A Pittsburgher’s Guide to Cleveland

Sure, the age-old Steelers-Browns rivalry makes yinzers think we should hate on Cleveland, but we’re actually a lot alike — and Pittsburghers can find tons to love there. Both cities are surrounded by water, rooted in an industrial past, and have thriving arts and culture scenes. And since it's just a two-hour drive away, it’s a great destination for a quick trip.

Need inspiration? Here’s a Pittsburgher’s guide to a Cleveland getaway.

If you like Point State Park and Three Rivers Heritage Trail, visit…

Lakewood Park Solstice Steps

Nothing compares to watching the sunset on the water. The Solstice Steps, built in a 25-acre park that sits in the middle of the city's shoreline, are right along the cliff overlooking Lake Erie. And much like our Point State Park and trails, this area has seen an impressive transformation. It used to be a debris landfill!

If you like CMOA and The Frick, visit…

The Cleveland Museum of Art

The Cleveland Museum of Art features more than 63,000 artworks spanning 6,000 years! Plus, admission to its permanent collection is always free. Take a guided tour or check their special events calendar for live music, lectures, festivals, and more.

If you like Trace Brewing’s Summer Fridays, visit…

Collision Bend Brewing

Sipping beer along the water just tastes better, doesn’t it? Head to Collision Bend Brewing in the Flats neighborhood, where you can watch boats float down the Cuyahoga while you sample a classic German Kolsch. Want more recs? Here are some of our other favorite breweries in the CLE.

If you like Pittsburgh thrift stores and Randyland, visit…

Paradise Galleria

Visit Cleveland’s funky “mall of dreams” for a treasure hunt in a vibrant, quirky space. It’s packed with clothing, home decor, and accessories — all presented in colorful, whimsical displays. Look for the secret refrigerator door that leads to a room adorned with stringlights, and take the slide to get to the basement, where there’s even more trinkets to explore!

If you like S&D Polish Deli and Party Cake Shop, visit…

Rudy’s Strudel

Like Pittsburgh, Cleveland is known for pierogi and other Polish eats. Drive 20 minutes south of Cleveland to Parma’s historic Polish Village to visit this local institution. Order pierogi stuffed with potato, mushroom, cabbage, and more savory fillings — or try a sweet variety with apple, blueberry, or prune. Don’t leave without getting Kolachki & Cream, vanilla ice cream with swirls of the classic Eastern European pastry.

If you like Falls Run Park and McConnells Mill State Park, visit…

Brandywine Falls

Pittsburgh has some stunning nearby waterfalls, but a trip to Cuyahoga Valley National Park might just blow all of them out of the water. Brandywine Falls is a 60-foot cascade along the Brandywine Gorge Loop, a 1.5 mile circle featuring gorgeous views along the deep ravine.

If you like Soergels Orchard and Narcisci Winery, visit…

Cleveland Winery & Animal Sanctuary

Love the casual vibes of sipping cider at a farm? Or the picturesque setting of a winery? Get the best of both worlds at this winery and animal sanctuary in Old Brooklyn, located on 1.5 acres in an old schoolyard, where you can meet rescue goats, pigs, and ducks while sipping on your favorite blend.

If you like shopping on Penn Avenue, visit…

West Side Market

Imagine if all of your go-to Strip District food stores were under one roof. That’s what Cleveland’s oldest publicly-owned market is like, with more than 70 vendors selling goods from all different cultural backgrounds. Step inside this Neoclassical-inspired 1840s building to shop for produce, fresh-cut meats, spices, baked goods, and more — a perfect spot to grab tasty ingredients for a city picnic!

If you like Phipps Conservatory and Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, visit…

Cleveland Cultural Gardens

Take a stroll through these 36 dedicated gardens in Cleveland’s Rockefeller Park. The grounds, all designed and cultivated by cultural groups, were started over 100 years ago as a way for immigrants to honor their heritage. Along your walk, you’ll notice statues and markers honoring poets, peacemakers, scientists, artists, and more.