Growing up around the Cleveland area, I always assumed that the places I had visited as a child, including the mall and Dave & Buster's, were the only cool things to do. Unbelievably, I discovered that Cleveland has many more hidden gems than I had discovered when I was a child. Although I do live an hour away, the draw of a big city has always had its grip on me. As I started to frequent the city more often, I discovered many places that I enjoyed to visit. If you're looking for multiple things to fill the summer, these places are definitely worth a second look.

1. The West Side Market

The West Side Market is located in the Ohio City neighborhood of Cleveland. An indoor/outdoor market that offers many different vendors, ranging from fruits and vegetables to fish. This market began operating in the mid 1800s across the street from its current location. Visited by Food Network, this market is one of the longest running markets in existence. Open seven days a week, it is definitely work the a visit.

2. League Park

For sports lovers, League Park is a dream come true. Located in the Hough neighborhood, the park was home to many professional sports teams. Most notably known for where the Indians won the World Series and where Babe Ruth hit his 500th home-run. While the park was mostly torn down in the 1950s, parts of it remain. It is definitely worth a visit if you are a big sports fan.

3. Wade Oval Wednesdays

Located in University Circle, Wade Oval Wednesdays is a series of outdoor festivals with live musicians. Beginning in June, this event offers many different concerts, including indie, jazz and rock music. These nights will also include food trucks and other vendors. These nights can attract over a thousand people, and they are a family friendly event.

4. Playhouse Square

Located in the Cleveland Theater District in Downtown Cleveland, this theater is one of the biggest performing arts centers outside of New York. Offering a wide range of plays and musicals throughout the year, I can say from experience that it is worth some of the higher prices. The theater is absolutely beautiful, and the performers are outstanding. The full list of plays and musicals can be found on their website along with where to purchase the tickets.

5. Steamship William G. Mather Maritime Museum

Docked on Lake Erie, this retired bulk freighter has been restored into a great museum. The ship once carried ore, coal, stone and grain to ports throughout the Great Lakes. Located near the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Great Lakes Science Center, this museum is as interesting as the ship's history.

6. Cleveland Botanical Garden

Located in University Circle, these gardens offer many different types of exotic plants it is difficult to find anywhere else. There are over 350 species of plants and 50 species of animals, including many different types of butterflies. There are two different biomes, including Madagascar and Costa Rica.

7. Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum

Also located in University Circle, this museum has a wide variety of automobiles. Among their giant collection, there are ancient carriages and racing vehicles. There is also a very old racing airplane on the premises. For automobile fanatics, this museum is a great way to spend a day.

8. Franklin Castle

Located in the Ohio City neighborhood, the history behind this historical home draws horror lovers in. This house is claimed to be the most haunted house in Ohio. The building is four stories and twenty rooms. While the home is currently owned, there are certain days of the year that the owners will allow visitors and tour groups. The home's haunted past makes this a thrill seekers dream come true.

9. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Located on the shore of Lake Erie, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a big attraction to tourists in Cleveland. Despite this fact, there are many Clevelanders who haven't visited this marvelous museum. Paying tribute to tons of musicians, the museum offers hours of content. With its beautiful view of the lake and interesting architecture, it's a wonderful way to spend a day.

10. East 4th Street

Located in the heart of downtown, East 4th Street is home to many great restaurants and entertainment venues. The House of Blues is located right around the corner and many five-star restaurants are located on the iconic street.

11. Great Lakes Science Center

Located in Downtown Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center is an educational hands-on museum that pleases children and adults alike. It's not very costly, and there are tons of fun exhibits for everyone. There is also an Omnimax theater and a cafe in the museum.