Travel Lens

20 Incredible Places to Visit in Cleveland, OH

  • Updated 2024/12/27

Cleveland, Ohio, is a city rich in cultural heritage, striking architecture, and beautiful natural landscapes. From the iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to the serene paths of the Cleveland Metroparks, the city offers a multitude of incredible spots that capture its unique spirit and beauty.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Designed by the renowned architect I.M. Pei, this museum is not only a treasure trove of music history but also a stunning architectural marvel. Capture its striking glass pyramid structure against the backdrop of Lake Erie.

Cleveland Museum of Art

Cleveland Museum of Art
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One of the top art museums in the U.S., it features a beautiful, classical facade and a modern, airy atrium. The museum’s fine art collection provides a sophisticated backdrop for photos.

West Side Market

Cleveland’s oldest publicly owned market offers a vibrant atmosphere with its bustling vendors and colorful displays of fresh produce and artisan goods. The market’s iconic clock tower and interior architecture are also photo-worthy.

Cleveland Cultural Gardens

Cleveland Cultural Gardens
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This unique collection of nationally themed gardens along Martin Luther King Jr. Drive showcases beautifully landscaped areas dedicated to different cultures, ideal for peaceful and picturesque shots.

Edgewater Park

Edgewater Park
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Offering stunning views of downtown Cleveland and Lake Erie, Edgewater Park is perfect for capturing sunsets or dramatic skyline shots. The beach and the Cleveland script sign are popular photo spots.

Playhouse Square

Known for its dazzling outdoor chandelier, the largest in the world, Playhouse Square adds a touch of glamour and grandeur to any photo session, especially at night.

East 4th Street

East 4th Street
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A bustling and vibrant street lined with restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, East 4th Street’s lively ambiance and decorative lighting make it a great spot for dynamic urban photography.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

A place to capture wildlife as well as the beautiful landscapes and thematic exhibits, like the RainForest and the African Savanna.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park
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Just a short drive from downtown Cleveland, this national park offers rustic bridges, waterfalls, and lush trails, particularly beautiful in the fall when the leaves change colors.

The Arcade

One of the nation’s first indoor shopping centers, The Arcade is a stunning example of Victorian architecture with a skylight roof and ornate railings, perfect for architectural and historical photography.

Public Square

Public Square
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The heart of downtown Cleveland, redesigned to offer a more open, green space that hosts a variety of public events. The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument is a notable feature.

Lake View Cemetery

Apart from being the resting place of notable figures like John D. Rockefeller and President James A. Garfield, the cemetery’s beautiful landscaping and the Garfield Memorial offer impressive architectural and natural settings.

Gordon Park

Part of the Cleveland Lakefront State Park, Gordon Park offers great views of Lake Erie and is a lovely spot for tranquil lakeside photos.

Heinen’s Downtown

Heinens Downtown
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Located in the historic Cleveland Trust Rotunda Building, this upscale grocery store features a stunning stained glass dome that provides a unique backdrop for interior photography.

Flats East Bank

This revitalized waterfront district along the Cuyahoga River features modern bars, restaurants, and residential buildings, along with public art and green spaces, ideal for trendy, contemporary shots.

Detroit-Superior Bridge

Detroit Superior Bridge ohio
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Offering panoramic views of the city and the river, the bridge’s lower streetcar level occasionally opens for pedestrians during special events, providing a unique urban perspective.

Superior Viaduct

An excellent spot for capturing the cityscape, especially at night when the city lights reflect on the Cuyahoga River below.

North Coast Harbor

Besides the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, this area includes the Great Lakes Science Center and a panoramic view of boats and water, encapsulating Cleveland’s lakeside charm.

Lakewood Park

Lakewood Park
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Known for its Cleveland script sign with the city skyline in the background, Lakewood Park is a favored spot for iconic Cleveland photos, especially at sunset.

Tremont

This historic neighborhood offers a quaint, artistic vibe with its boutique shops, renowned restaurants, and frequent cultural festivals, along with great views of the industrial valley.

Conclusion

Cleveland’s mix of urban excitement, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty provides a diverse array of photogenic locations. Whether you’re capturing stunning architectural details, vibrant market scenes, or serene natural landscapes, Cleveland offers a wealth of opportunities to enhance any Instagram feed.

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