The Insider's Guide to Summer Fun 2023

THE INSIDER'S GUIDE TO

LEASING INFORMATION:

55 Public Square Cleveland, OH 44113 844.701.5923

55PublicSq@KandD.com

Learn more about our brand new community at ResidencesAt55.com

All suites are new construction with:

• Keyless access control entrance feature

• 9’ ceilings and expansive windows throughout

• En ergy-saving LED lighting

• Fu ll size washer and dryer

• Individually controlled highefficiency heating and AC with smart thermostat

• Roller shades on all windows (blackout roller shades in bedrooms)

• Highest speed wireless fiber internet available Downtown (ready for connection)

• Views of Cleveland and Public Square, the Cuyahoga River, or Lake Erie Gourmet Kitchens and Spacious Living Areas

• Large dine-in kitchens with stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, modern gray finish soft close cabinets, flat cooktop, dishwasher, and built-in microwave

• Beverage center (select suites)

• Built-in electric fireplace in the l iving room (most suites)

• Beautiful hard surface flooring Bedrooms and Bathrooms

• Ample closet space with custom cl oset organizers

• Ca rpet in the bedrooms

• Ce ramic tile floor and quartz countertops in the bathrooms

24/7 Fitness Center on the 2 nd Floor

• 1600sf newly designed space w ith fob access, free to both residents and tenants

• Ca rdio machines, free weights and stretching areas

• Men’s and women’s locker rooms

Community Lounge on the 2 nd Floor

• Hip lounge atmosphere with bar a rea, community tables, fireplace, and multiple large screen TVs

Additional Amenities

• Attached Fahrenheit Restaurant

• Co nvenience market with café located in the lobby

• Package room, bike storage, and pet washing facility on-site

• Wi -Fi access in all common areas

• Attached garage parking available

• Desirable location near Public Square, the Gateway District, the Northcoast Harbor District, Warehouse District, and the Playhouse Square Theater District

• RTA stop on West 3 rd Street outside the building

• On line rental payment and maintenance requests

• Preferred Employer Program and Military Discount

• Cats and dogs allowed (fees and restrictions apply, call for details)

Get ready for some sunshine, Cleveland. For a few short months, Northeast Ohio soaks up some of the best events our region has to offer. To prepare, we’ve put together a to-do list of fun activities and adventures. Whether you're looking for a great hike, a family-friendly weekend of food and music, or a way to get out on Lake Erie, Cleveland has something to offer. So, what are you waiting for? Break out the sunscreen, shorts and sunglasses. Summer is here.

OUT IN THE STREET

Jam out at Larchmere Porchfest, Edgewater NeighborFest and other great celebrations this summer in Cleveland. BY

KIARA RODRIGUEZ

Berea’s National Rib Cook-Off & BeerFest (May 26 - 29)

This nostalgic, charred homecoming for rib lovers isn’t just about the food and drinks — look forward to live music from artists like the Band Cruisin and Bronx Country. $10, Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, 19201 E. Bagley Road, Middleburg Heights, berearib.com

Freedom Fest (June 16 - 17)

Celebrate the rich history of African American culture in Northeast Ohio and beyond at this celebration of Juneteenth, the annual holiday that commemorates the ending of slavery. Festivities include spoken-word performances, interactive art demonstrations, a vendor village and a soul food row — all highlighting Black businesses, entrepreneurs and community education and programming. Free, Mall C, Downtown Cleveland, juneteenthcle.com

Cleveland Shakespeare Festival (June 23 - August 6)

Behold, ye Shakespeare enthusiasts! This annual festival presents live productions of As You Like It and Measure for Measure, two of Shakespeare’s most beloved plays. Free, 7 p.m., 2134 Lee Road, Cleveland, clevelandshakespeare.org

Edgewater NeighborFest (June 25)

The electrifying seven-year-old DJ Lily Jade takes the stage to spin some original hiphop tracks by up-and-coming local artists. Come hungry: Papa Nick’s Pizza, Landmark Smokehouse, The Fancy Kernel and Cleveland Cookie Dough make an appearance. Free, June 25, Gordon Square Arts District, 6516 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, cudelledgewater.com/enf

Willoughby ArtsFest (July 15)

This celebration will excite all of your senses with more than 90 talented artists showcasing their paintings and mixed media pieces along the charming streets of Downtown Willoughby. Remember to stop by the festival’s specialty food trucks and merchants as you wander the closed roads. While you’re there, check out any of the delicious restaurants in Willoughby’s central business district. Free, Downtown Willoughby, Erie and Center streets, Willoughby, willoughbyartsfest.com

Twins Days Festival (August 4 - 6)

Imagine seeing double as far as the eye can see! That’s what you can expect at the annual Twins Days Festival — the largest gathering of twins in the world. This year’s event includes a talent show, food, Twins Days 5K Run, games and a spectacular fireworks display. The festival will be pirate-themed so make sure to put your best hook forward! $5, Twinsburg Community Center, 10260 Ravenna Road, Twinsburg, twinsdays.org

Cleveland Garlic Festival (August 26 - 27)

Did you know Cleveland becomes the Great Lakes region’s garlic capital in August? Every August, enthusiasts of the stink flock for garlicthemed live music, wine tastings and cooking demonstrations. With wild dishes like garlic ice cream, this event is sure to leave an everlasting memory — and smell. $10, North Union Farmers Market, 13111 Shaker Square, Cleveland, clevelandgarlicfestival.org

Tremont Arts & Cultural Festival

(September 16 - 17)

Experience an ultimate cultural celebration at the 2023 Tremont Arts and Cultural Festival, featuring five vibrant villages showcasing art, cuisine and interactive experiences. This festival features 110 vendors and focuses on celebrating Asian American & Pacific Islander, African American, LGBTQ+ and Latino artists. Free, 1200 Starkweather Ave., Cleveland, experiencetremont.com

Cleveland Oktoberfest

(September 1-4 & 8-9)

Immerse yourself in a world of wiener dog races and bustling Biergartens. This festival, which honors Germany's vibrant and colorful culture, promises over 100 vendors selling Bavarian collectibles, 20 different kinds of beer and delicious food from 15 different restaurants. Enjoy traditional dishes like pierogi, schnitzel and pretzels all while grooving with the music’s upbeat energy. $16 - $25, Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, 19201 E. Bagley Road, Middleburg Heights, clevelandoktoberfest.com/stcp

SUMMER LOVIN'

Say goodbye to the heavy comfort food of winter and hello to the taste of nostalgic warm-weather bites.

BY KATE BIGAM KAPUT

Honey Hut

Ice Cream

Thirteen original flavors include specials that rotate every two weeks. Look out for heavy hitters like banana nut bread and lemon meringue pie at its five locations. gohoneyhut.com

Bearden’s

Peanut butter

Burger

Topped with melted peanut butter and sweet pickles, this 4-ounce steak burger has been a Rocky River staple for decades. facebook.com/ beardensrockyriver

Dynamite Dawgs

Fair Food

No special event is necessary to indulge in childhood bites like giant corndogs ($4), crispy jumbo funnel cakes ($5) and decadent deep-fried Oreos ($5) in Mentor. dynamitedawgs.com

Eddie's Grill

Slovenian sausage

Staffed by three generations of founder Ed Sezon’s family, this beloved walk-up spot at Geneva-on-the-Lake has the works. Cool off with a fresh-squeezed lemonade. eddiesgrill.com

Pickle Bill’s Lobster

House All-You-CanEat Seafood

Nothing says summer like Alaskan snow crab ($32.99 per pound), whole Maine lobster ($68.99 per pound) and deep-fried scallops ($17.99). picklebills.com

Tommy’s Restaurant Milkshakes

The darling of any sweltering summer day is a milkshake ($5.79) from this Coventry hotspot. Try a Tofutti version to get that time-honored taste without a drop of dairy.

tommyscoventry.com

Enjoy patio season at Pinecrest!

Bibibop*

Condado Tacos*

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill**

First Watch*

Graeters*

Heartwood Co ee*

Kitchen Social**

Pinstripes*

Red, the Steakhouse

Sand Pebbles*

Saucy Brew Works*

Shake Shack*

The Last Page

*Leashed furry friends allowed

**Indoor/Outdoor Seating

SONGS OF THE SUMMER

Dozens of concert tours coming through town prove Cleveland still rocks.

BY ANNIE NICKOLOFF AND ANTHONY ELDER

Lizzo (May 12)

It's "About Damn Time" to get down with this glamorous music icon’s electrifying live show. The summer kicks off early with a stop on one of the world's biggest pop stars' new 17-city tour, The Special 2our . Beyond all the sugary sweet pop tunes and club bangers, look out for the three-time Grammy-winning musician’s impressive flute skills. Plus, Atlanta rapper Latto kicks off the show with her hit, "Big Energy." $70+, 8 p.m., Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, 1 Center Court, Cleveland, rocketmortgagefieldhouse.com

POP-PUNK HEROES

The World is a Beautiful Place and I Am No Longer Afraid To Die (May 12)

If you’ve described yourself as “alt," TWIABP with openers For Your Health and World’s Greatest Dad is a no-brainer. $20, 7 p.m., Mahall's 20 Lanes, 13200 Madison Ave., Lakewood, bravoartist.com

Blink-182 (May 16)

Tom DeLonge, Mark Hoppus and Travis Barker are back together for the first time since 2014. $81+, 7:30 p.m., Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, 1 Center Court, Cleveland, rocketmortgagefieldhouse.com

Paramore (June 4)

The act responsible for several of the genre's greatest hits continues its moment with a stadium tour. $40.50+, 7 p.m., Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, 1 Center Court, Cleveland, rocketmortgagefieldhouse.com

Rock N Reggae Festival (May 27-28)

Split between two days of reggae-fueled celebration, Saturday boasts a rock-focused lineup, including Cloud9 Vibes and Human Nature. Sunday is for the roots-reggae lovers with Carlos Jones, the Meditations and more. $25+, noon-8 p.m., Voinovich Bicentennial Park, 800 E. Ninth St., Cleveland, reggaefestcleveland.com

Death Cab for Cutie at Agora (June 4)

This 2000s alt-rock staple showcases two decades’ worth of music with its headlining Cleveland show. Ben Gibbard and company also celebrate their latest album, Asphalt Meadows . $42.50+, 8 p.m., 5000 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, agoracleveland.com

The Country Fest (June 14-17)

Buckle up for four days of country-lovin’ camping at this big festival, with artists like Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line and Lauren Alaina. $119+, Clay's Resort, 12951 Patterson St. NW, North Lawrence, thecountryfest.com

LEGACY ACTS

The Cure (June 11)

Goth-rock trailblazers return to Blossom Music Center after almost 20 years away for a night of new-wave tunes. $130+, Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation.com

Flaming Lips (June 11)

The colorful, strange band celebrates its seminal album Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots with a 20th anniversary tour. $49.50+, 8 p.m., The Agora, 5000 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, agoracleveland.com

Fantasia (June 16)

The “When I See U” singer showcases her nearly 20-year R&B career since American Idol . $30+, June 16, 7 p.m., Jacob's Pavilion, 2014 Sycamore St., Cleveland, facebook.com/jacobspavilion

Duran Duran (Sept. 10)

Time travel back to the heyday of ‘80s with the synth-pop band's first Northeast Ohio show since 2011. $35.50+, 7 p.m., Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation.com

Tri-C JazzFest (June 22-24)

This year’s celebration of Cleveland's rich jazz history offers an iconic, star-studded lineup, including legendary pianist and composer Herbie Hancock and recent Grammy-winning Best New Artist Samara Joy. Aside from ticketed acts inside the Playhouse Square theaters, enjoy a vibrant mashup of free outdoor sets from local musicians and students. Free-$250+, Playhouse Square, 1501 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, tri-c.edu/jazzfest

Larchmere PorchFest (June 24)

Like a block party in a 2000s MTV film, PorchFest encourages locals to gather on each other’s lawns for the perfect earlysummer bash. Thirty bands are set to take over 30 porches and stoops in this unique Cleveland neighborhood. You can bring your own beverages or enjoy the on-site beer garden that is sure to be back this year. Don't miss bites from neighborhood restaurants like Batuqui. Free, Larchmere Boulevard, Cleveland, larchmereporchfest.org

NEW TO DO AT TOWER CITY

NEW TO DO AT TOWER CITY

Tower City brings you brand-new stores, restaurants and FREE events for everyone to enjoy.

Tower City brings you brand-new stores, restaurants and FREE events for everyone to enjoy.

FAMILY SATURDAYS @ SKYLIGHT PARK

LUNCHTIME SHOP & DINE

FAMILY SATURDAYS @ SKYLIGHT PARK

WALKING CLUB

LUNCHTIME SHOP & DINE

WALKING CLUB

See event details at TowerCityCenter.com

See event details at TowerCityCenter.com

See event details at TowerCityCenter.com

Shania Twain (June 30)

Let’s go girls: The queen of country-pop makes her big return to Northeast Ohio for an outdoor show as part of her Queen of Me tour, in support of her latest album of the same name. She'll be joined by special guest Priscilla Block. $137+, 7:30 p.m., Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation.com

WonderStruck (July 8-9)

Back for another exciting year, the festival formerly known as LaureLive switched it up this year with a lineup that leans a little more pop and hip-hop than its indie rock roots. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy artists like Khalid, Flo Rida, Nelly, Walker Hayes and former-Disney stars Aly & Aj from your musical bucket list. $65+, Lakeland Community College, 7700 Clocktower Drive, Kirtland, wonderstruckfest.com

Le Tigre (July 17)

A big-time reunion hits the Agora this summer, when electronic punk band Le Tigre plays together for the first time in nearly two decades for its summer tour. $39.50+, 8 p.m., The Agora, 5000 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, agoracleveland.com

Madonna (August 2)

“Material Girl,” “Hung Up,” “Vogue,” “Like A Virgin” and other quintessential tunes are sure to be the focus of the Queen of Pop’s Greatest Hits tour this summer, set to arrive in Cleveland in August. $90+, 8:30 p.m., Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, 1 Center Court, Cleveland, rocketmortgagefieldhouse.com

Death Grips (August 2)

One of the most critically acclaimed experimental hip-hop groups of the 2010s, stylings from the group's six studio albums will be on display at The Agora this August. This tour, which includes multiple festival stops, marks the trio's first time back on tour since the pandemic. $45+, 9 p.m., The Agora, 5000 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, agoracleveland.com

Nickelback (August 9)

It’s 2023, and we decree it’s finally time that we all recognize that Nickelback is actually kinda good. Sing along to muchmaligned (and also somehow beloved) hits like “Rockstar,” “How You Remind Me” and “Someday” on the band’s Get Rollin’ tour. Readers should check back for our forthcoming campaign to get the band inducted into the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame, now that the band is officially eligible. $36+, 6:30 p.m., Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation.com

2023 Performers

• Herbie Hancock

• Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue

• Angélique Kidjo

• Richard Bona Presents ASANTE Trio Featuring Osmany Paredes (Piano) and ÍIario Bell (Drums)

• Dominick Farinacci and Triad

• Samara Joy

• Chris tian McBride

• Dan Wilson: 7 Decades of Wonder: The Genius of Stevie

• Bra xton Cook

• Nor man Brown

• Ger ald Albright

• Steve Smith and Vital Information: Steve Smith (Drums), Manuel Valera (Keys), Janek Gwizdala (Bass)

Strassman

Fran and Jules Belkin

PLAY BALL!

On May 1, 1891, Cy Young threw the first pitch of the first game at League Park. For decades thereafter, it was an important stop for Cleveland baseball (football was played there, too). Since 2014, the refurbished League Park has become a cornerstone of the Hough neighborhood and a major destination for local historians and baseball fans. Here are three reasons to check it out.

See some vintage "base ball" Teams from across the country play by 19th century rules. The Whiskey Island Shamrocks have adopted League Park as their unofficial home, and play games there throughout summer.

Visit the Baseball Heritage Museum

Started Downtown in 1997, the Baseball Heritage Museum opened in the former team and ticket offices at the corner of East 66th and Lexington streets in 2014. The museum chronicles lesser-known baseball history, such as local sandlot baseball and the Negro Leagues.

BY VINCE GUERRIERI

See what’s happening to the Hough Neighborhood

In 2022, a new Cleveland Public Library branch opened near League Park. Construction is also under way on a new mixedused project, which should open in the fall. The new space will feature batting cages, an event venue and some exhibition space, as well as office spaces and apartments.

Josh Naylor Jersey Giveaway, Fireworks

Cleveland Guardians vs. St. Louis Cardinals

Progressive Field, Cleveland

Father’s Day Extravaganza

Lake County Captains vs. West Michigan Whitecaps

Classic Park, Eastlake

Kaulig Companies Senior Players Golf Championship

Firestone Country Club, Canton

2023 NFL Hall of Fame Game Cleveland Browns vs. New York Jets

Tom Benson Hall of Fame, Canton

ON THE WATER

Lake Erie is the star of Northeast Ohio — and of a great Cleveland summer. Here are a few ways you can get wet and wild this season.

BOATING AND FLOATING

Looking to bob along the Cuyahoga River or explore the shores of our Great Lake? Here are a few ways to do just that in Northeast Ohio. BY

KIARA RODRIGUEZ

Float the River

Peacefully glide away from the hustle and bustle of life with this lazy river experience. The full-service outfitter sends groupings of inner tubes on a one-of-a-kind experience. Complete with a shuttle, it's a great fun family outing, romantic getaway or afternoon hang with friends. $25, floattheriver.net

BrewBoat Cleveland

Tap into BrewCLE’s pedal-powered cycleboats, which accommodate up to 16 people, or the all-electric, 12-passenger Duffy boats for a memorable summer day. The machines include a coolers, Bluetooth sound systems and ample space to party. $249-$524, brewcle.com

3 MUST-VISIT LAKE ERIE BEACHES

Grab a towel, sunscreen and beach ball, and enjoy the scenes at one of these three Northeast Ohio beaches.

BY ABIGAIL PREISZIG

Hinkley Lake Boathouse & Store

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors. This Metroparks-operated shop is the ideal starting point for anyone renting stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and pontoon boats to explore the picturesque lake. $20-$80, clevelandmetroparks. com

Edgewater Beach

The beach in lower Edgewater Park boasts spectacular views of Cleveland and one of the only dog-friendly beach areas. From dawn till dusk, it’s the perfect spot for kayaking, volleyball, fishing, picnics and wading into 1,000 feet of swimming access. Need some shade on the 2,400 foot shore? Grab beachside fare, drinks from the outdoor bar or scoops of Honey Hut ice cream at Edgewater Beach House.

ISLAND HOPPING

No matter what summery, tropical vibe you’re searching for, you can find it in one of Lake Erie’s gem-like Islands. BY

KARYSSA ROSE

Kelleys Island

The second largest in Lake Erie boasts beautiful beaches and shimmering sunsets. Families spend days playing minigolf, hanging out at the Caddy Shack and indulging in ice cream from Papa T’s Deckside Ice Cream. When it’s time to settle in for the night, vacationers can find accommodations at the State Park Campground.

South Bass Island (Put-In-Bay)

This well-known vacation spot lets island goers take vintage rides at the Put-In-Bay Antique Car Museum, explore the natural limestone of Perry’s Cave or tear up the track at the PutIn-Bay Raceway. Don't miss the Bash on the Bay Aug. 23-24 with Pitbull and Luke Bryan.

Middle Bass Island

The Big Dipper-shaped Middle Bass Island sits among a group of many smaller islands. Beachgoers, and their cars, can travel across Lake Erie on the Miller Ferry that leaves from Catawba. Once on the Island, guests marvel in the antique beauty of Lonz Winery, which features century-old wine making equipment, and an open-air plaza. Accommodations from cabins to camping can be found at the Buck Creek State Park Campground.

Headlands Beach State Park

Ohio’s largest natural sand beach provides 35 acres of sand dune habitat, a mile-long paved and wheelchair accessible hiking and biking trails, picnic tables with grills, beach glass hunting, spectacular wildlife and, of course, swimming in Lake Erie. The Dunes State Nature Preserve connects via the hiking trail and offers great birding as well as insight to rare and unique plants like switchgrass, searockets, cocklebur and more.

Huntington Beach

Located in Huntington Reservation, this beach is the lakefront home to educational endeavors, local art, Ohio wildlife and relaxation. The Noshery, a newly built concession stand, features made-to-order crispy walleye sandwiches, craft beer and more. Three-mile trails lead to the nearby Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, with interactive activities for children and a planetarium, and BAYarts, home to galleries, plays and more.

ROAD WARRIOR

From fun dashes to 5Ks — or way longer — these road races offer great ways to explore the city and the best of our culture.

BY KIARA RODRIGUEZ

Ohio and Erie Canal Park Runs

(Every Saturday Morning)

Runners of all levels enjoy 5Ks along the Ohio and Erie Canals during this free morning event. Registration required. parkrun.us

Cleveland Marathon (May 20-21)

Immerse yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere as you conquer this incredible feat of endurance. clevelandmarathon.com

Inside the Park Home Run (June 4)

Let your little ones run the bases at Progressive Field — don't miss home plate as you cross the finish line. runsignup.com

Slavic Village Pierogi Dash (June 4)

Run through the historic Eastern European neighborhood of Superior Avenue and enjoy live entertainment and mouth-watering pierogies. runsignup.com

Rainbow Run (June 10)

The 5K run/walk supports University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital with a joyful celebration that paints the town — and the runners. rainbowruncleveland.com/event

Towpath Twilight (June 16)

Take in nighttime views of Downtown during runs of various lengths on the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath. canalwaypartners.com

Hofbrauhaus Half Marathon (August 6)

Celebrate your run with a leisurely post-race stroll through the coolest neighborhoods in town and a raised glass. hofbrauhalf.com

Tri-Cle Rock Roll Run Triathlon

(August 12)

This Olympic swim, run and bike course features live entertainment throughout. rockrollrun.com

Keith Haring: Against All Odds isorganizedbytheRubellMuseumandtheAkronArtMuseumpresentedbyananonymousdonor,METRORegional Transit Authority, Bruce and Erica Greer Foundation, Dana Pulk Dickinson, John P. Murphy Foundation, Acme Fresh Market, Akron Summit Convention&VisitorBureau,BoandPamMcMillen,EllenBotnickinLovingMemoryofLisaBotnickandWeltywithsupportfromJohnS.andJames L.KnightFoundation,TheLehnerFamilyFoundation,MaryandDr.GeorgeL.DemetrosCharitableTrust,KennethL.CalhounCharitableTrust.

Keith Haring. Untitled, 1982. Acrylic on vinyl tarpaulin. 180 x 180 in. Collection of the Rubell Museum. Keith Haring artwork copyright © Keith Haring Foundation

ON THE ROAD

With airfare prices skyrocketing, traveling by car looks enticing. BY LAURA

WATILO BLAKE

AMISH COUNTRY

Distance from Cleveland: 74 miles

The appeal: cultural experiences, shopping, dining

Where to start: Berlin, OH

Key summer event: Holmes County Fair, Aug. 7-12

Quirky roadside attraction:

World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock, Sugarcreek, OH

Where to stay: Carlisle Inn, Sugarcreek

More info: visitamishcountry.com

In Ohio’s Holmes County, horsedrawn buggies outnumber cars and a commitment to simplicity, tradition and faith guide daily life. A deep dive into the area’s 30,000-strong Swiss-German Amish community starts in Berlin, a charming small town filled with quaint shops and homestyle restaurants. The Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center depicts the struggle for religious freedom in Europe and exile to America.

LAURA WATILO BLAKE

NIAGARA PARKWAY

Distance from Cleveland: 218 miles

The appeal: wine, theater, natural wonders and family fun

Where to start: Niagara Falls, ON

Quirky roadside attraction: The largest floral clock in the world, Niagara Falls, ON

Where to stay: Prince of Wales Hotel, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON

Key summer event: Canada Day, July 1

More info: visitniagaracanada.com

Ontario’s Niagara Parkway, which stretches from Fort Erie to Niagara-on-the-Lake offers an unforgettable approach to one of the most mesmerizing wonders in the world — Niagara Falls. When the late-afternoon sun is shining, a perpetual rainbow dances on the misty water droplets rising from the thundering chasm straddling the U.S. and Canadian border. The excitement builds until you’re standing at the edge of Horseshoe Falls at Table Rock Welcome Centre feeling the spray on your skin and the cool wind produced by the sheer force of the Niagara River spilling 180 feet over the brink. There’s plenty more in Niagara Falls to keep the whole family happy for days, from a Journey Behind the Falls to the soaring birdseye view from Skylon Tower.

SO MUCH TO SEE IN 2023!

HOCKING HILLS

Distance from Cleveland: 182 miles

The appeal: family fun, camping, hiking and nature

Where to start: Logan, OH

Quirky roadside attraction: Pencil Sharpener Museum; Logan, OH

(reopening late summer/early fall)

Where to stay: Hocking Hills State Park Lodge & Cabins; Benton Township, OH

Key summer event: Lilyfest, July 14-16

More info: explorehockinghills.com

Venture into southern Ohio and explore the breathtaking natural landscapes along the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway. The scenic route connects the six distinct sectors of Hocking Hills State Park: Ash Cave, Cedar Falls, Cantwell Cliffs, Conkle’s Hollow, Rock House and Old Man’s Cave. Each offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and explore caves, cliffs and waterfalls. If you’re looking for more amenities, head to the Old Man’s Cave area, where you’ll find a visitors center, camping, cabins, and the brand new Hocking Hills State Park Lodge. For the first time, the park has an upscale lodging option amid the crisp, fresh air and serene sounds of nature. The centerpiece of the lobby is the sweeping two-story view of the forest.

LAURA WATILO BLAKE

MICHIGAN’S UPPER PENINSULA

Michigan's middle finger points to the Mackinac Bridge, an engineering marvel and the gateway to the off-map Upper Peninsula, a rugged and breathtakingly beautiful part of the state sandwiched between lakes Michigan and Superior. Once you’ve crossed the five-mile-long suspension bridge, take a ferry from St. Ignace to car-free Mackinac Island, where you’ll be transported back in time in a horse-drawn carriage clip-clopping through streets surrounded by Victorian architecture, such as the iconic Grand Hotel. As tempting as it is to stay awhile on the island, the rest of the U.P. beckons with dense forests, scenic shorelines punctuated by historic lighthouses (including one you can sleep in) and small towns loaded with rich maritime history.

OUT OF THE WOODS

No matter how adventurous your kid is, summer fun is ahead at these camps.

BY ANTHONY ELDER AND KARYSSA ROSE

Adventure Camp (Laurel School)

This camp teaches teamwork while offering pre-teens a chance to bike, sale and backpack over the 150-acre Shaker Heights campus. $660-$740, June 12-23, laurelschool.org

Sky High Adventure (Gilmour School)

This all-day, adrenalinefilled adventure gives the ninja experience with ziplines and rope climbs. Gather up your courage and take the leap. $400, June 12-16, gilmour.org

Teen Paddlesports Wind and Waves Camp (Garfield)

Traverse winding rivers and open waters on watercrafts, during this Metroparks camp. $165, June 28-30, clevelandmetroparks.com

Cavs Academy (Various Locations)

Enroll your sports-loving young ones in one of several four-day camps hosted by the Cleveland Cavaliers to sharpen court skills and sportsmanship. $250, various dates, nba.com/cavaliers

My Adult and Me (Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation)

This guardian-child camp provides comfort — also hiking, playing and crafting — for the little ones. $100, July 11-13, clevelandmetroparks.com

Divinity YMCA Day Camp (Parma Heights)

This experience aims to be a kids' home away from home, with a curriculum in everything from arts to STEM. $190-$200, June 5-Aug. 25, clevelandymca.org

TRAIL BLAZER

From Wilderness Camps for Kids to the Metroparks Hiking Challenge for 2023, become one with nature at these great local parks. BY ANTHONY ELDER

1.7-MILE WOODPECKER WAY

in Acacia Reservation

This trail is one of the longer paved options, but it still makes a great option for those looking for something more accessible. Walk, run, use a wheelchair or bring a bike — whichever way suits your needs.

4.1-MILE NC BRIDLE MAIN

LOOP in North Chagrin Reservation

Rocky and unpaved but scenic, this trek is for the horse-lovers of Northeast Ohio, whether you’re completing those four miles on horseback or there on foot to admire.

4.2-MILE HAWTHORNE

PARKWAY BUCKEYE

LOOP in Bedford Reservation

For this hike, you’ll have to utilize the Cleveland Metroparks app as the route pieces together portions of the 1,444-mile-long Buckeye Trail.

1.5-MILE PADDLING

LOOP in Hinckley Reservation

Splash your way from the Hinckley Lake Boathouse around the flat, leisurely edge of Hinckley Lake.

1.4-MILE ROCKCLIFF

SPRING in Rocky River Reservation

Fitness enthusiasts rejoice, this Cleveland Metroparks app-exclusive trail isn’t the longest of the bunch, but boasts several stations for various workouts, adding to its intensity and variety.

JULY

SPECIAL ADD-ON BEETHOVEN’S ODE TO JOY

JUL 1

SPECIAL ADD-ON SALUTE TO AMERICA*

JUL 2, 3, 4

MOVIE NIGHT LIVE JURASSIC PARK

JUL 7, 8,9

ROMANTIC RACHMANINOFF

JUL 15

SHE’S GOT SOUL

JUL 16 LA MER

JUL 22

FEINSTEIN & THIBAUDET TWO PIANOS: WHO COULD ASK FOR ANYTHING MORE

JUL 23

BLOSSOM SUMMER SOIRÉE

JULY 23

MOVIE NIGHT LIVE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE TWO TOWERS

JUL 28, 29, 30

AUGUST

SUMMER SONGS

SIBELIUS FIRST SYMPHONY

AUG 5

MOZART IN THE MEADOWS

AUG 12

AN EVENING WITH AUDRA MCDONALD

AUG 13

FUJITA PLAYS TCHAIKOVSKY

AUG 19

CLASSICAL CONCERT FRENCH IMPRESSIONS

AUG 26

SEPTEMBER

MOVIE NIGHT LIVE DISNEY: THE SOUND OF MAGIC

SEP 1, 2, 3

DISTANT WORLDS

music from FINAL FANTASY *

SEP 9

* Please note The Cleveland Orchestra does not appear on this concert.

Fireworks following the concert. (weather permitting)

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