Columbus, Ohio is a beautiful city with plenty of attractions to keep anyone occupied. However, sometimes it feels good to get out of the city in which you live and explore a new area. Cleveland is just two and a half hours away from Columbus, and it can make for a great weekend getaway. For those of you who are not Cleveland natives, I created this road trip guide for you and a few friends to follow along. So get packing, get reading and have fun!
- Little Italy
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For the first stop on your road trip, Little Italy is the place to go. According to their Facebook page, Little Italy is a historical landmark that “specializes in wonderful memories.” Here, you will find plenty of restaurants with mouth-watering foods and desserts, beautiful murals, rustic brick roads and shops that sell unique Italian-inspired gifts. If you visit in the middle of August, you can enjoy the annual Feast of the Assumption. During this four-day celebration, there will be a procession, Italian food and drink, carnival rides and even fireworks. Trust me, Little Italy is a must on your Cleveland bucket list.
- Cleveland Museum of Art
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Clevelanders are rightly proud of their world-class art museum. This extensive collection contains thousands of pieces from the ancient world through medieval times, into the Renaissance and onward to the modern age. The original building underwent an extensive renovation in recent years, adding a sun-filled atrium and outdoor space. With beautiful grounds (especially in the springtime), mixers are open to the public with both casual and sophisticated dining options. The CMA is truly the cultural heart of the city. General admission is free, as the banners on the museum say, “For the benefit of all the people forever.”
- East 4th St.
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East 4th St. is a popular Cleveland location that provides only the best food and entertainment. Beautiful, twinkling lights hang overhead as people explore everything East 4th St. has to offer. After a busy day touring Cleveland, stop for pizza at Citizen Pie, tacos at Zocalo or a barbeque dish at chef Michael Symon’s Mabel’s BBQ. All of the aforementioned eats are located on East 4th St. You can also swing by The Corner Alley for a top-tier bowling experience or buy some Cleveland merchandise at CLE Clothing Co.
- Ohio City
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Ohio City is an urban and inclusive Cleveland spot that boasts an abundance of restaurants with amazing food and drink. One of my personal favorites is a hidden gem called Table Top. Table Top is a board game cafe with over 1,000 board games to choose from and play while you enjoy a glass of wine or classic flatbread. The quirky concept will guarantee a memorable experience. Another spot you must visit in Ohio City is the West Side Market, home to as many as 100 locally owned, independent businesses. Here you can find fresh meats, cheeses, poultry, seafood, fruits and vegetables, baked goods, flowers and more.
- Coventry Village
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Coventry Village is a hot spot for local shopping, dining and entertainment. From bookstores to exciting nightlife, you can find it here! Stop by City Buddha for some cool new jewelry, visit the Inn on Coventry for a mouth-watering breakfast or just take a nice walk up to the Cleveland/Shaker Heights area to view the historic homes.
- Chagrin Falls
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Chagrin Falls is one of my favorite places to spend a day. If you are traveling with children, you can start the day off at the local playground and then visit the iconic waterfall (more commonly known as “The Falls”) located in the center of Chagrin Falls. While in Chagrin Falls, you must go to the Chagrin Falls Popcorn Shop. Here, you can get ice cream, popcorn (of course), candy and more. George W. Bush, the 43rd president of the United States, has even made a visit to this location. If you visit in May, you can enjoy their annual Blossom Time festival, which attracts thousands every year with its fun-filled rides, classic fair lemonade and games.
- Lake View Cemetery
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I know what you’re thinking, and I know a cemetery is not typically the most fun attraction; so why is it on the list? Although a cemetery is not as popular as, say, a carnival or an art museum, Lake View Cemetery is rich in history. John D. Rockefeller, the famous American businessman, is buried at Lake View alongside James A. Garfield, the 20th president of the United States. With close to 300 acres of mature trees, blooming flowers and sculptures, Lake View is also the perfect spot for a picnic or walk.
- Cleveland Sports
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Cleveland is the longtime home to the Cavaliers, Browns and Indians. You would be hard-pressed to find fans more dedicated to their teams (and whose dedication has been more tested over the years!). Depending on the season and which sport you prefer, check out a game of these teams, which all provide a truly intergenerationally incredible experience.