10 Free Things to Do in Cleveland

Cleveland, Ohio is a vibrant city with something for everyone. From art galleries to professional sports, there’s something to do for everyone. And while many of the activities in Cleveland come with a price tag, there are plenty of great, free activities to enjoy. Here are 10 free things to do in Cleveland.

Visit Cleveland’s Historic Sites

Cleveland has a rich history that dates back centuries. Take a stroll through the downtown area and you’ll find plenty of historic buildings and monuments. Visit the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, a tribute to the city’s Civil War veterans, or the Old Stone Church, a historic landmark built in 1820. There’s also the old Cleveland Arcade, a 19th-century arcade that’s now a shopping center. And don’t forget the iconic Terminal Tower, the tallest building in Cleveland.

Check Out the Art Galleries

Cleveland is home to dozens of art galleries and museums. The Cleveland Museum of Art, located in the University Circle neighborhood, is one of the most renowned art galleries in the country, and admission is free. The gallery showcases art from around the world, including pieces from ancient Egypt and Africa. The Museum of Contemporary Art is also free, and houses a collection of modern art. And don’t forget the Cleveland Institute of Art, which offers free admission to its galleries.

Explore the Local Parks

Cleveland is home to dozens of parks and green spaces. From the sprawling Cleveland Metroparks to the small, but beautiful, Edgewater Park, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the lakefront Edgewater Park, take a stroll through the botanical gardens at Rockefeller Park, or take a boat ride along the Cuyahoga River. Whatever you choose, you’ll find plenty of free activities in Cleveland’s parks.

Go to a Professional Sports Game

Cleveland is home to several professional sports teams, including the Cleveland Browns, the Cleveland Indians, and the Cleveland Cavaliers. And while tickets to the games are often pricey, there are plenty of free ways to enjoy the sports. Take a walk around the stadium to check out the pre-game festivities, catch a glimpse of the players as they warm up, or simply take in the atmosphere of the game. You might even be lucky enough to snag a free ticket!

Attend a Local Event

Cleveland is home to dozens of events throughout the year, from music festivals to art fairs. Check out the calendar of events to see what’s happening in the city. Many of these events are free or have free admission. From the International Food Festival to the Cleveland Pride Parade, you’ll find plenty of free activities to enjoy.

Visit the Beach

Cleveland is home to several beaches on Lake Erie. From Edgewater Beach to Euclid Beach, there’s something for everyone. The lakefront beaches offer plenty of activities, from sunbathing to swimming, and of course, the views are stunning. And don’t forget the popular Edgewater Park, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch or take a stroll along the beach.

Take a Self-Guided Tour

Cleveland is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the country. Take a self-guided tour of the city and check out the landmarks, like the Terminal Tower, the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, and the Old Stone Church. Or take a walk along the lake and admire the views of the skyline. You’ll find plenty of free things to do in Cleveland.

Visit the Zoo

Cleveland is home to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, one of the most popular zoos in the country. Admission to the zoo is free, and there’s plenty to see and do. You can take a self-guided tour of the zoo, see the animals up close, or take a train ride around the park. And don’t forget to check out the popular Rainforest exhibit, where you can explore the diversity of the world’s rainforests.

Enjoy the Nightlife Scene

Cleveland’s nightlife scene is vibrant and bustling. From live music venues to trendy bars, there’s something for everyone. And while many of the bars and clubs have a cover charge, there are plenty of free things to do in Cleveland. Check out the weekly jazz jams at the Beachland Ballroom, listen to the DJs at the Flats, or take a stroll along the historic Warehouse District. You’ll find plenty of free activities to enjoy in Cleveland’s nightlife scene.

Visit the Cleveland Museum of Natural History

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is one of the city’s most popular attractions. The museum boasts a collection of over 3.5 million objects, from fossils to artifacts, and admission is free. Take a look at the dinosaur skeletons, explore the interactive exhibits, or take a look at the planetarium shows. There’s plenty to see and do at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.

Take a Trip to the West Side Market

The West Side Market is a historic market located in the Ohio City neighborhood of Cleveland. The market has been in operation since 1840, and it’s one of the oldest public markets in the country. The market is filled with vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and other items. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to explore. And of course, admission is free.

Summary

Cleveland, Ohio is a vibrant city with plenty of free things to do. From historic sites to art galleries, there’s something for everyone. Visit the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, explore the Museum of Contemporary Art, or take a stroll through the Cleveland Metroparks. Enjoy a picnic lunch at Edgewater Park, catch a professional sports game, or take a self-guided tour of the city. There’s plenty of free activities to enjoy in Cleveland.