Cleveland Heights Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and stay in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Cleveland Heights

Cleveland Heights, located in Cuyahoga County in Northeast Ohio, is a vibrant city filled with eclectic neighborhoods, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Known for its historic architecture, diverse population, and unbeatable food scene, Cleveland Heights is a must-visit destination for travelers to Ohio.

List of Places to Visit in Cleveland Heights

Here are some of the must-see attractions when visiting Cleveland Heights.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cleveland Museum of Art: One of the largest art museums in the country, boasting an impressive collection of more than 45,000 artworks from around the world.
  • Dunham Tavern Museum: A living history museum, showcasing a restored 1824 farmhouse and tavern with exhibits and events highlighting the city’s history.
  • Cain Park: A beloved community park featuring an outdoor theater, arts galleries, and concerts.
  • Lake View Cemetery: A tranquil and picturesque park-like cemetery home to famous gravesites, such as those of President James A. Garfield and John D. Rockefeller.

Natural Attractions of Cleveland Heights: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Shaker Lakes Nature Center: A nature preserve featuring five interconnected lakes and miles of hiking and biking trails.
  • Cleveland Heights Community Center: Offers an indoor and outdoor pool, basketball courts, and fitness classes.
  • Forest Hill Park: A recreational park with a stunning arboretum, gardens, and athletic fields.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cleveland Heights

Cleveland Heights offers access to miles of hiking and biking trails. Some popular routes include:

  • Cleveland Heights BikeWay Trail: An easy and scenic trail that runs through the city and connects to surrounding communities.
  • Shaker Lakes Nature Center Trail: A moderate 2.5-mile hike that leads through forested areas and around scenic lakes.
  • Forest Hill Park Trail: An easy loop that takes you through the beautiful arboretum and gardens.

Best Things to Do in Cleveland Heights: Activities and Tours

  • Take a food tour: Cleveland Heights has a thriving food scene and several culinary tours that offer a chance to sample the best local dishes and drinks.
  • Attend a concert or show: Cain Park is home to a summer concert series, while Dobama Theatre hosts live theater productions year-round.
  • Explore University Circle: This cultural district is home to several museums and attractions, including Cleveland Botanical Garden and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cleveland Heights

Day 1: Start your trip with a visit to the Cleveland Museum of Art. Spend the afternoon exploring the hiking and biking trails at Shaker Lakes Nature Center.

Day 2: Take a foodie tour of Cleveland Heights, sampling some of the city’s best eats and local craft brews.

Day 3: Spend the day at Cedar Point amusement park, located about an hour’s drive from Cleveland Heights.

Day 4: Visit Lake View Cemetery, followed by a relaxing afternoon at Forest Hill Park.

Day 5: Explore University Circle, including the Cleveland Botanical Garden and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.

Day 6: Take in a show or performance at Dobama Theatre or Cain Park.

Day 7: Spend your last day in Cleveland Heights relaxing at the community center or taking a last-minute hike through one of the city’s scenic parks.

Food and Drink Scene of Cleveland Heights

Cleveland Heights is home to a dynamic and innovative food scene, offering everything from classic American cuisine to international specialties.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pierogies: These Eastern European dumplings are a staple of Cleveland cuisine.
  • Corned Beef sandwich: Cleveland-style corned beef is tender, juicy, and piled high on rye bread with mustard and pickles.
  • City Chicken: A meat skewer made with pork or veal, breaded and then fried.

Local Beverages

  • Great Lakes Brewing Company: This local brewery creates award-winning craft beer, including the popular “Dortmunder Gold” and “Eliot Ness” beers.
  • Mitchell’s Ice Cream: A beloved local ice cream shop that features fresh and inventive flavors.

Where to Stay in Cleveland Heights: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cleveland Heights offers a range of accommodation options for travelers.

  • Washington Place Bistro and Inn: A cozy bed and breakfast with a farm-to-table restaurant on-site.
  • The Tudor Arms Hotel: A historic hotel located in University Circle, featuring an elegant lobby and upscale amenities.
  • Cain Park Lodge: A budget-friendly option located in the heart of Cleveland Heights, offering easy access to local attractions and parks.

What to Buy in Cleveland Heights: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local craft beer: From Great Lakes Brewing Company or Platform Beer Co.
  • Artisanal cheeses: From local producers such as Mackenzie Creamery and Lake Erie Creamery.
  • Books and gifts: From independent bookstores like Appletree Books and Mac’s Backs-Books on Coventry.

Local Culture and Customs of Cleveland Heights

Cleveland Heights is a diverse and welcoming community, known for its arts and cultural scene, as well as its friendly and welcoming residents. Locals are proud of their city and are eager to share its history and attractions with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Cleveland Heights

The best time to visit Cleveland Heights is from May to October when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing. Peak tourist season runs from June to August when rates for hotels and attractions are at their highest.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cleveland Heights

Do:

  • Take the time to explore Cleveland’s diverse neighborhoods and attractions.
  • Try local craft beer and cuisine at one of the city’s excellent restaurants or breweries.
  • Be friendly and respectful with locals and other visitors alike.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables in plain sight in your car or on your person.
  • Be loud or disruptive in public spaces.
  • Leave trash or litter in parks or on sidewalks.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cleveland Heights

Cleveland Heights is a relatively safe city, with a low crime rate in most areas. Visitors should take normal precautions to protect their belongings and be aware of their surroundings.

Health in Cleveland Heights

Cleveland Heights and the surrounding areas have several hospitals and medical centers, including Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals.

Getting to Cleveland Heights: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cleveland Heights

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is the closest airport to Cleveland Heights, located about 20 minutes away by car. Akron-Canton Airport is about an hour’s drive away.

Bus Stations Near Cleveland Heights

Greyhound and Megabus both offer service to Cleveland, with departures from major cities across the country. The Cleveland Greyhound station is located downtown, about 30 minutes from Cleveland Heights.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Cleveland Heights by train on Amtrak’s Lake Shore Limited, which passes through Cleveland on its route between Chicago and New York City.

How to Get Around in Cleveland Heights

Cleveland Heights is a walkable and bike-friendly city, with several options for public transit, including buses and trains. Visitors can also rent a car or use ride-sharing services like Lyft or Uber.

Where to Go Next from Cleveland Heights: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cleveland Heights is a great base for exploring other attractions in the area. Some popular nearby destinations include:

  • Cedar Point amusement park, located about an hour’s drive west of Cleveland Heights.
  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park, located about 30 minutes south of Cleveland Heights.
  • Akron, located about 40 minutes south of Cleveland Heights.
  • Lake Erie islands, accessible by ferry from Sandusky, about an hour’s drive west of Cleveland Heights.

Conclusion

With its dynamic cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and unbeatable food and drink scene, Cleveland Heights is a must-visit destination for travelers to Ohio. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or urban exploration, Cleveland Heights has something to offer everyone.

Coventry Road in Cleveland Heights Coventry Road in Cleveland Heights