Cuyahoga County Map With Cities
Cuyahoga County, located in the state of Ohio, is a haven for travelers looking for a mix of urban and outdoor adventures. From vibrant cities to charming towns, and from natural wonders to historical landmarks, this county has something for everyone. Whether you are a foodie, a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a culture vulture, you will find plenty of things to do and see here. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that Cuyahoga County has to offer.
Top Attractions
Let’s start with the must-see attractions in Cuyahoga County. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland is a pilgrimage site for music lovers, with exhibits that celebrate the history of rock and roll. The Cleveland Museum of Art is a world-class museum that showcases an impressive collection of art from around the world. The West Side Market, one of the oldest indoor markets in the country, is a foodie’s paradise, with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheese. The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a family-friendly attraction that features more than 3,000 animals from around the world.
Hidden Gems
If you want to explore the lesser-known corners of Cuyahoga County, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover. The A Christmas Story House in Cleveland is a museum that pays homage to the classic holiday movie. The Cuyahoga Valley National Park, located between Cleveland and Akron, is a scenic wonderland with hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife. The Lake View Cemetery in Cleveland is a peaceful oasis that is home to the graves of famous Clevelanders, including President James A. Garfield.
Food Scene
Cuyahoga County has a vibrant food scene that is a mix of traditional and modern cuisine. The Polish Boy, a Cleveland classic, is a sandwich that consists of a grilled kielbasa sausage, french fries, coleslaw, and barbecue sauce, all served on a bun. The pierogi, a Polish dumpling, is a staple of Cleveland’s Eastern European food scene. For a taste of modern cuisine, check out the restaurants in Cleveland’s trendy Ohio City neighborhood, such as the Flying Fig and the Black Pig.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you are traveling on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save money in Cuyahoga County. Many of the museums and attractions offer free admission on certain days of the week, so be sure to check their websites before you go. Public transportation in Cleveland is affordable and efficient, with a day pass for the bus and train system costing just a few dollars. There are also plenty of free outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park or exploring the Cleveland Botanical Garden.
Outdoor Adventures
Cuyahoga County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports. The Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers more than 125 miles of hiking trails, as well as opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The Cleveland Metroparks system features more than 100 miles of bike trails, as well as golf courses, fishing areas, and picnic spots. Lake Erie, which borders the county, is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Historical Landmarks
Cuyahoga County has a rich history that is reflected in its many landmarks and museums. The USS Cod, a World War II submarine that is now a museum, is a popular attraction in Cleveland’s North Coast Harbor. The Terminal Tower, a historic skyscraper in downtown Cleveland, offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck. The James A. Garfield National Historic Site in Mentor is the former home of the 20th President of the United States, and offers a glimpse into his life and legacy.
Family-Friendly Activities
There are plenty of activities in Cuyahoga County that are perfect for families with kids. The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a favorite among children, with its many animal exhibits and interactive experiences. The Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland is a hands-on museum that explores the world of science and technology. The Children’s Museum of Cleveland is a fun and educational experience for kids of all ages, with exhibits that encourage creativity and exploration.
Natural Wonders
Cuyahoga County is home to many natural wonders that are worth exploring. The Cuyahoga River, which runs through the county, is a popular spot for kayaking and fishing. The Brandywine Falls, located in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, is a stunning waterfall that is surrounded by lush vegetation. The Cleveland Botanical Garden is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, with gardens and greenhouses that showcase a variety of plants from around the world.
Vibrant Nightlife
Cuyahoga County has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to explore. The Flats, located on the banks of the Cuyahoga River, is a popular destination for nightlife, with its many bars and restaurants. The Beachland Ballroom and Tavern in Cleveland is a legendary music venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in rock and roll. The Happy Dog, a bar in Cleveland’s Detroit Shoreway neighborhood, is known for its hot dogs and live music.
Local Markets
Cuyahoga County has a thriving local market scene, with a variety of markets that offer everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The West Side Market, located in Cleveland’s Ohio City neighborhood, is one of the oldest indoor markets in the country, with over 100 vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to artisanal cheese. The North Union Farmers Market, which has several locations throughout the county, is a great place to find locally grown fruits and vegetables, as well as handmade crafts and baked goods.
Beaches and Mountains
Cuyahoga County is blessed with both beaches and mountains, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Lake Erie, which borders the county, has several beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The Cuyahoga Valley National Park, located between Cleveland and Akron, offers a stunning landscape of rolling hills and forests, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore.
Cultural Immersion
Cuyahoga County is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich diversity that is reflected in its many festivals and events. The Cleveland Asian Festival, held in May, celebrates the Asian cultures that are an important part of the city’s heritage. The Tremont Greek Festival, held in September, is a celebration of Greek food, music, and culture. The Cleveland International Film Festival, held in March, showcases films from around the world and brings together filmmakers and film lovers from all over.
Art and Music Scene
Cuyahoga County has a thriving arts and music scene, with many galleries, museums, and music venues to explore. The Cleveland Museum of Art, one of the largest art museums in the country, showcases an impressive collection of art from around the world. The Cleveland Orchestra, one of the top orchestras in the world, performs regularly at Severance Hall. The Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland, located in the University Circle neighborhood, features exhibitions of contemporary art from around the world.
Walking Tours
Exploring Cuyahoga County on foot is a great way to experience its many sights and sounds. The Downtown Cleveland Alliance offers several walking tours that explore the city’s rich history and architecture, including the Historic Gateway District Tour and the Playhouse Square Tour. The Cleveland Cultural Gardens, located in Rockefeller Park, are a series of gardens that celebrate the many cultures that are an important part of the city’s heritage.
Architectural Marvels
Cuyahoga County has a rich architectural heritage that is reflected in its many buildings and landmarks. The Terminal Tower, a historic skyscraper in downtown Cleveland, is an iconic landmark that offers stunning views of the city. The Cleveland Trust Company Building, also known as the Heinen’s Building, is a beautiful example of Beaux-Arts architecture. The Cleveland Museum of Art, with its mix of neoclassical and modernist styles, is a masterpiece of architecture and design.
Historical Sites
Cuyahoga County has a rich history that is reflected in its many historical sites and museums. The James A. Garfield National Historic Site in Mentor is the former home of the 20th President of the United States, and offers a glimpse into his life and legacy. The Cleveland History Center, located in University Circle, is a museum that explores the history of Cleveland and Northeast Ohio. The Dunham Tavern Museum, located in Cleveland’s Midtown neighborhood, is a restored 19th-century tavern that offers a glimpse into life in early Cleveland.
Biking Routes
Cuyahoga County has a network of bike trails that offer scenic views and challenging terrain for cyclists of all levels. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which runs through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, is a popular route for cyclists, with its mix of paved and unpaved trails. The Cleveland Metroparks system features more than