The Perfect Day In Cleveland, Ohio

Written by: Stone Gables Bed and Breakfast innkeeper Richard Turnbull and Guest Renee Tadey

Waking up to the aroma of Chocolate Waffles at a wonderful Cleveland Bed and Breakfast makes it the beginning of a fabulous day in Cleveland.  After a multi course breakfast begin the day with a visit to the West Side Market. This extraordinary building opened in 1912 and is a feast for the eyes and the appetite. With 180 indoor and outdoor stands there is something for everybody. Traverse the aisles of artisan breads, cheeses, applewood smoked meat and spices; grab yourself a crepe and a cup of French roast coffee. From tamales to hummus to perogi and fresh fish, they’ve got it all, and don’t forget the farm fresh fruits and veggies. Be sure to look up at the vaulted ceiling of yellow brick in herringbone pattern. Reinforced by the five great arches, it is quite a sight and truly a Cleveland landmark.
 
Cleveland is home to a multitude of museums, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame,  Great Lakes Science Center,  Museum of Art, or Natural History, just  to name a few. In the mood for a little nostalgia? Tour Ralphies house from” A Christmas Story”. It was filmed right here!

A world of beauty awaits you at the Cleveland Botanical Gardens. In the 18,000 sq ft conservatory you can trek across continents from the desert to the lush rainforest with 50 varieties of butterflies. Journey outdoors to one of the many themed gardens, the Rose Garden shows off 50 varieties of Roses or take time for a little respite in the Japanese Garden while the kids play in the Children’s Garden.

Little Italy is the perfect neighborhood for dining and shopping. Have lunch alfresco in one of the many restaurants that offer outdoor dining, but save room for dessert. When in Cleveland you must have a Cannoli from Corbos Bakery. It’s hard to find a better cannoli anywhere. Stroll along Mayfield Rd and neighboring streets to shop the many galleries and boutiques.
 
While on Mayfield Rd, visit Lake View Cemetery, founded in 1869. It is 285 acres of garden cemetery integrating landscapes with memorial sculpture and architecture. It includes a lovely view of Lake Erie too. Most notable is the Garfield Monument dedicated in 1890 to honor James A Garfield, 20th President of the United States. The building is spectacular!

Lake Erie is Cleveland’s greatest asset. Take a walk along the shoreline; sit under a shade tree in one of the many parks that border the pleasant blue water, or take a sightseeing boat tour. All are wonderful ways to experience the lake.
 
The Arcade is another Cleveland landmark that is not to be missed. It opened as the first indoor mall in America in 1890, and was once known as Cleveland’s Crystal Palace. The five-story galleries connect to the ten-story towers facing the city’s two main thoroughfares. The skylight is 300 feet long, 60 feet wide, and 100 feet high boasting 1,800 individual panes of glass.
 
Ohio City and Tremont are just two of Cleveland’s unique neighborhoods Located across the Cuyahoga River west of downtown, they are easy to get to. Ohio City has beautifully restored Victorian-era homes, and some great ethnic food, not to mention the Great Lakes Brewing Company. Tremont is a little more of a hidden hot spot located just off Lincoln Park, where you will find art galleries and quaint shops. The dining here is more upscale including Michael Symon’s restaurant Lolita, and numerous others. The Tremont Art Walk is held the second Friday of every month.
 
To get the most from your visit, stay at a local Bed and Breakfast. Your hosts make the best ambassadors to the city. Cleveland offers something for everyone, great food and attractions, art and history, and gorgeous scenery, all located on one Great Lake.