Traveler and Tourist

While Cleveland, Ohio, might be famous for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, there is lots on offer if you decide to spend some time getting better acquainted with the area. From arts and history to cuisine and events, there is plenty to do here.

Stay and Play

Make The Westin Cleveland Downtown your home base for your stay here. The hotel is beautifully furnished, centrally located and that gorgeous lobby area is one where you can easily catch up with friends or colleagues. It’s just a short walk from here to The Arcade, which is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Another iconic spot here is the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, which is one museum you must visit if in Cleveland. The many floors here walk you through the history of music, the many genres, the famous singers, and songs, behind the scenes videos and costumes, lyrics, and instruments and so much more. You will easily spend a few hours, more so if you are a music lover yourself or a big fan of any of the musical acts featured.

Then head to University Circle and take the time to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the monuments to different countries. The History Center, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens are located here so you can spend the day in the area. At the Cleveland History Center, aside from the permanent and temporary exhibits, there is a historic carousel housed here that is a must visit. Yes, it still works, and you can enjoy a ride while learning about the history of the installation from the staff. While general admission is free and special exhibits are paid at the Cleveland Art Museum, you must add it to your list of places to visit just for the nice courtyard area in the center. The café and the gift shop are great additions – grab a coffee and a book to read and you might never even enter the museum itself! There are some fantastic exhibits including Islamic art and brilliant pieces of artwork from other countries.

Spending time in nature more your style? Explore Cuyahoga Valley National Park, which has more than 3,000 acres to cover. Whether hiking, biking, birding or relaxing, you can find a spot in the park to indulge. The Ledges Trail and the Brandywine Gorge Loop are recommended trails if you will be spending your day outdoors.

If you are more of a history buff, then Cozad-Bates House is a venue to check off your list. Although a small space with free admission, this venue holds an impressive amount of information given its role in the

Underground Railroad. Request a guided tour for the orientation but take time to read all the details shared. The oldest and only surviving pre-Civil War structure in University Circle, this venue now serves as a museum to Cleveland’s many connections to the Underground Railroad and anti-slavery activism. The Cozad family, who are the original owners and builders, were leading abolitionists and known for their involvement in the Underground Railroad. Other spots to add to your agenda include Lake View Cemetery, Langston Hughes Library, and Howard A. Mims Cultural Center.

Wine and Dine

Grab drinks at Flats East Bank at Lindey’s Lake House. Gorgeous views of the bridge in the background and sipping on a fun cocktail along the water is a great way to begin the day. Then head to Jade New Asian & Sushi Bar which is a chic waterfront restaurant specializing in Asian fusion dishes. Watch the sunset as the trains go by and folks enjoy living by the water as they cruise around in their personal yachts, kayaks, jet skis and such. Three levels of dining spaces and a rooftop bar and lounge give you a lot of room to enjoy the evening with your party. For some live music after dinner, head on over to Collision Bend Brewery along the banks of the Cuyahoga River.

Another option to dine at is Primo African Quisine in the downtown area, where all your yearnings for dishes from the African continent can be satiated. The menu includes Nigerian egusi soup, Senegalese thiep, jollof rice, fufu and more. Remember to add some chilled hibiscus juice to that order of flavorsome meals. For a wine tasting experience within the city, Chateau Hough is a great option. Call ahead for an appointment as the tasting venue is a charming little spot.

But if you really want the full winery experience from the area, then a drive to Grand River Valley wineries is warranted. Among the spots to visit, of which there are many by the way, Laurentia, Debonne, Cask 307 and Ferrante are some spots that are leaders in ice wine production and offer great tasting experiences. If you choose to dine in the area, then Crosswinds Grille at The Lakehouse Inn is your spot.

Other great spots for your dining considerations include Felice Urban Café, Westside Market – built in 1912, it is one of the largest indoor and outdoor markets in the country, Betts, Addy’s Diner, Yours Truly, REBol and Blessed Café. Happy travels! m