Cleveland Travel Guide 2025

Blending culture and history with the enduring work ethic that the American Midwest is known for, Cleveland is a city that inspires those who spend time there to reach higher and persevere. Famously known as the home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland is more than a tourist destination — it's a city that has become a haven for small business owners and budding entrepreneurs. Around every corner, you will see innovative ideas coming to life, bringing an optimistic energy to all who visit.

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While navigating other major cities can be a bit overwhelming at times, Cleveland prides itself on the fact that it offers many convenient and accessible transportation options for visitors and residents alike. The best ways to get around Cleveland include:

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Cleveland is a year-round destination, allowing visitors to enjoy all four seasons. The best time of year to visit Cleveland will depend on your goals for the trip and your personal preferences while traveling.

Many locals say that spring is one of the best times of the year to visit Cleveland. During the spring, the weather is warm and comfortable, especially when compared to the cold and wet winter months. In April and May, you can expect most of the snow to be out of the forecast, with temperatures reaching into the mid-60s on most days. This is also when the Cleveland Guardians Major League Baseball teams begin playing for the season, and when the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony takes place each year, making it an excellent time to experience the atmosphere of the city.

Summer is the peak tourist season in Cleveland. While it may be a bit crowded during the summer months, the weather is ideal for enjoying all of the best outdoor activities in Cleveland. Temperatures typically reach the upper 70s and low 80s in the summer months, but it does rain frequently, so don't forget your rain gear. Most of the city's festivals and events take place during the summer months, such as the Solstice Music Festival and Tri-C JazzFest.

When fall arrives, the tourist crowds subside significantly, but the beauty of Cleveland is on full display. Locals and travel experts alike agree that September and October are the best times of the year to visit Cleveland. Between the fall colors and crisp, cool weather, it's an ideal time to cheer on the Cleveland Browns, explore one of the local parks or enjoy the Cleveland Air Show.

Due to its close proximity to Lake Erie, Cleveland winters are cold, windy and filled with snow. However, this harsh winter weather also lends itself to a particularly festive holiday season, making winter one of the top times of the year to visit Cleveland. Those who are looking for a budget-friendly getaway will find that prices are lower during the off-season, yet the ambiance of the city is unbeatable, as the downtown area is often decked out in festive decor throughout the month of December.

No matter when you decide to book your trip to Cleveland, you will find that these are a few of the top attractions in the city to enjoy. Be sure to add these activities from our Cleveland travel guide to your itinerary:

Courtesy of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum

Known as the attraction that transformed Cleveland into a travel destination, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is considered by most to be the best thing to do in Cleveland. Since its opening in 1995, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has welcomed thousands upon thousands of visitors — and hundreds of the most iconic Rock stars of the modern era — through its doors.

Serving as a museum that pays homage to the history of the rock and roll genre and the impact that artists have had on our lives, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is known for its rotating exhibits and extensive permanent collections. Featuring six levels to explore, rock and roll enthusiasts will find that they can easily spend the entire day at this attraction. Currently, some of the exhibits on display include Bon Jovi's full-floor exhibit on Level 6 that includes never-before-seen artifacts from the band, and the iconic Hall of Fame Gallery on Level 3.

In addition to showcasing immersive and engaging rock and roll exhibits, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame also hosts musical performances throughout the year. If you are lucky enough, you may be able to catch a live event during your visit to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Courtesy of A Christmas Story House & Museum

The film A Christmas Story quickly became a cult classic after its release in 1983, largely thanks to the fact that it showcased the charming and nostalgic story of a boy named Ralphie, whose endearing antics made everyone yearn for the magic of Christmas from years gone by.

The house in A Christmas Story plays a central role in the movie, which was filmed in Cleveland. Today, the house has been restored to reflect every detail of the film, giving passionate fans the opportunity to walk through the place where Ralphie nearly shot his eye out.

While A Christmas Story House tours are available year-round, it's not surprising that this is a popular holiday destination. If you plan to tour the home during November and December, you will want to make your plans in advance and purchase tickets ahead of time. Tours are known to sell out quickly during this festive time of year.

The USS Cod Submarine is the only remaining World War II Fleet Submarine that is fully intact, allowing visitors to step into history as they explore this National Historic Landmark.

Tours of the USS Cod Submarine Memorial are available year-round, and guests have the opportunity to enjoy a self-guided tour throughout the submarine to learn more about its history, the missions it accomplished and the people who served on the submarine. Famously, the submarine was a veteran of seven war patrols and it sank 12 enemy ships.

The Cleveland Museum of Art aims to be a welcoming and accessible museum that is designed for people of all ages, abilities and interest levels.

Boasting a collection that includes more than 66,500 pieces of art that were created over 6,000 years, the Cleveland Museum of Art has one of the most comprehensive collections in the Midwest. Any visitor is sure to find a piece that moves them and speaks to them, allowing them to connect with art in new and exciting ways.

In addition to the guided tours that are available throughout the main museum, visitors also can enjoy making and creating their own art at the Cleveland Museum of Art. On the weekends, the Community Arts Center is open to the public, and guests have the opportunity to participate in arts-based workshops and classes, giving them a chance to discover new interests and abilities in art.

If you are traveling to Cleveland, you will want to make a point to stop by the West Side Market, which dates back to 1840, making it the oldest public market in the city. Today, the market is open on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, and during that time, shoppers are able to purchase products from more than 70 different vendors, including those selling meat, seafood, local produce, baked goods, fresh flowers and more. The market has become famous for its ethnic diversity, showcasing the melting pot that is Cleveland and giving tourists as well as locals the opportunity to try new flavors and experience fresh food. Whether you are looking for a sweet treat to enjoy or you want to bring home a treasured souvenir from Cleveland, you will definitely want to stop by the West Side Market during your trip to Cleveland.

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Since so many of the best things to do in Cleveland are located within proximity to one another in the downtown area, it's not surprising that many of the top hotels in the city can be found downtown.

These are some of the the best places to stay in Cleveland, depending on your preferences:

Offering a reimagined sense of luxury in the heart of downtown Cleveland, The Ritz Carlton, Cleveland is designed for guests searching for an elevated experience. With more than 200 guest rooms available as well as a fitness center and all-day lounge, this hotel is famously known as the only true luxury hotel in downtown Cleveland. Guests can choose between Lake Erie and Cleveland skyline views, and they will enjoy a refreshing and nourishing stay in a hotel that has redesigned itself to be as peaceful and serene as possible.

Often described as daring and modern, the Metropolitan at the 9, Autograph Collection provides guests with a truly distinct stay in Cleveland. The decor at this hotel blends classic style with modern advancement. The latest technology is incorporated into every guest room, ultimately providing a seamless experience for all who stay there. While this hotel is located near many of the top attractions in downtown Cleveland, some guests find it hard to leave, thanks to the incredible amenities on-site, such as the historic bank vaults that serve as dining locations, the rooftop lounge and indoor dog park.

While the exterior of the Kimpton Schofield Hotel resembles the iconic architecture of the early 20th century, the interior boasts modern touches and upscale amenities around every corner. This historic boutique hotel in downtown Cleveland offers travelers the opportunity to enjoy an immersive and enlightening stay in the city, featuring farm-to-table menus, craft coffee from local Cleveland vendors and artisanal products available for purchase. Perhaps what stands out the most about this innovative hotel is the surprising amenities that are available, such as a Peloton bike complete with a catalog of courses, a children's book library for young travelers to enjoy and yoga mats for guests who want to prioritize their mental health and physical well-being during their stay.

Style, comfort and convenience define any stay at the Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower. Conveniently located across the street from the convention center, this hotel is preferred by business travelers as well as families who want to be centrally-located in the city. Known for its spacious rooms that may offer views of Lake Erie, this hotel effortlessly balances affordability with luxury. Those who stay here will not only enjoy being steps away from the top attractions in Cleveland, but they also will have access to a state-of-the-art spa and fine dining restaurant on location.

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Throughout downtown Cleveland, you will find an array of restaurants featuring eclectic menu items from around the world. Developing a reputation for its stellar food scene, Cleveland has evolved into a true dining destination.

These are some of the best restaurants in Cleveland:

Relying on the motto "Midwest Nice," Cordelia aims to be a familiar and friendly restaurant for visitors and locals alike. It is a relative newcomer to the Cleveland food scene, but it has quickly made an impact, earning the title of the best new restaurant in the city in 2023. The American menu at this restaurant features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring that every meal is packed with flavor. As a result, the menu shifts and evolves throughout the year, giving repeat diners an opportunity to experience something new every time they arrive. Cordelia is one of the hottest new restaurants in Cleveland, so you will want to make your reservations in advance if you want to get a table.

Considered by many to be the best seafood restaurant in Cleveland, Blue Point Grille is an ideal restaurant for a romantic night on the town or an important business dinner. This restaurant has earned a reputation not only for its excellent menu, but also for its cosmopolitan atmosphere. The dining room features floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing you to soak up the beauty and grandeur of the Cleveland skyline. From fresh walleye from the Great Lakes to Maryland crab, you will be served up the freshest seafood at this fine dining restaurant.

No trip to Cleveland would be complete without an Italian dining experience in the city's Little Italy neighborhood. Valerio's Restaurant is the perfect choice, offering an extensive Italian menu as well as an irresistible atmosphere. For more than 25 years, this restaurant has been providing diners with an authentic and luxurious experience, largely because of its commitment to creating all of its meals from scratch. While you can't go wrong with anything on the menu, you simply must try the linguine with clam or the mushroom ravioli.

Offering a uniquely Cleveland take on classic barbecue selections, Mabel's BBQ has quickly become a mainstay in the city. This restaurant opened its doors in 2016, and since then, it has earned the respect and admiration of barbecue lovers from around the world. It sets itself apart from other barbecue restaurants by adding Bertman's Ballpark Mustard into its barbecue sauce and smoking all meats over local fruitwood — they have created a flavor that truly reflects the dynamics of this vibrant community. For a meal that is casual and comforting, be sure to stop by this Cleveland staple.

Anyone in Cleveland will tell you that Giovanni's is one of the best places to celebrate a special occasion or milestone moment in the city. However, it's not just Clevelanders who recognize its greatness — this restaurant has been ranked as one of the top 120 restaurants in the entire country. At Giovanni's, you will enjoy impeccable service and an unforgettable Italian meal. Its classic, upscale decor and peaceful atmosphere makes it the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring the city.

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Capturing the heart of the city and the grit of the local people can be difficult without the right backdrop. These are the best photo spots in Cleveland for showing off your trip to this incredible city:

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While you will find that there's plenty to do in downtown Cleveland and throughout the city, you may be interested in some of these day trips from Cleveland:

Along the shores of Lake Erie in Sandusky is one of the greatest theme parks in the United States. Cedar Point has long been known as the roller coaster capital of the world, so if you are looking to add a bit of thrill to your Cleveland getaway, then be sure to visit this destination. This is a seasonal attraction that opens in late spring and closes down at the end of October, making it a favorite spot for family summer vacations.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the only national park in Ohio, and it's a favorite destination among adventure seekers who are visiting Cleveland. Featuring more than 125 miles of hiking trails — many of which lead to cascading waterfalls and spectacular vistas — you will find that it's easy to spend an entire day exploring this wondrous park. Some of the top attractions in Cuyahoga Valley National Park include Brandywine Falls and the Virginia Kendall Ledges.

Famously located in Ohio's wine country, Geneva-on-the-Lake is a charming resort town that evokes feelings of nostalgia and serenity. Whether you want to spend the day wine tasting at the local wineries or dipping your toes in the soft waves of Lake Erie, you will find that this is a wonderful summer day trip destination and a great break from the hustle and bustle of downtown Cleveland.

iStockphoto.com / Rachael Frances

Your trip to Cleveland doesn't have to break the bank. Use these tips in order to stick to your budget while you are in the city:

Once you’ve gathered inspiration for your dream Cleveland trip on Trip Canvas, contact one of AAA’s Travel Agents today to start making your dream a reality, using your AAA membership to access exclusive deals. No matter your budget, they can help you simplify the planning process with prepackaged trips or à la carte options.