With the World Series excitement following that of the NBA Finals, the city of Cleveland is a hot topic right now (particularly among Clevelanders). We've never seen this much sports success in our lives. Seriously. I'm not even much of a sports person, but I can't help get into the spirit a little bit. And though I technically don't live there anymore, (and am actually from a suburb, not the city, in the first place,) I want to share in the hometown love. The arts scene is amazing, there are tons of restaurants, and lots to do overall. So here are some of the best places to hit up in Cleveland:
1. Progressive Field
In light of recent events, I had to include this one. If you can get to a baseball game next time you're in town, do it! Though keep Cleveland weather in mind--I've put on sunscreen during some and bundled in sweatshirts during others.
2. Great Lakes Science Center
A super fun place to visit as a kid, but a place I haven't visited in a while. It's full of all kinds of cool, educational, interactive displays about how stuff around us works. (The escalator is one of my personal favorite highlights--the side is clear and you can see how it moves on the inside.)
3. Severance Hall
Home of the renowned Cleveland Orchestra, this building is a beautiful and significant part of the city.
4. Cleveland Museum of Natural History
Another place I adored as a child. From the stegosaurus statue outside, to the real dinosaur skeletons inside, to the planetarium, this place has never failed to fascinate me, no matter how many times I've visited.
5. Tower City and Public Square
Public Square is newly refinished and vibrant, and Tower City is elegant and grand as ever. They're especially fun during the holiday season, with their light displays.
6. Mitchell's Ice Cream
A family-owned company with stores all across the greater Cleveland area, Mitchell's is some of the best ice cream around. I love their seasonal Campfire S'mores flavor!
7. The Heinen's
Not just any Heinen's. The Heinen's. The Heinen's grocery store that is in what was once an old bank. The Heinen's grocery store with cute places to sit down and eat, intricate architecture, and a beautiful rotunda. One of the best places to grocery shop.
8. West Side Market
Another one of the best places to grocery shop! West Side Market has vendors selling food and drink from all kinds of different cultures, all inside (and outside) the same building.
9. Cleveland Museum of Art
I cannot describe well enough the quality of this museum. I don't think I have ever been able to see all of it in one visit; there is so much to take in there. There seems to be something of everything, in terms of style of art, time period, where artists are from, etc. And admission is FREE. This museum is really a must-see.
10. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
A great place to go for kids and adults! The zoo never gets old. Elephant Crossings is probably my favorite part, but there is so much that makes this zoo great. There is so much to see, and it's so big--I've only ever done the entire zoo and Rain Forest (indoor portion, fun for dreary winter days) once in my life, and if I remember correctly, we spent about five or six hours there. Exhausting, but worth it.
11. Playhouse Square
The theatre district. Definitely my favorite downtown place, Playhouse Square brings through some of the best professional shows done by touring companies, Great Lakes Theater, etc. Each time I'm going to see a show there, I know it's going to be a great night!
