheels is a great way to explore Cleveland. The Cleveland Area Mountain Biking Association hosts weekly group rides, so you can meet new people while working out in the fresh air. For road rides, the Cleveland Touring Club offers camaraderie for weekly and weekend recreational bike rides of varying lengths. Cleveland Bikes is a great resource for bike commuters and cycling enthusiasts in Northeast Ohio. The club also promotes the Cleveland Bicycle Week event every May.
Flying High
For spectacular views of Northeast Ohio, take to the sky. Topfun Skydiving offers a tandem jump that will have you free-falling from 10,500 feet until your parachute opens at 5,000 feet and you float for nearly 10 minutes until you reach the ground. Bungee jumping is another option if you are seeking an adrenaline rush. Luxergy offers many opportunities for adventure-seekers, including bungee jumping in the greater Cleveland area.
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