2025 Cleveland Official Insider Guide

About DESTINATION CLEVELAND

Destination Cleveland is the non-profit destination marketing and management organization for Cuyahoga County. Our primary job: We spend every day helping more people discover the real Cleveland.

As unapologetic promoters of Cleveland, we work to fulfill our mission to stimulate economic growth by attracting people and connecting them to experiences that illustrate Cleveland’s diversity, creativity and contagious passion. We are the publisher of the Cleveland Official Insider Guide, and for that, you’re welcome.

Jon Pinney, Chairman

David Gilbert, President & CEO

Hannah Belsito, Chief Experience Officer

Marie Scalia, Chief Marketing Officer

Gordon Taylor III, Chief Sales Officer

Emily Lauer, Vice President, PR & Communications

Steven Dieringer, Vice President of Finance

Jennifer Valencic, Vice President, Destination Engagement

Lexi Robinson, Senior Director of Content & Managing Editor

Anson Hall, Director of Industry & Partner Engagement

Alex Harnocz, Director of Destination Development

Jim Ray, Design & Production

Lori Dean, Design & Production

Jennifer Jones Donatelli, Contributing Editor

Published by Destination Cleveland

Mark Schutte, Senior Manager - Publications

Advertising Sales by Destination Cleveland

Barbara Felt, Senior Relationship Manager

Robert Sulzmann, Senior Relationship Manager

Destination Cleveland

Euclid Avenue

Phone:

Website: thisiscleveland.com

Email:

Thisiscleveland.com

Find hotels, search our up-to-date events calendar, plan your itinerary, read our articles and sign up for eNews updates. Join The Convo X.com/TheCLE facebook.com/ThisisCleveland instagram.com/ThisisCLE pinterest.com/ThisisCLE youtube.com/ThisisCLE linkedin.com/company/ destinationcleveland/ thisiscleveland.com/blog

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or recommendation by Destination Cleveland. Destination Cleveland is not responsible for errors, changes or omissions. Information within the advertisements is the sole responsibility of the advertiser. © Copyright 2025 Destination Cleveland. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced by any means without the consent of Destination Cleveland.

Contributing Writers:

Silk Crystal Leslie Kevin Tricia Allen Angersola Basalla- Carpenter Chaves McCafferty

Alysse Jen Jones Rebecca Lisa Vince Dalessandro Donatelli Ferlotti Galek Guerrieri

Douglas Aja Dairian Sharon Nicole Guth Hannah Heard Holbrook Miller

Roxanne Bri Sarah Angel Ilona Ocasio Oldham Parr Wallace Westfall

Maureen Annie Wise Zaleski

PUTTING CARE FIRST

At Cleveland Clinic, we know your needs are unique, and your health journey requires trust and compassion. That’s why we make your complexities our specialties. From expert second opinions to routine screenings and life-altering treatment, care is at the core of everything we do. Let’s begin your health journey together. Visit ClevelandClinic.org/Access.

VISITOR INFORMATION

START YOUR VISIT HERE

CLEVELAND VISITORS CENTER

With racks of brochures, Cleveland imagery on the walls and large, flat-screen monitors featuring interactive maps and video highlights of the region, the Downtown Cleveland Visitors Center is the perfect place to start your visit. Knowledgeable CLE concierge ambassadors staff the center and are available to answer questions, give directions and provide maps, help plan itineraries, sell attraction tickets, offer cost savings coupons and book dining, hotel, and car rental reservations. So, stop in. We’ll give you personal attention, let you in on “insider” travel tips and give you everything you’ll need to get started exploring Cleveland and the surrounding region.

Cleveland Visitors Center

334 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44114

800.321.1001 | 216.875.6600

Visit thisiscleveland.com to confirm hours open.

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

Open daily.

Telephone Numbers

Currency Exchange

Courtesy service for respective hotel guests available at: Marriott Downtown at Key Center, Hyatt Regency Cleveland at The Arcade, Renaissance Cleveland Hotel, Ritz-Carlton Cleveland, Inter-Continental Hotel & Conference Center Cleveland and Inter-Continental Suites Cleveland.

Sources

U.S. Customs

The United States Customs and Border Protection Agency provides inspection services for international passengers who arrive at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. The Agency is located on the ramp level of Concourse A, across from Gate #5.

Customs Service Department of Cleveland, Airport Inspection Branch, 216.267.3600

District Office, District Director, 440.891.3800

Public Transportation

The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) provides public transportation in the City of Cleveland and 59 surrounding municipalities. RTA's commuter lines consist of both bus and rapid transit service, plus a convenient Downtown trolley loop system.

216.566.5100 | riderta.com

Global Cleveland

A Welcome Hub for newcomers seeking information and services is located in the Huntington National Bank Building at 200 Public Square. Look for their entrance off Euclid Avenue.

200 Public Square, Cleveland, OH 44114 216.472.3282 | globalcleveland.org

Weather

Cleveland experiences all four seasons. Winter temperatures are generally within 20 to 40 degrees. Maybe you’ve heard the term “lake effect snow?” Spring could be a balmy 70 during the day, then drop to 45 degrees at night. Summer, we love it, and its perfect 80 degrees. Technically summer is over, but don’t tell Fall. The first cold blast usually hits sometime in November.

Visitor Stats

18.3 million people visited Cuyahoga County (2023).

Source: Tourism Economics Report

Clevelander Tips

In Cleveland, “soda” is referred to as “pop.” If you hear “Burning River” or “Holy Moses,” it’s just someone ordering a craft beer made locally by Great Lakes Brewing Company. Many Clevelanders identify themselves as being either eastsiders or westsiders (the division being the Cuyahoga River), but all seem to claim downtown.

History

Cleveland has a proud history that is 229 years in the making. General Moses Cleaveland of the Connecticut Land Company came to the Western Reserve and founded the City of Cleveland in 1796. The name changed to its current spelling in 1831 when the “a” was dropped in order to fit the city’s name on a newspaper masthead.

Fun Facts

Cleveland is the home of Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, the creators of Superman, as well as a filming location for major motion pictures, including “A Christmas Story,” “The Avengers” and “Captain America: The Winter Soldier.” Oscar winners Paul Newman and Halle Berry hail from the region. So does Hall of Fame guitarist Joe Walsh, who honed his craft with The James Gang in the 1970s with the popular single “Funk #49.” LifeSavers candy, the modern golf ball and the electric streetlight are all Cleveland firsts invented right here in Cleveland.

Location + Population

Cleveland, located in the Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST) in the State of Ohio within Cuyahoga County, is on the southern shore of Lake Erie, part of the Great Lakes Region.

Cleveland-Akron-Canton comprises the 17th largest combined metro area in the United States with more than 3.7 million residents in the Greater Cleveland combined statistical area (CSA) and nearly 400,000 in the City of Cleveland.

Business

Cleveland has a $266 billion annual economy and is home to a number of companies that are on Fortune magazine’s list of the top 500 industrial and top 500 service companies in the United States, including KeyCorp, Sherwin-Williams, Eaton Corp and Progressive Insurance.

Tour de Force

Experience Cleveland from the ground up

BY SARAH PARR

COMEDIC IN CLEVELAND

The 90-minute Cleveland Funny Bus will give you laughs for miles, thanks to your local comic-turnedtour guide. This BYOB excursion is in the top 10% worldwide of “things to do” on TripAdvisor (and that’s no joke)!

HISTORIC HIKES

Take A Hike Tours offers free guided walks that explore more than a dozen historic landmarks—from Erie Street Cemetery to Playhouse Square—with a historic cast of characters narrating the way.

CONTINUE

THE CYCLE

Even those who never learned how to ride a bike can partake in Cleveland Cycle Tours—a passenger-powered party bike where you can enjoy libations amid detours to local pubs and photo opp stops.

YUM TO GO

CLEfoodies Food Tours provide feasts for the eyes, minds and stomachs with private, personalized trips through the culinary soul of Cleveland—curated by local food influencer Tricia McCune.

THREE CHEERS

Travel with City Brew Tours

Cleveland to three local breweries, where you’ll enjoy up to 12 beer samples and a local snack (worry-free, thanks to roundtrip transportation). Craft beer excursions for ale enthusiasts at every level await!

Roam the Land

CHOOSE THE PERFECT ITINERARY TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR STAY

Classic Cleveland

BY KEVIN CARPENTER & SHARON HOLBROOK

TERMINAL TOWER

Cleveland’s historic tower is known for its ever-changing uplighting on the outside—but the incredible 360° city views from its 42nd-floor Observation Deck remain gloriously the same.

HOUSE FROM A CHRISTMAS STORY

It’s your favorite Christmas movie come to life! Step into Ralphie’s world, letting the soft glow of the “fra-gee-lay” leg lamp lead the way.

WEST SIDE MARKET

Instagram was made for this place! From crepes to gyros to brats, mouthwatering eats await at each of this indoor food market’s 75+ vendors.

EUCLID BEACH CAROUSEL

Once the centerpiece of the dearly departed Euclid Beach Park, this century-old carousel—resplendent with colorful, hand-carved horses—lives on at the Cleveland History Center.

PLAYHOUSE SQUARE

One of the top theater districts in the nation, it showcases world-class talent onstage year-round. Just look for the dazzling outdoor chandelier: It’s the Bat Signal for theatergoers.

Cleveland History Center

LIONHEART COFFEE

BY SARAH PARR

Sip organic, fair trade artisanal beverages (such as the Bold Buckeye latte) and savor breakfast sammies all day at this local coffee shop in the 5th Street Arcades.

MARENGO LUXURY SPA

Treat yourself to a spa day—where you can indulge in a jet lag facial, book an aromatherapy massage or even host a pampering party for your crew.

CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART

More than exhibits await at this palace of art with its stunning sunlit atrium, well-curated gift shop and delicious dining options dreamed up by top chef Doug Katz.

Sunshine Day Decadent Delights

BY SARAH PARR

OASIS MARINA

Boat into North Coast Harbor and stay in the heat of Downtown—just a guitar pick’s throw from the Rock Hall— for up to nine consecutive nights.

CLEVELAND LAKEFRONT NATURE PRESERVE

This lakeside sanctuary boasts 88 acres of birding. Witness about 280 species (including mourning doves and Northern mockingbirds) while hiking along the Lake Erie shoreline.

EDGEWATER BEACH HOUSE

Take a break from your beach day to enjoy a nice cold one (ice cream or cocktail…you decide!) at this lakeside pavilion, where the second-floor views—and vibes—are top-tier.

MARBLE ROOM

Get serenaded by roving musiciansin-residence as you dine in elegance at Marble Room, a steakhouse and raw bar located in an opulent old bank building.

VELVET

TANGO ROOM

Get a nightcap at this swanky cocktail bar, with live music and cocktails ranging from classic grasshoppers and margaritas to seasonal specials like Gimlet The Grey.

SUMMER PLACE

Indulge in a lakeside dinner and savor uniquely crafted food and drinks, all while transforming the lives of those with developmental disabilities. Proceeds are shared with Awakening Angels.

SOLSTICE STEPS

Head to Lakewood Park for a blazing sunset only The Land can deliver at The Solstice Steps, a truly magical vantage point for basking in one of nature’s wonders.

Edgewater Beach House

Cleveland Museum of Art

Cleveland Bucket List

YOUR GUIDE TO CLEVELAND’S POP CULTURE TAKEOVER

BY JEN JONES DONATELLI

1. Super Kawaii! Don’t miss the Takashi Murakami exhibit at Cleveland Museum of Art from May 25-September 7.

2. Straight outta Broadway, “The Notebook” makes its national touring debut at Playhouse Square in September.

3. Celebrate Christmas in July—or any other time, really— at the House from a Christmas Story in Tremont.

4. The Man of Steel makes his way back to the big screen on July 11, with Cleveland providing the backdrop as Metropolis.

5. When it comes to cutting-edge art, moCa pushes the envelope with thought-provoking exhibitions such as Erykah Townsend’s “‘Happy’ Holidays” (June-Dec).

6. With 20,000+ trolls on display, the record-setting Troll Hole Museum is a must-stop for lovers of kitsch.

7. “Wicked” star Cynthia Erivo is sure to soar onstage at Blossom Music Center with the Cleveland Orchestra on July 25.

8. Pop art fans give their stamp of approval to Cleveland’s iconic 35-ton “Free Stamp” sculpture.

9. With artists like Nelly, Toto, Nine Inch Nails and Weird Al Yankovic coming to town this summer, your concert list just filled up.

10. Join the flock of Machine Gun Kelly fans for MGK Day (which is more like a week!) in August.

11. Live from Cleveland, don’t miss the Rock Hall’s newest exhibit “SNL: Ladies & Gentleman... 50 Years of Music.”

12. Yoga, vegan eats and good vibes are the name of the game at Pop Life, a colorful Collinwood-based studio.

©TAKASHI MURAKAMI

KIKI CO.

PHOTO BY SHIN SUSUKI

©TROLL HOLE MUSEUM

©MARK SELIGER

©WIL LINDSEY

Check out the latest and greatest openings

NEW & NOTABLE

Shangra-La Pink 2012, Takashi Murakami

Bookmark This

BY LESLIE BASALLA-MCCAFFERTY

Playhouse Square is wrapping the 2024-25 KeyBank Broadway Series spectacularly. Expect corny absurdity from “Shucked” and an affecting coming-of-age ride with Tony-winning “Kimberly Akimbo.” And, oh yeah! “Hamilton” is back in the room where it happens.

VARIOUS DATES THROUGH AUGUST 3, 2025

Look out–it’s going to get Messi when Columbus Crew takes on Inter Miami CF and soccer’s biggest star at Huntington Bank Field in a match that’s sure to thrill.

APRIL 19, 2025

Groundbreaking performances and memorable musical sketches transform into an immersive fan experience when “SNL: Ladies & Gentlemen... 50 Years of Music” goes live at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Live from Cleveland... it’s 50 years of SNL music.

OPENING MAY 23, 2025

The “ship that built Cleveland,” Steamship William G. Mather is sailing into its centennial. To mark the occasion, Great Lakes Science Center will host an exhibit, chronicling life aboard a 20th-century freighter.

MAY 23-SEPT. 1, 2025

Takashi Murakami: Stepping on the Tail of a Rainbow is a monumental retrospective. Marvel at the artist’s outsized canvases and recreation of the Yumedono temple at Cleveland Museum of Art.

MAY 25-SEPT. 7, 2025

here’s the dish

BY BRI OLDHAM

Explore the eats and vibes that make Cleveland a foodie’s paradise! Medieval charm and monasticinspired modern cuisine meet at The Friar’s Table, an immersive dining experience near Playhouse Square. Looking for more of a foot-stompin, handclappin’ good time? Head further down Euclid Avenue to East Fourth Street for live music and craft cocktails at Jolene’s Honky Tonk—the latest concept from beloved Cleveland Guardians manager Terry “Tito” Francona’s restaurant group.

On Cleveland’s East side, cozy up at Larchmere hotspot La Pecora Pizzabar for wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas served with a side of vintage Italian flair. And in Cleveland Heights, culinary darling Liu Fang is cultivating community at Abundance Culinary through farm-to-table offerings, cooking classes and creation of a Dumpling Subscription Club.

La Pecora

Unique Boutiques

BY LESLIE BASALLA-MCCAFFERTY

From intimate boutiques to skyscraping stays, Cleveland’s expanding hotel options mean room for more. Check in—and check out—these new and upcoming properties.

Freshly opened, but flush with vintage flourishes, the Fidelity Hotel breaks the mold. Located in the historic Baker Building, its rooms come adorned with locally-made bespoke furnishings, and its Art Deco restaurant, The Club Room, exudes retro glam.

Now under construction in the 40-story Erieview Tower, the W Hotel is flanked by Lake Erie and the Downtown skyline. Along with its breathtaking backdrop, the W will also offer an expansive ballroom and a 38th-floor restaurant.

In the Gateway District, the 125-year-old Rose Building is being refreshed as a Marriott Tribute hotel with nine floors of luxe accommodations (plus 154 Marriottbranded apartments). Behind the bronze ground-floor facade, a restaurant and retail will enliven a corner once considered the city’s hub at East 9th and Prospect.

UP TO PAR

BY JEN JONES DONATELLI

Mini-golf just got a major upgrade! Birdietown Mini Golf & Lounge brings a posh feel to the putt-putt of yore. The sleek adults-only Lakewood space contains not only two 9-hole minigolf courses, but also a bar and restaurant with a menu imagined by James Beard nominee Jill Vedaa. (Short rib grilled cheese or Wagyu meatballs, anyone?) Snag your choice of eight signature cocktails from a roving caddy (aka cocktail server), and get ready for a hole-in-fun.

Level Up

New and expanding attractions mean more to love

BY LESLIE BASALLA-MCCAFFERTY

1

The reinvention of Progressive Field is rounding third and headed for home. Come opening day, VIP dugout suites and open-air Terrace Garden loges will complement group-friendly upper deck Districts.

2

Despite its name and location in a former foundry, music fanatics can expect more than just heavy metal from Globe Iron . With its 1,200-guest capacity, the new Flats West Bank venue attracts both indie acts on the brink and top talent looking to play intimate gigs.

3

Cedar Point doubles down on its rep as “America’s Rollercoast” with the 2025 debut of its 19th coaster: Siren’s Curse, North America’s tallest, fastest and longest tilt rollercoaster.

4

Just in time for its 20th anniversary, Kalahari Resort is ready to reveal some seriously splashy renovations—including a revamped lobby, a thrilling new two-person waterslide and two new restaurants (a taqueria and a mac-and-cheese spot).

5

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is dropping the needle on a massive $135 million expansion. Plugging in the new wing means more space for concerts, traveling exhibits and amped-up artifacts from the archives.

Cedar Point

Fidelity Hotel

SLAM DUNK( leosteus)

WHAT’S NEW AT THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY’S $150 MILLION TRANSFORMED SPACE

BY ILONA WESTFALL

Visitor Hall

Forget LeBron or Drew Carey—the eight CLE-lebrities that greet you in the museum’s towering new Visitor Hall include “Dunk ,” an extinct apex predator native to Lake Erie; “ Balto,” the notorious heroic sled dog; “ Lucy,” an early hominin; and “Happy,” the skeleton of a Haplocanthosaurus delfsi. (Also, don’t miss the truly dazzling display of 130 gemstones from around the world.)

Dynamic Earth Wing

Kids will dig the fossils and exhibits in the Dynamic Earth Wing, where they can explore the history of Earth through an earthquake simulator and by controlling the life cycle of a star with their bodies via an interactive screen. (Spoiler alert: Moby nailed it in his song, “We Are All Made of Stars.”)

Dunkleosteus

Evolving Life Wing

Traverse landscapes from a polar tundra to sub-Saharan Africa in the Evolving Life Wing, which traces the history and evolution of life on Earth. This area also invites visitors to do a deep-dive on all things Dunkleosteus—we dare you not to get hypnotized by the big screen that takes you underwater in Lake Erie’s ancient times.

Ames Family Curiosity Center

You won’t hear the words “Don’t touch” in the Ames Family Curiosity Center. Interactivity and hands-on learning with real museum specimens is the name of the game here where visitors can discover how science impacts our everyday lives by examining regional bugs, birds, flowers, animals and more.

Dynamic Earth Wing

Events Calendar

May 17-18, HorseFest. Lake Metroparks Farmpark. lakemetroparks.com

May 25-Sept. 7, 2025 / Takashi Murakami: Stepping on the Tail of a Rainbow. Cleveland Museum of Art. clevelandart.org

Ongoing

1st Friday each month, MIX at CMA. Cleveland Museum of Art. clevelandart.org

1st Friday each month, Walk All Over Waterloo. Collinwood. collinwoodscoop.org

2nd Friday each month, Walkabout Tremont. Tremont neighborhood. walkabouttremont.com

3rd Friday each month, Third Fridays Art Walk. 78th Street Studios, Detroit Shoreway. 78thstreetstudios.com

Through May 24, The Cleveland Orchestra 24|25 Classical Season. Mandel Concert Hall at Severance. clevelandorchestra.com

Through June 1, Harminder Judge: Bootstrap Paradox. Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA). mocacleveland.org

Through June 1, Gala Porras-Kim: A Hand in Nature. Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA). mocacleveland.org

Through June 8, Shahzia Sikander: Collective Behavior. Cleveland Museum of Art. clevelandart.org

Through Aug. 27, Karamu Artists Inc.: Printmaking, Race and Community. Cleveland Museum of Art. clevelandart.org

Through Aug. 31, History in Their Hands: Black Photographers in Cleveland, 1968-Present. Cleveland History Center. wrhs.org

April

April 8-Sept. 28, Cleveland Guardians MLB Baseball. Progressive Field. mlb.com/guardians

April 16-27, Thyagaraja Festival. Music Building @ Cleveland State University. aradhana.org

April 19, Columbus Crew vs. Inter Miami CF. Huntington Bank Field. columbuscrew.com

April 21, Dyngus Day. Detroit Shoreway, Ohio City & Tremont. clevelanddyngus.com

April 24-27, Geauga County Maple Festival. Chardon, OH. maplefestival.com

May

May 4-Oct. 5 (select dates), Cleveland Bazaar Summer Markets. Various locations. clevelandbazaar.org

May 17-18, Cleveland Asian Festival. AsiaTown. clevelandasianfestival.org

May 17-18, University Hospitals Cleveland Marathon, ½ Marathon and 10k. clevelandmarathon.com

May 23-Dec. 31, SNL: Ladies & Gentlemen...50 Years of Music. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. rockhall.com

May 23-26, Tremont Greek Fest. Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. tremontgreekfest.com

May 23-26, Berea’s National Rib Cook-Off. Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds. berearib.com

May 23-Sept. 1, Steam and Steel: Propelling the Future of the Great Lakes. Great Lakes Science Center. greatscience.com

May 24, Station Hope. St. John’s Episcopal Church. cptonline.org

May 24-25, Reggae Fest Cleveland. Voinovich Park. reggaefestcleveland.com

May 30-June1, Little Italy Summer Art Walk. Little Italy. littleitalycle.com

May 31, Cleveland Pops Orchestra: Decades of Delight. Mandel Concert Hall at Severance. clevelandpops.com

Cleveland Guardians

May 31-June 1, Brick Fest Live. I-X Center. ixcenter.com/ events

June

June 1-Sept.30, Take a Hike Tour Downtown Walking Tours. Various locations. takeahikecle.com

June 3-Sept. 30, North Coast Namaste. Voinovich Park, Downtown Cleveland. Northcoastharbor.org

June 6-Aug. 3, CMA Artists at Work. Transformer Station. clevelandart.org

June 7, Pride in the CLE. Mall C. lgbtcleveland.org/pridein-the-cle.html

June 13-Sept. 26, City Lights Cruises. Goodtime III. goodtimeiii.com

June 13, Towpath Twilight: 5k, 10k & 10-Mile Races. Sokolowski’s Overlook, Tremont. towpathtrilogy.com

June 14, Juneteenth FreedomFest. Mall C, Downtown Cleveland. juneteenthcle.com

June 14-15, Reigning Men. North Coast Men’s Chorus @ Playhouse Square. ncmchorus.org

June 15, Father’s Day Car Show. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens. stanhywet.org

June 18-Aug. 20, WOW! Wade Oval Wednesdays. Wade Oval, University Circle. universitycircle.org

June 21, Solstice 2025. Cleveland Museum of Art. clevelandart.org

June 26-28, Tri-C JazzFest. Playhouse Square. tri-cjazzfest.com

June 28, Larchmere PorchFest Music Festival. Larchmere. larchmereporchfest.org

July

July-Aug., Rock Hall Live. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. rockhall.com

July 3-Sept. 7, The Cleveland Orchestra Blossom Festival. Blossom Music Center. clevelandorchestra.com

July 6-Oct. 19, Rose Iron Works: From Art Nouveau to Art Deco. Cleveland Museum of Art. clevelandart.org

July 10-Aug. 21 (select dates), Cleveland Orchestra Summers at Severance. Mandel Concert Hall at Severance. clevelandorchestra.com

July 11-13, Cain Park Arts Fest. Cain Park, Cleveland Heights, OH. cainpark.com

June 14 / Parade The Circle. Wade Oval, University Circle. clevelandart.org/

July 11-13, Cleveland Latino International Film Festival. LatinUs Theater. latinustheater.com

July 12-13, Music in the Valley Fork & Wine Festival. Hale Farm & Village. halefarm.org

July 16-19, BorderLight: Festival of International Theatre. Playhouse Square. borderlightcle.org

SPRING/SUMMER

The Agora agoracleveland.com

May 2, Jon Anderson (YES)

July 7, 311

Aug. 9, The Fray

Sept. 5, Tom Keifer & L.A. Guns

Sept. 12, Garbage

Oct. 3, Sex Pistols

Beachland Ballroom beachlandballroom.com

April 30, LOVE with Johnny Echols

May 2-4, Moon Runners Music Festival

May 9, The Arcadian Wild

May 23, David Graham & The Eskimo Bothers

May 28, The Garcia Project

June 15, Cults

June 18, North Mississippi

Allstars

July 25, Sonny Landreth

July 30, of Montreal

Aug. 12, Broncho

Blossom Music Center livenation.com

May 19, Breaking Benjamin & Staind

May 23, Jason Aldean

May 25, Primus, Puscifer, A Perfect Circle

May 30, Dave Matthews Band

June 3, Pierce The Veil

June 13, Halsey

June 21, Outlaw Music Festival

June 24, James Taylor

June 27, Keith Urban

July 11, Luke Bryan

July 23, Pantera

July 30, Cyndi Lauper

Aug. 1, Barenaked Ladies

Aug. 5, Nelly with Ja Rule

Aug. 8, Toto

July 18-20, Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival. Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds. clevelandirish.org

July 18-22, Kaulig Companies Championship. Firestone Country Club, Akron, OH. kauligchampionship.com

July 19, Blazing Paddles Paddlefest. Rivergate Park/ Cuyahoga River. sharetheriver.com/blazingpaddles

CONCERT SLATE

Aug. 12, Goo Goo Dolls

Aug. 13, The Offspring

Aug. 15, Neil Young and The Chrome Hearts

Aug. 20, Styx

Aug. 22, The Black Keys

Sept. 13, Weird Al Yankovic

Sept. 17, The Doobie Brothers

Huntington Bank Field acdc.com/tour

May 28, AC/DC

Grog Shop grogshop.gs

April 29, Bob Mould Band

May 2, Nada Surf

May 13, Mico June 22, Loving

Globe Iron globeironcle.com

May 3, Mushroomhead

May 5, The Damned

May 7, The Crane Wives

May 10, Shakey Graves

May 11, Napalm Death & Melvins

May 22, Lettuce

June 2, Panchiko

June 21, The War and Treaty

Sept. 16, The Brian Jonestown Massacre

House of Blues houseofblues.com/cleveland

April 29, Neon Trees

June 13, Jet

June 25, Billy Corgan

July 1, OMD

Aug. 11, Fitz and the Tantruns

Aug. 17, Silversun Pickups

Sept. 4, UB40

Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica jacobspavilion.com

May 20, Teddy Swims

May 24, October London

June 1, Wallows

June 7, Buddy Guy

June 19-20, Goose

Aug. 3, The Red Clay Strays

Aug. 10, Dropkick Murphys & Bad Religion

Sept. 7, Alison Krauss & Union Station

Sept. 8, Alabama Shakes

MGM Northfield Park mgmnorthfieldpark.com

May 14, Gene Simmons Band

June 14, The Allman Betts Band

June 27, George Thorogood

June 28, The Psychedelic Furs

July 5, Robin Trower

July 11, St. Paul & The Broken Bones

Sept. 20, Steve Wilson Rocket Arena rocketarena.com

June 5, Barry Manilow

June 28, Tyler The Creator

July 17, Ghost

Aug. 19, Shinedown & Bush

Aug. 29, Tate McRae

Aug. 31, NIN

Sept. 10, Deftones

Sept. 11, Eric Clapton & The Wallflowers

Sept. 27, Sleep Token

TempleLive masoniccleveland.com

May 11, DEVO

June 20, Modest Mouse

June 23, Indigo Girls

July 25, The Decemberists

Tri-C JazzFest

EVENTS CALENDAR

July 19, Lakewood Summer Meltdown. Downtown Lakewood. lakewoodalive.org

July 20, Taste of Tremont. Tremont. experiencetremont.com

July 31-Aug. 3, Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Week. Pro Football Hall of Fame, Canton, OH. profootballhof.com

August

Aug. 1-2, Vintage Ohio Wine Festival. Lake Metroparks Farmpark. visitvintageohio.com

Aug. 2, 47th Annual Lakewood Arts Festival. Lakewood, OH. lakewoodartsfest.org

Aug. 2-3, Puerto Rican Parade & Festival. MetroHealth Main Campus Quad Park. puertoricanparade.org

Aug. 5-10, 127th Cuyahoga County Fair. Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, Berea, OH. cuyfair.com

Aug. 7-10, Ohio Burlesque Festival. Beachland Ballroom. ohioburlesque.com

Aug. 9-10, Civil War Weekend. Hale Farm & Village. halefarm.org

Aug. 10, Tri CLE Rock Roll Run. Cleveland, OH. rockrollrun.com

Aug. 14-17, 125th Annual Feast of the Assumption. Little Italy. holy-rosary.org

Aug. 16-23, Tennis in The Land WTA250 Tournament. Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica. tennisintheland.com

Aug. 23-24, Cleveland Garlic Festival. Shaker Square. clevelandgarlicfestival.org

Aug. 24, One World Day. Cleveland Cultural Gardens. clevelandculturalgardens.org

Aug. 29-Sept. 1 | Sept. 5 & 6, Labor Day Oktoberfest. Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, Berea, OH. bereaoktoberfest.com

Aug. 30-Sept. 1, Cleveland National Air Show with U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. Burke Lakefront Airport. clevelandairshow.com

PERFORMANCE PEDIGREE PRESENTS BROADWAY TO

Playhouse Square playhousesquare.org

Key Bank

Broadway Series:

April 22-May 11, 2025: Shucked

June 17-July 6, 2025: Hamilton

July 15-Aug. 3, 2025:

Kimberly Akimbo

Sept. 6-27, 2025: The Notebook

Oct. 10-Nov. 1, 2025: Hell’s Kitchen

Beck Center for the Arts beckcenter.org

April 4-May 4, 2025: Under a Baseball Sky

May 30-June 29, 2025: The Robber Bridegroom

July 11-Aug. 10, 2025: A Chorus Line

Aug. 31, Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic. Pro Football Hall of Fame. profootballhof.com

September

Sept., Fresh Fest Cleveland. Rid-All Green Partnership, Kinsman. freshfestcleveland.com

Sept.-Jan. 2026, Cleveland Browns NFL Football. Huntington Bank Field. clevelandbrowns.com

Sept. 6, Cleveland Dragon Boat Festival. Canal Basin Park. cledba.org

Sept. 11-Nov. 1, Thurs.-Sun., HalloWeekends. Cedar Point. cedarpoint.com

THEATER SCHEDULE

Convergence-Continuum convergence-continuum.org

June 6-28, 2025: Death Cruise 2020 Aug. 15-Sept. 6, 2025: we are continuous Oct. 3-25, 2025: Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors

Cleveland Play House clevelandplayhouse.com

April 26-May 18, 2025: Fiddler on the Roof

Dobama Theatre dobama.org

April 25-May 18, 2025: RUST

Great Lakes Theater greatlakestheater.org

April 25-May 18, 2025: Noises Off Sept. 26-Oct. 12, 2025: Sunday in the Park with George

Oct. 24-Nov. 9, 2025: Dial M for Murder

Nov. 28-Dec. 21, 2025: A Christmas Carol

Karamu House karamuhouse.org

April 25-May 18, 2025: Choir Boy LatinUs latinustheater.com

May 16-18, 2025: Soy Menopáusica y que?

Sept. 26-Oct. 12, 2025: La Versión Infinita

Sept. 12-13, Crocker Park Wine Festival. Crocker Park, Westlake, OH. crockerpark.com

Sept. 12-Dec. 31, FRONT Fellows Show. Transformer Station. clevelandart.org

Sept. 13, Waterloo Arts Fest. Collinwood. waterlooartsfest.org

Sept. 14, Cleveland Yoga Fest Live. Edgewater Park. clevelandyogafest.com

Sept. 18-26, Greater Cleveland Urban Film Festival. Atlas Cinemas, Shaker Square. gcuff.org

Sept. 19-21, Cleveland Gaming Classic. I-X Center. ixcenter.com/events

Sept. 20-21, Chalk Festival. Cleveland Museum of Art. clevelandart.org

Sept. 20-21, Tremont Arts & Cultural Festival. Tremont. experiencetremont.com

Sept. 26-28, IngenuityFest of Art + Technology. Hamilton Collaborative. ingenuitycleveland.com

Sept. 26-May 24, 2026, The Cleveland Orchestra 25|26 Classical Season. Mandel Concert Hall at Severance. clevelandorchestra.com

October & Beyond

Oct., Cleveland Beer Week. Various locations. clevelandbeerweek.org

Oct. 2-5, Ohio Mart. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens. stanhywet.org

Oct. 4, The Towpath Marathon. Canal Basin Park, Cleveland. towpathtrilogy.com

Oct.-April 2026, Cleveland Monsters AHL Hockey. Rocket Arena. clevelandmonsters.com

Oct.-April 2026, Cleveland Cavaliers NBA Basketball. Rocket Arena. cavs.com

Nov.-March 2026, Cleveland Charge NBA G League Basketball. Public Auditorium. cleveland.gleague.nba.com

March 19-21, 2026 NCAA Division 1 Men’s Wrestling Championships. Rocket Arena. clevelandsports.org

Cleveland National Air Show

FAMILY OUTINGS

BY LISA GALEK

HIT THE OPEN ROAD FOR EPIC ADVENTURES

Pack the mini-van and hit the road for an unforgettable adventure! From record-breaking coasters to wild animal encounters to football legends, these Ohio hotspots promise nonstop family fun.

Cedar Point

Ready for thrills? Sandusky-based Cedar Point is your summertime playground with 68 rides, including crowd-pleaser Steel Vengeance and the lightning-fast Millennium Force. This summer, join Coastermania (June 6) for exclusive high-speed ride time, or watch the sky explode at Light Up the Point (July 4-5)— one of the Midwest’s biggest fireworks shows!

Kalahari Resorts

This summer, splash into Kalahari ’s 20th anniversary bash in Sandusky. After a $10.5 million overhaul, guests can savor gourmet mac & cheese at MACS or sip modern margaritas at Cinco Niños. Hold on tight for the new Dawn Breaker waterslide— its “Boomerango” design is geared to induce a feeling of weightlessness.

As America’s oldest “kiddieland,” Memphis Kiddie Park offers 11 rides for children under 50 inches tall, plus a mini-golf course and classic carnival concessions.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Swing by the zoo for wild adventures all year long! Marvel at over 2,000 amazing animals while roaming epic spots like the African Savanna and Asian Highlands. Munch lettuce with giraffes, zip through the sky or hit the ground running at the Earth Day 5K (April 19)—kicking off the Cleveland Metroparks Race Series.

Pro Football Hall of Fame

Get ready for a season of gridiron greatness in Canton! Feast on smoky BBQ, rock out to live tunes and tackle tasty eats at the Hall of Fame Ribs Burnoff (May 23-25). Then, huddle up for Enshrinement Weekend (July 30-August 3) as football legends take their rightful place in Hall of Fame history.

Kalahari Resort

Cedar Point

Pro Football Hall of Fame

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Because Science

These

wow-worthy

discoveries will ignite young minds

BY LISA GALEK

GREAT LAKES SCIENCE CENTER

Step back in time and celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Steamship William G. Mather with the “Steam and Steel” exhibit (May 23 -September 1). Known as “the ship that built Cleveland,” this restored 618-foot historic ship now serves a floating maritime museum.

GREATER CLEVELAND AQUARIUM

Dive into excitement at “Fin Fest” this summer (through August 6)! Visitors can get up close and personal with sharks and stingrays, take part in interactive aquatic activities and do a deep-dive on these fascinating underwater creatures through daily crafts, scuba diver talks, fun contests and a whole ocean of experiences.

MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS

Head to the Museum of Illusions this spring for a fun blast-from-the-past with 1990s and 2000s-inspired exhibits. Explore mind-bending optical tricks and brain-twisting illusion rooms that will make you ask, “How did they do that?” The museum is perfect for all ages with endless photo opps.

LAKE METROPARKS FARMPARK

This working farm in Kirtland offers hands-on learning with animals like cows, pigs and alpacas, plus barnyard exhibits and a plant science center. Don’t miss HorseFest on May 17-18, where you can watch skilled riders, learn about different breeds and interact with adorable mares and foals.

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INSIDE OUT

Adventure lovers are swarming Northeast Ohio. Hikers, bikers, birders, boaters and beyond are indulging their wild sides, whether it’s near the lakefront or deep in the forests of Ohio’s only national park (the Cuyahoga Valley).

CUYAHOGA VALLEY SCENIC RAILROAD

330.439.5708 | cvsr.org

1630 Mill St. W. Peninsula, OH 44264

Experience the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, a historic train journey through the breathtaking Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Enjoy scenic views, wildlife and unique excursions while traveling in comfort along this timeless railway adventure.

LADY CAROLINE

Downtown – The Flats West

216.696.8888 ladycaroline.com 1153 Main Ave. Cleveland, OH 44113

Experience The Land from the water when you cruise the Cuyahoga or Lake Erie with Lady Caroline. Onboard entertainment, freshly prepared meals and stunning skyline views make every cruise a celebration, so join the party!

GOODTIME III

DowntownNorth Coast Harbor

216.861.5110 goodtimeiii.com 825 E 9th St. Cleveland, OH 44114

The best way to experience Cleveland is aboard the GOODTIME III, the largest 1,000 passenger ship on Lake Erie. Sailing May thru September; our sightseeing cruise is a top attraction when visiting Cleveland.

CLAY’S RESORT JELLYSTONE PARK TM

330.854.6691 clayspark.com

12951 Patterson St. NW North Lawrence, OH 44666

Visit a place where family fun is the main attraction and memories are waiting to be made. Clay’s Resort Jellystone Park™ is an award-winning Ohio campground located just 50 minutes from Cleveland.

THE LAND OF Going

URBAN OUTDOORS

ERIE ON MY MIND

There’s no shortage of ways to find your perfect lakeside destination

Get wet and wild at Cedar Point Shores Waterpark , where 18 acres of thrilling slides, lazy river jaunts and a wave pool add up to a whole lotta family fun. Afterward, rest your head at nearby Sawmill Creek Resort , where you can birdwatch at the on-site nature preserve or lope the links at the 18-hole Tom Fazio-designed golf course.

Wine lovers will want to head east to The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake, a waterfront resort in the heart of Ohio’s wine country. Hop on a wine tour shuttle, or have some high-flying fun at Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures Closer to home, North Coast Harbor offers prime Lake Erie views and a new pop-up park—not to mention detour-worthy destinations such as the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Great Lakes Science Center.

There’s no shortage of ways to find your perfect lakeside destination.

BY SHARON HOLBROOK

O TAKE ME TO THE RIVER

nce all industrial muscle, The Flats riverfront district is now a daythrough-night destination for industrial-strength fun.

The Flats East Bank is like a “choose-your-own-adventure” book for fun seekers, so simply wander the boardwalk and stop where the mood strikes. If you’re feeling playful, Punch Bowl Social has vintage fun down with bowling, ping pong and karaoke. Seeking Vegas vibes? FWD Day + Nightclub’s outdoor setting invites you to party by the pool by day and dance under the stars at night. Craving retro fun? Step back in time to the groovy 70s at Good Night John Boy or the neon 80s and 90s at Decades

If none of those are your jam, take your pick of live country music at Welcome to the Farm , year-round patio vibes at The Lakehouse or “the happiest hour” in Cleveland at HI 5 sports bar.

Across the river, the menu of fun continues: catch a concert (outside) at Jacobs Pavilion or (inside) at Music Box Supper Club, pet the stingrays (yep!) at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium , or hop on a lake and river cruise with Lady Caroline.

No need to choose sides! Just grab the ADA-accessible Cleveland Metroparks Water Taxi to hop across the river.

By Crystal Angersola

PIER W

ELEVATED SEAFOOD, SWEEPING SHORELINE VISTAS AND SUNSET VIBES SO GOOD YOU’LL FORGET YOU’RE IN OHIO? MUST BE PIER W.

ALLEY CAT OYSTER BAR

THIS RIVERFRONT PERCH MAKES FOR CLEVELAND DINING AT ITS COOLEST— BUOYED BY FRESH SEAFOOD, RIVERFRONT BREEZES AND KILLER COCKTAILS.

2 3

COLLISION BEND BREWING CO. WITH A SIGNATURE BREW CALLED LAKE ERIE SUNSET, YOU KNOW THIS BREWERY WILL DELIVER WITH PRIME RIVERSIDE VIEWS.

NUEVO MODERN MEXICAN BOLD FLAVORS HAVE A LAKE ERIE BACKDROP AT NUEVO MODERN MEXICAN FEATURING MODERN TACOS AND ARTISANAL TEQUILA.

1 4 5

WHISKEY ISLAND STILL & EATERY

THIS PLACE HAS SUMMER FIGURED OUT WITH COLD DRINKS, LIVE TUNES AND A PLACE TO DOCK YOUR BOAT.

Lady Caroline

The Flats East Bank

BEACH DAY

LIVE YOUR BEST LAKE ERIE LIFE AT THESE SANDY SPOTS

BY MAUREEN WISE

Lake Erie love begins at Cleveland’s beachfront parks, many of which are run by Cleveland Metroparks. Bordering the Edgewater and Detroit Shoreway neighborhoods, Edgewater Park offers the area’s largest beach with 2,400 feet of Lake Erie coastline (including 1,000 feet of guarded swim area). This park also has a famous Cleveland script sign, a f ishing pier and a stretch of beach just for the doggies—not to mention the Edgewater Beach House.

Compared to Edgewater’s bustling beach, Wendy Park feels like an urban oasis— located where the Cuyahoga River meets Lake Erie. While swimming isn’t permitted, the park is a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking. This 22-acre greenspace is also a haven for wildlife, including 260 species of birds and migrating monarch butterflies in fall.

To the East, Euclid Beach Park features 650 feet of swimmable beachfront, plus another Cleveland script sign tailor-made for sunset snaps. Framed by arches that honor the former Euclid Beach Amusement Park (the site’s one-time occupant), the park’s pier offers skyline views and comfy seating to take it all in.

To the West, Huntington Beach is in Bay Village, of fering prime sunrise/sunset views and Lake Erie vistas. This coastal park features a historic water tower and f ive piers, plus kayak and paddleboard access.

On the Move

No lazy days of summer here! These three outdoor events will inspire you to get active

BY SARAH PARR

TOWPATH TRILOGY

Run (or walk) anywhere from five miles to a full marathon of nature trails by completing the Towpath Trilogy. This annual race series supports dozens of programs and projects across the Ohio & Erie Canalway National Heritage Area. (April 13; June 13; October 4)

BLAZING PADDLES PADDLEFEST

Join hundreds of water enthusiasts in celebrating the historic Cuyahoga River at the seventh annual paddlefest. Choose your own urban outdoor adventure via kayak, canoe or paddleboard while enjoying scenery that spans industrial bridges and natural wonders. (July 19)

CLEVELAND YOGA FEST

Where yoga mats meet hiking boots, you’ll find Hikyoga—a unique hybrid movement class that takes center stage at Cleveland Yoga Fest. Along with outdoor yoga and casual hikes, this event at Edgewater Park also offers mindset workshops, soul music and kid-friendly activities for yogis-inthe-making. (September 14)

LINKING THE LAND

BY ANNIE ZALESKI

Get linked in to our city’s outdoor wonders via its many bridges and trails! The 2.1-mile Red Line Greenway connects two RTA Red Line stations with the Cleveland Foundation Centennial Lake Link Trail , allowing for travel between Detroit Shoreway, Ohio City, The Flats and ultimately the lakefront via the Wendy Park Bridge

The Centennial Lake Link Trail also connects sections of the scenic Cleveland Lakefront Bikeway (a 17-mile path stretching from Lakewood to Euclid) and enables access to the Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath Trail (a 90-plus-mile trail tracing the paths canal boats took in the 19th century).

A four-stage connection project tying the Towpath Trail to its historic roots is due to wrap up at Cleveland’s Canal Basin Park , located along the Cuyahoga River in the Flats. Plans are in the works to redevelop this 20-acre greenspace into an “interpretive park” honoring its significance on the 1832 Ohio & Erie Canal—complete with a playground, boardwalk and more.

Centennial Lake Link Trail

Sunny Day Playbook

BY JEN JONES DONATELLI

Cleveland gets it right with its urban sanctuaries and inviting greenspaces—see for yourself with a walk or drive down Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., home to the Cleveland Cultural Gardens . This scenic stretch includes 36 gardens proudly designed and maintained by our city’s various ethnic communities.

Public Square

Nearby in University Circle, the Cleveland Botanical Garden invites summer strolls with its outdoor oasis, while WOW! Wade Oval Wednesdays bring the large grassy knoll alive with live tunes and food truck fun. And in the heart of Downtown, Public Square’s 10-acre park invites visitors to lunch and lounge with the iconic Terminal Tower providing the backdrop.

Cleveland Yoga Fest

Always in Season?

IT’S A SHORE THING

Shores & Islands Ohio is a year-round destination, just a short drive away. Immerse yourself in culture through a variety of diverse community events. Indulge in local cuisine from upscale to casual, even dine by the lakeside. Take a ferry ride to a Lake Erie island, explore miles of natural beaches and trails, enjoy quaint downtowns and museums, and experience the beauty of the changing seasons in the region.

Make memories that’ll last a lifetime. Find your Lake Erie Love at SHORESandISLANDS.com.

THE FOREST CITY

Cleveland earns its nickname with picturesque parks

CLEVELAND METROPARKS

Each spring, Northeast Ohio bursts alive in a dazzling array of natural beauty—and there’s no better place to scope this sensational change of scenery than the Metroparks. Affectionately known as “The Emerald Necklace,” this local gem boasts 18 diverse reservations spanning more than 25,000 acres. Ride bikes on wooded trails, drop a fishing line into the Rocky River or picnic along the shore of Lake Erie.

CUYAHOGA VALLEY NATIONAL PARK (CVNP)

Count your lucky stars that Ohio’s only national park is right here on CLE’s doorstep! Celebrate the Cuyahoga Valley National Park’s 50th anniversary by exploring your way through its “50 Ways to Experience CVNP” guide (from hopping aboard the scenic railroad to hiking the Ledges amid stunning sandstone cliffs and rock formations). The new Valley Overlook glamping area provides prime access to it all with furnished canvas tent cabins and four-season cabins, plus primitive tent sites.

HOLDEN ARBORETUM

Besides looking like a real-life Monet painting, this Kirtland wonderland offers something for everyone. Walk among the treetops on the 500-foot-long Murch Canopy Walk, or climb the 120-foot-tall Kalberer Emergent Tower for jaw-dropping views of the surrounding beauty. (Squint and you might even be able to see Lake Erie.) Back on terra f irma, those seeking a quieter pace can amble through 3,500+ acres of leafy forests and verdant botanical gardens.

LAKE VIEW CEMETERY

Steeped in history, these grounds are soulfully designed to reflect the healing power and peaceful serenity of the outdoors. From trees that predate the founding of Cleveland to the splash of springtime color on Daffodil Hill, the cemetery artfully balances the somber gravity of remembrance with the life-af f irming joy of nature. While exploring the grounds, don’t miss Wade Memorial Chapel (with Tiffany-designed interior) or the James A. Gar f ield Memorial.

BY KEVIN CARPENTER

Game Day

Sports make Cleveland go round

By Vince Guerrieri

CLEVELAND GUARDIANS

The Cleveland Guardians had a banner year under first-year manager Stephen Vogt, winning the American League Central Division and advancing to the American League Championship Series. This year, another exciting team—led by perpetual MVP candidate Jose Ramirez—promises to follow suit at freshly renovated Progressive Field, which will feature new blue seats, a reimagined Terrace Club and a new Carnegie Club behind home plate.

CLEVELAND CAVALIERS

With new coach Kenny Atkinson, the Cavs got off to a blistering start, winning their first 15 games on the way to a historic regular season. The newly-renamed Rocket Arena

will once again be rocking this spring as the Cavs—led by Donovan Mitchell and riding high on breakout seasons from all-stars Darius Garland and Evan Mobley—make their play for a post-season run.

CLEVELAND BROWNS

Win or lose, Browns Sundays on the lakefront are a rite of passage

for any Cleveland sports fan. Fans are excited to tailgate (sometimes lining up the night before the game), and each lot has its own distinct vibe. Home games slated for 2025 include the usual division opponents—Cincinnati, Baltimore and Pittsburgh—as well as Green Bay, Minnesota and Buffalo.

CLEVELAND MONSTERS

There’s nothing like watching hockey in person, and Cleveland fans have known that for generations. The latest team to call our city home is the Cleveland Monsters, affiliate for the NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets. Get in on the action with a packed promo schedule, including the annual Fido-friendly “Pucks & Paws” event.

CLEVELAND CHARGE

Over the last century, Cleveland Public Hall has seen performances by the Beatles and Frank Sinatra, and a fight by Joe Louis—and now it’s serving as home court for the Cleveland Charge, providing a unique venue to see Cavs in the making.

Cleveland Guardians

Kind of

Are You Looking

Adventure Seeker

PHOTO:

RENEE ROSENSTEEL

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RESORTS & LODGES

We get it. Life gets busy and work can be a grind. But sometime, in between, you need to take a breather. Relax. Have a nice meal. Laugh over a good drink. Here’s your chance.

SAWMILL CREEK RESORT

419.433.3800

sawmillcreekresort.com

400 Sawmill Creek Dr. W. Huron, OH 44839

Set within a 200-acre nature infused playground, Sawmill Creek Resort recently completed a multimillion-dollar renovation to create an escape that is naturally extraordinary. Features an 18-hole Tom Fazio designed golf course, located near Cedar Point.

GERVASI VINEYARD RESORT & SPA

330.497.1000

gervasivineyard.com

1700 455th St. NE Canton, OH 44721

Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa is a premier destination offering luxury accommodations, exceptional dining, a world-class spa, award-winning wines, and stunning vineyard views, creating an unforgettable experience for relaxation, romance, and celebration in Canton, Ohio.

THE MOHICANS TREEHOUSE RESORT

740.599.9030

TheMohicans.net 23164 Vess Rd. Glenmont, OH 44628

Escape to The Mohicans Treehouse Resort & Wedding Venue, a secluded retreat in Ohio’s Mohican Valley. Our beautiful (pet-friendly) treehouses and cabins offer the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern luxury. Ideal for romantic getaways, family fun and weddings!

KALAHARI RESORTS & CONVENTIONS

877.525.2427

kalahariresorts.com

7000 Kalahari Dr. Sandusky, OH 44870

Escape the everyday and discover what it means to Get Kalahari’d Away at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Sandusky. Explore our indoor and outdoor waterparks, arcade, spa, restaurants, and more — all under one roof.

Sleepy Hollow Golf Course

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Lakefront Reser vation

MUSIC REVOLUTION

The heart of Rock ‘n’ Roll is beating louder than ever

The House That Rock Built

BY ANNIE ZALESKI

Stodgy museums, step to the side: The glassenclosed Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a hip-shaking, guitar-flinging reminder of why Cleveland is ground zero for world-famous music. Memorabilia immortalizes the radio DJs and recording artists who invented the genre, while special galleries honor those who paved the way (such as Cleveland native Leo Mintz, the former Record Rendezvous owner largely considered one of the founding fathers of rock). And much like rock-and-roll itself, the multilevel museum just keeps on evolving.

APPLAUSE, APPLAUSE

Don’t miss your chance to learn more about the Rock Hall’s eclectic class of 2024 via the museum’s annual fan-geared inductee exhibit! The exhibit highlights the newly minted Hall of Famers, including genre-busting pop goddess Cher; rock ‘n’ rollers Ozzy Osbourne and Foreigner; R&B powerhouse Mary J. Blige; hip-hop icons A Tribe Called Quest; soul-funk legends Kool & The Gang; and beloved touring troupe Dave Matthews Band.

LIGHTS, CAMERA, SNL!

It’s no secret that the music is half the magic on “Saturday Night Live,” and an upcoming Rock Hall exhibition celebrates just that. Opening May 23, the immersive “SNL: Ladies & Gentlemen...50 Years of Music” shines the spotlight on the late-night show’s musical performances and sketches with nods to iconic Blondie and Sabrina Carpenter appearances; costumes from The Blues Brothers and Sweeney Sisters; and a re-creation of the Studio 8H façade. Plus, view an exclusive 20-minute edit of Questlove’s same-named documentary and a cool SNL50 photo booth.

Did You Know?

Local radio DJ Alan Freed is credited with playing rhythm and blues records on air and coining the term “rock ‘n’ roll” in the 1950s.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

All Amped Up

Several of Cleveland’s most popular, long-running live music venues are powered by badass women. Beachland Ballroom (owned by Cindy Barber) is an anchor of Collinwood’s Waterloo Arts District, while the Grog Shop (owned by Kathy Blackman) has been an indie institution in the funky Coventry neighborhood since 1992. On the Near West side, Emma Jochum’s No Class provides a low-key haven for underground music.

Located in Lakewood, The Roxy is a new 800-capacity venue with super-funky decor that cranks up the creative vibes. The metal-centric Foundry Concert Club recently relocated from Lakewood to Old Brooklyn, where it inhabits a larger space with an attached garage that offers covered event space and outdoor seating.

Happy Dog in Detroit Shoreway shakes up its live music lineup with TED-style talks and trivia nights (plus hot dogs with all the toppings!), while The Agora is a historic MidTown based venue booking top-tier national artists such as OK Go and The Fray, coming through in 2025.

TOTALLY

JAZZED

BY ANGEL WALLACE

Whether you’re upbeat or offbeat, Cleveland’s jazz scene invites you to live out loud. Start your listening tour at the Bop Stop, known for its sun-soaked Lake Erie views and top-tier performance lineup (including trombonist Altin Sencalar’s album release party May 24). Cool cats will dig Velvet Tango Room, where mixologists set the mood with handcrafted classic cocktails. For smooth supper club vibes, hit Frederick’s Wine & Dine for chef Frederick Parks’ signature cuisine fused with live jazz flair—best enjoyed on the outdoor patio.

Sounds of Summer

These summer music festivals are sure to strike a chord

BY SILK ALLEN

Tri-C Jazz Fest (June 26-28)

Dance through Cuba, South Africa and New Orleans—no passport needed! The 46th annual Tri-C JazzFest swings through Playhouse Square with Grammy winner Dianne Reeves, Trombone Shorty and tributes to jazz legends such as Oscar Peterson.

Larchmere PorchFest (June 28)

Discover local artists and dance to indie tunes as 30+ bands take over porches around the Larchmere neighborhood—amping up its offbeat charm with fresh sounds and family-friendly fun.

City Stages (July)

Stop Earplugs? C’mon. This is Cleveland.

1 2 3 4 5

Dance in the street at CMA Transformer Station’s free summer concert series. Enjoy global beats, international acts and lively block parties in Hingetown—followed by some good grub at nearby Jukebox or Patron Saint.

Rock Hall Live (July-August)

From emerging talent to established acts such as St. Vincent and The Church, the Rock Hall Live outdoor concert series will once again set the stage for summer fun against the backdrop of a buzzing beer garden.

Fresh Fest Cleveland (September)

Enjoy live hip-hop, R&B, jazz, art and yoga at this free event held in Cleveland’s Urban Agriculture Innovation Zone. With food, installations and family-friendly fun, it’s a vibrant celebration of culture, wellness and creativity.

Stages

Beachland Ballroom

BY BRI OLDHAM

CLEVELAND CREATIVES

Amural reading “The Land Where Anything Is Possible” welcomes people to the Lee-Harvard neighborhood—and for oil painter and muralist Stina Aleah, this mural isn’t just her own handiwork, but also a nod to her own story.

In high school, a sports-related injury sidelined Aleah from a promising track career, but ultimately led Aleah to discover her passion for art that would eventually blossom into a remarkable career.

STINA ALEAH

artist & muralist

The journey is the destination.

Since then, Aleah has created work for clients and brand partners including Marvel and Bleacher Report; she has also exhibited at high-profile events such as Art Basel Miami. Aleah’s art aims to spark meaningful conversations on mental health and social issues, particularly within underserved Black communities—as exemplified by her recently restored mural, “We Wear the Mask.”

Looking back, Aleah credits her success to embracing the process, persevering through challenges and finding liberation in creativity—all on her own terms and timeline. “The journey is the destination,” she notes. “Why rush through it?”

CREATIVE SPIRIT

CONNECT WITH ART, MUSIC AND PERFORMANCE

Art Attack

CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART

BY TRICIA L. CHAVES

Color your world at Cleveland Museum of Art this summer! Get ready for some spectacular sun salutations in the form of art and music at Solstice on June 21, or join “Project Runway” wunderkindturned-designer Christian Siriano to talk the “Art of Fashion” on August 8.

MOCA CLEVELAND

Culinary arts round out the moCa Cleveland calendar where early risers attending Glazed & Mused each final Saturday receive Goldie’s Donuts and a cuppa Joe. The museum’s May 3 charity benefit, PALATE, takes place at The Agora ballroom with a menu curated by chef Jill Vedaa.

REINBERGER GALLERY

Nosh on complimentary pizza during the Lunch on Fridays series at Reinberger Gallery situated inside Cleveland Institute of Art. These free events offer a window into what’s new in art and design with artist talks and the chance to convene with students, faculty and visiting artists.

THE ARTISTS ARCHIVES OF THE WESTERN RESERVE

Ohio’s visual artists shine bright at The Artists Archives of the Western Reserve. This regional museum’s spring-summer showcase, “Common Currents,” weaves together the work of creatives from Cleveland and Buffalo in a collab with The Burchfield Penney Art Center from April 11-June 21.

Cleveland Museum of Art

Summer Soirees

BY LISA GALEK

In Wade Oval, Parade the Circle (June 14) brings “Magical Allure”— set to celebrate the snowy owl with dazzling costumes, hands-on activities, live music and community art demos all sure to be a hoot. Nearby at the Cleveland Museum of Art, the always-packed summer MIX event (August 1) beckons local art lovers with after-hours art, music, cocktails and dancing.

Spend time outside with the Cleveland Orchestra at the Blossom Music Festival (July 3-Sept 7). This year’s slate features an electrifying mix of classical masterpieces, Broadway hits and epic film scores, including Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (July 5-6) and Dolly Parton’s Threads (September 7).

Live performances and dynamic fringe shows pop up around Downtown during the BorderLight Theatre Festival (July 16-19). And check out IngenuityFest (September 26-28), a truly singular celebration of creativity, innovation and community in larger-than-life style at Hamilton Collaborative.

INDIE CRED

Art comes alive in Hingetown at Transformer Station , a satellite location of Cleveland Museum of Art known for elevated and emergent experiences of both visual and performing arts. Film buffs will geek out at Cinematheque, hailed by the New York Times as “one of the country’s best repertory movie theaters” for its carefully curated slate of 35mm, 4k digital restorations and Cleveland premieres. For those who enjoy a good poetry slam, Twelve Literary Arts delivers with socially conscious programming and events for all ages.

Hit the local art scene to inspire your creativity.

Transformer Station

Culture Club

Make your way through these museum must-see exhibits

BY AJA HANNAH

1

“ Harminder Judge: Bootstrap Paradox” moCa

From London to The Land, Judge’s first U.S. museum exhibition comes to moCa. Sculpture meets painting and plaster meets pigment for large-scale pieces inspired by funeral rites and ceremonial burning. (Through June 1)

2

“ Shahzia Sikander: Collective Behavior” Cleveland Museum of Art

Coming all the way from Venice on the heels of the 60th Biennale, this touring exhibit brings 40 pieces made over Shahzia Sikander’s 35-year career—depicting South Asian visual history through paintings, drawings, mosaics, sculpture and glass. (Through June 8)

3

“Karamu Artists Inc.: Printmaking, Race and Community” Cleveland Museum of Art

Underneath the legendary weight of Karamu House’s theatre program is Karamu Artists Inc., a collective of well-known Black printmakers during the Works Progress Administration era that created the 50+ prints on display today. (Through August 17)

4

“History In their Hands: Black Photographers in Cleveland”

Cleveland History Center

Black culture in Cleveland is preserved through photographs from the 1960s to the present. See images of segregation, civil rights, religion, music stylings of jazz and funk and family portraiture through the lens of Van Dillard, Mychal Lilly and more. (Through August 31)

5

“Edra Soto: La Casa de Todos / Everyone’s Home” The Sculpture Center

A sculptural outdoor bus shelter will create the container for art, stories and performances highlighting the surrounding Clark-Fulton neighborhood—home to Cleveland’s largest concentration of Puerto Rican and Latinx residents. Puerto Ricanborn, Chicago-based artist Ezra Soto will bring this vision to life as part of an eightmonth residency at The Sculpture Center. (May 16-July 19)

Blossom Music Festival

Karamu Artist’s Inc.

SHELF DISCOVERY

A meet-cute with your next read

BY SHARON HOLBROOK

CLEVO BOOKS (DOWNTOWN)

Your literary escape starts here! As a destination for world literature, Clevo Books offers a wide array of books translated into English. Pop into the sun-f illed store at its new location and let the helpful staff point you in interesting directions. (You may even encounter Minty the shop cat). Coming soon: an on-site wine bar!

LOGANBERRY BOOKS (LARCHMERE)

Creaky wood floors, cozy rugs and a maze of reading nooks and hidden rooms—Loganberry Books is the bookstore you’ve been dreaming of moving into, er, browsing. Celebrating 30 years, Loganberry has 100,000+ new, old and rare books and loads of fun events. (Don’t miss Author Alley in August to connect with local authors galore!)

ZUBAL BOOKS (CLARK-FULTON)

Nerd alert! Zubal, in business for 60+ years, is the place to call if you’re looking for a super obscure or special book. (Think f irst editions, your Dad’s favorite childhood book or an out-of-print scholarly book.) Just looking? Pop in and browse a small selection of Zubal’s half a million books—all for just $5 each.

VISIBLE VOICE BOOKS (TREMONT)

If speakeasies sold books, they’d want to be Visible Voice. Find the literary staircase (you’ll see what we mean) at Crust pizzeria and head upstairs for bookish attic vibes. Grab a selection from the store’s café—maybe a beer or a glass of wine—and relax with a smart, well-curated selection of books trending toward the offbeat.

Cleveland’s comic book legacy continues with long-time draws like West Park’s Carol & John’s Comic Book Shop keeping it quirky and homegrown for more than 30 years.

Hidden Gems

History Starts Here

Get close-up with Cleveland’s historic landmarks and spaces

BY ANNIE ZALESKI

SOLDIERS’ & SAILORS’ MONUMENT

Built in 1894, the Soldiers’ & Sailors’ Monument pays tribute to local residents who fought in the Civil War; it’s also a focal point of Public Square, a 10-acre enclave of greenspace considered Downtown’s crown jewel. The outer façade depicts fierce battle scenes, while the interior features bronze relief statues symbolizing the Infantry, Cavalry, Navy and Artillery.

BASEBALL HERITAGE MUSEUM

Play ball! Located at League Park, this museum tells the stories of the Latin, Caribbean, Barnstormer, Negro and Women’s leagues. Browse this treasure trove of baseball memorabilia, then step outside onto the actual field where the Cleveland Buckeyes clinched the 1945 Negro League World Series and Babe Ruth hit his 500th home run.

ERIE STREET CEMETERY

Directly across the street from Progressive Field, an ornate stone gateway with turrets and crosses opens into Cleveland’s oldest existing cemetery. The Erie Street Cemetery dates back to 1826 with nearly 8,000 burials, including multiple Cleveland mayors and the city’s first permanent settler, Lorenzo Carter.

THE UNIQUE SIDE OF CLEVELAND IS PERHAPS ITS MOST ENDEARING

SUPERMAN’S CLEVELAND

BY KEVIN CARPENTER

The Man of Steel is back home, and we’re not talking about Krypton. On July 11, the newest reboot of the “Superman” film franchise— and first movie in the new DC Universe—flies into theaters with a big assist from Cleveland.

Director James Gunn and cast (led by David Corenswet) filmed here for six weeks last summer, giving this surefire blockbuster a distinctly local look. The Leader Building stood in as the exterior of The Daily Planet offices, while The Arcade, Cleveland City Hall and Progressive Field also made notable cameos.

The local love seems apropos considering it was two Glenville students, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, who created Superman in the first place. See where it all began at Siegel’s former house on Kimberly Avenue, or visit Cleveland Public Library to do a deep-dive into its unrivaled collection of Superman memorabilia.

The Quirky Side

BY JEN JONES DONATELLI

Cleveland is known for its world-renowned museums, but our city also has quite a few compelling museums off the beaten path. Religious artifacts and divine statues beckon believers inside the former St. Hedwig church at the Sanctuary Museum , while the Buckland Museum of Witchcraft and Magic showcases all things occult, courtesy of author Raymond Buckland’s famed collection. And an information inferno awaits at the Western Reserve Fire Museum

dedicated to preserving and sharing historical firefighting vehicles, equipment and photos inside a 1926-built fire station.

Buckland Museum of Witchcraft

Superman Exhibit

Baseball Heritage Museum

CLE SPREE

HOMETOWN BOUTIQUES

Buying a Fount leather bag is pretty much a requirement for any style-minded Clevelander, as is a trip to “Project Runway” alum Valerie Mayen’s Yellowcake studio for a personalized consultation. Want to show some local love? CLE Clothing Co. has all the gear you need.

GALLERY HOP

Third Fridays crackle with creativity in Cleveland at both 78th Street Studios and Negative Space Gallery with a monthly open house event and ongoing concert series, respectively! At Framed Gallery, you’ll find a collection exclusively dedicated to the work of Black artists.

FOR THE KID IN YOU

America’s largest candy store beckons at b.a. Sweetie, while Apple Jax Toys celebrates pop culture and kitsch— from Barbie to Buck Rogers—at its three locations. Crowned “Best Vintage T-shirts” by Cleveland Magazine back in 2011, Star Pop continues to be a collector’s dream.

Supporting local starts here

BY JEN JONES DONATELLI

IN THE GROOVE

We might seem like we’re just trying to put a spin on things, but Cleveland truly has some of the best record shops, including My Mind’s Eye, Blue Arrow Records and Bent Crayon (just to name a few).

LIFESTYLE HUBS

Retail meets recreation and relaxation at Cleveland’s open-air outdoor shopping centers, including Legacy Village, ETON and Crocker Park . Turn your shopping trip up a notch with a free concert, farmer’s market detour or outdoor movement class!

Valerie Mayen, Yellowcake Shop Clothing

©BILLY DELFS

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WHERE THE LOCALS GO

Clevelanders can’t keep secrets! It’s the reason our supposedly “underground” indie theaters, blue-collar brewpubs and cool art galleries are increasingly cult hangouts. Just follow the crowd and go where the locals go, discovering Clevelander’s still cool un-secret side.

B.A. SWEETIE CANDY CO.

216.739.2244

sweetiescandy.com

6770 Brookpark Rd. (at Ridge Rd.) Cleveland, OH 44129

ONLY in CLE! The largest candy store in North America! 40,000 square feet, $5,000,000 in inventory, nostalgic toys, soda pop, ice cream parlor, miniature golf park.

LEGACY VILLAGE

216.382.3871

legacy-village.com 25001 Cedar Rd Lyndhurst, OH 44124

Legacy Village is Northeast Ohio’s premier lifestyle center located in the Cleveland suburb of Lyndhurst. Legacy Village features more than 45 restaurants and retailers plus family events and a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area. Discover something special at Legacy Village!

GEIGER’S

216.521.1771

shopgeigers.com

14710 Detroit Ave. Lakewood, OH 44107

Since 1932, Clevelanders have been coming to Geiger’s to outfit their families with men’s and women’s clothing, footwear, and gear for outdoor activities. Our friendly staff and exceptional customer service has given us the opportunity to serve generations of loyal customers.

LION AND BLUE

216.529.2328 lionandblue.com 15106 Detroit Ave. Lakewood, OH 44107

Lakewood’s #1 shop for gift giving since 1996. Featuring fair trade boho apparel, decor, gifts and jewelry from around the world. Largest selection of BIRKENSTOCK footwear in Northeast Ohio. A neighborhood shop, a world of treasures!

CROCKER PARK

440.835.9343

crockerpark.com

177 Market St. Westlake, OH 44145

Shop, dine and play at the premier outdoor lifestyle center on Cleveland’s west side! Discover 150+ shopping and dining options, plus exciting familyand pet-friendly events and attractions. It’s All About the Experience.

ETON CHAGRIN BOULEVARD

216.591.1762

etonchagrinblvd.com 28601 Chagrin Blvd. Cleveland, OH 44122

Experience the most exclusive mix of national retailers, local specialty boutique shops, while enjoying the fine dining alongside the award-winning outdoor gardens at this picturesque open-air lifestyle center on Cleveland’s east side.

COTTON

216.712.7500

cottonlakewood.com 14400 Detroit Ave. Lakewood, OH 44107

Located in the historic Bailey Buick building in Downtown Lakewood, Cotton opened in 2013. Featuring beautiful top of bed, towels, kitchen and dinnerware as well as an extensive gift collection, Cotton is a must visit!

GREATER CLEVELAND AQUARIUM

Downtown –The Flats West

216.862.8803

greaterclevelandaquarium.com 2000 Sycamore St. Cleveland, OH 44113

Spot well-camouflaged weedy seadragons, marvel at moon jellies, peer at poison dart frogs, feed stingrays and stand under sandtiger sharks! Explore nearby waterways and faraway oceans without leaving the heart of the city.

CELEBRATING BLACK CULTURE

Cleveland’s black community is deeply woven into the fabric of

the city

Heritage Comes Alive

AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL GARDEN

Located within the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, architect Daniel Bickerstaff designed this space to convey the past, present and future of the African American community, as well as promote the education and interest of its culture and heritage.

COZAD-BATES HOUSE

Long regarded for its important role on the Underground Railroad, the Cozad-Bates House stands as the only surviving pre-Civil War structure in University Circle. Its indoor-outdoor interpretive center underscores the area’s significance in the abolitionist movement with relics including photos, newspaper articles, engravings and more.

KARAMU HOUSE

Who needs Broadway with world-class theatre in our own backyard? Cleveland is an epicenter of arts and culture, boasting the nation’s oldest African American theater. Founded in 1915, this cultural staple sits on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Enjoy professional theatre productions and arts education while honoring the Black experience.

DJAPO CULTURAL ARTS INSTITUTION

Bringing West African dances to Cleveland since 2008, Djapo has been putting on colorful choreographed performances alongside the sounds of traditional drum beats. Catch one of their shows or bring some main character energy and take one of their courses. Participants of all ages are invited to attend.

Karamu House

UNITY ON DISPLAY

BY BRI OLDHAM

Dynamic and inspiring, Station Hope transforms Cleveland’s historic St. John’s Episcopal Church into a vibrant arts hub every May. Music, theater and soul-stirring performances take center stage at this community-driven event celebrating social justice and fostering hope inside what was once an Underground Railroad stop.

Juneteenth in Cleveland ignites jubilation by honoring the unbroken spirit of Black resilience. Full of family-friendly activities, games and programs, the city comes together for an unforgettable cultural experience at MetroHealth’s Freedom Fest—slated for June 14 on Downtown’s Mall C plaza.

In August, sample your way through a smorgasbord of savory dishes and soulful sounds at A Taste of Black Cleveland; this contest showcases talented Black chefs and Black-owned restaurants, food trucks and online businesses.

And save the date for Greater Cleveland Urban Film Festival (September 18-26), known for sparking important dialogue and recognizing the richness of Black narratives. With four days of in-person screenings and a seven-day virtual exhibition, film lovers everywhere can get in on the movie action.

START ME UP

Cleveland’s Black entrepreneurs are making moves, so let’s show them some love! Looking to spice up your life? Adun Spice Co. keeps your kitchen stocked with sustainable and ethically sourced spices, salts and herbs. If you’re a green thumb type, nourish your garden with some “black gold” from urban farm RID-ALL Green Partnership or get inspired at its community kitchen in Maple Heights. And for those on the go, Capsoul offers stylish travel gear such as utility belts and carry-all pouches.

Plate Expectations

These soulful spots set the bar high and keep you coming back for more

BY ANGEL WALLACE

1

Whitmore’s Bar-B-Que (Warrensville Hts.)

Serving up secret sauce since 1942! Fueled by family recipes, Whitmore’s continues to deliver savory flavor and cookout nostalgia as the undisputed OGs of the “Deluxe Polish Boy,” smoky fall off-the-bone ribs and fried chicken.

2

Angie’s Soul Café (Four locations)

Feed your soul and senses at Angie’s! See smiles, hear laughter, feel warmth, smell smothered pork chops and taste southern home-style cooking at one of four locations in Midtown, Uptown, Warrensville Hts. or University Hts.

3

Floods Urban Seafood (Warrenville Hts.)

Share in Black culture through art, music and food.

Where Southern comfort meets seafood, you’ll find three-time “Taste of Cleveland” award recipient Floods. The “catch-of-the-day” is always a vibe with a side of fried gator bites, flood rolls or a flooded potato.

4 5

House of Creole (Cleveland)

This contemporary Cajun kitchen will tastefully teleport you from CLE to New Orleans. Known for their bayou pasta, craft cocktails and stylish décor, House of Creole has all the right seasonings to spice up your life.

Zoma Ethiopian Cuisine (Cleveland Heights)

A taste of Ethiopian heritage awaits in the heart of the Heights. Why fly international when you can drive to Zoma to grab an Injera-lined platter piled with East African flavors?

Station Hope

Zoma

Capsoul

it Check

These Cleveland shops deserve some real estate in your closet

BY SILK ALLEN

SELF-MADE COUTURE

Ready to swap your Nike Tech for a bespoke suit? Luxury clothier Self-Made Couture’s Cleveland showroom has you covered. Their expert stylists will work directly with you to design personalized menswear crafted from scratch—creating custom looks that captivate.

HOUSE OF B JEWELS

As a former nail tech, Brittany Matthews knows a thing or two about bling and transferred that knowledge to House of B Jewels, the Glenville-based jewelry boutique that she co-owns with daughter Baileigh. Together they sell personalized necklaces, watches and rings that are meaningful and make the best gifts.

PRIVATE IN PUBLIC

Elevate your style game at Private in Public, Lyndhurst’s go-to women’s boutique owned by Siera Nicole. Shop celeb-inspired looks, trendy statement pieces, wardrobe staples and festival-ready ‘fits. From basic denim to hot girl summer dresses, this fashion destination has everything you need to turn heads.

House of B Jewels

One for the Books

CLEVELAND HISTORY CENTER

These must-see sites and exhibits preserve and highlight Cleveland’s Black history

BY AJA HANNAH

Black visionaries take the spotlight in exhibitions such as “Robert P. Madison: A Lifetime of Design” and “Carl & Louis Stokes: Making History.” The former features 600+ designs, models and drawings by Ohio’s first registered Black architect, while the latter shares the legacy of Cleveland mayor Carl B. Stokes—widely known as the first Black mayor of a major U.S. city—and his congressman brother Louis Stokes. Also of note are the African American Archives, preserving Black history and genealogy in Northeast Ohio.

LANGSTON HUGHES BRANCH LIBRARY

Hold fast to dreams and get inspired by the complete works of Langston Hughes, along with an autographed copy of his 1920 Central High School yearbook. Nestled at the intersection of East Blvd and Route 6, this red brick library honors the life and legacy of the poet and activist with an Ohio historical marker on its lawn. Relax with your favorite book in the rectangular reading room or peruse original documents and photos by Hughes.

HOWARD A. MIMS AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER

Over at Cleveland State University, the cultural center houses a permanent collection of African art and a revolving collection of exhibits that cover Africa and the African diaspora. Like the culture, this center is as varied as its people—be ready for contemporary or traditional, art or history. Take in a thought-provoking “Bridges to Africa” panel, or catch a Kuumba Arts exhibition to appreciate artwork exemplifying Black culture.

CLEVELAND CIVIL RIGHTS TRAIL

Take a self-guided tour of 11 iconic sites on the Civil Rights trail, including several where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. made stops and gave speeches (such as Olivet Institutional Baptist Church and Glenville High School). Retrace the steps of those involved in the underground and grassroots movements of the 50s and 60s, and stand in the courage of past changemakers who championed desegregation at Cleveland Public Schools.

Cleveland History Center

BY REBECCA FERLOTTI

CLEVELAND CREATIVES

Tony Sias joined Karamu House as CEO in its historic centennial year, and a decade later, he continues to helm and celebrate the nation’s oldest Black producing theatre as it turns 110. “This momentous occasion highlights Karamu’s deep cultural impact and legacy in Northeast Ohio and across the country,” says Sias.

Having formerly served as director of arts education for Cleveland Metropolitan School District, Sias has seen firsthand how the arts raise up younger generations, carrying that into his work at Karamu House. “We create and curate theatre that illuminates history, examines social justice, amplifies underrepresented voices and spurs audiences to action,” says Sias of Karamu’s mission, one that extends to all demographics.

From his days as a drama major in his hometown of Jackson, Mississippi to the stunning auditorium of Karamu House, Sias has spent his career championing story-driven performances that “allow us to escape from real life and transport us into another reality.”

TONY SIAS

President & CEO

Karamu House

We create and curate theatre that illuminates history, examines social justice, amplifies underrepresented voices.

Hola! Cleveland

! Creative Pulse SPICED AND DICED

BY ROXANNE OCASIO

The heart of Cleveland’s Hispanic population beats through the arts

JULIA DE BURGOS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER

At Julia De Burgos Cultural Arts Center, youth find their cultural groove through crafting, ballet, flamenco and Latin social dance classes, while adults can join an upcoming book club highlighting Latino authors.

Ongoing

TROPICAL CLEVELAND

Shall we dance? These Latin dance parties are turning up the heat at local venues such as Music Box Supper Club and Nuevo Modern Mexican & Tequila Bar. Don a wig for a theme night, or just wig out over the live band lineup.

Ongoing

CLEVELAND LATINO FILM FESTIVAL

Pass the palomitas for the Cleveland Latino Film Festival, hosted by LatinUs Theater Company at the Pivot Center. The first-of-its-kind event will celebrate Latino representation in filmmaking with screenings and panel discussions.

July 11-13

BY TRICIA L. CHAVES AND JEN JONES DONATELLI

MEET THE LAND’S HISPANIC COMMUNITY

Salvadoran seekers know that Pupuseria y Antojitos Guanaquitas is where it’s at for perfect pupusas and empanadas, while the taco crowd heads straight for La Plaza taqueria (located inside a grocery store specializing in Mexican, Central American and South American foods). For handcrafted, award-winning arepas and libations, Barroco boasts three locations in Westlake, Lakewood and Larchmere.

Cleveland’s first Mexican coffee shop, Dahlia Coffee, also recently hit the scene, specializing in small-batch specialty coffee. (Owner Natalia Alcazar named the shop for Mexico’s national flower.) Over in Old Brooklyn, Mariela Paz is realizing her own creative vision at colorful Sabor Miami—known for flavorful cuisine, an artsy outlook and chimarrão (a traditional tea service from the South of Brazil).

Thriving Marketplace

BY REBECCA FERLOTTI

After years of anticipation, the CentroVilla25 market and food hall is in motion! Sip some Puerto Rican coffee at Café Roig while indulging in baked goods from Panitos Panaderia—just two of the 20 kiosk-style shops at this new destination in the ClarkFulton neighborhood. Post-snack, browse Jireh Boutique for

women’s clothing and purses, followed by Mine Angel Collections for jewelry to pull your outfit together. In addition to these colorful booths, this lively cultural hub boasts flexible event space, a commercial kitchen and a plaza for outdoor gatherings.

CentroVilla25

Tropical Cleveland

La Plaza

THESE CULTURAL FESTIVALS CELEBRATE WHO AND WHAT MAKE CLEVELAND... WELL, CLEVELAND

Juneteenth

TO HONOR THE HOLIDAY THAT COMMEMORATES THE ENDING OF SLAVERY, JUNETEENTH FREEDOM FEST WILL INCLUDE SPOKEN WORD PERFORMANCES, MUSIC, INTERACTIVE ART DEMONSTRATIONS AND BLACK BUSINESSES ON MALL C IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN. (JUNE 14)

©MATT SHIFFLER

FEAST OF THE ASSUMPTION

Catholics, calzones and crowds, oh my! The annual Feast of the Assumption lines the streets of Little Italy with specialty foods, carnival games, music and parties. (August 14-17)

©WIL LINDSEY

“ The Feast” is celebrating its 126th year in Little Italy.

BY SARAH PARR

PUERTO RICAN PARADE

et your Puerto Rican flag fly as Cleveland’s Hispanic community brings big Boricua energy to MetroHealth’s Quad Park! This tradition has been celebrating Puerto Rican arts and culture in Cleveland since the 1960s. (August 2-3)

One World Day

With a rich immigrant population, Cleveland has always been a multicultural mecca—and One World Day puts its diversity in the spotlight with an inspiring takeover of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. (August 24)

Find out why AsiaTown’s Cleveland Asian Festival is Northeast Ohio’s fastest-growing fest—from real-deal cuisine to artisan goods to cultural performances and demonstrations on two outdoor stages. (May 17-18)

©ERIK DROST

©NATHAN MIGAL

©NATHAN MIGAL

Pride Guide

Spend Those Pink Dollars

SUPPORT THESE LOCAL LGBTQ+-OWNED BUSINESSES

BY ALYSSE DALESSANDRO

STUDIO WEST 117

The LGBTQ+ community finds a home at Studio West 117’s 300,000-square-foot complex in Lakewood. From drag bingo and pickleball tournaments to sound healing and rooftop techno parties, there’s something here for every kind of queer.

DEAN RUFUS HOUSE OF FUN

With the historic LGBT Movement land marker outside, Dean Rufus House of Fun has been a Hingetown fixture since 2006. Find a flag for every identity in the community alongside novelty gifts, party gear and vintage records.

POP CULTURE CLE

On weekends, this Solon-based sweet shop puts the “pop!” in popsicles with their gourmet ice cream delicacies on a stick. From vanilla custard with Fruity Pebbles to vegan Mexican chocolate with cayenne, their flavors pack a punch.

CLEVELAND’S LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY IS OUT AND PROUD

BY ILONA WESTFALL

OUT ON THE TOWN

Cleveland’s drag scene

The best mornings start with quiche and a latte at Sophie La Gourmande, a LGBTQ+-owned cafe and patisserie in Cleveland Heights. Later, fuel up for the night at queer/woman-owned hotspot, Little Rose Tavern, which features rotating pop-up food menus and live local music. Keep the night going with a visit to the granddaddy of Cleveland gay bars, Leather Stallion Saloon (open since 1970), or catch karaoke or a comedy or drag show at Cocktails Cleveland. Wrap up the night on the dance floor at Twist Social Club (Pro tip: Get there early—the dance floor fills up around 11 p.m.!)

Points of Pride

Pride in the CLE is sure to be in full force on June 7— especially on the heels of last year’s record-breaking attendance of 25,000+ people. Celebrating five years strong this June, Mx.Juneteenth will convene the Black and queer communities for “reverence, remembrance and radical joy” to commemorate Juneteenth. On June 14-15, the North Coast Men’s Chorus will pay lip service to legends such as Freddie Mercury and George Michael at its “Reigning Men” concert, while the LGBT Community Center will be celebrating pride every single day in Gordon Square.

Studio West 117

Global Roots, Local Culture

Dig into Cleveland’s diverse history

BY LESLIE BASALLA-MCCAFFERTY

CLEVELAND HISTORY CENTER

The keepers of Cleveland’s treasures tell stories through artifacts spanning sports, industry, fashion and pop culture. Don’t miss “History in Their Hands,” on exhibit through August showcasing the work of Black photographers in Cleveland from 1968-present.

UKRAINIAN MUSEUM-ARCHIVES

Almost lost to Soviet destruction, but saved by heroic scholars, this dazzling collection of folk and fine art, historical documents and photographs in the Tremont neighborhood preserves Ukraine’s vast cultural heritage.

MALTZ MUSEUM

Everyone is welcome at “The Museum of Diversity and Tolerance,” a striking museum in Beachwood. Exhibits expose dark episodes of the past and shine a light towards a brighter, kinder future.

INDIAN MUSEUM OF LAKE COUNTRY

For more than 40 years, this museum has kept Native American history alive in Northeast Ohio. Marvel at 26,000 prehistoric artifacts, or browse Native American crafts from the years 1800 to 2008.

Cleveland History Center

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GET A ROOM

Greater Cleveland’s growing hotel scene has guestrooms across all major hotel brands, ranging from chic boutiques to luxury hotels. Whether you’re into the thread count of your linens or just a place to crash for the night, we’ve got a hotel room with your name all over it.

Downtown – Convention Center District

216.696.9200

Marriott.com/clesc 1360 W Mall Dr., Cleveland, OH 44114

With an enviable location on Cleveland’s Public Square, we are steps away from the city’s most popular destinations. Relax at Ascend Fitness & Spa then enjoy crafted cocktails in The Greatroom or outside on The Pavilion. Wrap up your day with a meal at Il Venetian.

WESTIN DOWNTOWN

DowntownErieview District

216.771.7700 westincleveland.com

777 St Clair Ave. NE. Cleveland, OH 44114

Located just steps from all the Entertainment Districts, Sports Arenas and Concert Venues in Downtown, our property is perfect for both business and leisure travelers looking to explore all The Land has to offer.

ALOFT DOWNTOWN

Downtown - The Flats

216.400.6469 aloftclevelanddowntown.com 1111 W 10th St. Cleveland, OH 44113

Aloft Cleveland Downtown is a boutique hotel in the heart of Cleveland’s premier entertainment district. Surrounded by stunning lake views and award-winning restaurants, our trendy hotel is the ideal place to experience the best of Downtown Cleveland.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, CLEVELAND

Downtown – Public Square

216.623.1300

ritzcarlton.com/cleveland 1515 West Third St. Cleveland, OH 44113

Experience the timeless luxury of The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland, where impeccable service and modern elegance create unforgettable moments. From refined accommodations to exceptional dining, discover a destination that redefines hospitality in the heart of the city.

HOTEL CLEVELAND

DowntownPublic Square

216.696.5600

Since 1918, Hotel Cleveland has graced downtown’s Public Square, blending timeless elegance with modern luxury. Guests enjoy refined rooms, upscale dining at Maker and versatile event spaces, all reflecting Cleveland’s rich heritage.

FIDELITY HOTEL

Downtown Cleveland

440.568.3200 fidelityhotelcle.com 1940 E. 6th St. Cleveland OH, 44114

hotelcleveland.com 24 Public Square Cleveland, OH 44113 216.595.0900

1010 Eaton Blvd, Beachwood, OH 44122

Experience vibrant scenes at Aloft Beachwood!

Our renovated hotel offers modern comfort and style. Dive into relaxation in our sparkling pool, unwind in the lobby with games, and savor delightful moments at WXYZ, our bar and lounge. Your perfect getaway awaits!

Fidelity Hotel puts you in the center of Downtown within walking distance to shopping, dining, concerts and sporting events. Essentials include 97 beautifully designed rooms and suites; Club Room for dining & drink; and a variety of meeting & event spaces.

COMFORT INN MAYFIELD HEIGHTS CLEVELAND EAST

440.442.8400 choicehotels.com/oh502 1421 Golden Gate Blvd. Mayfield Hts., OH, 44124

Enjoy downtown access without the noise! Minutes from the airport, Case Western and Cleveland Clinic, we offer extended stay rates, in-room kitchenettes, free hot breakfast and meeting space. Book your stay today for comfort and convenience!

THE LAND

Sober Curious / Day-drinking takes on new meaning at Verbena Free Spirited Shoppe, where free spirits flock to this non-alcoholic bar and retail shop.

FOOD STATION

Bite into Cleveland’s culinary culture

Where to Eat Right Now

KILN

Even with hype like Cleveland Scene’s assertion that Kiln is “perhaps the most anticipated new restaurant in years,” Doug Katz’s latest concept does not disappoint. With elevated dishes made for sharing, this new Van Aken District staple has a little something for anyone in your dinner party—think ricotta dumplings, braised lamb shank and dark chocolate ganache.

EDWINS

Chef Brandon Chrostowski bolsters his reentry mission with a much-anticipated expansion into the former Nighttown building in Cleveland Hts., offering multiple dining and leisure options under one roof. Grab escargot from the brasserie, bouillabaisse from their fine dining arm and a smoked julep from the salon for a culinary triathlon you won’t want to end.

STEAK

BY REBECCA FERLOTTI

This neon-clad, quasi-Western spot in Tremont serves exactly what you’d expect: burgers. But for real, their steaks—the heart and soul of the menu— are unctuous and drenched in tallow butter to soothe the souls of every carnivore. (Wrap any cut in 24k gold for a trendy touch!) Pescatarians and vegans can also join in the fun with “The Mermaid Cut” and “Fake Filet,” respectively.

ARTIS

Chef Andrew Mansour takes on the world (via Lakewood) with his bold, a-little-bit-of-everything approach to trendy brunch and dinner menus. From classic Italian eggs Florentine to North African-Middle Eastern shakshuka for the former and Korean shortribs to Ohio angus ribeye for the latter—Artis offers a veritable cornucopia of flavors.

Kiln Restaurant

Dive In

BY CRYSTAL ANGERSOLA

Whether you’re after fine dining or a casual bite, Cleveland’s seafood game is anything but landlocked. Mallorca brings Spanish flair with saffron-kissed paella and garlicky Camarones al Ajillo, while Blue Point Grille always impresses with fresh oysters, towering seafood platters and legendary lobster mac ‘n cheese. At Acqua Di Dea, fresh branzino and salmon Sfogliatelle with burrata sauce will transport you straight to the Amalfi Coast.

Craving island vibes? La Playa delivers with zesty ceviche, seafood nachos and show-stopping Pina Rellena de Camaron served in a pineapple.

Don’s Lighthouse Grille, a Cleveland landmark since 1923, serves classics like Portuguese Seafood Stew and pretzel-crusted walleye in a historic setting made for date night. Black Box Fix turns up the heat with Creole-inspired seafood—such as the OMG Philly (blackened shrimp and lobster-packed cheesesteak) and the Surf & Turf Hoagie (stacked with juicy steak and crispy shrimp).

THE BIG CHILL

Want the scoop on Cleveland’s best ice cream spots? Look no further than this tasty trifecta! Located in The Arcade, Pammy’s Ice Cream takes the cake—literally—with next-level mix-ins such as pistachio knafeh chocolate bars and frosted carrot cake. Over at Mason’s Creamery, expect bold flavors that flip the script on the ordinary with ample vegan, GF and dairy options. And for quintessential Cleveland goodness (25 years and counting), head to Mitchell’s in Ohio City to watch the magic happen (and taste it, too!) in their 6,000-square-foot production kitchen.

Takin’ It to the Streets

Cleveland’s food scene heats up at these summer food fests

BY CRYSTAL ANGERSOLA

1

Tremont Greek Festival (May 23-26)

Souvlaki, spanakopita and baklava— OPA! Held on the grounds of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, this annual fest serves up authentic Greek fare, lively music and old-world shopping in the heart of Tremont.

2

Taste of Tremont (July 20)

For one day only, Tremont’s biggest street party showcases the neighborhood’s top chefs—and cements its status as a culinary hub. Add in refreshing craft brews, local vendors and live entertainment for the ultimate festival experience.

3

Cleveland Garlic Festival (August) Calling all garlic lovers! From garlicky fries to garlic ice cream, this festival is a flavor-packed weekend you don’t want to miss. (Just ask Food and Wine magazine, which covered the fest back in 2018.)

4

Cleveland Oktoberfest (Aug. 29-Sept. 1 & Sept. 5-6)

Get ready for (two weekends of) bratwurst, schnitzel and massive steins of German beer! With polka bands, wiener dog races and fun-filled biergartens, Cleveland’s biggest Bavarian bash is a must for the whole family.

5

Cleveland Beer Week (October)

A citywide toast to craft beer! Breweries, bars and restaurants pour rare releases, exclusive collaborations and barrel-aged beauties—with proceeds benefiting local charities. Grab a pint and celebrate Cleveland’s booming beer scene.

Tremont Greek Fest

Mason’s Creamery

Swill and Chill

BEER UP

Local beer is generating a sizable buzz in Northeast Ohio. Blue collar, bearded and brave, Cleveland craft breweries serve up some of the best award-winning brews in the world.

GREAT LAKES BREWING CO.

Ohio City

216.771.4404

greatlakesbrewing.com 2516 Market Ave. Cleveland, OH 44113

Visit Ohio’s original craft brewery for fresh year-round, seasonal and innovative pub exclusive brews on tap, paired with a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. Brewery tours, to-go beer and merchandise are available.

MASTHEAD BREWING CO.

Superior Arts District

216.206.6176

mastheadbrewingco.com 1261 Superior Ave. Cleveland, Ohio 44114

Masthead Brewing Co. has transformed a 1921 car dealership into a modern downtown brewery. Known for their award-winning beers and pizza kitchen, it’s the perfect place for food and drinks in a relaxed environment.

HOFBRAUHAUS

Playhouse Square District

216.621.BEER

hofbrauhauscleveland.com 1550 Chester Ave., Cleveland, OH 44114

Classic Bavarian Brews crafted on site by our Brewmaster according to the German “Purity Law” or Reinheitsgebot. Enjoy these fine biers in the Munich tradition that’s easy on the palate, yet smooth and refreshing with pure flavor in every sip.

FAT HEAD’S

216.898.0242

fatheads.com

17450 Engle Lake Dr. Middleburg Hts., OH 44130

Award-winning craft brewery with a 250-seat traditional beer hall and patio. Great food – with an emphasis on barbeque and smoked specialties. Visit our website for current hours, latest beer list and weekly food specials.

COLLISION BEND

Downtown –The Flats East

216.273.7879

collisionbendbrewery.com 1250 Old River Rd. Cleveland, OH 44113

Award-winning craft brewery and restaurant, featuring fresh beers brewed on-site, served alongside prepared seasonal dishes. Enjoy waterfront dining, live music and monthly events. Collision Bend, where expertly crafted food and beer collide. (Euclid location now open.)

NOBLE BEAST BREWING CO.

Superior Arts District

216.417.8588

Noblebeastbeer.com 1468 Lakeside Ave. Cleveland, OH 44114

Located in a converted steel warehouse, Noble Beast crafts a seasonal food menu supporting local farmers and producers while their brewery specializes in a mix of traditional and experimental beer styles.

SOUTHERN TIER BREWING CO.

Gateway District

440.484.4045

cleveland.stbcbeer.com 811 Prospect Ave. E. Cleveland, OH 44115

Visit our downtown brewery & taproom for fan favorites and local CLE Brews - just a short walk from Progressive Field and Rocket Arena. Featuring a beer-inspired food menu and a barrel cellar perfect for private events!

THE JOLLY SCHOLAR

University Circle

216.368.0090

TheJollyScholar.com 11111 Euclid Ave. Cleveland, OH 44106

Located in Thwing Center on the campus of Case Western Reserve University, a short walk from many Cleveland institutions, The Jolly Scholar is a unique Cleveland Brewery serving quality food and artisanal craft beer.

Next on Tap

Grab your brew-loving crew and hit up these buzzworthy new spots

BY JEN JONES DONATELLI

BLACK FROG BREWERY

MidTown marks the spot for Northeast Ohio’s first Black-owned brewery with the imminent opening of Black Frog Brewery. It’s been a ribbit-ing ride for brewmaster Christopher Harris, who started brewing in his garage and opened a Toledo brick-and-mortar before expanding East.

ROYAL DOCKS TIED HOUSE

What does “beer brewed with a decidedly British accent” taste like? Only one way to find out, mates— at Royal Docks Tied House. Invoking London’s pub culture, this Ohio City tap room and kitchen is a beer lover’s nirvana with brews like “Smells like the Nineties” amber ale.

COYOACÁN

It’s cervezas for days at Coyoacán in Shaker Square! With a dual concept of Mexican eatery and micro-brewery, the new venue is serving up authentic street food and handmade mezcalitas in a colorful atmosphere inspired by the same-named Mexico City borough.

your appetite in this food-focused city

TODAY’S SPECIAL

BY ALYSSE DALESSANDRO

WEST SIDE MARKET

Take a bite out of Cleveland’s rich culinary history in this famed 110+ year-old market.

Stock up on Mexican ingredients before grabbing a taco or tamale at the attached taqueria.

Black Frog Brewery

Mabel’s BBQ

Amba

BY REBECCA FERLOTTI

Chef-Driven Eats

There’s an undeniable pride central to every Cleveland chef, and it reflects in the food they put on your table. Grill master and Carnivore cookbook mastermind Michael Symon serves up his favorite dish Downtown at Mabel’s BBQ: meat. Grab some maple mustard glazed pork belly with a side of smoked brisket pierogies to feel like a true Midwesterner. A stone’s throw away on East Fourth Street, Cordelia brings multi-time James Beard nominee Vinnie Cimino’s vision of “modern grandma” to life with fast favorites like lasagna alla rolo and a 1920s-style burger box.

Also located Downtown, Tony Fortner’s Zanzibar Soul Fusion takes you on a Southern jaunt starting with collard green dip and ending with peach cobbler.

PARK TO SHOP

Ohio’s largest Asian supermarket brings the East to CLE with everything from dumpling flour to brown sugar boba ice cream.

GALLUCCI’S

Indulge in Italy’s finest imports from olives oils to cheeses—and don’t forget the fresh cannoli!

(East siders can check out their Shaker Square location.) Rocco Whalen’s revamped Fahrenheit joins the fold Downtown with seafood towers, pizzas and steaks—plus a stunning view of the city.

Across the Detroit Superior-Bridge, Hingetown packs a flavor punch with Larder. Jeremy Umansky and Allie La Valle’s Jewish delicatessen and bakery has an ever-changing menu, which may include pastrami and pork chops but always pickles. Around the corner, culinary darling Doug Katz’s Amba offers Indian-inspired shareables to mix and match or curated feasts for two or more.

ASSAD’S BAKERY

Spice up your picnic with this Mediterranean market’s fresh pitas and falafel.

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WHERE THE LOCALS GO

Clevelanders can’t keep secrets! It’s the reason our supposedly “underground” indie theaters, blue-collar brewpubs and cool art galleries are increasingly cult hangouts. Just follow the crowd and go where the locals go, discovering Clevelander’s still cool un-secret side.

BEACHLAND BALLROOM

Collinwood

216.383.1124

beachlandballroom.com

15711 Waterloo Rd. Cleveland, OH 44110

Rocking as a concert venue for 25 years, the former Croatian Social Hall hosts national & regional performers on two intimate stages. Enjoy a large draft selection and a locally sourced menu or shop the basement vintage/record store.

CLEVELAND BURLESQUE

Collinwood

clevelandburlesque@gmail.com clevelandburlesque.com

Shows held monthly at Beachland Ballroom

Cleveland Burlesque, founded in 2004, is a dazzling, award-winning spectacle. Fusing classic allure with the modern flair of Classic Burlesque, it celebrates diversity, self-expression and glamour, remaining a crown jewel in Cleveland’s vibrant theatrical entertainment scene.

BREWNUTS SWEET BEAN

Detroit Shoreway Collinwood

216.795.5561 sweetbeancandies.com 819 E. 185th St. Cleveland, OH 44119

A bright spot in Cleveland, sweet bean is a must-visit for colorful artisan chocolates described as “almost too pretty to eat.” A delightful experience for any sweet tooth seeking unique flavors and a welcoming vibe.

TABLETOP BOARD GAME CAFE

Ohio City

216.512.3053

tabletopcleve.com 1810 W. 25th St., Unit 3 Cleveland, OH 44113

Featuring over 1,000 board games, tasty foods and craft beer. Tabletop is the perfect spot for date night, birthdays, and after work fun. Staff can recommend and even teach you a new game you’ll love.

KERNELS BY CHRISSIE

Downtown – Gateway

216.664.0638

kbcpopcorn.com 530 Euclid Ave. Cleveland, OH 44114

A locally owned Downtown favorite for over 10 years! Dozens of hand-crafted popcorn flavors, fresh fudge, roasted nuts and the best fresh-squeezed lemonade! Gift packs, tins and party favors. Shipping available. In-store FREE SAMPLES!

216.471.8008 brewnutscleveland.com 6501 Detroit Ave. Cleveland, OH 44102

Cleveland’s award-winning donut bar where you can belly up to the bar for the most creative scratch made donuts, coffee creations and local beers. Don’t forget to snap a pic with their famous neon sign!

MALLORCA

Downtown –Warehouse District

216.687.9494 mallorcacle.com 1390 W. 9th St. Cleveland, OH 44113

Bienvenidos a Mallorca! We are downtown Cleveland’s most awarded restaurant. For 29 years a destination spot and icon in the city. Enjoy all your favorites from the Iberian Peninsula including paella, fresh seafood and Monster steaks! Viva Espana!

THE IVY

Downtown –Warehouse District

216.857.4509 ivycle.com 1212 W. 6th St. Cleveland, Ohio 44113

The Ivy is Cleveland’s go-to spot, offering internationally inspired dining and signature cocktails that transition seamlessly from dinner to nightlife. Located in the Warehouse District, it provides an upscale, yet lively, atmosphere for downtown residents and professionals.

THE LAND

BEST LOCATION IN THE NATION

BIG DEVELOPMENTS AND THRIVING NEIGHBORHOODS ARE MAKING A GREATER CLEVELAND

BY VINCE GUERRIERI

People continue to flock to Downtown Cleveland not just for work and entertainment, but to live. (The city leads the nation in office-to-residential conversions.) Work is underway at Erieview Tower, with the end result being 227 new apartments and Ohio’s first W Hotel. The nine-story Electric Building is also being renovated into apartments with high-end sports bar Tom’s Watch Bar occupying the ground floor. On Euclid Avenue, Skyline 776 will feature a rooftop pool and a French restaurant and cabaret. The redevelopment extends to Cleveland’s Flats, where a 42-acre site on the Scranton Peninsula is planned to become an “urban village” with residences, offices and retail.

Cleveland Skyline

A GRADE ABOVE

BY JEN JONES DONATELLI

Clinic

Academia, rich culture and medical excellence meet in University Circle, which boasts 550 acres worth of lush greenspace woven among acclaimed museums and institutions. Ranked among Forbes’ “America’s Prettiest Neighborhoods,” there are few better—or more appealing—places to learn and grow.

Cases in point: the Cleveland Institute of Art , which offers 13 creative majors (from game design to printmaking), and Cleveland School of the Arts, a public high

school that puts Fame to shame. Access is also important in University Circle, with Cleveland Institute of Music walking the walk by lowering tuition by 15 percent back in 2017. Case Western Reserve University continues to be leading-edge, having been ranked second in Ohio by U.S.News&World Report for 2025.

University Circle also serves as a respected hub for hospitals and medical research centers. Leading the list are Cleveland Clinic (ranked #2 on Newsweek’s “World’s Best Hospitals” list for seven years running) and University Hospitals (known for Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital and Seidman Cancer Center).

Did You Know?

BY JEN JONES DONATELLI

Not only is Cleveland’s cost of living 9% below the national average, but Cuyahoga County ranks top four in the U.S. for both renting and owning.

HIGHER EDUCATION

More than 40,000 annual graduates have made the grade in Cleveland at its 25+ higher education institutions.

Talk about a one-stop shop: University Circle is the country’s most concentrated area of medical, educational and cultural institutions within one square mile. 3

BIG BUSINESS & JOBS

Big business thrives in Greater Cleveland with 20 Fortune 1000 companies and ample job opportunities across tech, healthcare and manufacturing.

Going Green

A 1969 fire on the Cuyahoga River sparked a clean water movement that has reverberated throughout Cleveland for decades.

What do a prime perch on Lake Erie, awardwinning parks and the nation’s largest theatre district outside Broadway have in common? Cleveland.

High-Tech Hotbed

thriving innovation centers have made Cleveland an epicenter for the new and bold.

BY DOUGLAS J. GUTH

MAGNET

Rooted in Cleveland's rich industrial past, the Manufacturing Advocacy and Growth Network (MAGNET) has positioned the city as a globally recognized maker hub. With a stated focus on transformation, technology, talent and leadership, MAGNET is driving Cleveland's innovative future.

NOTTINGHAM SPIRK

Nottingham Spirk’s massive Clevelandbased innovation center is turning breakthrough ideas into reality. Patented vacuum technology from Hoover and Dirt Devil is leaving competitors in the dust, while a partnership with Schick has put the company on the razor’s edge of ingenuity.

MIDTOWN COLLABORATION CENTER

Teamwork makes the dream work! Just ask the folks at MidTown Collaboration Center, where numerous organizations and institutions are coming together to share research and partner on joint programming. The center is located in Cleveland’s Health-Tech corridor, home to 170+ innovation-minded companies.

* Names You Know?

When it comes to big business, many household names call Cleveland home— including top consumer brands such as Sherwin-Williams, Vitamix, Nestlé, American Greetings and Duck Brand.

Advanced Manufacturing

CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY

HIGHER, FURTHER, FASTER

BY ROXANNE OCASIO

Tap into over 250 partnerships—including the Cleveland Clinic Foundation and NASA— to help launch your career.

With 109,000 diverse companies, Cleveland is a rich hub for innovation.

JOHN CARROLL UNIVERSITY

Curious about the brain?

A new neuroscience major launches in fall 2025 with plenty of research opportunities.

Launchpad for Innovation

BY DOUGLAS J. GUTH

Cleveland continues to be an unparalleled healthcare leader, with Cleveland Clinic holding the No. 2 spot globally in Newsweek's yearly hospital rankings. On the innovation side, University Hospitals recently announced a $39 million dollar investment for a new regional cancer hub at UH TriPoint Medical Center.

The North Coast also shines in advanced manufacturing, guided by the boundary-pushing product and process development of the Research and Innovation Center at Cleveland-Cliffs NASA Glenn Research Center is another highflying Cleveland creator, fueled by its crucial role in aeronautics, space exploration and additional bleeding-edge technology.

CWRU Sears think[box]

BALDWIN WALLACE UNIVERSITY

School’s in for former Lt. Governor Lee Fisher, who becomes the school’s tenth president this summer.

KENT

STATE UNIVERSITY

As the nation’s fifth-largest financial sector, Northeast Ohio is home to fintech leaders such as KeyBank , MAI Capital Management and Splash Financial . Information technology is a prominent regional strength, too—via robust educational institutions, access to early-stage capital and a highly collaborative atmosphere that prioritizes idea-sharing.

To that end, Cleveland is fertile ground for new startups, with organizations like JumpStart providing much-needed mentorship, funding and resources to newbie entrepreneurs. Plug and Play Cleveland is also leading the way as a key connector and business accelerator advancing digital health, pharma and enterprise solutions.

Need flexible classes? Kent ranks among the nation’s best for online programs including nursing, business and education.

CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Tri-C makes its mark as one of five colleges in a national initiative to improve course offerings.

NASA Glenn

Promised Land

THESE COMPANIES ARE PLANTING THEIR FLAG AND EXPANDING THEIR PRESENCE IN CLEVELAND

BY DOUGLAS J. GUTH & KEVIN CARPENTER

SHERWIN-WILLIAMS

The global paint and coatings giant is getting closer to opening its Downtown global headquarters, thanks to ongoing construction of a 36-story tower that will house approximately 3,100 employees. The shiny new HQ—conveniently located on the front porch of Public Square—is set for completion in October 2025.

CLEVELAND CLINIC

About $1.3 billion in capital investments will afford exciting happenings like a 1-millionsquare-foot Neurological Institute building. Additional projects include the Cole Eye Institute expansion and a new research space focused on pathogen study.

CANON HEALTHCARE USA

Canon has planted its flag in Cleveland by acquiring a 41,630-square-foot facility in University Circle, not far from Cleveland Clinic’s main campus. Even better, Canon plans to partner with its new neighbor on next-level imaging and healthcare technologies (think MRI, CT and ulterasound) to better diagnose and treat patients.

CLEVELAND CLINIC GLOBAL PEAK PERFORMANCE CENTER

This facility will double as both a tricked-out training facility for our Cavaliers and a worldclass sports health center open to the public. Truly cutting-edge stuff—like incorporating artificial intelligence to help Clinic pros crack the code of athletic performance.

BLUE ABYSS

The UK-based aerospace company is shooting for the stars in Brook Park. It plans to build a $250 million commercial astronaut training and research facility near NASA Glenn—featuring a 50-meter deep pool that mimics the extreme conditions of outer space and deep sea exploration.

MICELI DAIRY PRODUCTS

Homegrown companies continue to invest in The Land—and themselves. Cleveland’s own Miceli Dairy Products kicks off a threephase $128 million expansion this spring with an initial focus on increasing storage and delivery space. The glow-up also brings 250 new jobs to the Greater Buckeye neighborhood.

Clevelanders aren’t squares, but we do have two: Euclid Avenue connects Public Square and Playhouse Square. In between, you’ll discover newly built apartments, celebrated restaurants, stay-up-til-dawn spots and family-friendly sites. Get a group and go to The Flats for grub and games, or take the kids on a walking tour and check things off the Cleveland bucket list. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a music mecca by the Lake, and nearby Great Lakes Science Center makes science fun. (Plus, Dippin’ Dots!) Progressive Field and Rocket Arena offer some of the best in pro sports and entertainment.

By Josh Womack and Rebecca Ferlotti

DOWNTOWNCLEVELAND

TASTE

BY JEN JONES DONATELLI

From sunrise to sundown, the Downtown dining scene is ready to make your day. Wake up at Phoenix Coffee, or take a leisurely brunch at Betts inside the Kimpton Schofield Hotel. (Grab-and-go options are also available if you’re headed to a Cavaliers game. Win-win.) For lunch, go find out why Johnny’s Little Bar is one of Cleveland’s best kept secrets, or hit Geraci’s Slice Shop for a gooey pizza pie.

Cleveland is a city with world-class experiences without the world-class ego.

Once dinner hits, let your taste buds lead the way to buzzy spots like Goma (sushi); Marble Room (steaks and seafood); Acqua Di Dea (Mediterranean cuisine); Taza (Labenese); or Butcher & The Brewer (brewpub). End the day with a “cheers” at always-busy (and rightfully so) Masthead Brewing Co.

SHOP

BY SILK ALLEN

Cleveland has “retail therapy” written all over the city. Start at Cleveland Clothing Co., where it’s always tee time. Show off your Cleveland pride—and instill some in others—by gifting souvenirs people actually want. Just down the street, make pour decisions at Heinen’s wine tasting machines, or grab some organic produce or a gourmet ready-made dish.

Not in the mood for food? Inside the 5th Street Arcades, DIY inspo abounds at Coco’s Selfie Space, while Intro Boutique stocks affordable contemporary and business-casual options with accessories to match. Tower City’s revival offers headturning couture pieces from Infinite Boutique; statement bags in every color from In My Bag Collection; and luxury sneakers for men at The Feet Geeks.

PLAY

BY JEN JONES DONATELLI

All three of Cleveland’s pro sports teams do their thing here—cheer on the Cavs at Rocket Arena , or get a doubleheader of Guardians baseball in at Progressive Field during baseball season. (You can also tailgate at Huntington Bank Field come football season.)

More into shows over sports? Playhouse Square is your spot for Broadway shows, while House of Blues attracts national acts with a side of Southern-inspired food. Fun is the name of the game in The Flats , with a lively row of riverfront restaurants and nightclubs. Bet on a good time at JACK Casino, or taste your way down East 4th Street with a nightcap at comedy club Pickwick & Frolic .

For family-friendly fare, look no further than the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Great Lakes Science Center

What started in a Cleveland basement is now a successful T-shirt and souvenir shop showcasing city pride at four Northeast Ohio locations.

MUST-SEE DOWNTOWN

1 See a Lake Erie sunset from North Coast Harbor.

2 Cheer on the Guardians at Progressive Field.

3 Stretch your legs on Euclid Avenue.

4 Take a stroll down The Flats boardwalk.

5 Revel on East 4th Street.

A5

C1

Neighborhoods Map

TREMONT

This blue-collar neighborhood balances Cleveland’s big-city feel with cozy, small town charm. Minutes from Downtown, Tremont is one of Cleveland’s oldest communities dating back to the 1800s—showcasing its rich heritage through old cottages and beautiful churches that have stood the test of time. (There are also cultural enclaves dedicated to preserving history, such as the Ukrainian Museum-Archives .)

It’s a striking juxtaposition with the Food Network-famous restaurants, sleek modern housing and ample art galleries that make it an in-demand destination for both locals and tourists. Don’t even think about visiting the neighborhood without checking out the House From A Christmas Story —where you can relive the movie’s magic at its iconic filming location.

LOCAL FLAVORS

BY TRICIA L. CHAVES

From Meryl Streep to Babe Ruth, plenty of bold-faced names have bellied up at blue-collar Hotz Cafe Cleveland’s oldest tavern, est. 1919. Other long-time favorites include Fat Cats (serving up skyline views for nearly 30 years) and Ty Fun (offering a taste of Thailand for 19 years as the vision of Bangkok-born Sunny Ting).

Planning a date? Dine like a local at Literary Tavern and woo your +1 with its inviting scene and shareables, or hit up literary-themed Cloak & Dagger —where swilling meets storytime with book-inspired menus punctuated with vegan fare. For escapist fare, bayou a hurricane and some gumbo at Bourbon Street Barrel Room for an instant escape to the Big Easy. Tremont is also home to top chefs such as two-time James Beard nominee Dante Boccuzzi with his eponymous restaurant DANTE . And the hits keep on coming at brunch hotspot Lucky’s Cafe, which has received a quad of nods from Food Network.

TALKING SHOP

BY ILONA WESTFALL

Our condolences to your bank account, but Tremont has excellent shopping. Stop by Banyan Tree or Evie Lou boutiques for casual women’s clothes and accessories, or head to Cool Water Dry Goods for one-of-a-kind vintage tees, flannels and jeans. Looking to add vintage vibes to your home instead of your closet? Browse Rook Modern’s curated selection of midcentury furniture and decor. And if your walls could talk, they’d tell you to snap up framed art photos of Cleveland landmarks such as the Downtown skyline or The Arcade at the Paul Duda Gallery

Round out your shopping with a good read from Visible Voice Books (an indie shop specializing in modern fiction) or outdoor-inspired apparel and goods from Everarbor.

CELEBRATIONS AND FESTIVALS

BY KEVIN CARPENTER

Kick off the season at Tremont Greek Fest—a Memorial Day Weekend tradition around these parts—with sizzling gyros, folk dancing and other ouzo-fueled fun. Foodies can also savor the very best of local flavors at Taste of Tremont on July 20 and every Tuesday at Tremont Farmers Market (May to October).

Celebrate community and creativity in Lincoln Park with Arts in August (a series of live weekend performances ranging from Shakespeare to ballet), or marvel at the unparalleled visual artistry of Tremont Arts & Cultural Festival (September 20-21). Plus, on the second Friday of each month, neighborhood art galleries and boutiques open their doors for Walkabout Tremont

Local Tip

Swill and chill at these Tremont cocktail bars: Porco Lounge & Tiki Room, La Cave Du Vin or Velvet Tango Room.

MUST-SEE TREMONT

1 Nosh on grub at the Taste of Tremont.

2 Art is everywhere during Walkabout Tremont.

3 Gumbo and jambalaya is on the menu at Bourbon Street Barrel Room

4 Relive the cult classic at the House from A Christmas Story.

OHIO CITY

Foodies and fans of craft beer call Ohio City’s Market District their urban oasis. Just across the Cuyahoga River, west of Downtown, the city’s yellow-bricked West Side Market has been home to haggle-friendly meat, seafood and veggie vendors for more than 100 years, but it’s Ohio City’s Victorian-era homes, boutique eateries and famous craft brewers (like Great Lakes Brewing Co.) that have made the neighborhood one of the city’s symbols for urban renewal (where hip meets heritage). But its coolest locale might by the entrepreneurial and artsy district of Hingetown. And let’s not forget the new kid on the block: INTRO, a massive 297-unit apartment complex with a rooftop pool and instant hotspots like modern steakhouse Jaja.

Must-Do Things 3

1. Raise the roof for Market Garden Brewery! Its new rooftop bar, Canopy, features a 49-seat patio with city views and satisfying brews.

2. Don’t you pho-get about these new Ohio City hotspots in the making: Build the Pho (Vietnamese) and Proof BBQ (ribs, brisket and wings).

3. Browse the hutshaped shops at City Goods, home to diverse brands and local makers, including Gena Page Designs and Ginger & Honey.

Larder is putting the “deli” in delish with wildly inventive food.

HINGETOWN

West Side Market

Great Lakes Brewing Co.

Clark Fulton

BY ROXANNE OCASIO

Tune in to La Mega Media or take in a Spanishlanguage show at LatinUs Theater Co.—both housed within the Pivot Center for Art, Dance and Expression For fresh air, the MetroHealth EcoDistrict features a 12-acre public park. And to truly get a taste of the neighborhood, pick up some pupusas at Pupuseria y Antojitos Guanaquitas or enjoy empanadillas at Caribe Bake Shop. Clink glasses at Johnny’s Bar as a toast to this thriving area!

OLD BROOKLYN

Diverse dining options thrive in this west side neighborhood. Sweet tooths can nosh on donuts at Jack Frost , then caffeinate at Metropolitan Coffee. Travel the globe by sampling “Jah-potle” dishes at Irie Jamaican Kitchen , followed by the flavorful taste of Guatemalan cuisine at El Rinconcito Chapin . Or just cozy up by pairing cheeses at Old Brooklyn Cheese Company with the bountiful selection of wines at Opal on Pearl

La Villa Hispana

Sixth City Cycles

Detroit Shoreway

If University Circle is Cleveland’s international art capital, Gordon Square Arts District (along the Detroit Shoreway) is the city’s bohemian quarter. Institutions like the Cleveland Public Theatre and the Capitol Theatre draw the terminally arty and interesting to local stages and indie cinema. The hip and hungry seek out bistros and bars from Happy Dog to Luxe, and urban greenery like the lakefront’s Edgewater Park attracts everyone from dog-walkers to desperate surfboarders, while Gordon Square’s old homes and elegant mansions create a stately backdrop.

BEER-INFUSED DONUTS AND SPOT-ON PAIRINGS WITH 16 LOCAL BREWS ON TAP ARE THE CALLING CARD AT BREWNUTS.

2

MUSICIANS PROVIDE THE SOUNDTRACK AND LOADED HOT DOGS PROVIDE THE MENU AT LOCAL FAVORITE HAPPY DOG.

1 3

BUILD YOUR OWN BENTO BOX OR CHOW DOWN ON PUB GRUB AT THE FUNKY, ASIANINPIRED EATERY NINJA CITY.

Ninja City Brewnuts

Edgewater

Widely known for Edgewater Park, this neighborhood also plays home to so much more— tree-lined streets, stately homes and thriving commercial districts. Indulge in some retail therapy at shops such as mid-century vintage mecca Flower Child or art gallery Stina Aleah, then grab a bite at Don’s Lighthouse Grille. After dark, hit the dance f loor at LGBTQ-friendly Twist Social Club or catch live music at Brothers Lounge.

WEST PARK

The party moves to Kamm’s Corners after the Downtown parade on St. Patrick’s Day. Irish pubs like Public House attract barflies with Gaelic football, rugby and live Celtic music, while walkers explore Carol & John’s Comic Book Shop and the Kamm’s Corners’ Sunday Farmers Market . Nestled between Downtown and the airport, it’s a great locale to grab a Guinness or eat everything from Ethiopian (Habesha) to Thai ( Thai Elephant).

Dad’s Smoke Shop

It Matters Where You Stay.

Centrally located off of I-480, our renovated hotel offers comfort and relaxation right outside the city’s center and 10 minutes from CLE Airport. Easily access your favorite sports teams and musical artists, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Huntington Convention Center without the hustle and bustle of being downtown! The I-X Center and Zoo are just a short distance away. You’ll find us on a quiet cul-de-sac within walking distance to various restaurants.

PHOTOS:

Clifton Boulevard

ASIATOWN Neighborhoods

Delicious bites and fun nights are what’s on the menu in AsiaTown. Start your exploration at perennial dim sum favorite Li Wah, followed by a stroll around Asia Plaza to shop for lanterns, tea sets or silk dresses. (Love to cook Asian cuisine at home? Don’t leave without visiting Park to Shop grocery store, where the aisles are lined with rare finds and gourmet staples.) Get your bubble tea fix at Koko Bakery, or try one of Hong Kong’s tastiest street foods at Ball Ball Waffle. Wind it up with karaoke your way in a private room at Galaxy KTV.

Must-Do Things 3

Kwan Family Lion Dance is a must-see.

Enjoy a wide selection of dining, from Cantonese dim sum and Vietnamese pho to Korean BBQ and Szechuan Hot Pot.

Celebrate the diversity, culture and tradition of Cleveland’s Asian communities during Lunar New Year and at the annual Cleveland Asian Festival, held in May.

Explore the indoor shopping plazas of Asia Plaza and Asia Town Center for authentic markets, herbalists and gift stores. 3. 2. 1.

Ball Ball Waffle

MidTown

Historic buildings have found thriving new life in MidTown—where the Stager-Beckwith Mansion now houses the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, and music venues like the 1913-built Agora Theatre have undergone rocking renovations. MidTown is also home to the city’s oldest building still standing: Dunham Tavern. There are also plenty of shiny new buildings dotting its streetscape, such as the Cleveland Foundation headquarters.

FAIRFAX

Amid the neighborhood’s rapidly changing landscape thanks to ongoing development by the Cleveland Clinic, Fairfax remains rooted in tradition. Theatre fans can catch a show at Karamu House (the country’s oldest African American theater still in existence), while architecture buffs will want to take in the area’s historic churches. On the foodie front, stop by Angie’s Soul Food Café for real-deal Southern soul food or Central Kitchen’s local food hub.

Angie’s Soul Food Cafe

ST. CLAIR/SUPERIOR

People from all walks of life come together in St. Clair Superior to form an amazing community — one rich with manufacturing, art and design, singular shopping experiences and unparalleled dining options. (Cases in point: Kafela and Marie’s Restaurant .) Artists-in-waiting can find their sweet spot at the Hamilton Collaborative complex, home to woodworking workshop Soulcraft CLE , motorcycle hub Skidmark Garage and more.

CLE

Lee/Harvard

BY NICOLE D. MILLER

Located on the Southeast side, this neighborhood keeps it quaint with tree-lined streets and high homeownership rates. It’s also home to the nation’s very first Black-owned shopping complex, Lee-Harvard Shopping Center. Quench your tastebuds at soul food spots such as Muncheez, or treat yourself at upscale Doc’s on Harvard. Other experiences include browsing the bookshelves at the local Cleveland Public Library branch and strolling Kerruish Park

The Agora

Stina Aleah mural

Soulcraft

University Circle

The bold and the brainy call the art and educational neighborhood of University Circle their Cleveland capital. The districts of Wade Oval and Uptown have perhaps the greatest concentration of business, botany, medicine and art learning centers on the globe within one square mile — from the campuses of Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals to the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and Cleveland Museum of Art (CMA) It’s all easily accessible from Downtown using the award-winning RTA HealthLine.

WANDER IN WONDER AND LET NATURE WORK ITS MAGIC AT CLEVELAND BOTANICAL GARDEN’S NEW “THE NATURE OF HEALING” ART EXHIBITION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH DEEP ROOTS.

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PUT SOME “WOW” INTO YOUR WEEK WITH WADE OVAL WEDNESDAYS! HEAD OVER TO UNIVERSITY CIRCLE’S FRONT LAWN FOR FREE CONCERTS, TASTY FOOD TRUCKS AND GENERAL MERRIMENT.

1 3

WITH A MENU FOCUSED ON AUTHENTIC FRENCH CUISINE, A FIRST-CLASS DINING EXPERIENCE AWAITS AT L’ALBATROS BRASSERIE.

Hough

If Atlas Obscura were a place, it just might be this near East Side neighborhood—home to some of the city’s most under-the-radar spots. Raise a glass at Chateau Hough, a community-minded, one-of-a-kind urban winery. Next, swing out to League Park and the Baseball Heritage Museum, which shares multicultural stories of baseball’s past and brings it alive on the field where Babe Ruth and Joe DiMaggio once played.

GLENVILLE

It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s quietly Cleveland’s coolest neighborhood! Check out the birthplace of Superman’s creator, or walk along the city’s most multicultural mile, aka the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, with 35+ gardens honoring the many nationalities represented in The Land. And attention shoppers: don’t miss the mixed-use GlenVillage complex, home to Black-owned businesses such as Lioness Barber and Vitiman Kandie House of B Jewels

Chateau Hough

Neighborhoods

LITTLE ITALY

Food, faith and the famous Feast of the Assumption Festival all help define this little Italian village, located at the base of Murray Hill. First settled in the 19th century by Italian stonemasons and artisans, Little Italy today is a buffet of Italian eateries and bakeries, including Cleveland’s oldest restaurant (Guarino’s). Community and spirituality also commune in proud religious and social centers like the Holy Rosary Church and the Alta House

Where Murray Hill and Mayfield Road meet, foodies will find an array of Italian restaurants—including tried-and-true favorites such as Mia Bella and Etna

Snack on Italian sweets from cannoli to tiramisu a t Presti’s or Corbo’s bakeries.

3. 2. Must-Do Things 3 1.

As Little Italy’s only steakhouse, Tutto Carne is destined to become t he godfather of grub on Murray Hill— serving up sumptuous steaks, seafood towers and so much more.

Feast of the Assumption

Presti’s Bakery

Homemade pizza, pasta and

Greater Buckeye

As the oldest shopping district in Ohio, Shaker Square entertains day and night. Be prepared to argue over where to eat (Sasa or Zanzibar), where to shop ( Fashions by Fowler or Dave’s Supermarket) and where to have fun ( Atlas Cinemas). Just leave time for Larchmere Boulevard, Cleveland’s art and antiques district (with fine folks like Loganberry Books, Poppy and Batuqui Brazilian).

SLAVIC VILLAGE

BY NICOLE D. MILLER

If ribs are your jam, make a beeline for Marsha’s Soul Food . For a healthy dose of Old World charm, head to Red Chimney for its aptly-named Slavic Village Sampler. Complete with stuffed cabbage, city chicken, potato-and-cheese pierogi, kielbasa and kraut, this dish truly feels like Cleveland on a plate. Top off your tasting tour at Daisy’s on Fleet , serving up milkshakes and sundaes alongside hot dogs and Polish boys.

Red Chimney

KINSMAN

This Cleveland neighborhood has been revitalized into a flourishing center of community and commerce. Want an out-of-the-box shopping experience where shipping containers double as stores? Check out BOXSPOT, home to JB Grill (where you can try the Polish Boy). Nearby RidAll Green Partnership uses urban agriculture to not only bring healthy, locally grown produce to the community, but also to educate the next generation.

Fresh Fest at Rid-All Green Partnership

Collinwood

One look at the vibrant Zoetic Walls murals that adorn the streets of the Waterloo Arts District, and it’s clear that you’ve entered one hella creative community. Tap into your own inner artist—from weaving and fabric arts at Praxis Fiber Workshop to thought-provoking art at Waterloo Arts Gallery. Prefer to appreciate rather than create? See a show at indie music mecca Beachland Ballroom and Tavern

Shaker Square

Beachland Ballroom and Tavern

SUBURBS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

BY KEVIN CARPENTER

THIS IS THE LAND THAT’S DOWN FOR LIVING IT UP

Downtown Cleveland lights up the Lake Erie shore, but plenty of opportunity awaits outside city limits. With 59 municipalities in Cuyahoga County, these are just a few that make Greater Cleveland so great.

rocky river

Rocky River has it all. See for yourself with a day of dining and shopping through the walkable downtown district, followed by a scenic lakeside sunset at Rocky River Park. Others are noticing, too: GoBankingRates just named this West Side suburb the #2 place in the nation for retirement. (It’s giving big “happily ever after” energy.)

parma

The Old World charm of Parma beckons from the south. With thriving Polish and Ukrainian communities, it’s not only Cleveland’s largest suburb, but also a reminder of the melting pot ethos that makes The Land so special. No visit to Parma is ever complete without a pierogi or two. Or three. We won’t judge.

The public school districts of Solon, Rocky River and Chagrin Falls rank among Ohio’s very best—earning National Blue Ribbon Schools awards and other A+ accolades.

Brecksville

Explore the great outdoors with a trip down to Brecksville, which boasts easy access to both the Cleveland Metroparks and Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Whether you’re picnicking in Brecksville Reservation—our Emerald Necklace’s largest gem—or taking in the sights from the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, save some time to soak up the small-town New England vibes downtown.

Shaker heights

On the East Side, Shaker Heights offers an eclectic mix of historic homes on tree-lined streets, the vibrant Van Aken shopping district and the natural serenity of Shaker Lakes (all easily accessible by Rapid Transit). Swing by the Nature Center and stroll along the ADA-accessible All People’s Trail for breathtaking views of summer flowers in bloom.

Parma Shaker Heights

Brecksville

Rocky River

EXPLORE THE SUBURBS & BEYOND

Add adventures along your way to Cleveland and enjoy the rustic beauty of the region. Picture this: upscale shopping, picturesque green spaces, family fun, golf! Grab that sunblock and come with us…

VAN AKEN DISTRICT CITY OF BEACHWOOD

216.378.9333 beachwoodohio.com

25325 Fairmount Blvd. Beachwood, OH 44122

One of Greater Cleveland’s premier destinations, the City of Beachwood offers the perfect blend of style, flavor, and culture. Savor a dynamic culinary scene— from upscale dining to beloved local favorites. Beachwood is Northeast Ohio’s go-to destination for fashion enthusiasts, boasting the region’s only Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue. Shop luxury labels like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Dior, Prada, Coach, and more at Beachwood Place.

Beachwood’s cultural attractions include the renowned Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage, showcasing the rich history of Jewish life in Northeast Ohio. The city is also home to WOLFS gallery, with fifteen curated rooms displaying artwork from local and international artists representing various styles and periods.

Stay with confidence and comfort, knowing that Beachwood hotels offer exceptional hospitality, modern accommodations, and personalized service. Choose from a variety of lodging options, including the recently renovated Aloft Beachwood and the new Spark Hotel, slated to open this summer. Stay active with access to 1.6 miles of multi-use trails ideal for walking, running, and biking. The city is also home to leading athletic clubs and luxury fitness centers. Beachwood is truly a destination for Ohio’s visitors and those exploring the Cleveland area.

216.491.8800 thevanakendistrict.com 3401 Tuttle Road Shaker Heights, OH 44122

Just 20 minutes east of Downtown Cleveland, the Van Aken District offers a dynamic mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of historic Shaker Heights. Blending urban energy with suburban charm, the District is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.

At its core is the Market Hall—a lively gathering place with local food vendors, coffee shops, and bars perfect for a quick bite or a night out.

Beyond the Market Hall, the District features over 85 independent businesses, including unique boutiques, wellness studios, and some of the region’s top chef-driven restaurants.

Van Aken is also known for its year-round programming, from summer live music and outdoor markets to festive seasonal events that bring people together. With inviting green spaces, curated retail, and a strong sense of community, the District encourages visitors to linger, explore and return often.

Easily accessible via the RTA Blue Line, the Van Aken District is proof that the best experiences can be found just beyond the city. Whether you’re shopping small, meeting friends for brunch, or catching a local band, this suburban gem delivers a welcoming, walkable and ever-evolving destination.

Beyond the 216

SHORES & ISLANDS

Need a beach vacation, but don’t want to leave Ohio? Take your pick of four Lake Erie islands (from lively Put-in-Bay to the more chill Kelley’s Island) and an array of beach towns across Ohio’s shore.

ByHeardDairian

GRAND RIVER VALLEY

Ohio’s version of Napa is situated approximately 30 minutes from Cleveland, where 30 wineries await. Taste the region at spots such as dogfriendly Grand River Cellars, or take

in the sunset from atop the Ferris Wheel at Old Firehouse Winery.

AKRON

Just 30 minutes down the road sits the original home of “The King” (perhaps you’ve heard of LeBron James?) and the global headquarters for Goodyear Tires. From outdoor festivals to farmers’ markets, the sprawling Lock 3 is the summertime place to be.

CANTON

Home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Canton is another great place to take a day trip. Also of note is the McKinley Presidential Library and Museum, paying historical homage to our country’s 25th President.

AMISH COUNTRY

Head southeast to Holmes County for fresh, homemade food at Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen; a place to lay your head at one of many bed-andbreakfasts; or a healthy pour at one of the area’s numerous wineries and breweries.

VISIT

STAN HYWET

the historic 65-room Manor House and gardens from the early 20th century.

EXPLORE THE SUBURBS & BEYOND

Add adventures along your way to Cleveland and enjoy the rustic beauty of the region. Picture this: antique shopping, picturesque green spaces, wineries, beaches! Grab that sunblock and come with us…

LAKE

COUNTY, OHIO

440.975.1234

TourLakeCounty.com

105 Main St., B101 Painesville, OH 44077

If you’re asking yourself “Where to next?” we have the perfect getaway for you and your crew. Located just 20 minutes east of Downtown Cleveland, Lake County’s modest 250 square miles of land makes Lake County, Ohio the smallest county in the state. And yet our more than 30 miles of golden coastline with lengthy stretches of sandy beaches, two picturesque lighthouses, the home of a president, plus hundreds of acres of lakefront parks, nature preserves, and hiker-friendly forests make little Lake County a BIG place to visit.

Here you’ll encounter an unpretentious paradise that blends the unique charm of the Grand River Valley’s 30 wineries with romantic bed and breakfasts, elegant boutique lodging properties and modern hotels. Add 11 quaint coastal towns dotted with farm stands, boutique shops, down-to-earth eateries, numerous new breweries and distilleries and Lake County’s Taco Trail, featuring 20 of the most authentic southwest and Mexican restaurants this side of Texas, and we can guarantee that your tour of Lake County and the Grand River Valley will be the most fun, memorable, convenient, and affordable getaway you take this year!

STREETSBORO

888.558.5580

StreetsboroVCB.com

P.O. Box 2365 Streetsboro, Ohio 44241

The inviting southeast suburb of Streetsboro boasts 3 nearby state parks and Trail Lake Park, one of the many amazing parks located in Portage County. Enjoy kayaking, hiking, biking, birding, fishing, a full 18 holes of golf at Boulder Creek Golf Course and even the nearby Cuyahoga Valley National Park with its scenic railroad. It’s all here for you in Streetsboro.

An afternoon of shopping could include visits to Amelia’s Vintage & Thrift, Streetsboro Antiques, Rooted Oaks OH and nearby Aurora Farms Premium Outlets. Keep the family fun going with Pure Passions Farm, TimberBeast Axe Throwing & Guns and Golf Simulation.

A magical line-up of summer events kicks-off with Kent’s Wizardly Weekend on July 18-19. Running simultaneously, the Ox Roast Fair (July 18-20) delivers carnival rides and games, plus that famous Ox Roast beef. On August 16, the Brew & BBQ Bash raises a glass to local BBQ enthusiasts and Northeast Ohio’s stellar craft beer scene while the Ravenna Balloon A-Fair soars over Portage County on September 25-28. With numerous hotels, restaurants, and campgrounds, Streetsboro is conveniently located between Cleveland, Akron, Canton, and Youngstown, putting it in close proximity to some of Northeast Ohio’s most popular attractions and a gateway to endless opportunities.

Do You Know Cleveland?

TAKE

QUIZ

3.

1.

Honorable Mayor

In 1967, Cleveland became the first major American city to elect a Black mayor in Carl B. Stokes. TRUE OR FALSE?

A Superhero is Born

IT’S A BIRD, IT’S A PLANE, IT’S... WHAT SUPERHERO WAS CREATED IN CLEVELAND’S GLENVILLE NEIGHBORHOOD CIRCA 1933 BY CREATIVE DUO JERRY SEIGLER AND JOE SHUSTER?

A) KAL-EL B) CLARK KENT C) MAN OF STEEL D) SUPERMAN

4 . The Final Frontier

Which 1941-built research center is the only one of its kind north of the Mason-Dixon Line, employing 3,000+ people?

A) PARKER HANNIFIN

B) NASA GLENN C) TIMKEN D) EATON

2 . Art Deco

Which famous comedian’s father was a local stonemason who helped build the Guardians of Traffic sculptures on the Lorain-Carnegie Bridge?

A) BOB HOPE

B) MARTIN MULL

C) MOLLY SHANNON

D) DREW CAREY

5. ICONIC SKYSCRAPER

THE 52-STORY TERMINAL TOWER WAS ONCE THE TALLEST BUILDING IN THE NATION WHEN IT WAS COMPLETED IN 1930. TRUE OR FALSE?

"[Acqua di Dea] doesn't set out to transform. Instead, it elevates - simple ingredients into elegant shrines of decadence and a mid-sized city 500 miles from the sea into a downtown deserving of an ocean of grandeur."

-Dillon Stewart Cleveland Magazine

WAREHOUSE DISTRICT

ACQUADIDEA

Innovative Mediterranean menu with remarkably fresh seafood, unique pasta dishes, extraordinary steaks and more in Cleveland's Historic Warehouse District.

"The menu is unabashedly extravagant. The walk-in coolers are filled to the brim with shellfish, fin fish, veal, filet mignon, Kobe beef and menacing tomahawk chops. Those luxe foodstuffs are gilded with saffron, brown butter, Nebbiolo wine reductions and freshly shaved truffles. Jump right in with the Mare seafood platter, which puts the typical seafood tower - often more tower than seafood - to shame. This triumphant starter is loaded with king crab legs, shrimp, mussels, clams, calamari, scallops and a whole lobster, all gently cooked in a bath of white wine, butter, garlic and herbs. On the opposite end of the spectrum is the mixed crudo, a colorful platter of impeccable raw fish, starring sliced salmon, yellowfin tuna and scallops, joined by skillfully shucked oysters on the half shell.

I'd suggest ordering the wine-steamed mahogany clams simply for the pleasure of dipping every last piece of bread on the table into the dreamy, buttery broth. Acqua flexes its seafood dexterity in dishes like the stuffed sole, four delicate, sweet filets wrapped around crab meat and spinach and served atop a pool of tomato cream sauce. The restaurant also offers whole Dover sole, which is deboned in old-school fashion at the table. Swordfish, almost universally overcooked, arrives at the ideal temperature and texture, topped with microgreens and ripe tomato. A milehigh filet of beef is showered with freshly shaved black truffles that perfume the entire area with their intoxicating aroma."

-Doug Trattner Cleveland Scene

JOLA RESTAURANTS

LA LUNA