Looking for summertime fun in Cleveland? You’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’re going to dive into a world of summertime fun in and around Northeast Ohio. From Cleveland to the very edges of the metropolitan area, there is no shortage of things to do this summer. Take advantage of the comfort of your own hometown and get to know the area like a local! After all, you deserve a staycation… don’t ya think?!

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Top Summertime Tourist Attractions in Cleveland

Who doesn’t love a good summertime excursion?! These top summertime attractions in Cleveland will satisfy your thirst for adventure. There’s something for every kind of traveler out there. Whether you’re looking for amusement rides or epic lakeside views, these summer attractions in Cleveland will knock your socks off.

1. Spend the day at Swings-N-Things Fun Park
Swings-N-Things Fun Park, 8501 Stearns Rd, Olmsted Falls, OH 44138, USA
Jen Brunkow/Google Images

Swings-N-Things Fun Park in Olmsted Falls is a boatload of fun. In addition to their coveted bumper boats, visitors can experience their assorted offerings, including mini golf and paintball. Swing by the arcade, go bowling, and refuel at the Tap Room and Wine Bar. There's no shortage of family fun at this favored destination! Remember to bring the camera and wear comfy shoes, because you're going to be walking a lot and making memories along the way.

10 Minutes Away: Soak up the splendor of the season at David Fortier River Park.
2. Relax and climb aboard the Boomerang Line
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109, USA
Tim Evanson/Flickr

There is so much to do at the local zoo! In addition to seeing oodles of animals, you can soar on a zip line, take a private tour, and ride the Boomerang Line train at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. This cool excursion is hidden in the Australian Adventure portion of the zoo, and it'll take you on a relaxing tour of the area. It's weather-permitting and just a few dollars to ride, and it typically operates through October. In the summer months, this ride offers a great way to beat the heat!

10 Minutes Away: Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife at the Cleveland Metroparks’ beloved Brookside Reservation.
3. Seek out the Cleveland Script Sign at Euclid Beach
Euclid Beach Park, 16301 Lakeshore Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44110, USA
Lynn C/Google Images

Euclid Beach Park in Cleveland is a true hidden gem. While modern-day locals may know this spot as a relaxing beachy excursion complete with soft sand, locals of yesteryear remember the spot as the site of Euclid Beach Amusement Park. This spot previously featured roller coasters, a carousel, and even a beachside fountain. While the park closed in 1969, remnants of the amusement park still remain. Soak up some sun while you seek out history at this cool spot.

5 Minutes Away: Learn about a tragic side of local history at the Collinwood School Memorial.

Honorable Mentions

These cool spots in Cleveland are perfect for a summertime excursion. However, there’s even more to see! Eat, drink, and play in Cleveland at these additional spots.

4. Cool off at Mason’s Creamery
Mason's Creamery, 4401 Bridge Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113, USA
Mason's Creamery/Google Images
Mason's Creamery is practically synonymous with pure deliciousness. For nearly a decade, this super-chill local ice cream shop has offered patrons an unforgettable approach to sweet treats — using the finest natural ingredients to craft small batches of ice cream. In the cooler months, their focus shifts to ramen... but few things quite compare to cooling off with a few scoops of their mouth-watering ice cream each summer.
5. Get wild at Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park
Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park, 16200 Valley Pkwy, Strongsville, OH 44136, USA
Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park/Google Images
Zip into a new summertime experience at Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park. This awesome attraction is hidden in the Cleveland Metroparks, and it's exactly what it sounds like: a tree-top obstacle course and zipline adventure. In addition to this high-reaching adventure, you can keep your feet planted firmly on the ground with ax-throwing or the group-friendly Forest EscAPE attraction.

Things to Do in Cleveland with Kids in the Summer

When it comes to family-friendly excursions, Cleveland is a hub of possibilities. There’s fun for adventure lovers of all ages right here in town! Here are just a few things you can do for the whole family.

6. Go on an outing with Lake Erie Adventure Co.
Lake Erie Adventure Company, 507 River Rd, Huron, OH 44839, USA
Lake Erie Adventure Company/Google Images

Get ready to see our waterfront in a whole new light with adventures that include kayaking, paddling, and biking. Located in Huron, this awesome adventure purveyor has all sorts of attractions that are family-friendly, including root beer float paddle tours and full moon waterfront excursions. This attraction is fun for kids two and up, although it’s recommended that really little ones sit on a parent's lap during the outing.

5 Minutes Away: Take in splendid views at Nickel Plate Beach.
7. Embrace your inner child at Memphis Kiddie Park
Memphis Kiddie Park, 10340 Memphis Ave, Cleveland, OH 44144, USA
Zack Maier/Google Images

Memphis Kiddie Park is a cherished family day trip destination. Every summer since 1952, it's been delighting Clevelanders, from their parents to their grandchildren. Hop on the Little Dipper roller coaster, make memories on the carousel, or indulge in a refreshing root beer paired with fair-style concessions. The rides can be enjoyed via a ticket system, so rather than paying one price for everything, you can pick and choose your experiences to keep the entire excursion on budget. Memphis Kiddie Park is truly a destination for all ages!

5 Minutes Away: Sink your teeth into a sweet treat at Bulldog Ice Cream.
8. Make a new discovery at Holden Arboretum
The Holden Arboretum, 9550 Sperry Rd, Kirtland, OH 44094, USA
David Frattare/Google Images

The Holden Arboretum is a breath of fresh air. This massive outdoor campus has more than 3,600 acres of beauty, ranging from gardens and native grasslands to the most beautiful of trees. They have trails for hikers, arbors for viewing the changing leaves in the colder months, and beautiful viewing platforms with spectacular views. The Kalberer Emergent Tower stretches 12 stories over the landscape, and the Murch Canopy walk is elevated 65 feet above the forest floor. Explore a forest infused with art and so much more in a landscape full of more than 9,400 plant species.

10 Minutes Away: Visit Gildersleeve Mountain and climb to the summit for excellent views of the city skyline.

Honorable Mentions

These spots are tons of fun, but there’s so much more for families to experience in Greater Cleveland. Explore the city and beyond at these cool spots.

9. Meet some underwater friends at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium
Greater Cleveland Aquarium, 2000 Sycamore St, Cleveland, OH 44113, USA
Greater Cleveland Aquarium/Google Images
Dive into a whole new world of watery fun at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium! Located in the historic FirstEnergy Powerhouse building in the Flats, this awesome aquarium offers an unforgettable trip down the winding waterways of the world. When it opened in 2012, it ended a quarter-century stretch since Cleveland last had a public aquarium. The 70,000 square-foot space was met with much excitement, as it's even bigger and better than the last aquarium that closed back in 1985. Get to know native and exotic fish, check out unique events like feedings and scuba-diving shows, and stroll through 175-foot-long SeaTube.
10. Celebrate Xmas in July at the A Christmas Story House
A Christmas Story House, 3159 W 11th St, Cleveland, OH 44109, USA
Paul/Google Images
It’s always the holiday season at the A Christmas Story House in Tremont! While this classic movie is set in Hohman, Indiana, much of the movie was filmed right here in Cleveland (as evidenced by the appearance of Higbee's department store, which once enchanted locals). One of the most recognizable spots in the movie is Ralphie Parker's home, which is now a museum... and a place you can stay overnight! Don't be frag-ee-lay; get your leg lamp vibes on and explore this one-of-a-kind local attraction.

Romantic Things To Do In The Summer In Cleveland

Love is always in the air here in Cleveland, and there’s no shortage of romantic attractions. From gorgeous landscapes to charming local wineries, the Greater Cleveland metropolitan area and beyond offers much for couples to see and do. Instead of trying to pack all of the region’s beauty into one visit, here are a few choices for future date destinations.

11. Grab drinks at Vino Veritas Cellars Winery & Wine Bar
Vino Veritas Cellars Winery & Wine Bar, 4103 Memphis Ave, Cleveland, OH 44109, USA
Vino Veritas Cellars Winery & Wine Bar/Google Images

Unwind with your beloved at Vino Veritas Cellars Winery & Wine Bar! This grape — excuse me, I meant great — little local winery is a romantic place to relax after a long day. They have delicious and familiar options like cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay, or you can savor a flight to try the variety of flavors from their gifted mixologists. Taste and explore the eclectic flavors of wines made with California grapes and Ohio and Michigan juices at this cool Cleveland winery!

15 Minutes Away: Enjoy a romantic riverside stroll at CanalWay Center.
12. Soak up the vibes at Squire’s Castle
Squire's Castle, 2844 River Rd, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094, USA
Ann S/Google Images

Treat yourself to a royal experience at Squire’s Castle! While Squire's Castle in the Cleveland Metroparks was not built for royalty, it did once house a Standard Oil Executive during his summertime outings. Today, the building has been emptied of personal items, and it's open to the public (and the elements) in North Chagrin Reservation. Surrounded by beauty and hiking trails, Squire's Castle (located off River Road) offers an adventurous and educational opportunity that is surely one for the history books.

5 Minutes Away: Explore more of the lovely local landscape at Hach-Otis Sanctuary State Nature Preserve.
13. Play a perfect game at Sweetie’s Golfland
Dave Hlavacek/Google Images

When it comes to sweet treats, nobody has a bigger selection than b.a. Sweetie Candy Company. Their massive warehouse features 40,000 square feet of deliciousness, with more than $3 million worth of candy stocking the shelves. After you stock up on sweet treats, you can walk off the extra sugar at their charming mini-golf site. Explore a 36-hole course, and show off your epic skills in front of your sweetheart. This Cleveland landmark is one of the very best!

5 Minutes Away: Embrace the sugar rush at Jack Frost Donuts.

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Honorable Mentions

Running out of date ideas in Cleveland? Don’t give up just yet! There’s so much more to see and do in the area, especially when it comes to romance.

14. Road trip down to Majestic Meadows Alpacas & Boutique
Majestic Meadows Alpacas & Boutique, 4195 Abbeyville Rd, Medina, OH 44256, USA
Nick Groh/Google Images
Medina County is beautiful, and its cute little farms are full of charm. Majestic Meadows is one of the loveliest farms in the area, and it’s not too far from home. This isolated little family farm has cows, pigs, alpacas, and more, and boy, are those critters hungry. Swing by the gift shop to stock up on snacks to bribe the friendly critters with, then set out to make some new four-legged friends alongside your date.
15. Soak up the sweetness of Rockefeller Park Greenhouse
Robert Mackenzie/Google Images
Stop and smell the flowers with your honey! Rockefeller Park Greenhouse is always free to visit, and it always feels like summer! This gorgeous indoor space is where the city grows flowers for landscaping, but it also has a variety of unique permanent displays. Plus, the park is surrounded by the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, and each unique garden is well worth exploring.

Where to Go in Cleveland at Night in the Summer

As night falls in Greater Cleveland, things get extra magical. From firefly-filled parks to sun-splashed beaches, here are a few ways you can have a magical summer night in Cleveland.

16. Take a dinner cruise on the Nautica Queen
Nautica Queen Cleveland's Dining Cruise Ship/Google Images

Late nights in The Land are made magical on the Nautica Queen. This coveted cruise ship specializes in curating excellent dinners, lunches, and brunches, with the former pairing perfectly with a Lake Erie sunset. Wanna know the best part? These cruises are surprisingly affordable. For that reason, it’s recommended that you make reservations in advance… many cruises do sell out!

10 Minutes Away: Explore the neon-hued streets of Playhouse Square.
17. Catch fireflies along the Lakefront Promenade in Lakewood Park
Erik Drost/Flickr

Many locals consider Lakewood Park to be among the best city-owned parks in the area. And there’s good reason for that; it’s beautiful! The Lakefront Promenade, a lovely brick walkway that curves around the lakeshore, was one of many modern improvements that excited locals. A few years later, the Solstice Steps were unveiled. All in all, the park’s variety of offerings and unique features make it a blast to visit, especially in the summer months!

5 Minutes Away: Grab dinner at Summer House at The Carlyle on The Lake.
18. Head down to Blossom for a summertime show
Mike Daugherty/Google Images

It’s hard not to love Blossom Music Center. In addition to being a unique outdoor venue, this spot has amphitheater and lawn seating to accommodate a variety of budgets. Ground was broken on this site in 1967, and it has hosted some notable acts over the years, from Ozzfest to Warped Tour. Today, it’s also the summertime home of The Cleveland Orchestra, and its summer show offerings are always varied and highly attended.

10 Minutes Away: Step back in time at Hale Farm & Village.

Honorable Mentions

But wait… there’s more! Summertime fun doesn’t stop at night, and these additional destinations are perfect for an unforgettable outing. Find your next summer escape and tap into some of these awesome activities.

19. Go camping at Lake Erie Bluffs
Lake Erie Bluffs, 2901 Clark Rd, Perry, OH 44077, USA
Rona Proudfoot/Flickr
Want to enjoy a unique camping experience? Check out Lake Erie Bluffs! This memorable camping spot in Perry Township is affordable and beautiful, and it is located in one of the loveliest Lake Metroparks. Take in views of the lake shore as you lay under the stars.
20. Get competitive at Arena 51 Laser Tag
Arena 51 Laser Tag, 13409 Smith Rd, Middleburg Heights, OH 44130, USA
Arena 51 Laser Tag/Google Images
Feeling a bit competitive? There’s one place that absolutely belongs on your bucket list! Check out Arena 51 Laser Tag in Middleburg for an experience you won’t soon forget. If you’re a fan of laser tag, you might even consider renting the whole arena!

Free Things to Do in Cleveland in the Summer

Looking for some free things to do in Cleveland? You’re in luck, because there is no shortage of things to do, especially around the lakefront, without spending a dime.

21. Catch a summertime concert at Edgewater Park
Edgewater Park, Cleveland, OH 44102, USA
Joshua Kratz/Google Images

Events at Edgewater Park are always a blast! However, the Edgewater Live sessions are always a blast! The annual concert series took a hiatus in 2022, but plenty of casual local guitarists and musicians kept the park filled with music. It’s always a fun summer tradition to enjoy tunes by the lakeshore!

5 Minutes Away: Dine and hike in Irishtown Bend.
22. Admire the Fine Arts Garden and cool off in the Museum of Art
The Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
Erik Drost/Flickr

There’s a wide variety of art awaiting you in Wade Oval. The Fine Arts Garden outside of the Cleveland Museum of Art is super cool to check out, and some pieces (like Rodin's The Thinker, which was bombed many years ago) have quite the story to tell. Inside the museum, an even wider variety of art awaits. And, amazingly, these attractions are totally free!

5 Minutes Away: Pay your respects at James A. Garfield Monument, the local presidential resting place.
23. Take a tour at the NASA Glenn Visitor Center
Phillip Clapham/Google Images

Glenn Research Center in Downtown Cleveland is one heck of a destination. Its researchers once spearheaded the development of noise-reducing technologies for airplanes as well as inventions that make space travel possible and safe, and it’s open to visitors today. Tours are offered between April and October, and they’re free as can be. You just have to register in advance!

5 Minutes Away: Rest your feet and refuel on a delicious meal from Slyman's Restaurant and Deli.

Honorable Mentions

The free fun doesn’t stop there! There are so many fun, free things to do in Cleveland that it’s almost impossible to include them all in one list. Check out these additional places where you can have a blast without breaking the bank.

24. Spend the day at Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve
Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve, 8701 Lakeshore Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44108, USA
Mark Warren/Google Images
The beautiful Lakefront Nature Preserve is an 88-acre site that’s well worth exploring. It actually began life as a dredge impoundment, but you’d never guess that! Today, it has been totally reclaimed by nature… including 280 species of birds!
25. Put your toes in the sand at Headland Dunes State Nature Preserve
Ante Logarusic/Google Images
Headland Dunes State Nature Preserve is the most unique state-managed site in the area. If it looks tropical, that’s because the landscape hosts all sorts of plants, including varieties that are usually only found in coastal regions. And, of course, the sand dunes for which the park is named are worth checking out in person!
26. Learn about the natural world at Rocky River Nature Center
Rocky River Nature Center/Google Images
The Rocky River Nature Center is an educational center with a view. Seriously, it provides a stunning view of a shale cliff that predates the dinosaurs. Its exhibits include insight into the fish that lived in the area when the cliff’s sedimentary walls were formed some 360 million years ago, and it’ll also introduce you to some modern-day park residents.

These iconic places for summertime fun in Cleveland are unforgettable! Do you have a favorite destination on this list? Is there anything you’d add? Sound off in the comments!

Looking for more fun in Cleveland? Check out our bucket list of the 27 ultimate things to do in Cleveland.

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