Sure, the age-old Steelers-Browns rivalry makes yinzers think we should hate on Cleveland, but we’re actually a lot alike — and Pittsburghers can find tons to love there. Both cities are surrounded by water, rooted in an industrial past, and have thriving arts and culture scenes. And since it's just a two-hour drive away, it’s a great destination for a quick trip.
Need inspiration? Here’s a Pittsburgher’s guide to a Cleveland getaway.
If you like Point State Park and Three Rivers Heritage Trail, visit…
Nothing compares to watching the sunset on the water. The Solstice Steps, built in a 25-acre park that sits in the middle of the city's shoreline, are right along the cliff overlooking Lake Erie. And much like our Point State Park and trails, this area has seen an impressive transformation. It used to be a debris landfill!
The museum is “like being wrapped in a warm art embrace with such varied collections and a delightful layout,” City Cast Pittsburgh contributor Marylee Williams said. (Courtesy of Marylee Williams)
The Cleveland Museum of Art features more than 63,000 artworks spanning 6,000 years! Plus, admission to its permanent collection is always free. Take a guided tour or check their special events calendar for live music, lectures, festivals, and more.
Collision Bend is dog-friendly! (Courtesy of Collision Blend Brewing)
If you like Trace Brewing’s Summer Fridays, visit…
Sipping beer along the water just tastes better, doesn’t it? Head to Collision Bend Brewing in the Flats neighborhood, where you can watch boats float down the Cuyahoga while you sample a classic German Kolsch. Want more recs? Here are some of our other favorite breweries in the CLE.
Step through this lovely entryway to find a secondhand gem. (Courtesy of Paradise Galleria)
If you like Pittsburgh thrift stores and Randyland, visit…
Visit Cleveland’s funky “mall of dreams” for a treasure hunt in a vibrant, quirky space. It’s packed with clothing, home decor, and accessories — all presented in colorful, whimsical displays. Look for the secret refrigerator door that leads to a room adorned with stringlights, and take the slide to get to the basement, where there’s even more trinkets to explore!
Kolachki & Cream flavors include apricot, raspberry, and pineapple. (Courtesy of Rudy’s Strudel)
If you like S&D Polish Deli and Party Cake Shop, visit…
Like Pittsburgh, Cleveland is known for pierogi and other Polish eats. Drive 20 minutes south of Cleveland to Parma’s historic Polish Village to visit this local institution. Order pierogi stuffed with potato, mushroom, cabbage, and more savory fillings — or try a sweet variety with apple, blueberry, or prune. Don’t leave without getting Kolachki & Cream, vanilla ice cream with swirls of the classic Eastern European pastry.
Brandywine Falls is open daily from dawn to dusk and accessible via a boardwalk. (mshake / Getty)
If you like Falls Run Park and McConnells Mill State Park, visit…
Pittsburgh has some stunning nearby waterfalls, but a trip to Cuyahoga Valley National Park might just blow all of them out of the water. Brandywine Falls is a 60-foot cascade along the Brandywine Gorge Loop, a 1.5 mile circle featuring gorgeous views along the deep ravine.
Tip: Cleveland Winery hosts goat yoga on Thursdays and Sundays in the summer! (Courtesy of Cleveland Winery)
If you like Soergels Orchard and Narcisci Winery, visit…
Love the casual vibes of sipping cider at a farm? Or the picturesque setting of a winery? Get the best of both worlds at this winery and animal sanctuary in Old Brooklyn, located on 1.5 acres in an old schoolyard, where you can meet rescue goats, pigs, and ducks while sipping on your favorite blend.
The West Side Market is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and the weekend. (Courtesy of West Side Market)
If you like shopping on Penn Avenue, visit…
Imagine if all of your go-to Strip District food stores were under one roof. That’s what Cleveland’s oldest publicly-owned market is like, with more than 70 vendors selling goods from all different cultural backgrounds. Step inside this Neoclassical-inspired 1840s building to shop for produce, fresh-cut meats, spices, baked goods, and more — a perfect spot to grab tasty ingredients for a city picnic!
Use this map to take a self-guided tour. (Courtesy of Cleveland Cultural Gardens)
If you like Phipps Conservatory and Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, visit…
Take a stroll through these 36 dedicated gardens in Cleveland’s Rockefeller Park. The grounds, all designed and cultivated by cultural groups, were started over 100 years ago as a way for immigrants to honor their heritage. Along your walk, you’ll notice statues and markers honoring poets, peacemakers, scientists, artists, and more.
This article was written as part of a series sponsored by Downtown Cleveland, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and Ohio Wines.
