Being a Clevelander during the winter season is nothing more than depressing. With lake-effect snow and chilling temperatures, spring weather seems almost impossible to Clevelanders. While The Land is a lovely place to live, and our sports teams make these dreaded winter days bearable in the least, it’s not uncommon for the average Cleveland native to dream of warmer climates and sun-tanned summer nights. However, if you’re unable to travel to a tropical location this winter and must endure these last few months of frosty hell, there are a few places in our beloved city that you can escape to… Suntan not included.
- Mitchell’s Ice Cream! While most ice cream shops are closed for the season, Cleveland’s own Mitchell’s Ice cream is open all year round. Who says ice cream is a summer-exclusive treat?
- The Root Cafe. Interested in seeing the work of local artists while sipping some delicious area-sourced coffee? Take a break from studying and pay a visit to The Root Cafe! Or, if you’re really in the groove, take your work with you!
- West Side Market. With flowers, fruits and baked goods, what’s not to love? Satisfy your spring-needs and cravings this winter season! What better way to celebrate soon-to-be warmer climates than with flowers, am I right?
- The Chocolate Bar. Sure, Cleveland doesn’t have nice weather, but our beloved city has redeeming qualities where sweets are concerned. A fan favorite Cleveland-exclusive candy shop is The Chocolate Bar! Satisfy your sweet tooth with a delicious chocolatey dessert to satisfy your cravings!
- Public Square Ice Rink – You may as well make the most of these winter days! Until Feb. 28, Clevelanders can ice skate downtown for no charge! (If you bring your own skates, that is!) While ice skating is the furthest thing from a tropical vacation, you’re sure to have a ball. Why make the trip to Times Square when you can ice skate in the heart of your favorite city?
Though Cleveland may not be a tropical getaway, there are plenty of places that help us locals make it through the winter season. While we may have a few long months ahead of us, we must be sure to make the most of these last few weeks of winter. Who knows, spring may be here before we know it!