5 Days of Rock, Roll, and Fun in Cleveland

Discover the unexpected in Cleveland.

03 May 2023

A trip to Cleveland, United States as a tourist offers a unique blend of modern city living and historical significance. Visitors can explore the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, watch a game at Progressive Field, and stroll through the beautiful Cleveland Metroparks. The city is also known for its diverse culinary scene, offering everything from traditional Polish cuisine to trendy gastropubs.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival in Cleveland

  • Check in at the historic Hyatt Regency Hotel and admire the modern decor and stunning views of Lake Erie from your room.
  • Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, a must-see for music lovers, with exhibits of icons such as Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and Michael Jackson.
  • Explore the trendy neighborhood of Ohio City, known for its craft breweries, artisanal food and hipster vibe.
  • Grab dinner at Mabel's BBQ, a local favorite for authentic Cleveland-style barbecue, with mouth-watering brisket, ribs, and pulled pork.
  • End the night with a nightcap at the Velvet Tango Room, a classy cocktail joint with a 1920s speakeasy ambiance.
Day 2

Art and Culture day

  • Start the day at the Cleveland Museum of Art, a world-renowned institution with an impressive collection of over 45,000 artworks spanning 6,000 years of human history.
  • Take a stroll through the vibrant University Circle neighborhood, with its beautiful architecture and lush greenery.
  • Visit the Cleveland Orchestra at Severance Hall, consistently ranked among the world's top orchestras, for a matinee performance.
  • Stop by the Cleveland Botanical Garden to admire the exotic plants and flowers, including a breathtaking rainforest exhibit.
  • Enjoy a gourmet dinner at Trentina, a Michelin-starred Italian restaurant with a creative and refined menu.
Day 3

Sports and Recreation day

  • Get your adrenaline pumping with a visit to Cedar Point, the roller coaster capital of the world, just an hour's drive from Cleveland.
  • Get your baseball fix at Progressive Field, home of the Cleveland Indians, and catch a game in the evening.
  • Rent a bike from UH Bikes and explore the scenic Cleveland Metroparks, a network of parks and trails spanning over 23,000 acres.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with a stop at Mitchell's Ice Cream, a beloved local institution with over 30 decadent flavors.
  • Have dinner at Urban Farmer, a modern steakhouse with locally sourced meat and vegetable dishes.
Day 4

Lakefront day

  • Take a leisurely walk along the Lake Erie shore and admire the stunning views of the lake and the Cleveland skyline.
  • Visit the Great Lakes Science Center, a hands-on museum with interactive exhibits on science, technology, and space.
  • Take a sunset cruise on the Goodtime III, the largest quadruple-decked passenger ship on the Great Lakes, for panoramic views of the city.
  • Stop by Slyman's Deli, a Cleveland institution known for their massive corned beef sandwiches.
  • End the night at East 4th Street, a pedestrian-friendly entertainment district with live music, comedy shows, and bars.
Day 5

History day

  • Visit the USS Cod, a historic World War II submarine used for training and now turned into a museum.
  • Take a guided tour of the Cleveland Public Library, a Beaux-Arts masterpiece with a collection of over 10 million items.
  • Go back in time with a visit to the Western Reserve Historical Society and Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum, with exhibits on Cleveland's rich history and vintage cars.
  • Grab lunch at Sokolowski's University Inn, a family-owned Polish restaurant serving comfort food since 1923.
  • Say goodbye to Cleveland with a visit to the iconic Terminal Tower observation deck for stunning 360-degree views of the city.

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.

More travel plans

Cleveland Love: A Romantic 24-Hour Getaway

Cleveland is a city full of surprises and a perfect destination for a romantic getaway. From exploring the famous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to strolling through the beautiful Cleveland Botanical Garden, there is plenty to keep couples entertained. Finally, a relaxing stay at one of the many luxury hotels in Cleveland will provide the perfect end to any romantic trip.

Cleveland on a Budget: 5 Fun-Filled Days!

Explore Cleveland for less with a tight budget as the city offers plenty of affordable options. Enjoy free admission to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Cleveland Botanical Garden among other attractions. Stay frugally at budget-friendly accommodations such as the University Hotel and Suites and the Cleveland Hostel while savoring authentic cuisine from famous local eateries.

Cleveland Vibes: A Rockin' Family Day Trip

Cleveland is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip with its array of attractions and activities suitable for all ages. Explore the famous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, where you and your family can immerse yourselves in the history of music. Visit the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, one of the largest zoos in the country, to interact with animals from around the world, or enjoy a fun-filled day at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, where fascinating marine life awaits.

Cleveland on a Budget: 3 Days of Rockin' Fun

Visiting Cleveland on a budget may involve staying in affordable accommodations such as hostels or Airbnb rentals. Exploring the city can be done with free activities like visiting the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame or taking a stroll through the Cleveland Metroparks. Dining options like local delis, diners, and food trucks offer an array of tasty bites that won't break the bank.