Cleveland May Surprise You

June 8, 2020

Cleveland often surprises people, despite the unjust tone the city often receives. “I mean, I never heard anybody say I’m going to Cleveland on vacation”, remarked NBA big man Joakim Noah on Cleveland during a 2013 press conference. Many people feel the city lacks flare, fun and excitement. When I explored the “Rock and Roll Capital of the World”, I found a city possessing history, culture, entertainment and scrumptious food.

Rock and Roll HOF

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Great Lakes Science Center

Nearby FirstEnergy Stadium, The Cleveland Browns’ home turf, sits two signature attractions: The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Great Lakes Science Center. Let’s begin with the timeless Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which attracts many visitors each year. “The Rock’s” exterior appears almost space-like. A large pyramid highlights the front facade, seeping into cylindrical and cube figures to complete the structure. Inside the magnificent exterior lies a music-history filled interior. Both permanent and temporary exhibits lie over 7 floors, covering different eras and styles. Certainly, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is truly a must visit for any fan of the genre.

Just around the corner from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame stands the Great Lakes Science Center, an extremely interactive museum. The Science Center incorporates fun and community throughout the various exhibits and teaches science related aspects to all ages. In short, you can spend a good chunk of your day exploring both locations.

Progressive Field

Cleveland Sports 

Joakim Noah’s words on Cleveland looked silly just a few years later, when Lebron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers won the NBA championship in 2016. Cleveland’s sports scene holds more history and excitement than you may think. Progressive Field, an absolutely stunning ballpark and the home of the Cleveland Indians, proves a wonderful place to watch a ballgame. If you go to an Indians game, make sure to try a Slider Dog – a stadium dog topped off with bacon, mac n’ cheese, and fruit loops. The Indians, along with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Cleveland Browns make up an underrated sports atmosphere.

Severance Hall

University Circle

On Cleveland’s east side, discover the vibrant and enlightening University Circle. Holding several museums, universities and beautiful gardens, be sure to explore the magnificent area. The Cleveland Art Museum, one of my favorite stops, is on par with the eloquence of an art museum of Paris or New York. After, be sure to check out where The Cleveland Orchestra calls their home, Severance Hall. You could spend an entire day here poking around the various museums, gardens and eateries.

West Side Market

Grub

Cleveland boasts some awesome eateries and breweries. The famous West Side Market houses over 100 vendors and includes cuisines from various cultures. Got a sweet tooth? Waltz over to Mitchell’s Ice Cream to indulge in some frozen goodness. Beer lovers, Cleveland is a great craft beer town. Fat Head’s Brewery, Great Lakes Brewing Company, and Forest City Brewery to check out.

If you’re an NBA fan, don’t let the take of Joakim Noah on Cleveland act as your opinion without visiting “The Land” for yourself. To me, Cleveland stands out as an awesome city, and I can’t wait to revisit.

Be sure to check out our other itineraries and follow along with our podcasts!

By: Stevie G

Steven Gross picture