Here Are The 9 Weirdest Places You Can Possibly Go In Cleveland
Cleveland is, in one word, quirky. Few cities seem to have as many roadside oddities as our wonderfully weird hometown, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. We love the unusual and bizarre attractions that make our city unique, but there are many that even locals have not heard of. Whether you’re a lifelong Clevelander or just visiting the city, you simply must check out these unusual attractions:
1. Buckland Museum of Witchcraft & Magick - 2155 Broadview Rd., Cleveland, OH 44109
A history of all things mystical is documented in this unusual collection, which contains goodies ranging from ancient Egyptian ushabtis to artifacts from the Salem Witch Trials. The museum's collection has been previously displayed in New York, New Hampshire, and New Orleans. Admission to view this remarkable collection is inexpensive, too. For hours, special events, and more information, check out the Buckland Museum website.
2. The Toynbee Tile - West 3rd Street and West Prospect Avenue, Cleveland
Beginning in the 1980s, bizarre tiles containing cryptic messages began to appear on roadways across the nation. The ramblings are thought to be a reference to the writings of Arnold J. Toynbee, or possibly Ray Bradbury’s "The Toynbee Convector." Nobody knows exactly where they came from, who put them there, or what they mean, which just adds to the sense of weird wonder surrounding their existence.
Happy Dog creates some of the most deliciously bizarre concoctions known to man. Their recipe is simple: start with a hot dog (vegetarian hot dogs are also available) and pile on a bunch of good stuff... including many things you would never even think of. Popular toppings include SpaghettiOs, Froot Loops, and "alien relish." Get in touch with your adventurous side at this unusual Cleveland eatery.
4. Big Fun Toy Store - 1814 Coventry Road, Cleveland Heights
Ready to go back in time? This amazing toy store will take you right back to your childhood with their selection of vintage toys and gag gifts. Stock up on some crazy candies and enjoy your day in one of Cleveland's hippest neighborhoods.
5. Museum of Divine Statues - 12905 Madison Avenue, Cleveland
When places of worship close, this unusual museum swoops in to provide a new home for religious art. The museum is open on Sundays from noon to 4pm, and admission is only $10.
The Glass Bubble Project is one of those places that is weird in a "Huh, I didn't know I could do that in Cleveland!" kind of way. This amazing Ohio City-based studio features handmade gifts, as well as classes where you can learn to blow glass. Plus, Morty the Rooster, the gallery's adorable mascot, will be on-site to cheer you on.
This adorable little shop is tucked away in Lakewood. Its flavors, patrons report, are out of this world. You can enjoy frozen delicacies like Raspberry White Chocolate Balsamic, Sesame and Seaweed, or Vegan Cayenne Sweet Potato Pecan flavored ice creams. Plus, their vegan options are incredible, and they even offer a vegan mac and cheese night every Thursday. A must-visit destination for sure!
8. Dittrick Museum of Medical History - 11000 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland
The Dittrick Museum of Medical History is one of Cleveland's most bizarre attractions. You can view amazing (and kind of creepy) early medical devices that will make you glad to live in the modern era or peruse historic forms of contraception that will make your skin crawl. This neat collection has it all... if you're brave enough to enter the museum.
9. National Cleveland-Style Polka Hall of Fame and Museum - 605 E 222nd Street, Cleveland
Cleveland-Style polka is celebrated at this festive little museum. This museum profiles the icons that made polka into the genre it is today.
Cleveland is a quirky city that offers little opportunity for boredom to set in. There is something different waiting around every corner to be explored, and the opportunities are truly endless. What is your favorite weird destination in Cleveland?
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.