Consider Another Side of Cleveland With These 10 Hidden Gems + 5 Restaurants
Apart from being one of America’s most prominent cities on the Lake Erie shoreline, Cleveland is well-known for being the home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, its bustling West Side Market, and the Christmas Story House.
But Cleveland also has a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered that showcase another side of the city — one with quaint eateries, local breweries, and some of the nation’s most unique attractions that locals and out-of-town visitors can enjoy.
Old Stone Church
Officially known as the First Presbyterian Church of Cleveland, the Old Stone Church is perhaps Cleveland’s best-known religious building. Dating to 1820 (the current church building was built in 1855), the church is known for its intricate stained glass windows, organ, and Romanesque Revival architecture.
Dedicated group tours are available with enough notice, but individuals and families are encouraged to visit during operating hours.
Holden Arboretum
Located just outside downtown Cleveland in Kirtland, Ohio, Holden Arboretum is a nature enthusiast’s dream. It covers over 3,500 acres and includes forests, lakes, and scenic gardens. With over 20 miles of beautiful nature trails, it’s a perfect destination for anyone wanting to escape into nature.
Make sure to experience the Murch Canopy Walk for a unique view 65 feet above the forest floor.
Tunnels at Soldiers & Sailors Monument
Situated in Cleveland’s Public Square, the Soldiers & Sailors Monument commemorates the Civil War and is perhaps best known for the 125-foot column topped by the Goddess of Freedom.
The hidden gem part of the monument is underground, where a series of tunnels supporting the massive monument can be seen during annual Tunnel Tours.
Rockefeller Park Greenhouse
Visitors to East 88th Street in Cleveland can explore beautiful, colorful plant collections at this city-owned greenhouse and garden. Admission here is free and the greenhouse and garden are open year-round, allowing visitors of all ages to enjoy global plant exhibits, tropical plants, and many plants native to Ohio.
Terminal Tower
Rising nearly 800 feet in the Cleveland skyline, the Terminal Tower is one of Cleveland’s most recognizable buildings. But the “hidden gem” part of the tower is the observation deck on the 42nd floor, which treats visitors to 360-degree views of the city from over 650 feet up.
The deck is open seasonally and requires an online ticket.
Loganberry Books
This independent bookstore is in Cleveland’s Larchmere neighborhood. Bookworms and curious visitors alike can explore a collection of over 100,000 volumes of new, used, and even rare books.
It’s easy to spend a few hours getting lost in so many books and it’s a good bet you’ll walk out of Loganberry with at least a few selections.
Lake View Cemetery
Encompassing Cleveland, East Cleveland, and Cleveland Heights, this non-profit garden cemetery was founded in 1869 and is well-known for its monuments and is the burial site of notables like former US President James Garfield and his wife, and John D. Rockefeller.
The James A. Garfield Memorial and the Wade Memorial Chapel are both listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Haserot Angel, which depicts a weathered, crying angel over a grave, is another popular draw at this 280+ acre site.
Quintana’s Speakeasy
Shhhh! This secret, Cleveland Heights speakeasy is the perfect place to enjoy good company and a hand-crafted cocktail.
Located in a 1920s-era house with a barber shop, visitors follow a bookcase passage to the bar, guests can enjoy beer, wine, flights, and signature cocktails while shooting the breeze with friends.
Ray’s Indoor Bike Park
Who says you can’t ride your bike inside? At Ray’s customers can rent a bike, hop on, and enjoy an indoor mountain bike escape that’s been a mainstay for nearly 20 years.
Ray’s accommodates riders of all ages and abilities, so come prepared to have fun! A mix of trails of varying difficulty ensures every rider has an enjoyable ride.
Chess Collection at Cleveland Public Library
A trip to the Cleveland Public Library is always a fun time, but a trip to its special collections area reveals the Claude F. Bloodgood Chess Collection — the world’s largest chess publication library. Chess enthusiasts can explore chess-related photos, manuscripts, documents, and objects.
Whether you’re a novice or a grandmaster, it’s one of the most interesting special collections you’re likely to find in any library.
5 Hidden Gem Eateries in Cleveland
Brick & Barrel Brewing
1844 Columbus Rd, Cleveland, OH 44113
This small craft brewery in the South Flats of Cleveland is right across the Cuyahoga River from downtown and invites guests to enjoy great beer, tasty snacks, and a fun atmosphere.
No matter your beer preferences, Brick & Barrel has something to satisfy every tastebud.
Sachsenheim Hall
7001 Denison Ave, Cleveland, OH 44102
Hungry residents and visitors looking for a taste of authentic German cuisine can find it here at a grand hall that’s been a Cleveland landmark for over 100 years.
Visitors can dig into hearty meals like pork schnitzel, chicken paprikash, and smothered pork paired with red cabbage, sauerkraut and German potato salad.
Coffee Coffee Coffee
4193 Pearl Rd., Cleveland, OH, 44109
Travelers looking for a java boost can’t go wrong at a place called Coffee Coffee Coffee. Customers can select their favorite coffee drink, pair it with a bagel or a pastry, and explore the shared retail space that also includes books, bikes, specialty coffees, and local sundries.
Forest City Brewery
2135 Columbus Rd, Cleveland, OH 44113
Housed inside a historic building, this old-school microbrewery features a little bit of everything including tasty beers, trivia nights, and live music. Sip on offerings like the Mojito Moxie Blonde Ale, Opening Day IPA, and Black Betsy, munch on some pub favorites, and soak up the lively Cleveland atmosphere.
Marotta’s
2289 Lee Rd, Cleveland, OH 44118
Some Clevelanders will tell you this Cleveland Heights eatery is the spot for pizza, chicken parmesan, and other Italian favorites. Indeed guests can find authentic cuisine, delicious wines, and a cozy atmosphere perfect for an intimate meal.
During warmer months, guests can enjoy their meals in a covered outdoor dining area.
Explore Some of the Best Hidden Gems in Cleveland
From beautiful gardens and cemeteries and authentic eateries to amazing, high-up views of the city, Cleveland’s hidden gems offer a chance to get away from the highly trafficked areas and discover another side of The Land.
Whether you’re a lifelong Cleveland resident wanting to explore more of the city or a curious traveler looking to avoid tourist traps and big crowds, these hidden gems in Cleveland offer a diverse array of experiences to make your Cleveland visit a memorable one.