The bustling east coast meets the home-style Midwest of America in Cleveland, which lies along the southern shore of Lake Erie. Although most visitors give Cleveland a wide berth, it actually hides a wealth of cultural attractions. Lake Erie is the warmest of the Great Lakes, which gives the locals a big incentive to get out on the water.
This former industrial powerhouse has recently shed its old image as a rundown, boring wasteland into a cultural and outdoor magnet for the region. Some of the best amusement parks in the nation are within minutes of the city and Lake Erie itself provides endless opportunities to interact with nature.
The old warehouses along the lake have been renovated as part of the city’s urban revival program and now house a trendy scene of restaurants, bars and shops that have an unmistakable buzz. There are a couple of impressive museums worth checking out, and just outside the city are a number of excellent daytrips such as Chagrin Falls and Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Cleveland attractions
Cedar Point Amusement Park: frequently titled the greatest amusement park on the planet, Cedar Point’s 67 thrilling rides including 16 roller coasters put it in the realm of superlatives.
Cleveland Botanical Gardens: glass greenhouses ensure visitors can enjoy the seven acres of lush gardens, a treetop walkway and a cloud forest even in winter.
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo: the newly opened Rainforest exhibit as well as the Wolf Wilderness are highlights of this well-maintained and enjoyable zoo.
Cleveland Museum of Art: this impressive museum will surprise even the most seasoned art lover with both its permanent and temporary exhibitions featuring the likes of Picasso and Monet.
Geauga Lake Family Amusement Park: another of Cleveland’s impressive and fun amusement parks is situated along Geauga Lake and packed with thrilling rides.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: this shrine to rock’s greatest musicians is loaded with memorabilia, photographs and excellent multimedia exhibits.
Great Lakes Science Center: interactive exhibits worthy of a few hours of attention.