Summer has fully bloomed in Cleveland, and we are more than thrilled about it! If you know me, you know that I am a big time fan of hot weather; making summer time my favorite season. From sun up to sun down, you’ll catch me outside as much as possible.
With this being our last summer in Cleveland before our big move, I’m on a mission to really soak up every bit of the city. Jake actually gave me the idea on this post; describing my “perfect summer day” in Cleveland/giving you a list of my favorite spots for you to checkout if you’re ever in Northeast Ohio. Full disclaimer: This will only be our 5th year living in Cleveland, and I’ve learned that the city has some very proud born and bred “Clevelanders”. Our list is by no means expert level-but we’ve personally found a lot of joy in these sweet spots.
Kelly’s Favorite Cleveland Spots:
- A morning spin at Cycle Fly in Lakewood, followed by a Rising Star iced coffee.
- Grab a beer-infused donut at Brewnuts. (Don’t worry, they are still kid friendly!) Or Nature’s Oasis for smoothies, sandwiches, and other fresh picks. (I crave the PB&J!) Cleveland Bagel Co. is another city favorite.
- The best brunch/lunch is at TownHall. But check out any place in Ohio City!
- Kelsey Elizabeth Cakes, hands down has the best desserts in Cleveland. She’s known for her macarons, but honestly I’ve never tried anything I didn’t like.
- Head to the east side neighborhood hangout, The Van Aken District. Grab a coffee, go to Jake’s favorite lunch spot Lox Stock and Brisket, or a drink outside from Craft Collective. You’ll find us at the district 2-3 times a week!
- Sip on evening cocktails at Garden City, Bar 32 (a downtown roof top), or The Fairmount; for the most charming outdoor patio.
- Pizza at Ilrione in Gordon Square is a hidden gem.
- And finally, dinner and a glass of wine at Pier W for the best views in the entire city! It’s been our Anniversary go-to <3
Jake’s Favorite Cleveland Spots:
- Rising Star for coffee- anytime, and always!
- Check out any of the waterfalls and hiking trails in the Cuyahoga Valley.
- For lunch, head to Lox Stock & Brisket and order the “Big Boro sandwich” (Sub in swiss cheese, add bacon!)
- Want more salty meats? Jack’s Deli on the east side. Order “The New Yorker” (half pastrami/half corn beef)
- If you’re downtown, check out the historical bank building; now Heinen’s grocery. They have a hot food bar, self serve wine stations, and our favorite festive Fall cookies.
- Patterson’s Farm, east of 271 is family friendly, has casual food, and walking trails to enjoy.
- Mable’s on East 4th. Bourbon and BBQ… need I say more?
Picture perfect spots:
- The Edgewater Park “Cleveland” sign (Seen below)
- Murals in Tremont/Ohio City and Pinecrest/Van Aken District
Other things to do:
- The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. We took my parents there last December and spent hours walking around. My dad was in heaven, but I would say that even if you don’t know much about rock and roll, you’ll be impressed. (Hit up Nuevo nearby for food/drink on the water)
- University Circle is a great place to just walk around on a beautiful day. Case Western Campus sits in the middle of it, with museums and parks all around.
- And if you’re in the mood to shop, head to the outdoor mall, Crocker Park on the west side. Or the newly built outdoor space, Pinecrest on the east side. Both have places to eat, local shops, or the big-names too.
As excited as we are to move back to Waynesville, I will be so bittersweet saying good bye to Cleveland. I have not a bad word to say about it (okay, maybe the winters can be a little rough)… but in all seriousness; I love this city. Shaker Heights will always have a special place in my heart, the community has been nothing short of wonderful, and I don’t think I’ll ever find a better coffee spot 😉 Cleveland, where the best parts of our lives started!
