Set on the shores of Lake Eerie is one of Northeast Ohio’s greatest gems: Cleveland. The city offers culture, recreation, art, sports, history and so much more. There are family friendly activities no matter what type of event your family is craving, and you will keep coming back for more! 

Check out our top picks for things to do in Cleveland Ohio, including activities for all ages and interests all year long!

Things to do in Cleveland Ohio for Family Fun

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Cleveland became home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986, recognizing and celebrating those who have had an influence on the development of rock and roll. The building is located on the shore of Lake Eerie with seven levels of exhibits and attractions. An array of things to read, see and interact with will keep the entire family entertained.

• A café is located within the building
• The top two floors feature temporary exhibits, so be sure to check out what is on display when you visit
• Group packages and rates are available
• Check the website for details regarding special events, performances and inductees

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
1100 E 9th St, Cleveland, OH 44114
Phone: 216-781-7625
Website

Cleveland Museum of Art

The Cleveland Museum of Art was founded in 1913. With more than 45,000 permanent works of art, it is one of the most visited art museums in the world. The museum offers different visiting experiences for all ages and admission is free.

• Visiting the main collections is free to the public (special exhibits may have a cost)
• Provenance, Provenance Café, and Catering by Provenance are dining options provided in partnership with the museum and Bon Appétit Management Company
• Check out hours for Ingalls Library on the website
• The museum has a store

Cleveland Museum of Art
11150 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106
Phone: 216-421-7350
Website

West Side Market

Located in Cleveland’s historic Ohio City neighborhood since 1912 is West Side Market. In 2008, the market was designated as one of the “10 Great Public Places in America,” by the American Planning Association. The indoor/outdoor space has many vendors that have remained in the family since its origin.

• West Side parking is available on Lorain Avenue just east of the Market and from W. 24th Street which is off Bridge Avenue
• Most vendors accept credit cards (some require a minimum fee) and there is an ATM on site
• The vendors are all on one level and are handicapped accessible
• Open: Mon, Wed: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Fri, Sat: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (check for holiday hours)

West Side Market
1979 W 25th St, Cleveland, OH 44113
Phone: 216-664-3387
Website

Cleveland Zoo

The Cleveland Zoo is an animal wonderland for both kids and kids at heart. This venue is designed to entertain visitors at all age levels, which makes it a great destination for the entire family. Make sure you check out the website for specials (for example, on Father’s Day all dads are free).

• There are dining options located throughout the zoo property
• The 183-acre zoo houses 3,000 animals of more than 600 species
• There are stroller and wheelchair rentals as well as a tram service
• Check out the website for special events and educational programs

Cleveland Zoo
3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109
Phone: 216-661-6500
Website

Read more: Visiting the Cleveland Zoo with a Toddler

Progressive Field

Progressive Field provides the perfect home to Cleveland’s very own Indians’ baseball team! The field has seating for more than 35,000 people, activities for fans of all ages and events throughout the year. Check out the websites for the current schedule, events and roster.

• May 1 – September 1 the field offers tours (check out the tours section of the website for full details)
• The Progressive Field Team Shop is located on site
• There are a variety of kids programs and family events throughout the year
• There are several dining options throughout the facility

Progressive Field
2401 Ontario St, Cleveland, OH 44115
Phone: 216-420-HITS
Website

A Christmas Story House

The house from the movie, A Christmas Story, is restored and open year round for tours and overnight stays. Reminisce over favorite moments and mementos from the film. There is also a museum dedicated to the movie right across the street from the home.

• The house is 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.
• There is a gift shop located across from the historic home
• The third floor is rentable for overnight stays, including the ability to spend the night in Ralphie and Randy’s beds
• There is a list of nearby recommended restaurants on the website

A Christmas Story House
3159 W 11th St, Cleveland, OH 44109
Phone: 216-298-4919
Website

Cleveland Museum of Natural History

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History was opened in 1920 to perform research, education and development. Today the museum collections contain more than four million specimen. With exhibits, wild animals and indoor and outdoor activities, the museum truly offers something for everyone.

• Shafran Planetarium is located at the museum and offers several shows (check website for dates/times)
• There is a restaurant at the museum, as well as picnic areas outside (weather permitting)
• Perkins Wildlife Center & Woods Garden located on site allows you an up close experience with wildlife and plants
• Check out the events that occur throughout the year for both adults and children

Cleveland Museum of Natural History
1 Wade Oval Drive, Cleveland, OH 44106
Phone: 216-231-4600
Website

Cleveland Public Library

Located downtown Cleveland is the main library of the 27 branch library system. The Cleveland library consists of two buildings. It offers special collections, a variety of events and classes and an enormous selection of resources!

• You can apply for a library card online or in person (check the website for criteria)
• Take a look at the events and classes offered by the library
• The Cleveland Digital Public Library helps with digitizing and preserving collections
• The main library offers a drive off window for patrons

Cleveland Public Library
325 & 525 Superior Avenue Cleveland, Ohio 44114
Phone: 216-623-2800
Website

Cleveland Botanical Garden

The Cleveland Botanical Garden was founded in 1930. Today it contains more than 10 acres of gardens, including the Hershey Children’s Garden. You will also experience The Eleanor Armstrong Smith Glasshouse, a 17,000 square foot conservatory.

• There is food available on site, the Garden Café is open year round
• Membership is available for the Cleveland Botanical Garden and Holden Forests & Gardens
• The Garden Store is on site (check the website for hours)
• A Costa Rican Rain Forest (with daily butterfly releases) and Spiny Desert of Madagascar (with one of the largest collections of Madagascan baobab trees under glass in the United States) are located in the glasshouse

Cleveland Botanical Garden
11030 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106
Phone: 216-721-1600
Website

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 science demonstrations are conducted on a daily basis. Several events, groups and camps take place throughout the year.

• There are hundreds of hands on exhibits for all ages (including youth exhibits)
• Check out the camps and programs offered throughout the year
• The museum is home to the Cleveland Clinic DOME Theater, with a six story high screen that surrounds you
• Dining and shopping are available on site

Great Lakes Science Center
601 Erieside Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114
Phone: 216-694-2000
Website

Read more: Family Fun at Great Lakes Science Center

Edgewater Park

Edgewater Park offers 9000 feet of shoreline. It is home to Edgewater Beach, Perkins Beach, the Marina and Yacht Club. With more than 147 acres, there is truly something for everyone. Remember your camera so you can get a photo at the Cleveland Sign at Edgewater Park.

• Activities include: biking and cycling, boating and paddlesports and picnicking
• Amenities on site are fishing pier, parking, picnic tables, restrooms, trail access
• Check the website for upcoming programs and events
• Boat ramps, a rentable pavilion and space for dogs to run are all available as well

Edgewater Park
4101 Fulton Parkway, Cleveland, OH 44144
Phone: 216-635-3200
Website

Cleveland Orchestra

The Cleveland Orchestra was founded in 1918. It 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.

• Plan to arrive 30 minutes before the event’s start time
• Dining is available before, after and during intermission of the event, and there is a restaurant on site as well
• 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
• Events can be scheduled at Severance Hall

Cleveland Orchestra
Severance Hall, 11001 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106
Phone: 216-231-1111
Website

Cleveland Metroparks

The Cleveland Metroparks is a system of 18 reservations. There are more than 100 hiking trails to venture, as well as eight lakefront parks and five nature centers. With nearly 23,000 acres throughout Cuyahoga County and Hinckley Township there is always something to do.

• Check out the calendar of events on the website for details of what is going on throughout the year
• Educational programs are available for all ages
• Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is part of the system
• There are eight golf courses included in the metroparks

Cleveland Metroparks
4101 Fulton Parkway, Cleveland, OH 44144
Phone: 216-635-3200
Website

Lakewood Park

Lakewood Park is a 31-acre lakefront park in the Lakewood Parks system. It offers a variety of activities for the entire family. The Lakefront Promenade offers a brick walkway with a skyline view of downtown Cleveland.

• The park houses Foster Pool are open during summer months and offers swimming programs
• Sporting opportunities include: four tennis courts, three sand volleyball courts, two softball fields and Lakewood Skate Park
• Picnic areas are located throughout the park and there is also a bandstand
• Kids Cove Playground area is available on site

Lakewood Park
14532 Lake Ave, Lakewood, OH 44107
Phone: 216-529-5697
Website

Cleveland Playhouse Square

Playhouse Square is a theater district in downtown Cleveland. It is the largest performing arts center in the United States outside of New York. With more than 1,000 annual events, there is a show for everyone!

• Playhouse Square offers on-site parking with a covered walkway to theaters (there is also valet parking)
• There are nine different theaters/performance centers
• Lobby concessions are available and there are a variety of local restaurants nearby
• Check the website for show times and event details

Cleveland Playhouse Square
1501 Euclid Ave #200, Cleveland, OH 44115
Phone: 216-241-6000
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 a neat experience in itself. The aquarium includes both local and exotic fish, hands on activities, a shark tunnel and so much more!

• There is street parking as well as a paid parking lot right in front of the aquarium
• A gift shop and café are located at the aquarium
• Check the website for birthday parties, special events and interactive programs
• School field trips, homeschool programs and summer programs are available

Greater Cleveland Aquarium
2000 Sycamore St, Cleveland, OH 44113
Phone: 216-862-8803
Website

Little Italy Cleveland

Little Italy Cleveland offers more than 20 restaurants and 25 galleries for visitors to enjoy. The spirit of Little Italy Cleveland was born more than 130 years ago. It is ranked in the top five Little Italy’s in the United States.

• Check the website for events that take place throughout the year
• Little Italy businesses are open year round
• Follow along with Little Italy on their blog
• Take a look at the businesses and services offered in addition to the restaurants and galleries

Little Italy Cleveland
Mayfield Road, Cleveland, OH
Phone: 216-421-1717
Website

Memphis Kiddie Park

Do you have a mini adventure-seeker on your hands? Then Memphis Kiddie Park is the place for you! This pint-sized theme park is the perfect fit for those who aren’t ready for the real deal quite yet.

• Bathrooms, concession stands and shaded picnic areas are available on site
• There is no gate fee, parking is free and tickets never expire
• The park offers both individual and group rates
• The rides are ideal for children under 5-years-old with minimal walking between rides

Memphis Kiddie Park
10340 Memphis Ave, Cleveland, OH 44144
Phone: 216-941-5995
Website

Read more: A Pint Sized Theme Park at Memphis Kiddie Park

Cleveland Children's Museum

The Children’s Museum of Cleveland has recently moved and gotten a fresh look! The new location showcases beautiful renovations and a literal play land for children. The layout of the Cleveland children's museum is smartly sectioned off into different areas for play and every corner of the historic building is utilized with learning, creativity and fun in mind.

• The main sections of the building include: Adventure City, The Wonder Lab, Arts & Parts, Making Miniatures
• Check out the ways to save at the museum, as well as membership offers
• The onsite, fenced parking lot is free for members and $5 for members
• Restrooms are located throughout and there are eating areas where you can eat and beverages you bring or buy from the vending machines

Read more: Your Guide to the Cleveland Children’s Museum – Including Video Tour!

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. Spanning 6.5 acres, it includes newly added green space and a café.

• Check out the website for events that take place in Public Square
• In the summer cool off in the spray fountain and in the winter skate at the ice rink
• The Rebol Café is located in the space
• Feel free to bring food, activities and even pets to the area

Public Square Cleveland
W Superior Ave & Ontario St, Cleveland, OH 44113
Phone: 216-503-8103
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 fully of interactive exhibits where you will learn about the history of money, try to identify counterfeit bills, make your own currency and more!

• To access the Learning Center and Money Museum you enter the Federal Reserve and check in at the security desk
• There are interactive exhibits, learning experiences and games
• The museum is geared toward elementary to middle school age children
• Bring a photo ID for anyone over 16-years-old and prepare for your bag to be screened

Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland
1455 E 6th St, Cleveland, OH 44114
Phone: 216-579-2000
Website

Read more: Money Museum in Cleveland

Western Reserve Historical Society

The Western Reserve Historical Society is Cleveland’s oldest existing cultural institution, founded in 1867. Today it concentrates on the history of Northeast Ohio. The society also operates sites for hands on experience of the local area’s history.

• Hale Farm & Village is an interactive, living history museum that showcases life in the 19^th century
• Shandy Hill near Unionville can be toured on a request-only basis
• The Cleveland History Center Museum spotlights documents and artifacts that have been collected by The Western Reserve Historical Society (the research library is housed within the 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
Phone: 216-721-5722
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 events throughout the year. Check the website for details regarding upcoming events.

• Amenities at the park include: seven-acre park, the Kulas Community Stage and on-site access to water and electricity
• Lawn games, such as: bocce, corn hole and a giant “Connect Four” are available
• There is an Imagination Playground for children (available at certain times)
• Check for seasonal events, such as: WOW! Wade Oval Wednesdays, Parade the Circle & Circle Village and the Rink at Wade Oval

University Circle (Wade Oval)
10820 East Blvd Cleveland, OH 44106
Phone: 216-791-3900
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. There is something for everyone with all different modes of transportation on display.

• The Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum is 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
• The collections include: 140 antique automobiles, 21 non-car transportation artifacts (motorcycles, bicycles, and boats), 10 aircraft, and 3 carriages and sleighs
• The automobiles are preserved, not restored

Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum
10825 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106
Phone: 216-721-5722
Website

Steamship William G Mather

Part of The Great Lakes Science Center is the Steamship William G Mather. It is open for tours May through October. The restored 618-foot flagship allows you to see what life was like on a Great Lakes freighter.

• The boat was built in 1925 and was since restored
• Tickets can be purchased at the Science Center Box Office or aboard the ship
• Make sure to check the website for days and hours that the ship is open for tours (it is seasonally open)
• FRONT International: Cleveland Triennial for Contemporary Art: An American City will be hosted in the cargo hold of the ship, check the website for details

Steamship William G Mather
601 Erieside Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114
Phone: 216-694-2000
Website

What about you? Have you been to any of these of other family friendly destinations in Cleveland Ohio? Leave a comment to let us all know what your top picks are. Thanks!