One of our favorite things to do as a couple is explore both the city and the internet in search of the best food, coffee, experiences, and hidden gems Cleveland has to offer.

In addition to our personal favorites listed below, we've curated a Google Maps collection of 130+ dining and drinking spots that have caught our attention and earned a place on our list. Feel free to explore and use it as your guide: [LINK].

1. Cleveland is perhaps best known for its sports teams and culture. As dedicated Cleveland sports fans ourselves, we highly recommend setting aside an evening to catch a Guardians baseball game at Progressive Field.

If you're staying in town beyond the wedding weekend, you’ll have plenty of chances to experience the excitement, as home games are scheduled nearly every day from August 25th to August 31st.

Tickets can be purchased here: Guardians.

2. If you’re a music lover, a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a must. Despite its name, this seven-story museum celebrates artists across all genres, showcasing their achievements, memorabilia, and lasting impact on music history.

Plan to spend at least 2–3 hours exploring, but if you want to dive into every exhibit, read all the stories, and interact with the displays, you could easily spend an entire day here. Adult tickets are $35 and can be purchased here: Rock Hall

3. Cleveland is home to the second-largest Broadway theater district in the country—and the world’s largest outdoor chandelier. The Playhouse Square district features 10 stunning theaters, each hosting its own productions, musicals, and special events.

For tickets and more information, visit Playhouse Square. Popular shows tend to sell out quickly, so if you find a performance and seat you love, don’t wait to book!

4. You might not expect it, but Cleveland has a beach! Edgewater Park and Beach, just five minutes from downtown, offers stunning views of the Cleveland skyline and easy access to Lake Erie. Whether you’re up for a swim is up to you, but we highly recommend taking a stroll through the area—and maybe even bringing a picnic to enjoy by the water.

5. The University Circle area, located about 15 minutes east of downtown, is home to several world-class museums. Our personal favorite is the Cleveland Museum of Art, which is free to explore and absolutely breathtaking.

If you have time, there are plenty of other incredible museums in the area worth visiting as well. You can find more information here: University Circle.

1. If you love roller coasters, Cedar Point is a must-visit. Just over an hour from Cleveland, this world-famous amusement park is home to some of the fastest and tallest coasters on the planet, and a scenic location right on Lake Erie. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or just looking for a fun-filled day, it's worth the trip.

Tickets are $50 and can be purchased here: Cedar Point.

2. Ohio's only National Park is Located just 30 minutes from downtown Cleveland. Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers breathtaking nature trails, waterfalls, and wildlife. Hike to Brandywine Falls, explore the rocky cliffs of The Ledges, or take a relaxing ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. Whether you’re up for a full day of hiking or just a short scenic stop, this park is a perfect outdoor getaway.

3. If you're in the mood for shopping or dining, Crocker Park is a great option. About 20 minutes west of Cleveland, it features a mix of high-end stores, local boutiques, and fantastic restaurants. More information can be found here: Crocker Park.

4. Just an hour south of Cleveland in Canton, the Pro Football Hall of Fame is a must-visit for sports fans. This iconic museum dives into the history of the NFL, featuring memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and tributes to the greatest players and coaches of all time. Even if you're not a die-hard football fan, the stories behind the game’s legends and its impact on American culture make for an engaging experience.

Tickets are $45 and can be purchased here: Pro Football Hall of Fame.

1. Ilrione Pizzeria The best pizza in Cleveland. It’s walk-in and pickup only, and the wait times can be long—but always worth it. We usually pass the time with a drink at Stone Mad Pub just across the street, then head back for perfectly charred, thin-crust pizza that never disappoints.

2. Cordelia Located in the heart of downtown on East 4th Street, offers a fresh, Midwestern take on fine dining. The menu features creative spins on local favorites—think corn ribs, fried chicken, and other comfort foods—elevated in both flavor and presentation. It’s a popular spot, so we recommend making a reservation in advance.

3. Cilantro Taqueria For a quick, casual, and seriously satisfying bite, Cilantro is our favorite local chain. You’ll find everything from burrito bowls and tacos to quesadillas—all made fresh with tons of options. There are several locations around the city, and they are usually available on DoorDash or UberEats if you are staying in.

4. Batuqui Our favorite hidden gem in Cleveland, tucked away in the Larchmere neighborhood on the east side. Set inside a charming old house, this spot serves up authentic Brazilian dishes and delicious tropical drinks.

5. Little Italy Dubbed as one of the best of it's kind, Cleveland's Little Italy neighborhood is full of charm and incredible food. We especially love Etna and Valerio's, two family-run authentic Italian restaurants. If you are coming into Cleveland a weekend early, don't miss the Feast of the Assumption, where thousands of people will gather in this neighborhood for food, drinks, and live music for 4 days.