Cleveland: A Thrilling 3-Day Family Adventure!
Discover endless fun and adventure in family-friendly Cleveland, USA!
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Cleveland, located in the northeastern part of Ohio, offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with a range of attractions. Families can explore the renowned Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, which houses over 3,000 animals, enjoy an educational and interactive experience at the Great Lakes Science Center, and immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural scene by visiting the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. With its diverse range of activities, Cleveland promises an exciting and memorable vacation for the entire family.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check-in at the quirky Velvet Tango Room-themed hotel, where every room is named after a classic cocktail. Cheers to a unique stay!
- Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Lucky's Cafe, their fluffy pancakes will make your taste buds do a happy dance.
- Immerse yourself in music history at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, where relics of rock legends will make your inner music nerd swoon.
- Take a stroll along the Lake Erie shoreline at Edgewater Park, but watch out for seagulls with a knack for smooth jazz.
- Indulge in an early dinner at Sokolowski's University Inn, a hidden gem serving Polish comfort food that will warm your soul.
- End the day on a high note at the House of Blues, where live music and electrifying vibes will leave you grooving till the wee hours.
- Begin your day at the charming Rising Star Coffee, where the baristas' latte art skills will make your morning coffee a masterpiece.
- Marvel at Colorful Cleveland, a vibrant alleyway adorned with stunning murals that prove street art can be both whimsical and thought-provoking.
- Explore the Cleveland Museum of Art, where masterpieces from Van Gogh to Picasso will inspire your inner creative genius.
- Grab a quick bite at the West Side Market, a foodie mecca offering a plethora of culinary delights, from ethnic cuisines to fresh produce.
- Embark on a scenic cruise aboard the Goodtime III, traversing the Cuyahoga River as the sun sets, casting a golden glow on the city's skyline.
- End the evening with dinner at Lola Bistro, where Chef Michael Symon's innovative dishes will dazzle your taste buds and leave you craving more.
- Start your day with a visit to the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, where dinosaurs and fossils will transport you back in time.
- Channel your inner child at the A Christmas Story House, where you can tour the iconic setting of the beloved holiday film.
- Take a leisurely stroll through the Cleveland Botanical Garden, a serene oasis brimming with vibrant blooms and enchanting greenery.
- Treat the family to lunch at Melt Bar and Grilled, where towering gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches will make cheese lovers melt with delight.
- Experience the adrenaline rush at Cedar Point amusement park, home to thrilling roller coasters that will have you screaming in delight.
- Bid farewell to Cleveland with a scenic drive along the stunning Lake Erie Coastal Trail, soaking in the beauty of the Great Lakes before your journey ends.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Cleveland, United States by plane is to fly into Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) which is located approximately 9 miles southwest of the city center. There are numerous airlines that fly to Cleveland from around the world, including American Airlines, Delta, United, and Southwest. It's recommended to compare prices and book your flights in advance to get the best deal.
Car
If you're planning to drive to Cleveland, it is easily accessible via several highways such as I-71, I-77, I-80, and I-90. These highways connect Cleveland to major cities such as Chicago, Detroit, and New York. However, be prepared for heavy traffic during peak hours and avoid driving during winter months if you're not accustomed to driving in snow.
Train
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Cleveland. However, you can take Amtrak train to Toledo Station which is almost 100 miles west of the city. From there you need to take either a Greyhound or Megabus to Cleveland.
Boat
If you're coming from across the Great Lakes, you can take a ferry from Toronto, Canada to Cleveland. The ferry departs daily and takes approximately 4 hours to reach Cleveland. However, this mode of transportation may not be available year-round due to weather conditions on the Great Lakes.
Bus
There are a few bus companies that operate regular services to Cleveland such as Greyhound and Megabus. You can take Greyhound bus from Chicago, Indianapolis, and Detroit, while Megabus operates a service from Pittsburgh. The bus station in Cleveland is located in the city center, making it convenient to reach your destination.