27 Bucket List Worthy Things to Do Indoors in Cleveland

In every season, Greater Cleveland experiences weather that is... well, less than favorable. Whether rain or chill keeps you inside for a couple of days, there's no shortage of cool things to do indoors in Cleveland. Chase off cabin fever by checking out these super cool Northeast Ohio destinations:

Best Things To Do Indoors In Cleveland

If you’re looking for top-rated things to do indoors in Cleveland, then you’re in for a treat! There is so much to love about these iconic destinations, which have been celebrated by Clevelanders and out-of-towners alike.

1. Explore all the possibilities at the Great Lakes Science Center

• Address: 601 Erieside Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114 | Video Tour
• Neighborhood: Downtown
• Website: https://greatscience.com/
• What to Do: Check out unique exhibits that make science and discovery fun.

Weird and wonderful, the Great Lakes Science Center is a museum, a lab/educational facility, and a showcase for discovery. This unique Cleveland attraction is friendly to visitors of all ages, offering hands-on exhibits to help you wade into wonder. All in all, the Great Lakes Science Center offers 65,000 square feet of fun for all ages! In addition to unique exhibits, the Great Lakes Science Center is also home to the NASA Glenn Visitor Center... which is truly a treat for locals, as NASA only has a handful of visitor-friendly attractions throughout the country.

As one of the area’s best day trip destinations, this neat attraction belongs on your bucket list. It’s open to visitors until 5 p.m. every day but Monday, opening at noon on Sundays and at 10 a.m. every other day. General admission ranges from $13.95 to $16.95, with discounts for seniors and college students.

10 Minutes Away: Explore the shops and restaurants of Cleveland’s charming AsiaTown neighborhood.

2. Dive into music history at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

• Address: 1100 E 9th St, Cleveland, OH 44114 | Video Tour
• Neighborhood: Downtown
• Website: https://www.rockhall.com/
• What to Do: Explore music history at one of Cleveland’s most unforgettable museums.

At the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, artists that are considered to be part of the rock music genre or heavy influences to it are honored in a unique way. This one-of-a-kind hall of fame, which lives in the city where "rock 'n roll" was coined as a term, opened in 1986 and has been delighting visitors ever since. Here, memorabilia related to some of the biggest musical artists in history finds a permanent home. During your visit, you'll also learn about unique moments in music history, so come with an open mind and a desire to learn.

The Rock Hall is open daily starting at 10 a.m. It closes between 5 and 9 p.m. depending on the day, so be sure to check their hours before you plan your visit. Admission is $25 for children and $35 for adults.

5 Minutes Away: Want to check out more Cleveland History? Swing by the Cleveland Grays Armory Museum.

3. Visit the big-screen worthy A Christmas Story House & Museum

• Address: 3159 W 11th St, Cleveland, OH 44109 | Video Tour
• Neighborhood: Tremont
• Website: https://www.achristmasstoryhouse.com/
• What to Do: Make magical memories when you visit Ralphie’s house from A Christmas Story.

Much of A Christmas Story was filmed in Cleveland, which is evident from the wide variety of local landmarks showcased in the movie. Most notably, Higbee's sets the scene for Ralphie's "love at first sight" encounter with the Red Ryder BB Gun. Of course, Ralphie's family home is also in Cleveland, and it's now a museum.

The A Christmas Story House is a year-round attraction in Tremont, Ohio. Beautifully restored and filled to the brim with movie props, memorabilia, and rare behind-the-scenes surprises, this museum is truly a beloved attraction. Plus, visitors can spend the night! The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission ranges from $11 for kids to $15 for adults.

1 Minute Away: Cozy up with comfort food at Rowley Inn, where the crew from A Christmas Story once hung out after a long day’s work.

Honorable Mentions

Craving more? Don’t worry… there’s no shortage of cool indoor attractions in Cleveland! These additional top-rated spots just might strike your fancy.

4. Warm up at the Cleveland Museum of Art

When it comes to coveted Cleveland destinations, few places rival the Cleveland Museum of Art. This fantastic attraction is always free to visit (unless you’re checking out one of the on-site traveling exhibits), and it is full of charm. From ancient art to modern-day masterpieces, the collection in this 588,000-square-foot space is always fun to check out.

5. Chill out at the Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland

If modern art is more your vibe, then the Museum of Contemporary Art belongs on your bucket list. As one of the best museums in Cleveland, this cool spot boasts ever-rotating exhibits with a focus on local artists. They offer free admission on the first Saturday of every month, so you’ll love the opportunity to see stunning creations from local creatives.

6. Shop 'til you drop at the West Side Market

The West Side Market is Cleveland to the core. This incredible shopping center got its start in 1840, operating just across the street from where its massive expanse currently stands. For nearly two centuries, locals have flocked here for handcrafted treats, local produce, and so much more. If you come hungry, be prepared to carry everything you pick up… there’s a lot waiting to tantalize your taste buds at this long-standing landmark!

Best Things To Do Indoors With Kids In Cleveland

Finding the right family-friendly attraction for your crew can be hard... unless you're looking in Greater Cleveland, that is! These cool family-friendly spots will get the whole family out of the house for some good old-fashioned fun!

7. Get to know local wildlife at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium

• Address: 2000 Sycamore St, Cleveland, OH 44113 | Video Tour
• Neighborhood: Flats
• Website: https://www.greaterclevelandaquarium.com/
• What to Do: Visit local and international underwater wildlife in a vibrant and engaging environment.

The incredible Greater Cleveland Aquarium has something for everyone. Since it opened in 2012, the aquarium has drawn all sorts of visitors to the Cleveland Flats. And it’s no wonder why! The historic FirstEnergy Powerhouse building houses touch tanks, unique critters that now live in former smoke stacks, and a mesmerizing 175-foot underwater SeaTube where sharks swim just overhead. Complete with unique events (like a scuba diving Santa and daily feedings), this spot is truly fun for the whole family.

The aquarium is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with special events offered on select occasions outside of those normal hours. General admission is $13.95 for kids under 12 and $19.95 for adults. Parking is available right in front of the venue, but remember to wear comfortable walking shoes — there’s much to see here, and you’ll want to spend an hour at minimum exploring all the exhibits!

5 Minutes Away: Grab lunch at Merwin's Wharf, which is owned and operated by the Cleveland Metroparks.

8. Swing by the Baseball Heritage Museum for a new perspective on Americana

• Address: 6601 Lexington Ave, Cleveland, OH 44103 | Video Tour
• Neighborhood: Hough
• Website: https://baseballheritagemuseum.org/
• What to Do: Enjoy a unique introduction into the local history of Cleveland’s favorite sport.

The Baseball Heritage Museum will introduce you to Cleveland’s past like you’ve never seen it before. Located in the old ticket office that once welcomed guests to League Park, the museum truly takes you back in time. Here, memorabilia from Cleveland’s baseball history is preserved in an engaging way. From the very first professional game in 1869 to the modern era, Cleveland has had a long time to amass baseball artifacts, and many of those are preserved here. See historic photos of Cleveland’s old teams, check out game-used memorabilia, view old uniforms, and learn all about the people that made Cleveland baseball such a special pastime.

The museum is open Thursday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free, but a $10 donation is recommended to help the museum continue serving the public. Field trips and group trips are also offered if you’re interested in organizing a totally unique outing for your class, family, or company!

5 Minutes Away: Check out Dunham Tavern Museum, the oldest standing building in Cleveland.

9. Explore the Western Reserve Historical Society’s Cleveland History Center

• Address: 10825 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106 | Video Tour
• Neighborhood: University Circle
• Website: https://www.wrhs.org/
• What to Do: Explore a massive campus full of history in Cleveland’s vibrant University Circle.

If you’re looking for engaging history, check out the Western Reserve Historical Society. While many local museums simply fill a building or two, the Western Reserve Historical Society spans a wide campus consisting of the Hay-McKinney Mansion, the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum, and the Bingham-Hanna House. The massive museum boasts roots stretching back to 1869, which makes it Cleveland's oldest continually operating cultural institution. And, of course, its collection is always growing. From historic cars and costumes to the old Euclid Beach Amusement Park carousel (which you can actually ride), there’s an endless array of things to see at this neat spot.

The museum is open Thursday from noon to 8 p.m., and every Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parking is available on-site, and tickets range from $8 to $15 dollars (plus tax). Veterans, seniors, and college students will enjoy additional discounts to bring their rate down. Come prepared to walk, because you could easily spend hours exploring the whole campus.

5 Minutes Away: Step into a world of Tiffany glass-encrusted beauty in Wade Memorial Chapel.

Honorable Mentions

Looking for more outdoor adventure to enjoy with the kids? Check out these additional destinations for tons of fun for all ages.

10. Swing by the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland Learning Center and Money Museum

Looking for more bang for your buck? A trip to the Money Museum won’t break the bank! Puns aside, this free museum in Cleveland is fun for all ages. Learn about currency around the world, try your hand at identifying counterfeit bills, and dive into the highs and lows of economic history.

11. Unleash pure creativity at the Children's Museum of Cleveland

Few places are as unabashedly family-friendly as the Children’s Museum! Hidden inside the extravagant and historic Stager-Beckwith Mansion, this wide array of fantastic exhibits provides hands-on fun for the little ones. From the Wonder Lab to the Making Miniatures room, kids will unleash their own ingenuity as they dive into a world of wonder.

Romantic Things To Do Indoors In Cleveland

Love is in the air... indoors and out! These romantic indoor destinations in Cleveland are sure to make you and your special someone swoon. With a charming atmosphere and unique features, each memorable destination will pull on the heartstrings of all local lovebirds.

12. Grab dinner at the oldest restaurant in Cleveland

• Address: 12309 Mayfield Rd, Cleveland, OH 44106 | Video Tour
• Neighborhood: Little Italy
• Website: https://guarinoscleveland.com/
• What to Do: Dig into delicious Italian dishes at a Cleveland restaurant that locals have loved for more than a century.

Looking for a delicious and romantic dinner? You can’t go wrong with a visit to Guarino’s. Since 1918, this Little Italy restaurant has enchanted visitors. While it once served as a speakeasy during Prohibition and even entertained the likes of Frank Sinatra, it’s now known as a long-standing local restaurant. For more than a century, locals have entrusted this charming eatery to serve up classic Italian dishes in a warm, romantic setting. Their red sauce is something of a local legend, so you might even consider getting some to take home with your leftovers.

Guarino’s is closed Mondays, but it opens every other day at noon for lunch. Dinner ends between 8 and 10 p.m. depending on the day of the week, so plan accordingly before your visit. This is an immensely popular restaurant in Cleveland’s Little Italy, so you might consider making a reservation if you’re swinging by during busy hours.

10 Minutes Away: Get to know more old-school Cleveland in the Rockefeller Park Greenhouse, which is free and open to the public.

13. Catch a show in one of the Playhouse Square theaters

• Address: 1501 Euclid Ave #200, Cleveland, OH 44115 | Video Tour
• Neighborhood: Theater District
• Website: playhousesquare.org/
• What to Do: Pose with a giant outdoor chandelier before you head inside a warm and welcoming theater for a show.

All in all, Cleveland’s Playhouse Square boasts a total of 11 performance spaces. As the largest performing center in the United States outside of Broadway, this breathtaking district in Cleveland is understandably dripping with elegance. All of its theaters were constructed in a span of just 19 months back in the 1920s, and to this day they preserve the energy of the era. With rich jewel tones and Art Deco elements, each theater is dark, dreamy, and ready to captivate the imagination.

Performances take place in this neat neighborhood throughout the year. You can visit Playhouse Square’s website to learn more about what’s currently showing and where you can grab tickets. From coveted performances to up-and-coming plays, there’s something for everyone in Cleveland’s theater district.

5 Minutes Away: Learn more about the Cleveland of yesteryear at the The Western Reserve Fire Museum and Education Center.

Honorable Mentions

Still looking for more date night destinations? These additional romantic attractions in Cleveland are all indoors, and they're perfect for a dreamy night out.

14. Take it easy at Severance Hall

The Great Depression may have been in its early phases in 1929, but that didn’t slow down the construction of Severance Hall. The Beaux Arts building with Egyptian Revival elements is the home of the Cleveland Orchestra, and it is the perfect setting for a memorable show. With dim lighting and richly decadent architectural elements, the swell of powerful music makes this romantic spot a destination you won’t soon forget.

15. Grab dinner and explore history at the Great Lakes Brewing Co. Tasting Room

On Market Avenue just across the street from the West Side Market, Great Lakes Brewing Company boasts a charming little tasting room. In addition to local brews and delicious New American dishes, you’ll be served up a dose of history during your visit. If you look closely at the bar, you’ll spot Prohibition-era bullet holes dotting the wood. The story behind these scars from yesteryear has been lost to time, but it’s a fascinating reminder of the Ohio City neighborhood’s history.

Things To Do Indoors At Night In Cleveland

Looking for indoor attractions in Cleveland after hours? The following area hot spots are open late, so you can enjoy adventures even when the moon is high in the sky. These local landmarks will make your evenings fun!

16. Get lucky at the JACK Casino

• Address: 100 Public Square, Cleveland, OH 44113 | Video Tour
• Website: https://www.jackentertainment.com/cleveland/
• What To Do: Explore Downtown Cleveland’s most famous casino.

If you’re looking for a truly unique nighttime experience, you must check out JACK Cleveland Casino. This cool landmark, located in the old Higbee’s building, is open 24 hours. With 100,000 square feet of table games, slot machines, electronic games, and more, there’s so much to see and do here. Plus, as you’re playing, you’ll be interacting with Cleveland history… the casino was the first to open in Ohio back in 2012!

Visitors to the casino must be 21 or older to gamble, so this destination is perfect for an adults-only adventure. Gather your friends and get ready to put your luck to the test!

5 Minutes Away: Catch a game at Progressive Field before or after your visit for an energetic evening on the town.

17. Cozy up in Cleveland's oldest bar

• Address: Parking lot, 1219 Main Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113 | Video Tour
• Website: https://www.harborinncle.com/
• What to Do: Explore local history as you sip brews in Harbor Inn, Cleveland’s historic neighborhood bar.

Almost every Clevelander has a story at Harbor Inn. While there’s some uncertainty around its official opening date and history, locals agree that this place has been around as long as anyone can remember. Its founding is pinpointed to around 1895, and it has since settled into a cozy life as a welcoming neighborhood bar near the Flats’ more modern entertainment section. Filled to the brim with odd collectables and sports memorabilia, it’s an iconic spot to visit! Plus, with arcade and bar games, it always offers a bit of fun to round out your trip.

The bar is within walking distance of the Cuyahoga River, and it is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. It’s a cool place to wind down after exploring the energetic music venues and eateries in the Flats, but it truly has a vibe all its own.

10 Minutes Away: Chow down on the best pizza in Tremont at Edison's Pizza Kitchen.

18. Play games at Punch Bowl Social Cleveland

• Address: 1086 W 11th St, Cleveland, OH 44113 | Video Tour
• Website: https://punchbowlsocial.com/location/cleveland
• What To Do: Get to know the energy of the East Bank at one of the area’s coolest hangouts.

Longing to awaken your inner child? You’ll enjoy games galore at Punch Bowl Social in the Flats. With some 27,000 square feet of games like billiards, foosball, and minigolf, there’s something for everyone in this cool venue. Hang out on the rooftop or chill out at one of its bars… there are vibes galore at this high-energy landmark.

Of course, no night on the town is complete without a good meal. Fortunately, their menu is full of shareable dishes and comfort food. Of course, everything pairs perfectly with their seemingly endless selection of libations and creative cocktails. Swing by starting at 4 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. on weekends. Punch Bowl Social closes between midnight and 2 a.m., so be sure to check their hours before your plan your visit.

10 Minutes Away: Check out an authentic beer hall at Hofbräuhaus near Playhouse Square.

Honorable Mentions

Looking for more late-night attractions in and around Cleveland? These additional spots are bucket list worthy.

19. Get a late-night pizza at Gillespie's Map Room

Gillespie’s Map Room is a locale like no other. This casual neighborhood bar has a sky-high aviation theme to add aesthetic, but the menu is much more grounded. With options like hot dogs and pizza, comfort food takes center stage. Plus, they’re open daily until 2 a.m., so it’s the perfect place to grab a late-night snack!

20. Pile on the toppings at Happy Dog

Believe it or not, the primary offering at Happy Dog is (drum roll please) hot dogs. With vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone at this classic neighborhood bar. You’ll have the opportunity to pile your hot dog high with bizarre toppings, creating a culinary masterpiece in a laid-back and dimly lit old-school tavern.

Unique Things To Do Indoors In Cleveland

When it comes to unique attractions, Greater Cleveland is full of surprises. From the unexpected to the weird and wonderful, there's truly something for everyone in the area. These unique attractions are a one-of-a-kind way to experience all the great things that Cleveland has to offer.

21. Explore the Buckland Museum of Witchcraft

• Address: 2155 Broadview Rd, Cleveland, OH 44109 | Video Tour
• Neighborhood: Old Brooklyn
• Website: https://bucklandmuseum.org/
• What to Do: See one of the most unique collections in Cleveland.

Tiny but mighty, the Buckland Museum of Witchcraft & Magick is a landmark like no other. This odd museum of the occult features the personal collection of Raymond Buckland, the man credited with bringing Wicca to the United States. In addition to his personal possessions, you’ll also find artifacts related to Aleister Crowley, Gerald Gardner, and other famous occultists. Oh, and don’t forget to look for the demon in a box during your visit. The tiny space is packed with artifacts, but that’s definitely one worth bragging about.

Tour groups are small, so you’ll want to book your reservation in advance. Admission is just $8 per person, and tours are offered most days between noon and 5 p.m. Parking is conveniently located right behind the building. After you explore, you’ll want to spend some time getting to know their gift shop. From crystals to prints and books, there’s something for everyone on their shelves!

5 Minutes Away: Get to know a different sort of magic at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.

22. Keep the fun going at The Sanctuary Museum

• Address: 12905 Madison Ave, Lakewood, OH 44107 | Video Tour
• Neighborhood: Lakewood | Greater Cleveland
• Website: https://www.thesanctuarymuseum.org/
• What to Do: Admire beautifully restored religious art that was almost forgotten by time.

Speaking of unique museums in Greater Cleveland you absolutely must swing by the Sanctuary Museum. This one-of-a-kind museum is housed in the former St. Hedwig Church in Lakewood, and it is overflowing with a collection that’s downright divine. The mission of this church is to preserve religious art, and visitors will find themselves face-to-face with more than 200 works of art from churches around the world. From stained glass windows to statues to relics, the collection here is unlike any other in the area. Plus, it even tells a local story by preserving pieces of art from now-gone churches.

The museum is open Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. General admission is $12 per person, and admission for group tours outside of operating hours is $16. Please note that the museum is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible, and strollers are prohibited due to space constraints.

10 Minutes Away: Head up to Lakewood Park to explore the Oldest Stone House Museum.

23. Visit the USS Cod Submarine Memorial

• Address: 1201 N Marginal Rd, Cleveland, OH 44114 | Video Tour
• Neighborhood: Downtown
• Website: https://usscod.org/
• What To Do: Explore a historic submarine permanently moored on Lake Erie’s Cleveland coast.

There’s no historic landmark in Cleveland quite like the USS Cod. It’s an actual retired submarine that has found a permanent home as a museum here in Cleveland, and it is permanently moored right on the local coast. When it was commissioned in 1943, several pieces of the vessel were constructed right here in Cleveland, including its five V16 diesel engines. Over the years, the USS Cod served in World War II, operated as a NATO anti-submarine training vessel, and trained reservists in the Great Lakes.

Today, the USS Cod is enjoying its permanent retirement in Cleveland. It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at North Coast Harbor. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and veterans, $7 for children, and free to any active duty persons in military uniform.

10 Minutes Away: Dig into classic Cleveland comfort food at Slyman's Restaurant and Deli on St. Clair.

Honorable Mentions

But wait... there's more! These additional unique destinations in Cleveland will enchant you. From funky to genteel, these stops will add more adventure to your day and more highlights to your life.

25. Go shopping at Heinen's Downtown

There’s no grocery store anywhere in Cleveland that quite compares to Heinen’s Downtown. This neat shopping center is located in the iconic Cleveland Trust Company Rotunda, which previously sat abandoned for nearly two decades. When Heinen’s moved in, a new life was breathed into the old building. As you shop, you’ll find yourself surrounded by exquisite architecture that hearkens back to the turn of the century.

26. Admire the architecture of the Old Arcade

Speaking of shopping, no Cleveland outing is complete without a trip to the Arcade. This magnificent indoor shopping space was constructed in 1890, and it is considered by many to be a predecessor to modern shopping malls. The "indoor street," as it was known to many Victorian-era shoppers, is still a shopping center to this very day. Plus, the extravagance of yesteryear is preserved in its 300-foot-long skylight and other beautiful architectural elements.

27. Visit the Terminal Tower Observation Deck

Craving a bird’s eye view of Cleveland? Then you have to pay a visit to the Terminal Tower Observation Deck. This neat overlook on the 42nd floor of the Terminal Tower is open to the public on select occasions, and it is a real treat. From your overlook in Public Square, you’ll be able to gaze all the way to Lake Erie. The city has never looked so pretty!

Cleveland is a magnificent town full of stunning architecture, fascinating history, well-preserved nature, charming neighborhoods, and world-class attractions... inside and out! The indoor attractions outlined here are perfect for a rainy day. However, if you're seeking even more fun in the area, you have to check out our list of the best things to do in Cleveland.