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Author: Barry Pickard
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When it comes to family adventures, Cleveland, Ohio, holds a trove of captivating experiences waiting to be discovered. Our recent day out was a delightful blend of science, music, history, and aviation. Buckle up as we take you on a whirlwind tour of some of the most intriguing things to do in Cleveland Ohio!
Our family’s journey to Cleveland was part of an epic road trip that began in the windy city of Chicago and meandered through the Midwest to Cadiz, Ohio, the birthplace of Hollywood legend Clark Gable. This adventure was not just about the destinations but the stories and memories we created along the way. The travel party consisted of myself, my spirited five-year-old son, and my parents, both young at heart at 79 years old. From the skyscrapers of Chicago to the rocking shoreline of Cleveland, and finally to the historical charm of Cadiz, each stop was a chapter in our family’s summer saga, filled with discovery, laughter, and the simple joy of being on the open road together.
Why Visit Cleveland?
Cleveland is a city that offers a wealth of experiences for families, making it an ideal destination for a memorable trip. During our own visit, we were captivated by the diverse attractions the city had to offer. The Great Lakes Science Center was a highlight, offering interactive exhibits that made learning about science a fun and engaging experience for all ages. Music lovers in the family were thrilled by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, which houses an incredible collection of memorabilia from music legends. The USS COD, a World War II submarine, provided a fascinating glimpse into history, while the International Women’s Air & Space Museum celebrated the often-overlooked contributions of women in aviation and space exploration. Each of these attractions offers unique learning opportunities and fun for the whole family, making Cleveland a must-visit city.
Our trip was centered around the North Coast Harbor area and we found this to be a walkable area with plenty of car parking. It only took five minutes to walk between each of the attractions visited in this post. The Cleveland metropolitan area has a population of just over 2 million residents, so to have this safe tourist-friendly area of concentrated attractions is an unexpected bonus.
Planning an independent trip to Cleveland and Ohio?
All information in this post is based on my own experience travelling around Cleveland and Ohio, backed by extensive research to bring you everything you need to know to have your own amazing experience.
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if visiting any of these attractions appeals to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided family day out in Cleveland around your requirements, or indeed, a general tour of Ohio.
Things to do in Cleveland Ohio
Great Lakes Science Center
Our family day out started in The Great Lakes Science Center, nestled in the North Coast Harbor area of Cleveland, Ohio, an area which is a captivating blend of education, exploration, and wonder, making it an ideal destination for families on a day out.
The Great Lakes Science Center is filled with hands-on exhibits, which really appeal to all ages, but particularly the young ones. Prepare to unleash your inner scientist! From understanding the cosmos to unravelling the mysteries of physics, and from playing the drums to firing paper airplanes, you’ll find something to pique your curiosity.
The Great Lakes Science Center is home to one of only 11 NASA visitor centres in the country. Dive into space exploration at the NASA Glenn Visitor Center, learn about astronauts, and marvel at the wonders of the cosmos—all included with general admission.
Tailor-Made Top Tip:
Plan to spend at least two hours at the science centre, but don’t be surprised if your little ones will keep you here for half a day.
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is where legends are immortalized. It’s the ultimate tribute to the artists who’ve shaped the soundtrack of our lives and has become a pilgrimage for music enthusiasts across generations.
Immersive exhibits in the hall of fame will keep the family entertained. The Ahmet Ertegun Main Exhibit Hall on the ground floor, is where the story unfolds—from rock’s earliest pioneers to today’s emerging musicians. You can explore thousands of artefacts, films, interactive kiosks, and, of course, plenty of music.
The Legends of Rock exhibit then spans three floors, showcasing handwritten drafts of hit singles, performance outfits, and instruments from iconic concerts. Genres range from rhythm & blues to heavy metal, celebrating legends past and present.
Perhaps the most eye-catching exhibit is Pink Floyd’s The Wall, where you can stand beneath the replica from their legendary Berlin performance from July 21, 1990.
Tailor-Made Top Tip:
Start from the ground floor, then work your way up the museum levels. Then, on your way back down, make sure to spend at least quarter of an hour perusing the amazing gift store, where you are bound to find a memento celebrating your favourite artist.
USS COD
The USS Cod, a Gato-class submarine, is a remarkable piece of American history permanently moored in Cleveland. Step aboard and imagine life under the waves. The USS Cod offers an authentic glimpse into the challenges and camaraderie of submarine crews. Kids can explore the cramped quarters, touch the original equipment, and feel the pulse of wartime service. Meanwhile, the grownups can learn about the submarine’s seven battles, including its role in the South China Sea.
Tailor-Made Top Tip:
Note that original exits and entrances must be used, which may be challenging for those with disabilities.
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International Women’s Air & Space Museum
Our final stop was the International Women’s Air & Space Museum. Located within the Burke Lakefront Airport, this gem celebrates the unsung heroines of aviation. Beyond Amelia Earhart and Sally Ride, we discovered stories of female pilots, engineers, and astronauts who defied gravity. Their courage soared higher than the skies, inspiring generations to reach for the stars.
Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and stories of influential women such as Amelia Earhart, Ruth Nichols, Bessie Coleman, Harriet Quimby, and Katharine Wright. You can also learn about the vital roles women played during WWII. From pilots to mechanics, their contributions were essential.
Tailor-Made Top Tip:
The displays will take you around 20-minutes to view and the exhibit is free.
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Other Family Attractions
If you stretch your visit out from one day to a weekend trip, Cleveland offers up a number of other attractions for the family to enjoy. Also around the North Coast Harbor area is Greater Cleveland Aquarium, with its underwater walkthrough. The Children’s Museum of Cleveland is a perennial favourite, meanwhile the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, with its dinosaur skeletons, is sure to delight the family.
Cleveland Hotels
If you are looking for family friendly hotels in downtown Cleveland Ohio, close to the North Coast Harbor attractions, then you should consider the ROOST Cleveland, with its family rooms and facilities for disabled guests, while the Hotel Indigo Cleveland Downtown and the Hampton Inn Cleveland-Downtown are also handily located. Meanwhile the Tru By Hilton Cleveland Midtown is nice and close to the Children’s Museum and Museum of Natural History. However, if you would rather pamper yourself with a bit of luxury, look no further than The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland or the Metropolitan at The 9, Autograph Collection.
Conclusion
Our family day out in Cleveland was nothing short of magical. From the awe-inspiring exhibits at the Great Lakes Science Center to music history being brought to life at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, every moment was a discovery. Cleveland’s North Coast Harbor truly offers a treasure trove of family-friendly attractions that promise fun, learning, and unforgettable experiences. We can’t wait to return and uncover more exciting things to do in Cleveland Ohio. Until then, Cleveland, you have our hearts!
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Comment below and let us know what your favourite Grand Rapids family attraction was is.
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if visiting any of these attractions appeals to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided family day out in Cleveland around your requirements, or indeed, a general tour of Ohio.
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Join me next time on my adventures when we have more family adventures, this time in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Tailor-Made Itineraries posts every two weeks, and you can subscribe to the latest blog and newsletter here. Until then, happy reading and safe travels.
Barry
Contact Me: tailoritineraries@gmail.com
Tailor-Made Itineraries creates one-of-a-kind bespoke self-guided travel itineraries for adventurous and curious travellers.
These self-guided tours deliver a personalised and exciting holiday experience that takes the effort out of trip planning.
Cleveland Ohio Map
You are such a good story teller Barry. I thoroughly enjoyed the blog :)