When someone says "Cleveland," your first thought is probably bad sports teams, but that's not all the city has to offer. The beauty of Cleveland is that there are hundreds of exciting places to see and things to do. If you ever want a new place to visit in the city, choose one of these.

1. The Great Lakes Science Center

Located right on the coast of Lake Erie, the Great Lakes Science Center has phenomenal interactive displays that range from music and sound to optical illusions. You could spend hours just wandering its halls and experimenting with the exhibits. When you're in need of a break, go out on the back terrace and observe the lake.

2. The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Although this one isn't technically in the city, the zoo is a wild place to be. The Cleveland Zoo features numerous animals and attractions that make it worth the stop. From elephants to giant anteaters, there is every kind of animal that you'd ever hope to see in the Cleveland Zoo, as well as different seasonal exhibits such as dinosaurs and a 4-D theater.

3. Tower City Center

Tower City Center is a unique venue because it's a mall located in the middle of the downtown area. From the street, it looks just like any other building. Once you step inside, however, it's a completely different story. There are several levels to it, featuring seventy-five different shops, six restaurants, and a movie theater with eleven screens.

4. The Cleveland Museum Art

Everything about the Cleveland Museum of Art screams beauty. Whether it's the center atrium or the works of art on the walls, the elegance of the museum cannot be overstated. It features collections of art from popular painters and sculptors, as well as my personal favorite exhibit "Opulent Fashion in the Church," which features historical pieces of clothing from the long history of the Catholic Church.

5. The West Side Market

The West Side Market is located across the river from downtown and is home to a fresh produce market, as well as many shops whose specialties range from French pastries to fresh bread and prime cuts of meat. Wandering the aisles of the market is both a learning experience and a welcome dream. Word to the wise: don't go shopping on an empty stomach- you will buy everything in sight.

6. The Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame

The Hall of Fame is next to the Great Lakes Science Center, right on the coast of Lake Erie. Aside from its pleasing architectural aesthetic, the Hall of Fame features so many artists and exhibits. It truly embodies the soul of Cleveland. It is so easy to embrace the rock n' roll spirit because the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame does a phenomenal job of creating a connection and a lasting impact on each visitor.

Choosing any of the places above to explore is a phenomenal way to spend an afternoon, day, or weekend. I highly recommend them all!