Kid Friendly Things To Do In Cleveland Ohio

Experience Culture At The Cleveland Museum Of Art

Cuyahoga Valley National Park | Best Things To Do Near Cleveland Ohio | National Park Travel Show

Give your children a taste of fine art at the Cleveland Museum of Art. Admission to the main galleries is always free. To make a visit more appealing for children, the museum offers treasure hunt brochures, which turn children from passive observers into active participants while exploring the museum. In addition, the museum hosts special family days throughout the year that highlight certain exhibits, art forms or calendar events, and some of the programs are free.

Cleveland Museum of Art

clevelandart.org

Where To Stay In Cleveland With Kids

We stayed at The Kimpton-Schofield Hotel which is an absolutely beautiful property in downtown Cleveland. We had connecting rooms, one with a king bed and the other with two queen beds which the kids shared.

Both rooms had a beautiful window view of the street which was nice.

Other family friendly hotels in Cleveland:

Find A Giant Rubber Stamp

Cleveland is home to the giant FREE Rubber Stamp. You can see the worlds largest stamp for free in Willard Park in downtown Cleveland. While you are in downtown Cleveland, there are plenty of fun activities to do, such as the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame, Great Lakes Science Center, and the USS COD.

We would like to thank our friends at This is Cleveland for providing complimentary admission into a few of these great attractions.

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+ Fun Things To Do In Cleveland With Kids

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You may think of Cleveland as a place to take your children to for a fun vacation but youd be very surprised to find put how kid friendly Cleveland is.

To some extent we think we need to head to a tropical island or famous theme park in order to take our kids on a great vacation, but that is simply not true. However, there are plenty of really fun things to do in Cleveland with kids.

Contents

  • Cleveland Itinerary
  • Things To Do In Cleveland With Kids Year Round

    Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

    Did you have any idea that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame was located in Cleveland? That fun fact often takes people by surprise. Cleveland has been the home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame since 1986 and is a wonderful place to visit if you love music.

    At the museum you can see amazing exhibits such as costumes and guitars from some of musics most famous faces or even the Beatles car!

    Its also worth noting that the exhibits here change often, so even if you have been here before, itll be worth a return trip to see more stuff!

    The kids favorite part of this exhibit was being able to play the instruments. They had so much fun here they didnt want to leave.

    Great Lakes Science Center

    If you do visit the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, make sure to take a little walk over to the Great Lakes Science Center? This place will entertain you and your children for hours and hours.

    With a playground for young children, an interactive science center for all of the kids as well as gorgeous views of the lake and if you are lucky to be there during peak season, you might be able to hop on a cruise of Lake Erie.

    As an added bonus, if you happen to be a member of your local science museum, you might even find yourself with free or reduced admission. We are members of our science center in California so it was free for us.

    University Circle

    • Cleveland Botanical Garden

    The Childrens Museum of Cleveland

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    Super Fun Things To Do In Ohio With Kids

    There are so many fun things to do in Ohio with kids! Whether you live here or plan to visit, these Ohio attractions for families make for fun day trips, staycations or vacations for all ages!

    From beaches to hills, farmland to caves, you can just about find it all in Ohio! If youre looking for a museum, an outdoor adventure, an indoor water park or the best donut youve ever tasted, you wont be disappointed!

    With a population of over 11 million people, Ohio is the 7th largest state in the United States. Ohio is bordered on the north by Lake Erie and the south by the Ohio River. The entire state includes 3,877 square miles of water.

    I grew up in Ohio and I have lived here for the majority of my life. Thats a lot of time spent exploring Ohio! Even after all these years I continue to be surprised by the diversity of scenery that can be found in this underrated midwest state!

    From the hills of Hocking Hills to the farmland of Amish Country to the shores of Lake Erie, traveling to a new part of the state can feel like an unexpected getaway!

    Ohios slogan is So Much to Discover and it couldnt be more true! There is so much to love about Ohio! I think you might be surprised at all the fun things there are to do in Ohio! Take a look through this list of fun things for families to do in Ohio and plan your next day out!

    Other Things To Do In Cleveland With Kids

    We wanted to do so much but we didnt have much time, so below are some things that I put on my list for the next time we visit. If youre spending more than four days in Cleveland Im sure youll be able to see more.

    Greater Cleveland Aquarium

    If you want to see your child excited to be learning, a trip to the Greater Cleveland Aquarium will be an amazing way to spend time in Cleveland with your kids.

    This aquarium has been built in a restored powerhouse on the Cuyahoga River. It is home to thousands of underwater creatures from all over the world.

    This aquarium with its walk through sea-tube is a great place to head with your kids during your trip to Cleveland.

    Lake Metroparks Farmpark

    Would you like your children to receive a hands-on view of what the agricultural industry is all about? Then you need to head on down to Lake Metroparks Farmpark.

    Your children can visit this 235 acre park and milk a cow, take a seat on farm equipment, ride a farm wagon, milk a real dairy cow, and even meet other fun farmyard animals.

    Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

    At close to 200 acres, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is home to over 3000 birds, fish, reptiles, mammals and more.

    In addition, this zoo is located within one of the most beautiful park systems in the entire country, which makes the experience just that much better.

    Sweetie Candy Company

    Cleveland Sports

    • Baseball Celeveland Indians

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    Have A Picnic Or A Swim At A Lakeside Park

    One of the major perks of Cleveland is its location on Lake Erie! A picnic and a swim is always an affordable option !

    Our family enjoyed a picnic lunch at Voinovich Park, which is situated close to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Great Lakes Science Center. If you require a swim, Edgewater Park is popular among visitors and locals you can even bring your fishing pole and try your luck at getting some Lake Erie perch!

    Where to stay: The Residence Inn Downtown has plenty of room for the entire family!

    See The Stan Hywet Hall And Gardens

    Great Lakes Science Center – 5 things to see (Kid-friendly attraction)

    Spanning 70-acres, the Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens is a recognized National Historic Landmark and one of the largest homes in America.

    Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens | Photo by Tom Bower via Flickr

    Drone Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens | Chris Stabile via YouTube

    The massive and impressive country estate was once the home of F.A. Seiberling, the co-founder of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. The estate boasts an array of recreational facilities: tennis courts, golf course, lagoons for swimming and boating, an indoor swimming pool, and a gymnasium. Explore the home of one of the most notable citizens in Akron informational tours are available for an interesting look into the house and its owners.

    Outside, meander to the beautiful English Garden designed by Ellen Shipman, one of the few restored Shipman gardens available to the public. Time your trip well, though the grounds are only open from April 1 to December 30, except on Mondays.

    714 N Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303, United States Admission: the price of admission for tours ranges from $6 to $28 Ph: +1 330-836-5533

    Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors: Big Eye Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar Valley Café Restaurant Akron Pavonas Pizza Joint

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    Visit The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame And Museum

    Rock and Roll Museum | Photo by Melissa Moore

    Cleveland rocks! In fact, rock and roll is a Cleveland-coined term! The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museumtraces music history back to the origins of early rock to present day.

    You dont have to be a super fan or even a fan at all to be touched by the artifacts youll see. Among them notebook pages with lyrics scrawled on them by famous hands, kitschy memorabilia that may still be gathering dust in your parents attic, and belongings that show the humanity of someone reaching for a dream that few attain.

    There are a lot of historical items, as well those belonging to modern day artists kids may be more familiar with like Bruno Mars, Taylor Swift or Katy Perry. The interactive exhibit, Part of the Machine: Rock & Pinball showcases rock-themed, playable pinball machines featuring icons like Alice Cooper, Dolly Parton, Guns n Roses and of course, the band behind the hit, Pinball Wizard, The Who!

    Visitors receive free tokens with their admission so gather your Pinball Wizards and go! The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is beside the Great Lakes Science Center making for a fun and easy day.

    Stare At A Masterpiece At The Cleveland Museum Of Art

    Its hard to believe that a museum of this caliber is FREE! The Cleveland Museum of Art is home to 30,000 works of art and there is sure to be something to entertain families of all ages.

    Weve been to the CMA three times with our young family. While their favorites so far were the Armor Court, and the escalator , it has been a positive for us to expose our children to art at a young age! Maybe the biggest question came from our son who wondered why there were so many naked people! If nothing else, its a great way to spend a cold day in Cleveland and sitting inside the museums atrium it feels like youre outside in the sun.

    The Museum is closed on Mondays. Large backpacks are not permitted and must be checked. There is a nursing room available.

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    Cleveland History Center Merry

    10825 East Blvd, Cleveland

    Discover the history of the city at this family-friendly museum in Cleveland. Check out vintage cars, textiles, and fine arts at the Cleveland History Center, which is managed by the Western Reserve Historical Society.

    While some kids will enjoy the old cars in the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum Exhibit and learning about Clevelands history, the real kid-friendly draw here is to take a spin on the carousel from 1910! The historic merry-go-round used to be located at Euclid Beach Park on Clevelands lakefront, but has been restored and is now a major fixture at the History Center.

    Hours: Friday-Sunday 10 am-4 pm.

    Admission: $12 for adults, $10 for seniors aged 62+ and college students with ID, $9 for veterans, $6 children ages 3-12, and children 2 and under as well as active military are free.

    Parking: Parking is available in the museums adjacent parking lot located off Magnolia Drive. There is a fee to park , which can be paid upon exit using a credit card.

    Food: The museum does have a small cafe with light meals.

    Accessibility note: The museum is accessible, has elevators, and has wheelchairs available for guest use. Strollers are also allowed inside.

    COVID-19 update: Advanced tickets are recommended. These can be purchased here. The carousel is currently only open for rides on Saturdays and Sundays.

    Best Ice Cream In Cleveland: Honey Hut In Parma Oh

    In 1974, when Frank and Marianne Page converted an old shoe repair an ice cream shop, they only served two flavors: vanilla and chocolate. But it wasnt until they created their signature flavor, Honey Pecan, that they knew they were on to something. To this day, they still create flavors togetherall sweetened with honey and based on local, seasonal ingredients. Here are some of the flavors you might find on their rotating menu:

    • Honey Pecan: an iteration of the classic butter pecan, made with roasted nuts, and also available in chocolate.
    • Orange Blossom: crafted with orange zest and orange blossom honey/
    • Honey Cinnamon: with a honey ice cream base and sweet Vietnamese cinnamon.
    • Lemon Meringue: house-made graham cracker crust crumbled into lemon ice cream.
    • Pumpkin Pie: with or without roasted pecans.

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    Fun Things To Do In Cleveland With Kids Family Friendly Activities

    Being the largest city in Ohio, Cleveland sure has a lot of adventures and attractions for kids waiting to be explored by your family.

    Cleveland was founded by Gen. Moses Cleaveland in 1796 and soon grew from being a port city to a major manufacturing center.

    After the world wars, Cleveland was the major city to have risen from the ashes and was declared to be the best location in America.

    This gave birth to its lively sports and music scene, while its economic recovery in the 80s saw the establishment of various cultural institutions that you should visit.

    Here are fun things to do in Cleveland with kids if this sounds like your next family vacation.

    Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve

    The Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve covers over 88 acres of what was once a lake-side dumping ground for solid waste. Amazingly, this unsightly dump site has blossomed to become an urban nature preserve alongside the Port of Cleveland, where you can bring the children to enjoy some outdoor fun in the sun. The preserve is home to three hiking trails which wind through a good mix of wildlife habitats including forests, grasslands, meadows and wetlands which attract a good mix of butterflies, birds, reptiles and small animals. It is a great place for children to enjoy nature, learn about bird-watching and get some outdoor exercise. Entrance is free.

    Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve, 8701 Lakeshore Blvd, NE, Cleveland, OH 44108, Phone: 216-377-1348

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    Dine At Diamond Grille

    Akron is a hidden gem for culinary delights. The city is full of restaurants and bars specializing in Midwest comfort foods.

    Diamond Grille all time favorite steak | Photo by Aaron N. via Yelp

    A local would point you to the direction of the beloved Akron landmark: Diamond Grille, an old school steakhouse established in 1941. Try the porterhouse well known as one of the best steaks in the area. The restaurant also has a great selection of fresh seafood such as lobster, oysters, scallops, and fish.

    77 W Market St, Akron, OH 44308, United States Admission: Free

    Ralph Perkins Ii Wildlife Center& Woods Gardenpresented By Keybank

    Half Day at Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Things to Do

    The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is home to a variety of fascinating artifacts. Visit the beloved canine hero Balto then step back to a time when dinosaurs roamed. Guests can find engaging exhibits throughout the museums inside, but a real gem awaits outside the museum.

    The Ralph Perkins II Wildlife Center & Woods GardenPresented by KeyBankoffers a new world of discovery. The Wildlife Center allows guests to get up close and personal with the animals in Ohio. Each of the animals at the Perkins Wildlife Center has a fascinating story of rescue, making them unable to return to the wild. Learn about the coyote family delivered on the side of the road after the mom was killed or how the majestic bald eagle was blasted out of her nest and now lives with a permanently injured wing. A few animals were born in captivity that solely relies on their caretakers.

    Stroll along the elevated walkway that overlooks the habitats of these native Ohio animals. See the River Otters playfully swimming, while Meeko, the albino raccoon, can be seen taking his afternoon nap. The Ralph Perkins II Wildlife Center& Woods GardenPresented by KeyBank is one spot that is a must-see.

    Address: 1 Wade Oval Dr, Cleveland, OH 44106

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    African Safari Wildlife Park

    267 S Lightner Rd, Port Clinton

    Did you know you can feel like youre on safari right here in Ohio? The African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton has both a drive-thru and walk-thru safari where you can see all sorts of interesting animals up close.

    Slowly drive in your own vehicle past wildlife including alpaca, American bison, giraffes, zebra, deer, and more! Then you can walk around and spot wallabies, pigs, kangaroo, scarlet macaws, birds, etc.

    They also have animal encounters like the chance to feed animals both in the drive thru and walk thru experiences, go on camel rides, and learn how to train a pig. There are also education programs for children.

    Hours: 10 am-5 pm in the spring and fall and 9 am-7 pm in the summer. Some weekends are 9 am-6 pm.

    Admission: Spring/fall is $20.95 for adults, $14.95 for children ages 3-6, and children under 3 are free. Summer and extended rates are $29.95 for adults, $20.95 for children 3-6, and free for children under 3. Seniors 55+, military, and first responders get $3 off adult admission.

    This is not a completely exhaustive list, but hopefully it will give you some new ideas of kid-friendly things you can do in Cleveland!

    Which of the top things to do in Cleveland with kids would you most like to do with your family?

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