30+ Best Things to do in Cleveland Ohio – Options for all Ages & Interests

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Recognizing and celebrating those who have influenced the development of rock and roll music, Cleveland became the home of the 150,000-square-foot Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum in 1986. 

The iconic glass building is located on the coast of Lake Erie and includes seven levels of exhibits and attractions with a variety of displays to explore, read, and interact with that are sure to entertain the whole family. The top two floors feature temporary exhibits you won’t want to miss.

The on-site cafe offers a specialty menu of freshly prepared selections as well as grab and go items, quick snacks, gourmet coffees, and tap beers and wines. Be sure to check the website to find details on special events, performances, and the details on all of the honored inductees. Group packages and rates are available.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
1100 E 9th St, Cleveland, OH 44114
Website

Cleveland Museum of Art

North of Wade Lagoon at University Circle, The Cleveland Museum of Art was founded in 1913 and opened in June of 1916. With more than 45,000 permanent works of art, it has become one of the most visited art museums in the world. 

The comprehensive museum offers unique experiences for visitors of all ages with several guided and group tours available. The main collections are free and open to the public, however, special exhibits can be seen for a cost. In addition to diverse exhibits, visitors will find a museum store and many learning experiences for all ages including the museum’s archives and Ingalls Library. 

Dining, catering and cafe options are provided by Provenance, Provenance Café, and Catering by Provenance in partnership with the museum and Bon Appétit Management Company.

Cleveland Museum of Art 
11150 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106
Website

West Side Market

The West Side Market has been located in Cleveland’s historic Ohio City neighborhood since 1912 and was designated as one of the “10 Great Public Places in America,” by the American Planning Association in 2008. 

The large, one level, indoor/outdoor space is handicap accessible and includes many popular family vendors holding booth space since the market’s origin. Visitors will find an ATM on site, however, many vendors also accept credit cards (some require a minimum purchase). Make the experience even more memorable with a West Side Market Food Tour

Open Monday and Wednesday 7am to 4pm; Friday and Saturday 7am to 6pm and Sunday from 10am to 4pm Be sure to double check the website before you go for current and holiday hours.

West Side Market
1979 W 25th St, Cleveland, OH 44113
Website

Cleveland Zoo

With more than 183 acres to explore, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is an animal wonderland for both kids and kids at heart. The popular zoo is designed to entertain visitors of all ages, which makes it a great destination for the entire family. 

The large city zoo houses 3,000+ animals from more than 600 species with many educational, tours and special events happening year round. Be sure you check out the website for event details and specials (for example, on Father’s Day all dads are free).

A variety of sit down and quick dining options are available throughout the zoo property, including air conditioned indoor locations. Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent as well as a tram service.

Cleveland Zoo
3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109
Website

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Progressive Field

Progressive Field provides the perfect home to Cleveland’s very own Guardians professional baseball team! The field includes seating for more than 35,000 and offers games and activities for fans of all ages with special events happening throughout the year. 

In addition to in-seat baseball favorite foods from roaming vendors, the stadium also has several dining options available from carts to sit down restaurants, and catered box seats.

From May 1 to September 1, the field offers a team gift shop, tours, kids programs, and a variety of family events throughout the season. Check out the website for the team’s current schedule, event details, and team roster.

Progressive Field 
2401 Ontario St, Cleveland, OH 44115
Website

A Christmas Story House

The famous and memorable house from the movie, A Christmas Story, has been restored and is now open year round for tours and overnight stays. 

Reminisce over favorite moments and mementos from the film as you explore the house. The third floor is rentable for overnight stays, including the ability to spend the night in Ralphie and Randy’s beds!

A Christmas Story fans can also find a museum dedicated to the movie with a gift shop (including the famous “leg lamp” items) located across the street from the house. Open year round, 7-days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., tours run every hour beginning at 10:15 a.m.

A Christmas Story House 
3159 W 11th St, Cleveland, OH 44109
Website

Cleveland Museum of Natural History

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History was opened in 1920 and continues to work “to inspire, through science and education, a passion for nature” and strives to be a leader for a sustainable future.

Today the museum collections contain more than four million specimens and offers both indoor and outdoor exhibits and activities, nature hikes, educational classes, summer camps, and more. Visitors will also find a restaurant on site, as well as picnic areas outside (weather permitting).

The museum truly offers something for everyone including Shafran Planetarium and Perkin’s Wildlife Center & Woods Garden located on site allowing visitors an up close experience with wildlife and plants. Visit their website to check out their full the events list for both adults and children.

Cleveland Museum of Natural History
1 Wade Oval Drive, Cleveland, OH 44106
Website

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Cleveland Public Library

Located in downtown Cleveland, the main library of the large 27 branch library system consists of two buildings full of history, special collections, art, and interesting architecture. 

Cleveland Public Library main campus also offers tours, workshops, a variety of events and classes, and an enormous selection of resources. They also help with digitizing and preserving collections through The Cleveland Digital Public Library.

You can apply for a library card online or in person and the main library offers a convenient drive through drop off window for patrons.

Cleveland Public Library
325 & 525 Superior Avenue Cleveland, Ohio 44114
Website

Cleveland Botanical Garden

The Cleveland Botanical Garden was founded in 1930 and now contains more than 10 acres of delightful outdoor gardens, including the Hershey Children’s Garden and the Eleanor Armstrong Smith Glasshouse. 

Kids discover and enjoy the wonders found in a prairie, woodland, pond, and fun two story treehouse designed especially for the garden’s young guests. Visitors both young and old can also explore the 18,000 square foot conservatory with the cost of admission. Inside the glass house, visitors can enjoy a Costa Rican Rain Forest with daily butterfly releases and a Spiny Desert of Madagascar with one of the largest collections of Madagascan baobab trees under glass in the United States.

The Garden Café is open year round and offers a variety of foods and snacks are available on site. Membership is available for the Cleveland Botanical Garden and Holden Forests & Gardens.

Cleveland Botanical Garden 
11030 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106
Website

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Great Lakes Science Center

The Great Lakes Science Center opened in 1996 as a museum and educational facility. It is also home to the NASA Glen Visitor Center, where guests can experience and learn from fun science demonstrations daily. 

The museum offers hundreds of hands-on exhibits for all ages, including special youth exhibits for kids under 7 where they can play, climb, build, and more. In addition to engaging exhibits, visitors can also attend a showing at the Cleveland Clinic DOME Theater that features a six story high, surround screen experience.

Be sure to check out the science center’s long list of events, camps, programs, and group activities offered throughout the year. Dining, shopping, and memberships are available on site.

Great Lakes Science Center 
601 Erieside Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114
Website

Edgewater Park

As part of the Cleveland Metroparks Lakefront Reservation, Edgewater Park offers 9,000 feet of shoreline and is home to Edgewater Beach, Perkins Beach, the Marina and Yacht Club. 

The park offers a variety of activities and amenities including biking and cycling, boating and paddle sports and picnicking with a fishing pier, picnic tables, restrooms, and trail access on site. Visitors will also find a dedicated space for dogs to run, boat ramps, and a rentable pavilion as well.

With more than 147 acres, there is truly something for everyone. Check the website for upcoming programs and events. Remember your camera so you can get a photo at the Cleveland Sign at Edgewater Park.

Edgewater Park 
4101 Fulton Parkway, Cleveland, OH 44144
Website

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Cleveland Orchestra

The Cleveland Orchestra was founded in 1918 and is one of five orchestras in America often referred to as the “Big Five.” The beautiful Severance Hall is home to musical events for all ages and the Cleveland Orchestra plays at other special venues throughout the year.

The orchestra plays at Severance Hall during the school year, Blossom Music Center during the summer, as well as on tours and residencies around the world and they appear on weekly radio broadcasts.

In addition to their many performances, you can find educational programs, community programs, special events, and rental opportunities available at Severance Hall.

Cleveland Orchestra 
Severance Hall, 11001 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106
Website

University Circle (Wade Oval)

Wade Oval is located in University Circle in downtown Cleveland. As one of Cleveland’s premier public spaces, it hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. 

Amenities at the seven-acre park include the Kulas Community Stage, lawn games (such as bocce, corn hole and a giant “Connect Four”), and an Imagination Playground for children, available at scheduled times. 

Check out the details for upcoming activities and events including WOW! Wade Oval Wednesdays, Parade the Circle & Circle Village, and the Rink at Wade Oval before you visit.

University Circle (Wade Oval) 
10820 East Blvd Cleveland, OH 44106
Website

Cleveland Metroparks

The Cleveland Metroparks is a system of 18 reservations across the greater Cleveland area. You’ll find more than 100 hiking trails to explore, as well as eight beautiful lakefront parks, five educational nature centers, and includes the popular Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.

The park system also offers abundant educational programs for all ages, 8 golf courses, and huge calendar of events happening throughout the year.

With nearly 23,000 acres throughout Cuyahoga County and Hinckley Township, there are always many nature opportunities and fun things to do in Cleveland Metroparks.

Cleveland Metroparks 
4101 Fulton Parkway, Cleveland, OH 44144
Website

Lakewood Park

This beautiful park is a 31-acre Erie lakefront park in the Lakewood Parks system. It offers a variety of amenities, activities, and green space the entire family can enjoy. 

The Lakefront Promenade offers a brick walkway with a picturesque skyline view of downtown Cleveland. The park also houses Foster Pool, open during summer months and offers swimming programs for both children and adults. The many sporting opportunities at the park include four tennis courts, three sand volleyball courts, two softball fields, and Lakewood Skate Park. 

If you’re looking for a beautiful place to enjoy a picnic, you can find picnic areas throughout the park, many with tables and grills. Visitors can also enjoy the large and very popular Kids Cove Playground and a variety of performances and movies at the onsite bandstand.

Lakewood Park 
14532 Lake Ave, Lakewood, OH 44107
Website

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Cleveland Playhouse Square

Playhouse Square is a theater district in downtown Cleveland and is the largest performing arts center in the United States outside of New York. 

You’ll find a huge variety of performances, productions, and special events happening year round with nine different theaters/performance centers. Check the website for show times and event details. With more than 1,000 annual events, there is a show for everyone!

Playhouse Square provides cashless lobby concessions throughout the theater locations and a dining guide to the variety of local restaurants nearby. On-site parking (with optional valet parking) is available with a covered walkway to theaters.

Cleveland Playhouse Square 
1501 Euclid Ave #200, Cleveland, OH 44115
Website

Greater Cleveland Aquarium

The Greater Cleveland Aquarium offers a trip under the sea right here in Cleveland. It is located in the historic First Energy Powerhouse Building, which is an experience in itself with charming architectural features including exposed brick walls, steel girders, smokestacks, and more. The aquarium includes 35 tanks with 7 galleries filled with local and exotic fish, hands-on activities, a shark tunnel and a large variety of marine life and interesting exhibits. You’ll also find educational and fun school, birthday, and summer programs throughout the year. Check their website for a full list of their many events and activities.

Visitors will find street parking as well as a paid parking lot right in front of the aquarium, as well as a gift shop and café with snacks located inside. Picnic tables are available if you prefer to pack and enjoy lunch outside.

Greater Cleveland Aquarium 
2000 Sycamore St, Cleveland, OH 44113
Website

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Little Italy Cleveland

Full of cultural charm, Little Italy Cleveland offers more than 20 restaurants and 25 galleries for visitors to enjoy. It is ranked in the top five Little Italy’s in the United States. Make the experience more memorable by booking a Little Italy neighborhood food tour.

The spirit of the district was born more than 130 years ago and offers visitors a vibrant community with seasonal events, including their popular TASTE in Little Italy Cleveland in September. 

District businesses are open year round with many unique businesses and services offered in addition to the many charming restaurants and galleries. Be sure to check the website for their full events calendar and details for the many places to visit in the Little Italy district.

Little Italy Cleveland 
Mayfield Road, Cleveland, OH
Website

Memphis Kiddie Park

Do you have a young thrill seeker on your hands? Then Memphis Kiddie Park is the place for them! This mini theme park is the perfect fit for those who aren’t ready for big adventures just yet.

With rides ideal for children under 5-years-old with minimal walking between, the park is perfect for an afternoon of fun. All of the rides are based on height and most children under 50 inches tall can ride the rides independently or with siblings.

There is no gate fee, parking is free, tickets never expire and the park offers both individual and group rates. Visitors can also find bathrooms, concession stands, shaded picnic areas, and mini-golf available on site. {Find Out More}

Memphis Kiddie Park 
10340 Memphis Ave, Cleveland, OH 44144
Website

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Cleveland Children’s Museum

The Children’s Museum of Cleveland wows visitors with a fresh look and tons of interactive exhibits specifically designed to keep kids entertained and learning! 

The layout of the museum is designed with different areas and every corner of the historic building is filled with activities for learning, creativity, and imaginative fun. The main sections of the museum include Adventure City, The Wonder Lab, Arts & Parts, Making Miniatures. There is also a sensory friendly room for those with autism and is also ADA accessible.

Restrooms are located throughout the space and an eating area is provided to enjoy your own packed snacks or those purchased through the onsite vending. Be sure to check out the many discounts and ways to save before you visit. Onsite, fenced parking is free on a first come, first served basis. Additional parking is available nearby.

Cleveland Children’s Museum
3813 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44115
 Website

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Public Square Cleveland

An integral part of Cleveland city center, Public Square is the four-block central plaza of downtown Cleveland. It is original to the 1796 creation and spans 6.5 acres including a newly added green space and a café.

The venue offers a huge calendar of diverse events, activities, and performances. In the summer families can cool off in the spray fountain or enjoy skating at the ice rink in the winter. Check out the website for details for the many events happening in Public Square.

The Rebol Café is located on the square and visitors are welcome to bring food, activities and even pets to the area.

Public Square Cleveland 
W Superior Ave & Ontario St, Cleveland, OH 44113
Website

Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland & Cleveland Money Museum

The Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland is the 13-story Cleveland based headquarters of the U.S. Federal Reserve System’s Fourth District. Located inside the Cleveland Federal Reserve, the Learning Center and Money Museum is full of interactive exhibits where you will learn about the history of money, try to identify counterfeit bills, make your own currency and more!

Geared toward elementary to middle school age children, the museum offers interactive exhibits, learning experiences and games. Field trips and tours are also available.

To access the Learning Center and Money Museum visitors enter the Federal Reserve and check in at the security desk. Be sure to bring a photo ID for anyone over 16-years-old and prepare for bags to be security screened before entrance.

Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland 
1455 E 6th St, Cleveland, OH 44114
Website

Western Reserve Historical Society

The Western Reserve Historical Society is Cleveland’s oldest existing cultural institution, founded in 1867 as part of the Cleveland Library Association. Today it concentrates on the history of Northeast Ohio and operates several sites offering hands-on experiences of the local area’s history.

Located in Bath, Ohio, Hale Farm & Village is an interactive, living history museum that showcases life in the 19th century. Shandy Hall, the historic homestead of Col. Robert Harper, is located near Unionville, Ohio and can be toured on a request-only basis. The Cleveland History Center Museum spotlights documents and artifacts collected by The Western Reserve Historical Society and visitors can find the research library is housed within this museum.

Check the website for group tours, seasonal events and educational programs, which are all available throughout the year.

Western Reserve Historical Society
10825 East Boulevard, Cleveland, Ohio 44106
Website

Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum

The Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum is part of The Western Reserve Society. It showcases automobiles at different stages of development throughout both our national and local history. 

Housed within The Cleveland History Center, the two major exhibits of automobiles at the Cleveland History Center in University Circle are Setting the World in Motion and REVolution and The Automobile in America. 

Inside the collections you’ll see 140 preserved antique automobiles, 21 non-car transportation artifacts (motorcycles, bicycles, and boats), 10 aircraft, and 3 carriages and sleighs. There is something for everyone with all the many different modes of transportation on display.

Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum 
10825 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106
Website

Steamship William G Mather

The Steamship William G Mather is a special exhibit of The Great Lakes Science Center. Built in 1925, the restored 618-foot flagship of The Cleveland-Cliffs Steamship Company fleet now allows you to see what life was like on a Great Lakes freighter.

Visitors can explore the expansive ship and see the four story engine room, huge cargo holds as well as the beautiful guest quarters and pilot house.

Open May through October for tours, visitors can purchase tickets through the Science Center Box Office or aboard the ship during seasonal hours. Make sure to check the website for tour days and hours before you go.

Steamship William G Mather 
601 Erieside Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114
Website

Cleveland Script Signs

With some of the best scenic backgrounds in the area, the six Cleveland Script Signs have become popular “must-have” photo ops for locals and visitors alike. The first signs were installed in 2016 to encourage tourists to visit some of the iconic sites in Cleveland and now are bucket list items to collect when visiting the city. 

Find them at these six locations: 1) North Coast Harbor, East 9th Street Pier, Downtown; 2) Edgewater Park, Upper Edgewater Drive; 3) The Foundry, 1831 Columbus Road in the Flats, 4) Tremont Sign; 1502 Abbey Avenue; 5) Euclid Beach, 16301 Lake Shore Blvd.; and 6) Cleveland Airport, 5300 Riverside Dr.

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Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

Since the museum’s founding in 1968, the Cleveland Museum of Contemporary has celebrated artists of our time and shares a rotation of new and fresh art from more than 2,000 artists each season.

Open Thursday through Sunday with free admission, MOCA is a must visit if your family enjoys exploring creative, new art that inspires. There are three floors to explore including an artist studio area for kids. Make sure to stop by the front desk and ask for a museum bingo sheet to fill out as you walk around the museum.

Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) 
11400 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106
Website

Lake View Cemetery

Full of beautiful, natural landscapes and gardens modeled after European garden cemeteries, Lake View Cemetery was founded in 1869 for everyone to enjoy, including those who find themselves visiting for their eternal rest.

Visitors will find dramatic views, curving pathways, inspiring gardens, historic buildings, and impressive monuments to help visitors connect with nature and beauty. Features include The James A. Garfield Memorial, Wade Memorial Chapel, the Haserot angel and in the spring Daffodil Hill.

The cemetery offers a variety of community learning opportunities, musical performances, nature programs, and more including self-guided, staff-guided, and mobile tours. Gates are open from 7:30am to dusk. Visit the cemetery website for tour details and a printable map of the grounds.

Lake View Cemetery 
12316 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106
Website

Terminal Tower Observation Deck

Rising 771 feet above downtown Cleveland’s Public square, Terminal Tower is one of the most iconic and recognizable features of the city. The building serves as luxury private apartments with a 24/7 fitness center, community lounge, and rooftop deck all within walking distance of popular Cleveland activities and restaurants.

The Terminal Tower Lights are changed frequently to support a variety of local and national charities, events, and special causes. The one-of-a-kind location offers public visitors a 15 minute, self-guided tour of the 42nd floor to experience the building’s historic architecture and Cleveland’s beautiful views from a bird’s eye perspective.

Observation Deck tickets are available only online and must be purchased in advance through the Event Brite link HERE. (No walk up tickets are offered.) 

Terminal Tower Observation Deck 
50 Public Square, Cleveland, OH 44113
Website

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

Committed to renovating and preserving the history of railcars, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (CVSR) offers transportation and a fun, unique way to experience the Cuyahoga Valley National park and Ohio & Erie Canalway. Celebrating 50 years of educational and entertaining programs for the thousands of people who visit the area each year, the railroad is one of the most special things to do in Cleveland for trains and park lovers alike.

The CVSR provides rides and events all year round from their three main boarding stations in Independence, Peninsula, and Akron with additional stops for visitors who want to explore the National Park on foot or bike. They also offer a variety of special excursions including family programs, murder mystery rides, wine and beer tastings, dinners, private rentals, and more. 

Be sure to visit their website for their full events calendar, train schedule, and ticketing options. Gift cards and volunteer opportunities are also available.

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad 
Rockside Station: 7900 Old Rockside Road, Independence, OH 44131
Peninsula Depot: 1630 Mill Street, Peninsula, OH 44264
Akron Northside Station: 27 Ridge Street, Akron, OH 44308
Website

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Adrenaline Monkey

Adrenaline Monkey is an indoor adventure park designed for any size, age and ability! They invite “warriors” to test out their ninja warrior obstacle course, rock climbing walls and aerial ropes course. They also have an arcade, basketball and the monkey bar.

Be sure to check out the website for a full listing of their wide-variety of classes and events. You can also book birthday parties. There is an online waiver to sign before your visit.

Adrenaline Monkey
26800 Renaissance Pkwy, Cleveland, OH 44128
Website

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Heroes of Manufacturing Park – MAGNET STEM Playground

This colorful, interactive playground is located right by the Cleveland Magnet building. Explore a variety of vibrant climbing structures, slides and swings. The park has a zip line, climbing ropes and a giant see-saw.

The park was designed specifically to encourage youth to get involved in STEM activities. It includes features such as gears and levers for engagement. The park also features a basketball court and giant spider web.

Heroes of Manufacturing Park – MAGNET STEM Playground
5903 Curtiss Ct, Cleveland, OH 44103
More Info

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Cleveland Metroparks Canalway Center

Stop in the Cleveland Metroparks Canalway Center for an up close encounter with nature. They offer a view of local wildlife, as well as interactive displays, great for children and adults. The center has an indoor bird viewing area and Nature Nook. It also includes an adorable play area, equipped with a play canal boat.

Outdoors you will find a variety of trails. Take a look at the website before you go to see what events are currently being offered. They also have a rentable meeting space.

Cleveland Metroparks Canalway Center
4524 E 49th St, Cuyahoga Heights, OH 44125
Website

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Great Lakes Brewing Co. Tour

Go behind-the-scenes of the brewing business on a Great Lakes Brewing Co. Tour. The tour is led by owners and/or employees that are experts in the process. You’ll get to learn the history of Ohio’s original craft brewery as you tour the production facility. You even start the tour in the Beer Symposium where you get to sample the product.

All guests 21 and older receive four 5-ounce beer samples and a souvenir pint glass. The tour lasts approximately one hour. Reservations can be made online, and you can also check out other events they offer. Guests under 21 must be accompanied by an adult on the tour and are not permitted to consume alcohol.

Great Lakes Brewing Co. Tour
2516 Market Avenue Cleveland, Ohio
Website

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Toboggan Chutes

Take the family tobogganing at The Chalet in Mill Stream Run Reservation. It includes 700-foot refrigerated ice chutes. The chutes operate with or without snow, weather permitting.

All riders must be 42” or taller and must wear closed gloves or mittens so that fingertips are not exposed, no exceptions. Book your reservation online. Reservations are timed tickets that guarantee your ride, but you may still experience a wait based on high volume days.

Toboggan Chutes
16200 Valley Pkwy, Strongsville, OH 44136
Website

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