Other cities might highlight their family-friendly attractions, but Cleveland has given them a new twist. Following a ten-year, $150 million overhaul, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History hashas been recognized as one of the World’s Most Beautiful Museums byPrix Versailles, an honor previously given to onlyseven museums.
Cleveland becomes part of the global scene for design and innovation, as the sole natural history museum on the list and one of just two museums in the United States.
“This global acknowledgment is a source of pride for our Museum and the city of Cleveland. It signifies a larger cultural revival taking place throughout the city—fueled by teamwork, imagination, and a common conviction that exceptional institutions are right here,” said Sonia Winner, President & CEO of theCleveland Museum of Natural History.
However, this is not solely about architectural prestige. This renovation marks the most recent in a series of investments that have turned this Rust Belt city into the Midwest’s most unexpected family-friendly destination.
It’s not by chance—it’s a plan. Cleveland providesa wide range of cultural, sports, anddiningoptions while ensuring Midwest accessibility and cost-effectiveness.
Cleveland’s Cultural Renaissance
The recent Prix Versailles award received by the Cleveland Museum of Natural History was not an isolated event; the honor symbolizes the city’s long-term cultural evolution over the past ten years.
Most museums showcase conventional, fixed displays categorized by subject or era. The new galleries present a cohesive narrative about life on Earth.
By making visitors the focus of our planet’s story, we’re encouraging everyone to develop a stronger grasp of science and a bond with nature,” says Sonia Winner, President and CEO. “Every element of our newly transformed Museum is designed to realize a single, cohesive vision: to support healthy individuals, a healthy Earth, and a brighter future for everyone.
Minutes away, the Cleveland Museum of Artregularly appears among the top visited destinations globally. This is not a museum you can simply visit, glance at a few van Goghs, and then head to the nearest pub. It houses more than 61,000 artistic pieces covering 6,000 years — featuring oil paintings by Picasso, ancient Greek statues, and 100 vibrant depictions of Marilyn Monroe by Andy Warhol.
The gallery also features the 40-foot ArtLens Wall, which rotates through the museum’s full collection by showcasing a different set every 40 seconds. Parents with young children can join special Stroller Tours, helping to make high art available to the youngest members of the family.
A visit to Cleveland isn’t complete without a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, which has an extensive collection of items for all fans. Dad can enjoy the current Bon Jovi Forever full-flood exhibit, showcasing unique pieces from the band’s over 40-year career.
The current exhibition, “Right Here Right Now,” showcases objects from Billie Eilish, Harry Styles, Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, and, indeed, Taylor Swift.
Expanding Family Entertainment
The city’s three top professional sports teams—the Browns, Guardians, and Cavaliers—are based in downtown Cleveland. The Kids Clubhouse at Progressive Field gives children the chance to view the baseball team’s locker room and try out the batter’s box for a realistic, virtual reality experience.
The Browns have established a comparable family-focused system through their Jr. Browns Backers, which links young football enthusiasts aged four to twelve to member-exclusive events, special merchandise, and entry to an online activity hub.
The top family entertainment can be found at Playhouse Square, which is the largest performing arts complex in the country outside of New York City. The theater area includes eleven venues located within a single block and presents more than 1,000 shows each year, including Broadway productions, comedy acts, concerts, and ballet performances.
Take a picture beneath the large outdoor chandelier, anInstagram-worthy landmarkThat has become just as much a part of Cleveland as the lakefront itself.
Award-Wining Dining
Four regional chefs have received notable James Beard Award nominations this year, a culinary honor that positions Cleveland among other popular food cities like Nashville and Portland.
Vinnie Cimino of Cordelia, arguably one of the city’s top dining experiences, was a finalist for Best Chef: Great Lakes. With a deep-rooted heritagerecipesand drinks influenced by nearby farms, the group has also been recognized as Cleveland Magazine’s 2023 Best New Restaurant and one of Tasting Table’s 22 Best New Restaurants across the United States.
The James Beard award confirms what residents already believe: Cleveland’s chefs produce outstanding cuisine.foodwith a friendly environment where excellence does not imply exclusivity.
“What sets Cleveland’s dining scene apart is its remarkable blend of cultures and warm hospitality. Whether it’s the most authentic, perfectly crafted Szechuan soup dumplings or pizza that stands up to the best slices in NYC, there’s something for everyone. We welcome you at the door with big smiles and invite you into our homes as our grandparents did, and just like she did, we ensure you’re well-fed,” says Vinnie Cimino.
Cleveland’s food scene goes beyond traditional fine dining spots. At Happy Dog, guests can personalize all-beef hot dogs with homemade sloppy joe, Spaghetti Os, garlicky escarole, or caramelized onions. The city’s desserts have gained a loyal fanbase. Mitchell’s Ice Cream offers handcrafted flavors, including kid-friendly Blue Cosmo ice cream cones and vegan salted caramel pecan (a must-try). Visit their Ohio City Kitchen location to see the ice cream and toppings being made from scratch.
Unique Cleveland Experiences
Families who love adventure can travel 60 miles to the west and exploreCedar Point Amusement ParkSome of the world’s most towering and high-speed roller coasters. This proximity removes the necessity for costly multi-day theme park packages, offering the same thrilling experiences that usually demand trips to California or Florida.
“Cleveland is among the rare mid-sized cities where families can experience acclaimed museums and cultural offerings along with outdoor adventures,” says Emily Lauer, Vice President of PR & Communications atDestination Cleveland.
Distinctive to Cleveland, the A Christmas Story House is one of its most notable landmarks. Filled with sentimentality, guests can explore the very rooms where Ralphie envisioned his Red Ryder BB Gun and also view the famous leg lamp.
Lauer adds, “Cleveland provides family entertainment that caters to every preference, combining elements of history, outdoor exploration, child-friendly restaurants, and budget-friendly activities.”
