12 Ways Cleveland Quietly Became The Coolest City In The Midwest
Cleveland is undeniably filled to the brim with many wonderful things, but did you know it is actually one of the coolest cities in the country? Its cityscape is comprised of a combination of historic preservation, Midwestern ideals and friendliness, and some very special residents. Everything about it makes the city more and more unforgettable, and Cleveland has risen above the Midwest as one of its most epic attractions. How, you ask? We could go on all day about the many reasons why the city is stellar, but we’ll list just a few things to put into perspective just how special Believeland is.
1. Cleveland is perhaps the only city that wears a grand Emerald Necklace.
The Emerald Necklace is, of course, the fond name Clevelanders use to refer to the Cleveland Metroparks nature preserves across Northeast Ohio. In total, our parks take up more than 21,000 acres of space, delighting the public and maintaining a natural environment amid an overwhelmingly industrial and urban region.
2. Cleveland is the birthplace of some incredible ideas.
Two young Clevelanders invented Superman in the 1930s as they attempted to escape the poverty of the Depression. The boys, writer Jerry Siegel and illustrator Joe Shuster, were rejected over and over by publishers, and they theorized that it was due to their youth. However, in 1938, the rights were finally purchased by Detective Comics, Inc. (a predecessor of the modern DC Comics) when the pair were both 24. Superman is only one of many great ideas born in Cleveland.
3. We are home to some mind-boggling architecture.
Cleveland is beautiful in so many ways, but offbeat buildings like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame add a little pizzazz to the landscape. From the Free Stamp to the twists and turns of the Peter B. Lewis building, our architectural masterpieces continue to captivate.
Cleveland is so quirky that it's cool. Our giant outdoor chandelier illuminates the city by night, amazing food festivals span across the city and its suburbs, and many familiar sights have become the backdrop for some amazing movies. Cleveland has a unique story to tell, and its citizens have ensured that its highlights are celebrated.
The art scene is so vibrant that it is spilling over onto the streets. Remarkable statues and paintings greet the eye at every opportunity, and each one is spectacular in a unique way.
Our superabundance of mom and pop type restaurants ensure that there is no shortage of home cookin', and our fancier eateries provide unimaginably crafted cuisine. Whatever you are craving, you'll find it in Cleveland.
It seems that there is always some sort of celebration taking place somewhere in Cleveland at all times. Clevelanders love to come together, and wherever there is a crowd, we know something very special is taking place.
8. Our cultural diversity keeps the city interesting.
Neighborhoods like AsiaTown and Little Italy are full of amazing products that can't be found anywhere else in the region. Around certain times of year, Cleveland's ethnic neighborhoods also light up with festivities that captivate all onlookers. One of the most amazing results of such a diverse community is the spectacular Rockefeller Park, which hides a mile and a half of unique Cultural Gardens that allow you to travel the world without leaving your backyard.
9. Our own Great Lake provides unparalleled opportunity for adventure.
Cleveland sports fans know how to have a good time, and they really get into the game. It's hard not to root for the home team when the fans are one gigantic family that's simply celebrating together.
11. Cleveland, it seems, is a naturally-occurring watercolor masterpiece.
To be put simply and eloquently, Cleveland rocks. There is so much that makes this city wonderful that it is no wonder it has earned "The Best Location in the Nation" as an affectionate nickname.
As you can see, Cleveland is a pretty special place. Over the past few decades, it has quietly become the most amazing city in the Midwest, and it’s really no surprise. Cleveland offers a lot to love, and its reputation as one of the most amazing cities in the United States will only gain credence as the years go by.
To learn more about why the city is so remarkable, check out its best kept secrets.
Cleveland In Your Inbox
Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is - she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
