Planning a weekend getaway to Cleveland, Ohio? This vibrant city on the shores of Lake Erie offers a rich mix of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and an emerging culinary scene.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore more of what Cleveland has to offer, this 3-day itinerary will help you experience the best of the city.
What to Know Before You Go
Best Time to Visit
Cleveland is at its best from late spring through early fall (May to October), when the weather is warm and the city’s outdoor attractions are in full swing.
If you’re visiting in the winter, be prepared for cold temperatures and snow, but you’ll also find a magical holiday atmosphere and fewer crowds at popular attractions.
Where to Stay
Downtown Cleveland is the ideal place to stay if you want to be close to major attractions like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the waterfront, and the Playhouse Square.
The neighborhoods of Ohio City and Tremont also offer great options, with trendy restaurants, boutique shops, and a lively arts scene.
Getting Around
Cleveland is a relatively easy city to navigate, with many attractions clustered together downtown.
Walking is a great option, but for attractions that are farther apart, you can rely on the RTA (Regional Transit Authority) buses and trains. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available.
Day 1: Rock and Roll, Art, and Waterfront Views
Morning: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Start your weekend with a visit to the iconic Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This museum is a must-see for music lovers, showcasing the history and impact of rock and roll through extensive exhibits, interactive displays, and memorabilia from legendary artists. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours here to fully appreciate the experience.
Mid-Morning: Cleveland Museum of Art
After soaking in the music history, head over to the Cleveland Museum of Art, one of the finest art museums in the country.
With over 45,000 works of art, including pieces from ancient Egypt to modern masterpieces, this museum is a cultural treasure trove. Admission is free, and you could easily spend several hours exploring its vast collection.
Afternoon: Lunch at University Circle and Explore Wade Oval
University Circle is home to some of Cleveland’s best cultural institutions, and it’s a great spot for lunch. Choose from a variety of cafes and restaurants that cater to all tastes.
Afterward, take a stroll through Wade Oval, a beautiful green space surrounded by museums, gardens, and historical landmarks.
Evening: Edgewater Park and the Cleveland Script Sign
End your first day with a visit to Edgewater Park, a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Enjoy a walk along the beach, take in the sunset over Lake Erie, and be sure to snap a photo at the Cleveland Script sign with the city skyline as your backdrop. For dinner, head to one of the nearby restaurants in the Ohio City neighborhood.
Day 2: Culture, History, and Local Flavors
Morning: West Side Market and Ohio City
Start your day at Cleveland’s historic West Side Market, a foodie’s paradise with over 100 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to gourmet treats.
Grab a coffee and a pastry as you explore the market, and consider picking up some local specialties for later. Afterward, take a walk through Ohio City, a vibrant neighborhood filled with unique shops, breweries, and street art.
Afternoon: Cleveland History Center and Little Italy
Next, dive into the city’s past at the Cleveland History Center, part of the Western Reserve Historical Society. This museum offers fascinating exhibits on Cleveland’s industrial history, as well as a collection of vintage cars and the historic Euclid Beach Park Grand Carousel.
Afterward, head to the Little Italy neighborhood for lunch. This charming area is known for its authentic Italian eateries, bakeries, and cultural events.
Evening: Playhouse Square and Dinner Downtown
Cleveland’s Playhouse Square is the largest performing arts district in the U.S. outside of New York City. Check out what’s playing at one of the historic theaters and enjoy a Broadway show, concert, or comedy performance.
After the show, have dinner at one of downtown Cleveland’s top restaurants, where you can savor everything from modern American cuisine to global flavors.
Day 3: Parks, Gardens, and Local Breweries
Morning: Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Spend your final morning in Cleveland exploring the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. This zoo is home to over 3,000 animals from around the world and features a variety of exhibits, including the African Savanna and the RainForest.
It’s a great spot for families and animal lovers alike. Be sure to check out the daily animal encounters and feeding sessions.
Afternoon: Cleveland Botanical Garden and University Circle
After the zoo, head back to University Circle to visit the Cleveland Botanical Garden. This lush oasis in the city offers beautiful themed gardens, a glasshouse with exotic plants and butterflies, and plenty of peaceful spots to relax.
Spend some time here before taking a leisurely walk around the rest of University Circle to soak in more of the cultural atmosphere.
Evening: Brewery Tour and Dinner in Tremont
Wrap up your Cleveland adventure with a tour of some of the city’s best local breweries. Cleveland is known for its craft beer scene, and neighborhoods like Tremont and Ohio City are home to some of the top breweries in the region.
Consider joining a guided brewery tour or creating your own self-guided crawl. Afterward, enjoy dinner at one of Tremont’s acclaimed restaurants, known for their creative menus and cozy atmospheres.