Cleveland Ohio Things to Do

Cleveland is the second-largest city in Ohio and, as of today, is home to more than 385,000 residents inside the metro area. So if you’ve been considering putting down roots here, you might be wondering about Cleveland Ohio and some of the more popular things to do here

As a leading provider of apartment rental homes in the Cleveland area, Redwood is fully invested in getting to know each of the cities we serve. This gives us an advantage when it comes time to help our clients find the perfect place to call home.

So here’s our compiled list of our favorite Cleveland activities and adventures.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Cleveland things to do
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland Ohio

Walk Down Memory Lane at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

If there’s one thing Cleveland residents love to celebrate, it’s music. Nothing says, “We love music” more than the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. If you’re looking in Cleveland, Ohio for things to do, this is one of the best places to start.

From Elvis Presley to Depeche Mode, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a museum of legends and modern greats alike. Take a tour of the unique fashion trends inspired by rappers like Run DMC, Metallica’s Cliff Burton, and punk rocker Joey Ramone. Once you’ve had your fill of recent inductees and rock ‘n roll paraphernalia, head over to the All Access Store and Café for some musically inspired bites, craft beer, and souvenirs.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is located on the aptly named 1100 Rock and Roll Boulevard. Tickets can be purchased online, and while you’re visiting the website, there’s also an option for a digital tour.

View Nature’s Beautiful Creatures at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Whether you prefer an Australian adventure or an African Savannah, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo has a little something for everyone. This is the perfect stop for animal lovers of any age. Need a spot to take the kids for the afternoon? They’ve got you covered. Looking for a unique spot to spark romance? There’s no better location for a first date.

Spanning 183-acres, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is one of the things that makes life in this city so much fun. A few of the main attractions include:

  • Northern Trek Polar Bear Exhibit
  • The Rain Forest Tropical Rainstorm
  • Old World Monkey Exhibits
  • Aldabra Tortoise Exhibit
  • African Savanna Flamingo Exhibit
  • Cheetah Exhibit
  • Lemur Exhibit
  • African Elephant Crossing
  • Asian highlands
  • And so much more!

Standard zoo tickets can be purchased online, along with special event passes like Keeper for a Day.

Cleveland Things to do West Side Market Farmers' Market Fresh Produce and Artisan Crafts
Farmers’ Market Fresh Produce and Artisan Crafts

Shop Farm to Table at the West Side Market

There’s a huge food movement in Cleveland right now and a big part of that is farm-fresh cooking. The West Side Market is packed full of local delights and specialty foods ready for browsing. Stop by Steve’s Gyros for a bite before grabbing bacon at The Pork Chop Shop and fresh bread at Michelle’s Bakery.

From fine herbs to imported cheese, West Side Market has all the things you need to throw your neighborhood’s best barbeque or create a night of fine wining and dining for a close group of friends. 

Take in a Game at Progressive Field

For the budding sports enthusiast, there’s no field like the home of the Cleveland Indians to get you in the spirit for fun. Take in a game with your best pals or bring the kids and enjoy time on the Family Deck play area after the game.

Dress like the team after a visit to the Indian’s Team Shop and grab a bite to go. This is a great place for a variety of activities. Check the official website for schedule, tickets, and community activities.  

Explore your Creative Side at the Cleveland Museum of Art

For the creative among us, the Cleveland Museum of Art hosts some of the most interesting works from around the world. Past exhibitions include:

  • Color and Comfort: Swedish Modern Design
  • Michelangelo: Mind of the Master
  • William Morris: Designing an Earthly Paradise
  • Beyond Truth: Photography After the Shutter

Inside the museum complex you’ll find a host of traditional art, music, and film exhibits. There are tons of special events, parades, and education opportunities for residents and visitors. Discover what’s new on the museum’s website and conveniently book tickets while you browse.

Edgewater Park Beach

When you’re looking for a warm sandy beach, local treats at the Honey Hut, and 1000 feet of swimmable waterfront, you’ll find it at Edgewater Park Beach in summer. Edgewater Park caters to all types Cleveland beachgoers with sections for off-leash dog visits, and even kayak access.

Besides the beach, there are a tons of other outdoor activities available adjacent to the water including hiking, play areas, a fishing peer, picnic tables, and other covered sheltered areas. 

In fact, many of our Redwood Cleveland metro neighborhood residents at our Cleveland are within a quick driving distance and love to head down to Edgewater Park Beach. 

Jazz and Blues are on the menu with Things to do in Cleveland
Enjoy Jazz and Blues at night in Cleveland

House of Blues

Another musical outing here in Cleveland is the House of Blues. Get your fix of rock and blues with a side of southern eating at this Ohio staple. If you love live music, chances are you’ll wind up here at some point.

A wide variety of musical talent from Tanya Tucker to Bayside grace this stage, and you can find yourself in the thick of it. Along with the venue’s restaurant and bar the House of Blues it’s a perfect place to bring a date, treat your boss, or book a private party event with friends, family, co-workers, or even your neighbors. And if you’re up for it, they even have a gospel Sunday brunch.

For sure the House of Blues is one part of the Cleveland city life you won’t want to miss.

Craft Beer Tour

Looking for something interactive, hip, and happening? You’ll want to check out the Cleveland, Ohio Craft Beer Tour and the Brew Bus. Whether you’re hoping to sample all kinds of beer styles, learn how to pair beer with food, taste some local beer inspired snack fare, get a behind the scenes look at craft brewery production, or you want to learn more about the craft beer culture, there’s a tour for every beer style.

Find out what makes each brewery unique. The Craft Beer Tour is a great local event to share with friends, visiting relatives, colleagues, and more. Be sure to book tickets in advance as seating is limited.

About Redwood

We hope our list of Cleveland Ohio things to do has helped you make your decision about moving to this fair city. If you’re interested in learning more about making the big move to Cleveland or you’re already in the market for a Cleveland metro apartment home rental, learn more about Redwood’s long list of popular amenities including open concept kitchens, modern stainless-steel appliances, smoke-free properties, and attached garages.  

Join the thousands of Redwood residents who started their apartment rental home search at Redwood’s website