"The 216" often gets a bad rap, making it one of the most under-appreciated cities in America. Cleveland is definitely not behind on the times and continues to set the bar high on so many levels. Cleveland has a ton to offer, but the best of our city is yet to come. Clevelanders stand behind their city no matter what, and no one beats a Cleveland sports fan in terms of dedication. I love Cleveland with all my heart and will always be proud to call it my home.

1. The Cleveland Cavaliers

If you read that in the Cavs hype-man's voice (Ahmaad Crump), then you really are from Cleveland. Everyone loves an underdog, right? We may have lost the Finals this year, but I still believe in my team!

2. The Indians

I think every Clevelanders' heart died a little when the Indians lost the World Series last year. BUT, a true Clevelander wouldn't let that get in the way of the fact that we still made it to the World Series! Oh, and if you don't still call it Jacob's Field, don't talk to me.

3. The Browns

If you truly are a dedicated Cleveland sports fan, then you shouldn't question why I added them. Once you're in the Dawg Pound, there's no getting out.

4. Cleveland Metroparks

Cleveland Metroparks alone maintains 23,000 acres of parkland with 300 miles of recreational trails. If that's not enough, visit the Botanical Gardens with its 10 acres of gardens and a giant glass conservatory. Or check out the Holden Arboretum just northeast of Cleveland, which is one of the largest arboreta and botanical gardens in the United States, with more than 3,600 acres. With miles of lakes and trails, you'll never be without nature in the city.

5. It's the "Roller Coaster Capital of the World"

Well, that's Cedar Point, which is only an hour away, so.... that still counts as Cleveland, right?

6. The weather

Hear me out. Ohio has some pretty bipolar weather, but when it's 70 degrees in February, can you really complain? For the most part, we experience all four seasons, which is pretty cool. And when it does snow, we take it like champs. Snowmaggedon? Snowpocalypse? Snowzilla ? We just call it winter.

7. West Side Market

Cleveland's bustling indoor market is famous for showcasing the city's melting pot heritage. It is home to more than 100 vendors, and with a range of fresh fruits, veggies, meat, and baked goods, it truly is a food lover's heaven. If I could shop here every day, I would.

8. It's one of the best drinking cities in America

Don't believe me? Check out these 23 Cleveland bars that will make you want to spend every night out on the town.Cleveland is bringing some serious thunder to the drinking scene.

9. Lake Erie

No ocean? No problem. There is nothing better than spending a day at the beach along the shores of beautiful Lake Erie. Whether you choose to be in the water, or out of it, you won't miss the gorgeous views of the lake.

10. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

I love rock n' roll, and if you do too, then you'll be proud to know that we have the most rock and roll memorabilia than any other city in the world.

11. Culture

Cleveland has some pretty great cultural stops, but among my favorite are two museums located on Wade Oval Drive, within walking distance of each other. The Cleveland Museum of Natural History cultivates everyone's curiosity whether you travel back in time to the age of the dinosaurs or fly into space and discover the outer reaches of the Universe. The Cleveland Museum of Art has over 900 exhibits, with art from ancient civilizations to modern day abstract pieces.

12. Great Lakes Science Center

With the ordinary exhibits, science phenomena, and the NASA Glenn visitor center, no wonder it's so popular. I don't know about you, but even as an adult, I still love going here and seeing what amazing things they have to offer.

13. Playhouse Square

New York is pretty great, but did you know that our very own Playhouse Square represents the nation's largest performing arts center outside the Big Apple?

14. The food

Not only is the drinking scene good, but the food scene is on fire. From fast casual to markets and cafes to upscale dining, Cleveland has definitely given food lovers new options. The tacos pictured above are from Camino located downtown on West 9th. If you are looking for new places to try, check out this article, 35 Best New Cleveland Restaurants, Cafes, and Markets to Try in 2017.

15. Best festivals around

You're never bored here in Cleveland, especially when the city, and the surrounding areas, hosts tons of festivals year round. Some pretty awesome ones include Cleveland Pizza Fest, Chagrin Falls Blossom Time, Edgewater Live Series, Wade Oval Wednesdays, Feast of the Assumption Fair, and the Strawberry Festival.

16. Cleveland is pretty famous

Cleveland has some great views so it's no wonder movies like A Christmas Story, Happy Gilmore, Spider-Man 3, The Avengers,and Captain America: The Winter Soldier were filmed here. Did I mention Matthew McConaughey is currently filming in Cleveland as well?

17. East 4th Street

If you are looking for a fun night out in Cleveland, look no further. This pedestrian-only street is jam-packed with restaurants, including the Corner Alley and the Chocolate Bar. It truly is THE hotspot for Cleveland nightlife.

18. Chocolate

Every kid who went to middle school here knows about Malley's Chocolate. A staple for fundraising in schools, Malley's Chocolate can be found in every Clevelander's chocolate stash.

19. You can travel the world in one night

Little Italy, Slavic Village, Asiatown. The world is truly at your fingertips. Cleveland is a melting pot of ethnic heritage, which allows us to have a little taste of the world right at our front door.

20. The ice cream scene is on point

If you have never been to Mitchell's Ice Cream, please drop what you're doing and head over there. You will thank me for it.

21. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

I. Love. The. Zoo. With more than 3,000 animals spread over 183 acres, you are transported to multiple worlds away from downtown. You can visit the largest primate collection in North America or the African Elephant Crossing. They have an indoor Rainforest with plants and animals from Asia, Africa, and the Americas, and if you are someone who gets cold easily, don't worry because it's always 80 degrees in there.

22. Country Mega-Ticket

Every summer, country superstars like Little Big Town, Rascal Flatts, Brad Paisley, Toby Keith, and Luke Byran perform to sold out crowds at Blossom Music Center. Whether you are a country fan or not, the tailgates and music will bring out the inner country fan in you for one night.

23. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

This 32,572 acre park is the only national park in Ohio. With over 900 plant species and 400 animals, the park definitely contains a truly unique enviroment. Not to mention totally nature-worthy Instagrams.