Cleveland: A 4-Day Adventure on a Budget

Experience the charm of Cleveland without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Cleveland on a limited budget can still be a lot of fun. The city has a variety of free and low-cost attractions like the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Cleveland Botanical Garden. Accommodation options include affordable hotels and hostels in the downtown area.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Rock and Roll Capital

  • Check-in at The Cleveland Hostel, a trendy and affordable stay in Ohio City.
  • Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, where exhibits chronicle the history of music icons.
  • Catch a live music show at the legendary House of Blues Cleveland.
  • Have a burger and a beer at Happy Dog, a hot dog joint with over 50 toppings and a cozy atmosphere.
  • End the day at the rooftop bar of The Brewer's Hotel, enjoying stunning views of the city.
Day 2

Cleveland Culture Crawl

  • Start the day with coffee and a pastry at Rising Star Coffee Roasters.
  • Explore the Cleveland Museum of Art, home to over 45,000 works spanning 6,000 years.
  • Have lunch at West Side Market, a historic indoor market with over 100 vendors.
  • Take a stroll at the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, a collection of 29 ethnic gardens showcasing diverse cultures.
  • Attend a performance at the Cleveland Play House, the country's first regional theatre.
Day 3

Cleveland's Sports Scene

  • Grab breakfast at Yours Truly Restaurant, a local diner chain with homemade meals.
  • Tour Progressive Field, home of the Cleveland Indians, and catch a baseball game if in season.
  • Head to FirstEnergy Stadium, home of the Cleveland Browns, for a behind-the-scenes tour.
  • Visit the International Boxing Hall of Fame at the historic Karamu House.
  • Indulge in pierogies and kielbasa at Sokolowski's University Inn, a local favorite for Polish cuisine.
Day 4

Lake Erie Adventure

  • Start the day with a ferry ride to Put-in-Bay, a picturesque island on Lake Erie.
  • Explore Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial, honoring the War of 1812 hero.
  • Rent a golf cart to explore the island's attractions, including wineries and the caves at Perry's Cave.
  • Catch a sunset at South Bass Island State Park, with stunning views of the lake.
  • Have dinner and drinks at The Boardwalk, a waterfront restaurant known for its seafood and live music.
  • *Cleveland is known for its harsh winters, so some activities may be seasonally dependent. It is recommended to check for hours of operation, events, and weather before planning your trip.

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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.

Destination

Cleveland

Welcome to the city that's not quite on the top of everyone's bucket lists but still manages to surprise people with its charm and quirks. Where else can you see a museum dedicated to rock and roll and a giant rubber duck in the same day?

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More travel plans

Cleve Days: Affordable Family Fun in Cleveland!

A family friendly trip to Cleveland offers a variety of attractions and activities suitable for all ages. Explore the renowned Cleveland Museum of Natural History and immerse yourselves in its fascinating exhibits, including dinosaurs and gems. Take a stroll along the shores of Lake Erie at Edgewater Park, perfect for picnicking, swimming, and building sandcastles, or head to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, where kids can delight in seeing a vast array of animals from around the world.

4-Day Romantic Getaway to Vibrant Cleveland

Cleveland offers a romantic getaway experience, with numerous places to have a romantic dinner and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding waterways. You can indulge in history and culture by visiting the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, or go for a stroll along the Cleveland Metroparks, gardens, or Lake Erie beaches. Don't forget to catch a live concert or show in downtown's Playhouse Square district to add some entertainment to your getaway.

Romantic Getaway: Cleveland in 2 Days

A romantic trip to Cleveland, United States promises a chance to explore one of the country's most vibrant cities. Couples can indulge in the city's rich music and art scene, explore charming neighborhoods, and savor the local cuisine. From strolling along the shores of Lake Erie to taking in stunning views from the top of the Terminal Tower, Cleveland has plenty to offer couples looking for a memorable getaway.

Budget-Friendly Cleveland: A 2-Day Adventure

Explore the vibrant city of Cleveland on a limited budget with plenty of activities to enjoy. Head to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, visit the Cleveland Museum of Art for free, and take a walk through the iconic Cleveland Botanical Garden. Save money on transportation by using the city's affordable public transit system and indulge in the delicious local cuisine without breaking the bank.