An ultimate visitor’s guide to Cleveland: Fun, food, attractions and more

Siren s Curse, North America s tallest, fastest and longest tilt coaster, opens at Cedar Point.

CLEVELAND, Ohio — You may know it as the Rock & Roll Capital of the World. Indeed, local DJ Alan Freed popularized the term (and genre) in 1951, and the city is home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. But Cleveland is so much more.

This is a vibrant city with a bustling downtown that gleams with classic architecture and energetic nightlife. This is a city on one of the Great Lakes, boasting endless recreational opportunities, from kayaking the Cuyahoga River to catching sunsets over Lake Erie. This is a foodie town, punching above its weight class with James Beard Award-nominated restaurants and craft breweries that have earned national attention.

We invite you to explore our diverse and welcoming neighborhoods. Ohio City is home to the world-famous West Side Market, cool vintage shops and too many brunch spots to count. Tremont is one of the most eclectic neighborhoods in the city, full of trendy restaurants, bars and art galleries. Then there’s University Circle, the city’s cultural district, where you’ll find the world-class Cleveland Museum of Art and the award-winning Cleveland Museum of Natural History. And don’t miss AsiaTown, where carts of delicious dim sum, bowls of fragrant pho and bountiful dishes of banchan await inside authentic Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean restaurants.

If you have time to venture outside the city, Cedar Point — about 70 miles west — features some of the most thrilling roller coasters on the planet and has been named Best Amusement Park in the World 16 times! Not far from there are the Lake Erie Islands, including South Bass Island, where the good-time vibes and carefree breezes at Put-in-Bay are calling your name. And the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, an hour south, is the ultimate destination for football fans.

Pastrami sandwich from Larder in Cleveland's Ohio City neighborhood.

So relax, have fun, get out and discover the Cleveland that locals know, love and are proud to call home. This guide offers recommendations and information on the city’s restaurants, bars, attractions and events — your roadmap to experiencing the best of what our city has to offer.

Restaurants

Bar: Bar 32

Bar 32 is named for its spot on the 32nd floor of the Hilton Cleveland Downtown. The views, craft cocktails and thoughtful bites come together for an elevated vibe.

Herb raita, crispy puris and popcorn chicken from Amba in Cleveland's Ohio City neighborhood.

100 Lakeside Ave E Ste 3200, Cleveland

Bar: Clevelander Bar and Grill

Looking for a sports bar, check out the Clevelander. With 10-plus HDTVs you can follow your favorite teams.

834 Huron Road East Cleveland

Bar: Garden of Eden (Rooftop bar)

The Garden of Eden is the rooftop bar at Metropolitan at The 9 hotel that’s a tropical oasis in the center of downtown. Craft cocktails and crowd-pleasing bar bites like tacos and rice bowls make up the menu. Aside from the bright and lively vibe, Garden of Eden is also a destination for its margarita tree featuring four flavors of Maestro Margs made with Patron Reposado.

Cordelia Food and Spirits on E. 4th.

2017 E. 9th St., Cleveland

Mabel’s BBQ is located at 2050 East 4th St., Cleveland- Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.com

Bar: Jolene’s (Country bar)

Jolene’s Honky Tonk has been a destination for country-themed fun on East 4th Street since it opened earlier this summer. The Dolly Parton-themed bar features craft cocktails, live music and the only rooftop on the pedestrian-only strip in the center of downtown. While the bar is mostly centered around food, chicken tenders, nuggets and fries are available.

Collision Bend Brewing Company on the East Flats in downtown Cleveland has an extensive food menu, and of course a great selection of beers on tap.

2038 E. 4th St., Cleveland

Jolene's Honky Tonk officially opened on East 4th Street in Cleveland.

Bar: Society Lounge

This speakeasy-like bar sits the heart of the East Fourth dining and entertainment district. Grab a bite nearby, then settle in for some creative craft cocktails.

2063 E 4th Street, Cleveland

Bar: The Whiskey Bar

Cleveland's East 4th Street

The Whiskey Bar can be hard to find, like a real speakeasy. It’s moody, romantic and has hundreds of whiskeys – even those that are hard to find. If you’re a bourbon lover, pull up a bar stool and chat with the knowledgeable staff.

Mila, one of the two Amur tiger cubs born at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo on November 6, 2023, watches passers-by during the popular Asian Lantern Festival.

2123 East 2nd Street, Cleveland

Casual: Parnell’s Pub

Parnell’s has two locations. You’ll want to try the one in Playhouse Square, downtown. A supporter of local breweries, they boast as much local beer, Guinness and whiskey as they can manage.

Cleveland skyline May 2025

1415 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland

Casual: Winking Lizard

Winking Lizard is a Northeast Ohio thing. The friendly neighborhood concept has 15 locations. You’ll want the downtown Cleveland spot.

1300 East 9th, Cleveland

Craft brewery: Collison Bend Brewing Co (Waterfront dining)

Collison Bend Brewing Co. in the Flats East Bank is far from your average casual craft brewery. The expansive space includes a riverside patio complete with a separate bar and lounge seats. Collison Bend’s craft beers and cocktails pair perfectly with its brunch, lunch and dinner menu. Stand-out menu items like a Lake Erie walleye po’boy and a local sausage party platter highlight flavors distinct to Greater Cleveland. The brewery has a second location in Euclid, on Cleveland’s East Side.

1250 Old River Road, Cleveland

Craft brewery: Masthead Brewing Co. (Pizza)

Masthead Brewing Co. is a downtown destination for craft beer in an welcoming brewery space with tons of open seating. Neapolitan pizzas and calzones are the stars of the food menu, but don’t miss plates like the famous Everything Pretzel with house-made pimento cheese and IPA honey mustard.

1261 Superior Ave., Cleveland

Dining out: Agave and Rye

Clevelanders love Mexican-influenced food and Agave and Rye scratches that itch. This chain is colorful, energetic and serves “epic tacos” and margaritas.

1352 W 6th St. Cleveland

Dining out: Alley Cat Oyster (Seafood)

Alley Cat Oyster Bar in the Flats is the premiere location for folks looking to indulge in seafood with waterfront views. Oysters and seafood towers are obviously king here, but the globally-insipred menu has a little bit of everything for everyone. Happy hour and weekend brunch are also available.

1056 Old River Road, Cleveland

Dining out: Barrio (Tacos)

Margaritas and build-your-own tacos are exactly what Barrio is all about. The downtown location is in the heart of the Gateway District and East 4th Street with a prime patio for people watching. Don’t forget the guac.

503 Prospect Ave. E., Cleveland

Dining out: Betts (American)

Betts at the Kimpton Schofield Hotel is an above-average hotel bar and restaurant. Breakfast and brunch might be the favorite meal at Betts, but don’t miss its diverse lunch and dinner options. Cajun lamb pops, wagyu Bolognese and pork schnitzel with spaetzle are all on the menu.

2000 E. 9th St., Cleveland

Dining out: Brel’s

Brel’s is the newest fine dining restaurant in Cleveland’s Playhouse Square theater district. It has big windows overlooking said theater district and a menu to feed the discriminating appetite. The barstools are comfy, too.

1260 Euclid Ave., Cleveland

Dining out: Club Room @ Fidelity Hotel

Club Room at upscale boutique-y Fidelity Hotel can be tough to find, but the bar and cozy dining room are worth a visit.

1940 E 6th St, Cleveland

Dining out: Flight Social

Flight Social is a travel themed restaurant with a globally influenced menu. Check the website for the entertainment schedule.

347 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland

Fine Dining: Johnny’s Downtown

The Johnny’s name has long been synonymous with fine dining Italian in the Cleveland Market. This location has elegant ambiance and outstanding food. Lunch time prices are softer on the wallet.

1406 West 6th Street, Cleveland

Dining out: Mabel’s BBQ

If you’ve seen Celebrity Chef Michael Symon on the Food Network or in the bookstore, you have to try Mabel’s BBQ. The location in the city’s East 4th entertainment district is energetic and the “Q” is hearty.

2050 E 4th St, Cleveland

Dining out: Maker at Hotel Cleveland (Hotel bar/restaurant)

Hotel Cleveland made a splash when it reopened last year after a $90 million renovation, which included two dining options. Maker is a casual, fine-dining room in the main lobby that is the epitome of a classy hotel bar. Artisanal cocktails and shared plates for lunch and dinner complete the experience.

24 Public Square, Cleveland

Dining out: Sora (Sushi/Asian fusion)

If you’re looking for a modern sushi restaurant for a fun night out, Sora is the spot. Sushi, including omakase, bowls, crudo and dessert make up the menu. A tried-and-true favorite is the spicy tuna crispy rice appetizer.

1121 W. 10th St., Cleveland

Dining out: Zanzibar Soul Fusion (Soul food)

Zanzibar has long been a favorite for casual Southern comfort food in the heart of downtown. Shrimp and grits, catfish bites and soul rolls are always great options for the table to share.

Entertainment and food: Corner Alley (Bowling alley)

The Corner Alley is the best of both worlds for people who like to indulge in fun activities while dining and drinking in the heart of downtown. The sports bar and bowling alley boasts classic American pub fare with an impressive list of drafts and cocktails.

402 Euclid Ave., Cleveland

Entertainment and food: House of Blues

House of Blues – Cleveland has a Southern-inspired menu and a busy entertainment schedule. And, if you spend $25 in the restaurant, you skip the concert line.

308 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland

Entertainment and food: Jack Cleveland Casino

If gambling is your jam, Jack Cleveland Casino is located in historic buildins on our city’s Public Square. When you’re done feasting on adrenaline, refuel at four restaurants or a coffee shop.

100 Public Sq, Cleveland

Fine dining: Acqua di Dea

Acqua di Dea is known for seafood done Italian style. Rumor has it the happy hour is a must visit.

500 W St Clair Ave, Cleveland

Fine dining: Blue Point Grille

You’re just minutes from Lake Erie, why not try our signature fish – walleye. Blue Point Grille offers this as well as a wide variety of memorable seafood dishes.

700 West St. Clair Avenue, Cleveland

Fine dining: Cordelia (Upscale Midwestern)

Foodies that visit Cleveland for the first time tend to prioritize a visit to Cordelia helmed by James Beard-nominated chef Vinnie Cimino. Elevated Midwestern cuisine with an emphasis on hospitality is the core of what makes this place so special. It’s always good to order a bit of everything to share, whether you visit for dinner or Sunday brunch.

2058 E. 4th St., Cleveland

Fine dining: Fahrenheit (American)

Fahrenheit is another high-end destination for chef Rocco Whalen’s local spin on global flavors. The restaurant is in the heart of Public Square and boasts a rooftop patio, sushi menu and more.

55 Public Square, Suite 150, Cleveland

Fine dining: Il Venetian (Italian)

If upscale Italian is your vibe, Il Venetian is the place to make a reservation, sip on a delicious bottle of wine and lounge while you enjoy a lengthy meal, like the Europeans do. Wagyu beef carpaccio, veal-stuffed agnolotti and pistachio-crusted Yellowfin tuna are a few standout dishes. The restaurant is on the first floor of the Key Tower.

100 St. Clair NE, Cleveland

Fine Dining: Mallorca

Fine dining and seafood don’t get better than this. The restaurant approaches them from a Spanish and Portuguese vibe. If you like paella, you’ll be happy.

1390 West 9th Street, Cleveland

Fine dining: Marble Room Steaks and Raw Bar

Marble Room, set in an opulent old bank building, is one of Northeast Ohio’s top special occasion dining spots. The space is beautiful, the food is beautiful, the people are beautiful. While it doesn’t have a dress code, it’s recommended that you dress to match the ambiance.

623 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland

Quick bites: Geraci’s Slice Shop (Pizza)

The ‘80s-style slice shop offers pizza-by-the-slice from Geraci’s, a longtime Cleveland staple. Giant slices, garlic pillows, combo meals and flask cocktails make up the menu at this grab-and-go spot.

603 Prospect Ave. E., Cleveland

Quick bites: Good Pizza (Pizza)

A newer slice shop on the Cleveland scene is Good Pizza, specializing in New York-style pizza by the slice. Don’t miss the spicy vodka slice or the pepperoni with hot honey if you’re in the area and in need of a hunger-settling slice.

2057 E. 4th St., Cleveland

Quick Bites: Gochujang

Feeling like a quick, but interesting bite? Take a stroll to Playhouse Square and check out Gochujang. The menu of Korean street food includes three versions of Korean dogs.

1350 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland

Quick bites: Sittoo’s Lebanese Grill (Mediterranean)

Sittoo’s at Playhouse Square is a local favorite for Mediterranean food that’s perfect for a quick lunch or takeout. Falafel, shawarma pita sandwiches, salads and more. Other locations in Cleveland’s University Circle, Shaker Heights, Parma, North Olmsted, Green and North Ridgeville.

1625 Euclid Ave., Cleveland

Quick bites: Tower City Center (Food court)

Tower City Center offers a food court-style dining options with a wide range of eateries to please every palate. Options include Charley’s Philly Steaks, Chick-fil-A, Dunkin’, Kelly’s Cajun Grill, Media Luna Bakery, Milk + Honey, Mixed Greens, Shake & Slide, Susy’s Soup & Deli, Tower Pizza and Yihi Japan.

230 W. Huron Road, Cleveland

Worth the ride: Amba

Amba’s menu is full of shareable plates inspired by the flavors and ingredients of India and global cuisine. It’s so good, the Rolling Stones ate here when they were in Cleveland.

1430 West 28th Street, Cleveland

Worth the ride: Astoria Café & Market (Mediterranean/market)

Astoria is a Mediterranean café and market that’s just a short Uber ride away from downtown, and it’s worth the trip. Its expansive outdoor patio is perfect for sipping on wine and sharing charcuterie and cheese boards on a nice night. Plus, the market has a robust offering of imported goods great for snacking or gifting.

5417 Detroit Ave., Cleveland

Worth the ride: Abundance Culinary (Chinese)

Abundance Culinary in Cleveland Heights should be on every food lover’s radar for some of the most exciting Chinese food in Northeast Ohio. Chef Liu Fang specializes in a modern, seasonal menu that expands far beyond the Americanized dishes we’re used to. Steamed buns, dumplings, noodles, entrees, pastries, cocktails and more are a part of the fun here. Fang even hosts cooking classes to teach customers some of her secrets.

1975 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights

Worth the ride: Clandestina (Mexican)

Many locals tend to bring out-of-towners to West 25th Street to check out the scenic West Side Market and lively action in Ohio City. If you’re in the area looking for a bite, Clandestina is a tasty option. The tequila and mezcal bar is known for its cocktails, but Mexican street food options like tamales with mole, burritos and empanads are also worth visiting for.

1865 W. 25th St., Cleveland

Worth the ride: Dante

This chef-driven menu is the work of a Michelin-starred chef who came back home to open his own restaurant. Take an uber, the parking is tough to find.

2247 Professor Avenue, Cleveland

Worth the ride: Heart of Gold (American)

Heart of Gold is the kind of place that offers a well-executed version of a crowd-pleasing menu that’s hard not to like. Weekend brunch, lunch, dinner and cocktails are all in store here. Don’t miss confit chicken wings, house-made Lunchables or handhelds like burgers and fried chicken sandwiches. Plus, it’s craft cocktail menu and non-alcoholic drink options are not to be slept on.

4122 Lorain Ave., Cleveland

Worth the ride: Juneberry Table

Juneberry is known for outstanding local, seasonal farm-to-table breakfast. Get there early or be prepared to wait for a seat in this cozy dining room. Everyone knows how good it is.

3900 Lorain Avenue, Cleveland

Worth the ride: Larder (Jewish deli)

Another James Beard-nominated spot that’s a must-visit for every Cleveland tourist is Larder Delicatessen and Bakery. Jeremy Umasnky and Allie La Valle are a husband-wife duo making deli sandwiches, homemade pickles, fresh-baked pastries and more. You’ll never know what you’ll find on Larder’s experimental menu, but it’s worth trying all of it.

1455 W. 29th St., Cleveland

Worth the ride: Mason’s Creamery

Looking for something quick? Mason’s is an ice cream stand – in a gentrifying neighborhood — known for Korean dogs, ramen and, of course, small-batch ice cream. Get the Ube ice cream if they have it.

4401 Bridge Avenue, Cleveland

Worth the ride: Rood (American)

If there’s one word to describe Rood Food and Pie’s menu philosophy, its imaginative. The restaurant, located just outside of Cleveland in Lakewood, specializes in seasonal small plates like charred octopus, butterfish crudo and roasted savoy cabbage. Don’t forget about its rave-worthy slices of pie, or BYOB brunches on the weekends.

17001 Madison Ave., Lakewood

Worth the ride: Steak

This is “not your parents’ steakhouse.” Start with an appetizer and craft cocktail. Then, choose your steak, your sauce, your bling and your sides. They even have a market price 24K gold steak wrap. If you have to ask …

2179 West 11th Street, Cleveland

Worth the ride: The W Sports Bar

The W was created to give women sports fans and fans of women’s sports a place to gather. You’ll find a bar menu and a variety of bites.

5428 Detroit Ave., Cleveland

Worth the ride: Western Reserve Distillers (American)

Another Lakewood gem for booze enthusiasts is Western Reserve Distillers. As you might expect, the distillery is known for its own award-winning spirits, from bourbon to gin to agave spirit similar to tequila. It’s cocktail menu is one of the best in town, but don’t sleep on its food menu.

14221 Madison Ave., Lakewood

Local Attractions

The Arcade

This National Historic Landmark, opened in 1890, was one of the first indoor shopping centers in the U.S., modeled after the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan. Now a Hyatt Regency hotel, its majestic, photogenic interior appears in the new “Superman” movie.

401 Euclid Ave, Cleveland

Baseball Heritage Museum

Located at historic League Park, where legends like Satchel Paige and Larry Doby once played, this museum celebrates the history of baseball with a focus on the Negro Leagues, Latin American players and Cleveland’s rich baseball legacy. Admission, $10.

League Park, 6601 Lexington Ave.

Cedar Point

Located 60 miles west of Cleveland on Lake Erie, this world-renowned amusement park is a thrill-seeker’s paradise. New this year is Siren’s Curse, the tallest, fastest, longest tilt coaster in North America. Admission, $50 and up.

1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky

Cleveland Botanical Garden

This lush oasis in University Circle spans 10 acres of vibrant outdoor gardens and a picturesque glasshouse featuring a Costa Rican rainforest and a Madagascar desert. Admission $20.

11030 East Blvd., Cleveland

Cleveland Cultural Gardens

This scenic stretch of Rockefeller Park features more than 30 gardens celebrating the city’s diverse heritage. The African American Cultural Garden honors Black contributions to American history with powerful quotes and design. Free.

MLK Jr. & East Blvd.

Cleveland History Center

Explore Cleveland’s story — from its industrial roots to its cultural evolution. Ride the restored Euclid Beach carousel, tour a 1908 mansion and see vintage cars at the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum. Admission $15.

10825 East Blvd., Cleveland

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Home to more than 3,000 animals representing over 600 species, this popular destination is a favorite for families and animal lovers alike. Don’t miss the Asian Lantern Festival, when the zoo lights up at night with glowing displays and live performances. Admission: $21.50; Lantern Festival tickets start at $24.

3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland

Cleveland Museum of Natural History

Named one of the world’s most beautiful museums, this newly renovated space explores the connection between humans and nature. Highlights include towering dinosaurs, hands-on exhibits and a state-of-the-art planetarium. Admission, $18-$28.

1 Wade Oval Drive, Cleveland

Cleveland Museum of Art

One of America’s best, this museum boasts works by Monet, Picasso, Warhol, Caravaggio and more. Don’t miss the ongoing “Takashi Murakami: Stepping on the Tail of a Rainbow” exhibition. Admission: Free; special exhibits require tickets.

11150 East Blvd., Cleveland

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Located between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio’s only national park offers 33,000 acres of forests, hills, waterfalls and scenic trails. Walk or bike the Towpath Trail to trace the historic Ohio & Erie Canal. Free.

6947 Riverview Road, Peninsula

East 4th Street

This bustling pedestrian strip is home to hot spots like Cordelia, Mabel’s BBQ and Goma. Bowl at Corner Alley, see a live show at House of Blues or grab rooftop drinks at Jolene’s Honky Tonk.

E. Fourth St., Cleveland

Edgewater Park

Just minutes from downtown, this lakefront gem has sandy beaches, trails, picnic spots, a fishing pier, and skyline views. Don’t miss the chance to snap a selfie in front of the iconic Cleveland script sign.

West Shoreway & W. 73rd St., Cleveland

Flats East Bank

This waterfront district along the Cuyahoga River features more than a dozen restaurants, clubs and bars. Popular destinations include the electric FWD Nightclub, the country music bar Welcome to the Farm and Ohio’s only Margaritaville.

Old River Road, Cleveland

Great Lakes Science Center

This hands-on museum makes science fun with interactive exhibits, live demos and the NASA Glenn Visitor Center. Explore the docked Steamship William G. Mather or the kid-friendly polymer zone. Admission $15-$20.

601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland

Greater Cleveland Aquarium

This 70,000-sq. ft. aquarium is home to 1,400+ animals representing 250 fresh and saltwater species. Highlights include a 175-foot shark tunnel, two touchpools and a gallery showcasing wildlife found in Ohio’s lakes and rivers. Admission $14-$20.

2000 Sycamore Street, Cleveland

House from A Christmas Story

Tour the house where Ralphie Parker and his family celebrated Christmas in the classic movie. Learn all about the film and browse for a souvenir (leg lamps of all sizes are available!) in the museum and gift shop across the street. Admission $20.

3159 W. 11th St., Cleveland

JACK Cleveland Casino

Try your luck at downtown Cleveland’s only casino, located in the gilded former home of the Higbee’s Department Store, with more than 1,000 slot machines, nearly 100 table games, a 28-table poker room and sportsbook.

100 Public Square, Cleveland

Lakeview Cemetery

This 285-acre, 156-year-old cemetery is known for its ornate mausoleums, historic chapels and famous residents, including John D. Rockefeller, President James A. Garfield and baseball player Ray Chapman. Don’t miss Wade Memorial Chapel with its stunning Tiffany windows. 12316 Euclid Ave., Cleveland

Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland

Housed in a striking glass building, moCa showcases contemporary art by a diverse collection of artists. Current exhibitions feature works by Clotilde Jiménez, Erykah Townsend, Kelli Connell, Beverly Semmes and Maggie Menghan Chen. Admission $10 for non-Ohio residents.

11400 Euclid Ave., Cleveland

Playhouse Square

The largest performing arts center in the United States outside New York City’s Lincoln Center is made up of several historic vaudeville theaters saved from the wrecking ball in the 1980s. On Friday, Aug. 8, the Hanna Theatre presents “Piano Men: Generations,” a celebration of the music of Billy Joel and Elton John by the father and son duo of Terry and Nick Davies.

Euclid Ave. between E. 13th and E. 17th Streets, Cleveland

Pro Football Hall of Fame

Located an hour south of Cleveland in the birthplace of America’s most popular sport, this must-visit for football fans honors the game’s greatest players and moments through immersive exhibits, historic memorabilia and interactive displays. Admission $49.

2121 George Halas Dr. NW, Canton

Put-in-Bay

For a fun day trip or weekend getaway, hop a ferry to South Bass Island and explore the lively village of Put-in-Bay. Enjoy island vibes, lively bars, waterfront dining, historic sites, caves and wineries.

148 Delaware Avenue, Put-in-Bay

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Cleveland’s signature attraction celebrates the artists who changed music forever. Explore decades of rock history through exhibits, memorabilia and immersive experiences inside I.M. Pei’s iconic glass pyramid. Admission $39.50.

1100 Rock & Roll Blvd. (E. 9th Street), Cleveland

Soldiers’ & Sailors’ Monument

This ornate, 125-foot Civil War memorial in Public Square honors Cuyahoga County veterans with a column topped by the Goddess of Freedom. Inside, the Memorial Room features bronze relief sculptures depicting key moments from the war. Free.

3 Public Square

West Side Market

A must-stop for food lovers in the vibrant Ohio City neighbhorhood, this 113-year-old public market is home to Cleveland’s most iconic foods, from European sausages, beef jerky and pierogi to Italian pastries, giant gyros and more.

1979 West 25th St., Cleveland

Things to Do

Check out these events happening in Greater Cleveland from Aug. 6-10.

Cuyahoga County Fair (daily through Sun 8/10)

A summer tradition since 1893, this classic county fair features carnival rides, livestock shows, demolition derbies, live music and plenty of fried food. One of the region’s longest running summer affairs, this family-friendly celebration of rural life and Ohio heritage is always a bustle.

Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, 164 Eastland Rd., Berea

A Chorus Line @ Beck Center (daily through Sun 8/10)

The iconic, Tony Award-winning musical comes to life – offering an emotional, behind-the-scenes look at dancers auditioning for a Broadway show. The masterpiece revolutionized Broadway and celebrates 50 years in 2025. Check out one of the better renditions while you’re here!

Beck Center for the Arts, 17801 Detroit Ave., Lakewood.

Wade Oval Wednesdays (Wed 8/6)

Cleveland’s signature summer concert series brings free weekly music, food trucks and family fun to the heart of University Circle. Bring a blanket and enjoy everything from cultural dance to Son Gitano, a Latin Fusion Orchestra. Don’t forget the wealth of museums while in the neighborhood.

Wade Oval, 10820 East Blvd.

Ohio Burlesque Festival (Thu 8/7 – Sat 8/9)

Over 50 entertainers from all over the world in Cleveland to entertain you. Burlesque, drag, vaudeville, sideshow, aerials and live singers gather to celebrate the art form. Every night the show is different with features and headliners from the best in the industry.

Beachland Ballroom, 15711 Waterloo Rd.

Crime and Deceit: A 1935 Murder Mystery (Thu 8/7)

Step back in time to the Jazz Age and crack a real-life Cleveland whodunnit in this immersive experience, complete with artifacts and exhibits from the crime scene. Got what it takes to be a gumshoe? Someone’s been bumped off and the police are ready to pin it on the wrong person.

Cleveland History Center, 10825 East Blvd.

Live & Local: Truss & Pal @ Rock Hall (Thu 8/7)

Part of the Rock Hall’s summer concert series spotlighting emerging talent, this show features indie rockers Truss & Pal performing live on the outdoor stage. Free with a reservation. Build in a visit to the museum, which will have summer hours until 9 p.m.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, 1100 Rock and Roll Blvd.

MGK Day @ Mall B (Fri 8/8 – Sun 8/10)

The details are still being finalized, but “MGK” (hometown hero, musician-rapper and coffee entrepreneur Machine Gun Kelly) is having another block party. Pop-ups around the city and sightings of his bright pink self are expected during the weekend. Note: this is a community gala with food and vendors; not a concert.

Mall B, Downtown.

Lavell Crawford @ Hilarities (Fri 8/8)

Known for his roles on “Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul,” Crawford brings his sharp wit and larger-than-life personality to one of Cleveland’s premier comedy stages. He’s been wowing audiences ever since he gained huge national exposure on NBC’s hit reality series “Last Comic Standing.”

Hilarities 4th Street Theatre, 2035 E. 4th St.

Marcus Wiley @ Funny Bone (Fri 8/8)

A national headliner and faith-based humorist, Wiley delivers thought-provoking comedy that blends storytelling, satire and real-world insight. In February he released a special, “Marriage Is Major Surgery,” which went viral after release on YouTube. 21+ over.

Funny Bone Comedy Club, 1148 Main Ave., West Bank of the Flats

Queenplanning Gospel Show (Sat 8/9)

This free community concert at Severance Music Center featuring gospel choirs and guest artists in a joyful celebration of sacred music. Bonus: Severance is in one of the most beautiful and storied venues in the city, with gorgeous surroundings. Presented by The Cleveland Orchestra.

Severance Music Center, 11001 Euclid Ave.

Dropkick Murphys & Bad Religion @ Jacobs Pavilion (Sun 8/10)

Two titans of punk rock team up for a night on the river on their “Summer of Discontent” tour with special guests The Mainliners. Expect Celtic-fueled anthems, mosh pits and a whole lot of crowd singalongs. High-octane summer jams on a co-headlining summer tour. What could be better?

Jacobs Pavilion, 2014 Sycamore St.

Lil Darkie @ House of Blues (Sun 8/10)

Controversial and genre-bending, Lil Darkie’s shows are loud, raw, chaotic. “The Greatest Show in Human History,” as the man born Joshua Jagan Hamilton calls it, is a punk-rap explosion. He’s earned a loyal following, even if he does look at bit like Stephen King’s Pennywise from “IT.”

House of Blues Cleveland, 308 Euclid Ave.

TriCLE Rock Roll Run Triathlon (Sun 8/10)

This sprint triathlon takes over downtown Cleveland with a swim in Lake Erie, a bike ride through the city streets and a rock-and-roll-themed run to the finish line. Live bands pepper the course, which was named “Best Sprint Marathon” by the USA Today readers’ poll.

Starts at North Coast Harbor, Downtown.

Symphony at Sunset @ Voinovich Park (Sun 8/10)

Enjoy a serene, open-air performance of string quartet works by Opus 216 at one of the city’s most scenic lakeside locations. Enjoy relaxing music while watching the Lake Erie sunset at the northwest corner of the park. Produced and managed by Downtown Cleveland, Inc. with the City of Cleveland.

Voinovich Bicentennial Park, 800 E. 9th St. Pier.

Matt Rife @ Rocket Arena (Sun 8/10)

TikTok comedy phenom Matt Rife brings his wildly popular stand-up tour to the big stage, delivering off-the-cuff humor and Gen Z real talk. His irreverent, observational humor goes big on the “Stay Golden” tour, which doesn’t shy away from any subject. The only thing he roasts more than his audience is himself.

Rocket Arena, 1 Center Ct.

CLE Market and Beachland Flea (Sun 8/10)

This highly curated flea market brings together vintage vendors, artisans and food pop-ups at one of the city’s favorite independent music venues. Shop, sip and support local and score some fabulous wares, vinyl records and sartorials. A “Full Cleveland” experience, to be sure.

Beachland Ballroom, 15711 Waterloo Rd.

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