Cuyahoga County Travel Guide

Plan an unforgettable trip to Cuyahoga County and explore the culturally important attractions, scenic natural views, outdoor adventures, and the food and drink scene, along with relevant travel tips.


Introduction to Cuyahoga County

Cuyahoga County, located in the northeastern part of Ohio, is a perfect example of the industrial and cultural heritage of the United States. The county is named after the Cuyahoga River, which was historically important for transportation and industry. Today, Cuyahoga County is the second-most populous county in Ohio with a population of over 1.2 million. It is an urban county, home to the bustling city of Cleveland, which is the county seat. The county offers various attractions and activities for travelers, including culturally important museums and historical places, natural landscapes, outdoor adventures, hiking, and biking routes, local food and beverages, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Cuyahoga County

Cuyahoga County has a lot to offer to its visitors. Here is a list of places that you must include on your itinerary.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Cleveland is well-known for its world-class museums, and it’s a must-visit destination for museum lovers. Here are some top-rated museums and historical places to visit in Cuyahoga County:

  • The Cleveland Museum of Art
  • The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
  • The Cleveland Museum of Natural History
  • The Western Reserve Historical Society
  • The Great Lakes Science Center

Natural Attractions of Cuyahoga County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re looking for outdoor adventures and scenic views, Cuyahoga County has some great options. Here are some of the top-rated natural attractions in the county:

  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park
  • The Cleveland Metroparks
  • The Cleveland Botanical Garden
  • Edgewater Park
  • Rocky River Reservation

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cuyahoga County

Cuyahoga County has various hiking and biking routes that you can choose from. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging adventure, Cuyahoga County has something for everyone. Here are some popular hiking and biking trails to explore:

  • Cleveland’s Towpath Trail
  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park Trails
  • Lakefront Bikeway
  • Euclid Creek Reservation Trail
  • Bedford Reservation All Purpose Trail

Best Things to Do in Cuyahoga County: Activities and Tours

Apart from the museums, parks, and outdoor adventures, Cuyahoga County has much more to offer. Here are some of the unique activities and tours that you can participate in while in the county:

  • Cleveland Brew Bus Tour
  • Cleveland Segway Tour
  • West Side Market Food Tour
  • Cleveland Cycle Tours
  • A Christmas Story House Tour

Week-Long Itinerary for Cuyahoga County

With so much to explore in Cuyahoga County, you might want to plan a week-long itinerary to maximise your visit. Here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Cleveland Art and History

  • The Cleveland Museum of Art
  • The Western Reserve Historical Society
  • Lunch at the West Side Market

Day 2: Cleveland Science and Entertainment

  • Great Lakes Science Center
  • Lunch at the Flats East Bank
  • The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum

Day 3: Cleveland Metroparks

  • Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
  • Dinner at the Cleveland Botanical Garden

Day 4: Cuyahoga Valley National Park

  • Scenic Railway Tour through Cuyahoga Valley National Park
  • Lunch in Peninsula Village
  • Hike through the park’s trails

Day 5: Lake Erie Shoreline

  • Edgewater Park
  • Lunch at the Music Box Supper Club
  • Walk along the Shoreway

Day 6: Cleveland Historical Site and Museum

  • USS Cod Submarine Memorial Museum
  • A Christmas Story House
  • Lunch at Slyman’s Deli

Day 7: Cleveland Lakefront

  • Lakefront Bikeway
  • Lunch at The Harbor Inn
  • Kayaking in Lake Erie

Food and Drink Scene of Cuyahoga County

When it comes to food and drink, Cuyahoga County has something for everyone. The county is home to various culinary delights, from local street food to international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Polish Boy Sandwich
  • Pierogies
  • Cleveland-style pizza
  • Stadium Mustard
  • Paczki

Local Beverages

  • Great Lakes Christmas Ale
  • Platform Beer Co.
  • Blue Monkey Brewing Co.
  • Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream
  • Blossom Hill Winery

Where to Stay in Cuyahoga County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cuyahoga County offers plenty of accommodation options for travelers on any budget. Whether you prefer luxury hotels or cozy guesthouses, the county has something for everyone. Here are some top-rated accommodations that you can consider:

  • The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland
  • The Cleveland Hostel
  • The Glidden House
  • The Hyatt Regency Cleveland

What to Buy in Cuyahoga County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs to bring back home, Cuyahoga County has some great options. Here are some local products that you’ll want to consider:

  • Hoopples Beer Mug
  • Malley’s Chocolates
  • Cleveland Rocks T-Shirt
  • Anne Marie’s Tea
  • Mitchell’s Ice Cream

Local Culture and Customs of Cuyahoga County

Cuyahoga County is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions. The county has a rich cultural heritage that you’ll want to explore. Here are some customs and traditions that you may encounter:

  • The Cleveland Orchestra at Severance Hall
  • The Polish Constitution Day Parade
  • The Feast of the Assumption in Little Italy
  • The Greek Festival in Tremont

Best Time to Visit Cuyahoga County

The best time to visit Cuyahoga County is during the summer months from June to August. The county has mild weather, which is perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city. However, autumn is also a great time to visit as the leaves change colors, and the temperature is still pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cuyahoga County

Do:

  • Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum.
  • Try a Polish Boy Sandwich or Pierogies
  • Explore the Cuyahoga Valley National Park
  • Attend a Cleveland Indians game
  • Experience the nightlife in the Flats East Bank

Don’t:

  • Don’t miss out on the West Side Market
  • Don’t litter in public spaces or parks
  • Don’t jaywalk
  • Don’t forget to tip your server
  • Don’t underestimate the lake effect snow

Safety and Health

Safety in Cuyahoga County

Cuyahoga County is generally safe for travelers. However, like any urban area, you should be aware of your surroundings and take precautions while exploring the city. Here are some tips to help keep you safe:

  • Avoid walking alone at night
  • Keep your valuables in a safe place
  • Don’t leave your belongings unattended
  • Use a taxi or rideshare service instead of walking alone at night

Health in Cuyahoga County

Cuyahoga County has many excellent hospital facilities, and you can be assured of receiving high-quality medical care if needed.

Getting to Cuyahoga County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cuyahoga County is easily accessible from various cities in the United States. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Cuyahoga County

  • Cleveland Hopkins International Airport
  • Akron-Canton Airport

Bus Stations Near Cuyahoga County

  • Greyhound Bus Station
  • Megabus

Other Options

  • Uber/LyftRideshare
  • Amtrak Train Station

How to Get Around in Cuyahoga County

There are several ways to get around Cuyahoga County:

  • Public transit: The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) provides bus and rail services around the county.
  • Taxis and rideshares: Uber and Lyft operate throughout the county.
  • Biking: Cuyahoga County has various bike trails and bike-sharing programs.
  • Driving: You can rent a car and drive around the city.

Where to Go Next from Cuyahoga County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time after exploring Cuyahoga County, you might want to include these nearby attractions on your itinerary:

  • Akron, Ohio
  • Toledo, Ohio
  • Erie, Pennsylvania
  • Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Conclusion

Cuyahoga County has something for everyone, from cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and the food and drink scene. With its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes, Cuyahoga County is the perfect destination for travelers of all ages and interests. Plan your trip today and experience the best that Cuyahoga County has to offer.

Map of Cleveland and suburbs in Ohio. Map of Cleveland and suburbs in Ohio. Chagrin Falls Chagrin Falls Stone formations found in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Stone formations found in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.


    Cleveland Heights
    Lakewood
    Middleburg Heights
    Shaker Heights
    Valley View
    Westlake