9 Must-See Cultural Sites That Preserve A Piece Of Cleveland’s History

When you come to Cleveland, you’ll find yourself greeted by a bustling and modern city. Engineering marvels tantalize big thinkers, and culture abounds everywhere the eye can see. While Cleveland hosts a great deal of history, it enriches the most unexpectedly fascinating sites. Whether you are a local resident or a tourist from far, far away, you’ll find fascinating history at these cultural sites in Cleveland.

Cleveland History Center/Google

There’s a lot to love about the Cleveland History Center, particularly if you spent your early years in The Land. Mementos of yesteryear are preserved here, offering an unforgettable glimpse into life in Cleveland over the years. Experience the nostalgia of old school sports paraphernalia and dare to imagine what these streets looked like before your time.

Address: 10825 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH, 44106

Erik Drost/Flickr

Want to travel the world without the high costs, long flights, and tedious lines? Look no further than Cleveland's Cultural Gardens. These stunning gardens pay homage to the variety of cultures that built Cleveland... and that continue to shape it by introducing and maintaining traditions. Over 30 glorious gardens await visitors... and they're truly stunning all year long!

Address: 10823 Magnolia Drive, Cleveland, OH, 44106

St. John's Ohio City/Facebook

Enchanting and somewhat intimidating in size, St. John's Episcopal Church in Ohio City is one of the oldest structures in Cleveland. It was built between 1836 and 1838, but the founding parish had an even earlier history in the city. From a hidden history as a stop on the Underground Railroad to a modern history as a hub of community service and local culture, this charming church is a must-see Cleveland site.

Address: 2600, Church Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44113

Guarino's Restaurant/Facebook

Guarino's offers delicious food just like nonna used to make, and everything is served with a slice of history. This charming Italian restaurant has served Clevelanders for over a century, and it has delighted some big names over the years. Even Frank Sinatra was said to swing by Guarino's during his visits to Cleveland! You'll find class and culture in abundance here, and you'll enjoy some darn good food, too.

Address: 12309 Mayfield Road, Cleveland, OH, 44106

Google Maps

If the above destination appears to be a dive bar to you, then you're right. If you guessed that this site is the oldest operating bar in Cleveland, then you'd also be right! It seems to have been established around 1895, and it has entertained some interesting Cleveland characters over the years. This unique site has libations and history galore, and it feels cozy and familiar even if it's your first time visiting. Are you ready for a trip through time? Swing by Harbor Inn to see an underappreciated side of Cleveland.

Address: 1219 Main Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44113

Dunham Tavern Museum/Facebook

Speaking of old school Cleveland and taverns, next on our list is the oldest building in The Land. This charming stagecoach stop was first built around 1824, and it somehow resisted the urbanization of Cleveland as two centuries marched on. Unphased, it operated as a farm, then stagecoach shop, and then a private home before it was finally preserved as a museum. Today, it offers an unrivaled glimpse at Old Cleveland.

Address: 6709 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44103

Google Maps

Cleveland, appropriately nicknamed Forest City, boasts a number of trees that were growing here when the city was founded by Moses Cleaveland. As the city grew, these trees were slowly cleared to build roads, neighborhoods, and businesses. Others fell down, having grown too heavy to resist the Lake Erie gales. One of the most accessible trees is just north of the Cleveland Museum of Art... which is the next stop on our list!

Address: E Boulevard, Cleveland, OH, 44106

Erik Drost/Flickr

The Cleveland Museum of Art offers a taste of international culture in a building that's as ever-evolving as the city itself. This spectacular museum is free and open to the public, and it features art that dates back to the beginning of recorded history alongside modern, groundbreaking works. Always inspiring and always a good visit, any trip to Cleveland should include a trip to the local art museum.

Address: 11150 E Boulevard, Cleveland, OH, 44106

Erik Drost/Flickr

Last but not least, the oldest continually operating market space in Cleveland is the West Side Market. This dazzling plethora of culture features locally grown food and recipes that hail from all around the world. In recent years, Ohio City has modernized in response to the flourishing market. Now, visitors can enjoy fine dining and local brews before or after they shop... everything is within walking distance of the market on this street!

Address: 1979 W 25th Street, Cleveland, OH, 44113

These spectacular cultural sites in Cleveland offer a glimpse into the city’s past while simultaneously offering hope for its future. Which site is your favorite? What would you add to this list?

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