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Best things to do in Cleveland in winter

There are plenty of fun things to do in Cleveland in winter. Whereas previously you may have asked “What is there to do in Cleveland, Ohio?” nowadays the list of Cleveland attractions is almost never-ending.

Visitors during a Cleveland winter can gaze at modern art inside a turn-of-the-century transformer station or listen to an orchestra perform live inside a local hot dog joint! And that’s just a couple of unique things to do in Cleveland, Ohio!

Cleveland might have a working-class history, but in recent years, the city has gone through something of a transformation.

Since its days as a manufacturing center at the turn of the 20th century, Cleveland has worked hard to show that grit and sophistication can go together. The city has cleaned up its river and built some top Cleveland, Ohio attractions.

When we were traveling around our van for 3 months in the USA, Ohio wasn’t one of the states we managed to make time for. We kind of made a mad dash down the east coast of the USA in search of some warmer weather and to escape a storm brewing in the northeast. However, we’ve since made it to the state and Cleveland and have explored some of the best winter things to do in Cleveland.

It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit, as Cleveland has plenty to offer, even in the depths of winter. See why I think Cleveland is one of the best places to visit in Ohio in winter! 

Fun things to do in Cleveland Ohio winter

celeveland ohio in winter pin

Tobogganing in the Mill Stream Run Reservation

Have you ever tried tobogganing? It’s not just for kids; it’s a lot of fun for everyone! If you’re in Cleveland during winter, it’s something you really shouldn’t miss.

The Chalet in Mill has a couple of awesome toboggan runs that are each a thousand feet long. They don’t even need snow to work because they’re refrigerated! You can enjoy them from November till mid-March.

These are the only toboggan runs in all of Ohio that are open to the public. So if you’re around during the winter, be sure to check them out.

The cost isn’t too high for this winter activity in Cleveland Ohio in winter, just $14 for grown-ups and $12 for kids for a full day of fun.

There are also toboggan chutes at Mill Stream Run Reservation in Strongsville. They’re part of the local winter customs and start operating the weekend after Thanksgiving. You can enjoy these on weekends till the beginning of March.

These chutes are pretty big, around 70 feet high and about 700 feet long, and you can zoom down at speeds over 40 miles per hour! Super thrilling!

And don’t worry if you have a family, you can fit up to four people on each toboggan. Plus, you won’t have to carry the toboggan up the 108 stairs; it’s all taken care of now!

So, if you’re looking for things to do in Cleveland this weekend this is a great idea!

Snowshoeing at Penitentiary Glen Reservation

When it comes to winter activities in Ohio, all you really need are some snowshoes. Hitting the trails with snowshoes is one of my favorite Ohio winter activities for sure.

Just 30 minutes outside the center of Cleveland is Penitentiary Glen Reserve, where you can explore almost 7 miles of snowshoeing trails.

There are trails for people of all ability levels, and the Peppermint Trail is the easiest, at just under a quarter-mile long.

Rent your shoes from Chapin Forest or bring your own, and you’ll be good to go.

Superelectric Pinball Parlor in Cleveland

Play some pinball in Cleveland

Visiting the Superelectric Pinball Parlor in Cleveland is a fantastic indoor activity to enjoy during the chilly winter months. This lively venue is home to a vast collection of classic and modern pinball machines for hours of nostalgic fun.

Located in the artsy Gordon Square Arts District, the Parlor also showcases local artists’ works, adding a unique cultural spin to your visit.

Besides pinball, it offers a range of board games to enjoy with friends and family and is perfect for beating the winter blues.

The Parlor’s retro atmosphere makes it an excellent place for a casual night out. Plus, the added thrill of competition – trying to score that elusive high score – adds to the fun.

The Superelectric Pinball Parlor is such a fun idea for things to do in winter in Cleveland. Relive memories of yesteryears, or create new ones, making it a must-visit spot during winter in Cleveland Ohio, especially if you’re looking for indoor activities Cleveland has to offer.

Christmas Events in Cleveland to Enjoy

Are you in Cleveland during Christmas holidays? If you’re scratching your head about what to do, don’t worry, there are so many Christmas things to do in Cleveland Ohio!

Cleveland is a city filled with joy during Christmas time. The city is bustling with fun events and lots of places to visit. Plus, there’s a high chance you’ll get to experience a snowy winter which only adds to the festive spirit!

A great attraction that people love is the house from the movie “A Christmas Story.” This house is open all year, and it’s an especially fun sight to see during the holiday season. Here you can purchase memorabilia from the film, tour the house, and even stay overnight!

You can visit Stan Hywet for the holiday lights and Deck the Halls event where they deck out the mansion with a new theme each year. Don’t forget to enjoy some hot cider and gingerbread to make the experience even more festive.

If you’re a runner, participate in the “Christmas Story Run” on the first Saturday of December. As a bonus, participants get free entry to the “Christmas Story” house and some Ovaltine.

You can enjoy some theater at Playhouse Square with holiday classics like “A Christmas Story,” “The Nutcracker,” and “A Christmas Carol.” Or if music is more your thing, head to Rocket Mortgage Field House in December for a performance by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

Fancy some fun and unique activity? Join Santacon on December 20 where people dress up as Santa or other Christmas characters and go bar hopping in the Ohio City neighborhood! This is one of the best things to do in Cleveland in December; so much fun!

For a magical experience, visit Castle Noel in Medina, where you can see the RV from “Christmas Vacation,” marvel at old New York holiday displays, and even meet Santa!

There’s really a lot to do in Cleveland during Christmas!

Outdoor Ice Skating Experiences

Outdoor ice skating is a popular winter activity in Cleveland. It’s a lot of fun and can make for a fantastic date in Cleveland.

One good place for outdoor skating is the rink at Wade Oval. This rink is open until mid-February. Admission is a mere $2, and skates can be rented for an additional $3. Cleveland also offers other outdoor rinks such as The Cleveland Foundation Skating Rink in Public Square opens throughout the winter season and the entrance includes skate rental too.

You could visit the Crocker Park Ice Rink which is sponsored by the Cleveland Monsters. Skating costs $12, and this includes the skate rental fee.

Another option is The Rink at Wade Oval, located in the University Circle neighborhood. Entry to this rink costs just $2, and if you need to rent skates, it’s an extra $3. They even offer free skating lessons every Saturday at noon which is a fun family idea for Cleveland winter activities.

affogato cat cafe cleveland

Stay cozy indoors

Winter in Cleveland doesn’t always mean you have to brave the outdoors. There are plenty of cozy indoor activities to keep you entertained during the cold months.

Animal lovers can find warmth and joy at the AffoGATO cat cafe, where you can cuddle with adoptable cats. Just remember, you’ll need to make a reservation before you go.

If you’re a coffee connoisseur, spend some time exploring Cleveland’s many coffee shops. There’s no shortage of places to grab a warm drink.

For those who love beer, you could create your own craft brewery crawl (see below). You can visit multiple local breweries or even recreate the experience at home with Cleveland’s local brews. So, there’s no need to worry about the cold – winter in Cleveland offers plenty of indoor fun!

Go skiing near Cleveland

You might be surprised to learn that skiing is a fun winter activity to enjoy near Cleveland, Ohio.

Just ten miles away from the city center, you can find Alpine Valley Ski Resort. Thanks to its snow cannons, this resort is a snowy paradise all winter long, regardless of natural snowfall.

You can ski or snowboard down open slopes, explore wooded trails, or challenge yourself at the XTreme Park which has Ohio’s largest half-pipe and a rail trail.

Another skiing spot nearby is Boston Mills/Brandywine Resort which rents equipment, offers lessons, and even has special areas for snow tubing which I personally think is one of the most fun things to do in the cold.

Feast on doughnuts and beer

brewnuts cleveland ohion things to do

Need more Cleveland, Ohio things to do suggestions? Make your way to Brewnuts in Gordon Square (one of the coolest places in Cleveland) and enjoy doughnuts AND bacon.

Festive flavours include maple bacon; yum! Honestly, eating has to be one of the best fun winter activities in Ohio and Cleveland. 

This is one of my top tips for fun things to do in Cleveland for adults.

Check out more breweries in Cleveland

In the winter months, Cleveland’s breweries offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere, paired with delicious seasonal brews that are sure to lift your spirits.

Masthead Brewing Company is notable for the anticipation it generates with each new beer release. So renowned are their brews that people have been known to queue in freezing temperatures on Saturday mornings just to get their hands on the latest offering. Among their beloved winter brews are the Single Origin Coffee Stout and the Sleigh All Day Holiday IPA with spruce tips.

Terrestrial Brewing offers both great beers and fantastic views of Lake Erie. It’s a converted warehouse that provides a laid-back environment for trying their Pebbles sour beer or Dunce witbier. It’s a great place to sit while looking out at the wintery lake!

Forest City Brewery stands out for its distinctive interior filled with historic Duck Island memorabilia. The beer garden is fantastic, but the warmth inside is what draws people in during winter. Current favorites include the Towpath Trail Oatmeal Stout and the Black Betsy Black IPA.

The Great Lakes Brewing Company, probably the most well-known, enhances the cold season with its cozy brewpub ambiance. Their Christmas Ale is a local favorite, offering a spicy and malty taste that embodies the holiday spirit. Another popular choice is the Barrel Aged Alberta Clipper porter, a robust brew that’s perfect for warming up on a cold winter’s eve.

This Cleveland brewery tour is a great way to explore the beers in the city. It’s a four-hour tour that includes three local Cleveland breweries and beer samples at each stop as well as a beer-flavored pretzel snack, and VIP access to a brewery production area.

Visit the Cleveland WinterFest

Cleveland’s winter season is packed with a variety of festivals that offer great music, food, drinks, and cultural experiences.

The Brite Winter Festival is a must-attend event for music enthusiasts. Held annually in the Flats, this festival showcases performances from the best local and regional bands. Despite the chilly weather, festival-goers stay warm with the vibrant music and energy, huddled around fire pits with warm beverages in hand.

The holiday season in Cleveland is brightened with Christmas and tree-lighting celebrations. Festivals like WinterLand Cleveland in downtown, Light Up Lakewood, and Holiday Circlefest in University Circle bring local communities together to celebrate the season in grand style.

The North Coast Harbor Ice Fest is an outdoor festival held in February that features stunning ice sculptures, live demonstrations, and food and drinks. Also, in February, the Cleveland Kurentovanje, a Slovenian cultural festival, takes place, offering a glimpse into Slovenia’s rich culture and traditions.

For the truly brave-hearted, the Cleveland Polar Plunge into Lake Erie at the end of February offers a bone-chilling yet exhilarating and refreshing experience.

Beer lovers would love the Winter Beerfest held at the Huntington Convention Center. It’s an event where attendees can taste a wide array of craft beers from around the country, shop for beer-themed merchandise, and enjoy live music.

Lastly, the Medina Ice Festival, just a short drive from Cleveland, is held in February. The festival showcases amazing ice sculptures and offers food and beverages to attendees.

Take a Cleveland food tour

Explore the food culture of Cleveland with this awesome Cleveland food tour. It’ll introduce you to mouth-watering dishes and you’ll learn more about the history of the city too.

Starting at the iconic West Side Market, your small-group, personalized tour will navigate through several food hotspots, ensuring you experience the diverse flavors that Cleveland has to offer.

Visit a Mexican restaurant, experience a local brewery, indulge in hand-churned ice cream, and more. You’ll also visit a local butcher and grocer, giving you a chance to bring home a piece of Cleveland’s food culture home with you.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Go on a hike

Cleveland, famously known as the Forest City, is blessed with plenty of beautiful parks that allow you to enjoy the outdoors all year round and hiking is one of the best free things to do in Cleveland in winter.

The city’s parks, including Lake Metroparks, Lorain County Metro Parks, and the extraordinary Cuyahoga Valley National Park, remain open throughout the year. Winter hikes in Cleveland mean you can get outside and enjoy the snowy scenery.

Some of the parks also organize outdoor winter programs, like guided interpretive hikes, cross-country skiing lessons, and snowshoeing experiences which are great ideas for attractions near Cleveland Ohio.

For those wanting a little winter adventure, snowshoes or skis can be rented from several places. Chapin Forest Reservation and Penitentiary Glen Reservation have equipment available, and trails are regularly maintained for the best experience.

AllTrails is my go-to hiking app for finding, planning, and navigating while I’m out on the trails. With offline maps on AllTrails+ you can be confident you’re still on the right track, even without mobile signal.

Visit the Museum of Natural History

Cleveland’s Museum of Natural History is a portal to the past and a fascinating journey into the natural world. From the time-traveling dinosaur exhibits to displays dedicated to Ohio’s native wildlife, there’s something here for everyone.

The Museum also hosts a diverse array of interactive exhibits, making it a perfect destination for curious minds.

If your visit coincides with the third Thursday of the month, you’re in for a treat! The Museum hosts a unique event called “Think and Drink With the Extinct.” It’s an occasion to learn, socialize, and have fun in an enchanting environment and it’s one of the super cool things in Ohio you can experience.

Cheer on the Cavaliers

Sports are an integral part of Cleveland’s culture, and the city comes alive with energy during game season. Winter is an excellent time to join the locals in cheering for the Cleveland Cavaliers, the city’s much-loved basketball team. It’s a wonderful way to engage with the community spirit and experience the thrill of the game.

Before heading to a match, visit Cle Clothing, a local store featuring a fantastic selection of Cleveland and Cavaliers-themed merchandise. It’s located on East 4th Street, a bustling neighborhood brimming with great bars and restaurants – perfect for a pre or post-game meal or drink.

Eat some heart-warming meals

I love food and one of the best things to do in Cleveland in the winter is to eat some comfort food if you’ve spent a few hours outdoors and need to warm up.

When the chill of winter seeps in, nothing quite beats the warmth of a comforting meal. Cleveland is home to a diverse culinary scene that guarantees to warm you from the inside.

The Melting Pot offers a fondue experience, where melted cheese provides a comforting treat on a cold day. For soup lovers, Superior Pho serves up a hot pho that can warm the chilliest of bones and Juke Box has the best pierogis in town, with vegan and meat options available.

For a unique culinary experience, Happy Dog allows you to create your own hot dogs, perfect for pairing with a local draft beer and pizza fans should head to Angelo’s for their thick, hearty pizzas.

Visit the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame

As home to the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland is steeped in the history of this iconic genre. Spending a chilly afternoon exploring the exhibits is a fantastic way to stay warm while indulging in the city’s musical heritage.

The Hall of Fame is a treasure trove of artifacts, housing everything from iconic stage outfits worn by legendary performers to invaluable pieces of music history.

It also serves as a living record of rock and roll, offering visitors the opportunity to watch nostalgic footage from epoch-making music shows like American Bandstand.

Dine in an Igloo

To add a unique twist to your winter dining experience, how about dining in a heated igloo? I promise it’s one of the best things to do in downtown Cleveland and such a different idea for Cleveland things to do in winter.

Restaurants across Cleveland have embraced this trend, installing igloos and domes that offer a cozy and unique dining experience. Rent a private igloo for drinks or a meal and enjoy a winter wonderland from the comfort of your warm bubble.

Top spots featuring these dining igloos include Georgetown/Vosh, The South Side, The Fairmount, and Lakewood Truck Park. You have plenty of options to choose from to make your winter dining experience unforgettable.

cleveland museum of art

Head to the Cleveland Museum of Art

The Cleveland Museum of Art is a treasure trove of creativity that is sure to warm your heart, even on the chilliest winter day.

Rated among the best art museums in America, it’s home to masterpieces from renowned artists like Monet and Da Vinci, as well as art from around the world.

Admission to the museum is free, and once a month, you can enjoy live music in the Ames Atrium at the MIX parties for a small fee. Take a trip to the University Circle on the east side of Cleveland to enjoy this world-class art collection.

Enjoy jazz in Cleveland

Cleveland has a thriving jazz scene, with some of the city’s best bars dedicated to this soulful genre. If you’re looking for a unique way to spend your evening, a visit to a jazz bar is a great choice.

Check out Speakeasy in Cleveland Heights, where you can immerse yourself in the Prohibition-era atmosphere.

The bar’s secret entrance and exquisite cocktails add to the charm. If you want more, head to the Velvet Tango Room, where live jazz performances and delectable cocktails promise a memorable night out.

Ride the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway

All aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway, which winds through 33,000 acres of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

A ride on this train is one of the top things to do in Cleveland and this park is the 11th most visited national park in America. 

The 12,000-year-old forest is bound to impress so make sure it’s on your list of things to see in Ohio.

Look out at the scenery while staying warm inside or take a themed trip where you can play murder mysteries on board, taste local beers, or enjoy a hearty brunch.

Walkthrough the new Public Square

If you’re looking for things to do in downtown Cleveland then look no further than the brand-new Public Square. This new area is one of the new Cleveland points of interest and has been a part of the city since 1796.

In 2016 it received a big revamp by the same guy that created New York City’s, High Line.

Grab a warm drink and do a spot of people-watching.

Paczki cleveland ohio

Celebrate Paczki Day

If you’re in Cleveland during February, you have to participate in a beloved local tradition – Paczki Day.

But first, what is a paczki?

It may look like a jelly doughnut covered in powdered sugar, but don’t let appearances fool you. Paczki are unique pastries made from a special sweet yeast dough and are traditionally filled with fruit.

Originating from Poland, these indulgent pastries are a key part of Cleveland’s Fat Tuesday celebrations, falling on the day before Ash Wednesday each year.

This sweet custom is tied to the pre-Lenten indulgences similar to Mardi Gras. It’s an exclusive affair too – you won’t find paczki for sale at any other time of year.

Cleveland is home to several excellent bakeries known for their traditional paczki. These include Rudy’s Strudel & Bakery, Colozza’s Bakery, Michael Angelo’s Bakery, Stan’s Northfield Bakery, Becker’s Donuts & Bakery, and Seven Roses Polish Deli. Even local donut shops like Goldie’s Donuts and Bakery, Jack Frost Donuts, and Brewnuts jump on the paczki bandwagon.

Mark your calendar, and get ready to indulge in these delicious treats on Paczki Day!

Take a spooky tour of the city

One of the best free things to do in Cleveland is to take a spooky tour. There are lots of spooky Cleveland things to do.

Head to the Buckland Museum of Witchcraft or head to Franklin Castle. There’s also the House of Wills owned by the Church of Satan!

cleveland botanical garden

Visit the Cleveland botanical garden

Visiting the Cleveland Botanical Garden in winter can be a great Cleveland thing to do.

Even though it’s chilly outside, stepping into the warm and cozy conservatory feels like entering a tropical paradise. The botanical garden is a special place where you can explore a wide variety of plants and flowers from different parts of the world.

As you enter, you’ll be greeted by a burst of vibrant colors and fragrant scents. The conservatory is filled with lush greenery, exotic flowers, and towering trees. It’s a refreshing escape from the cold winter weather outside.

Inside, you can wander through different themed gardens. There might be a desert garden with cacti and succulents, a tropical rainforest with beautiful orchids, or a tranquil Japanese garden with bonsai trees and serene ponds. Each garden offers a unique experience and a chance to learn about different plant species.

The botanical garden also hosts educational exhibits and events during the winter months too. You might have the opportunity to attend a workshop on plant care or learn about sustainable gardening practices. These are all awesome fun things to do in Cleveland in the winter solo or with friends and family.

Watch a cult classic in a cool Cleveland cinema

Are you still looking for what to do in Cleveland in winter? One of the best answers to the question “what to do in Cleveland, Ohio’ is to head to Cleveland Cinema!

This cinema has kept the old school theatre alive and shows everything from arty indies to blockbusters.

You can also catch some midnight and late-night cult classics screening at these cinemas.

Oh, and enjoy a beer while you watch too! Catching a film here is one of the best things to do in Cleveland whatever the weather.

cleveland marriott hotel

Where to stay in Cleveland

If you’re looking for a Cleveland hotel then check out these suggestions for hotels in Cleveland to suit every budget. They’re al quite centrally located which is great for exploring what to do in Cleveland in the winter.

  • Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower: This hotel, located in downtown Cleveland, offers marble bathrooms with rainfall shower heads, and a seating area in every room. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy being close to Rocket Mortgage Field House, Progressive Field, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
  • Metropolitan at The 9, Autograph Collection: Just a short walk from Progressive Field and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, you’ll love the on-site restaurants, offering everything from Italian steakhouse dining to rooftop cocktails.
  • Hyatt Regency Cleveland: This hotel offers a great experience with its splendid wood paneling, vaulted ceilings, and in-room amenities. Steps away from shopping and dining hotspots, and a four-minute drive to First Energy Stadium, it’s perfect for both relaxation and excitement. Indulge in their on-site spa and salon, and enjoy a great meal at 1890 at The Arcade.

FAQs about things to do in Cleveland Ohio

How much snow does Cleveland Ohio get in the winter?

Cleveland, Ohio, receives an average of around 60 inches of snow during the winter season. The amount of snow can vary from year to year, but it’s not uncommon for Cleveland to experience significant snowfall due to its location in the Great Lakes region.

What is Cleveland like in the winter?

Cleveland winters can be quite cold with temperatures typically ranging from the 20s to the 30s Fahrenheit (-6 to 1 degree Celsius). However, it’s important to note that the city’s proximity to Lake Erie can influence the weather, resulting in a phenomenon called the “lake effect.” This can lead to increased snowfall and occasionally milder temperatures near the lakefront.

Is Cleveland cold in the winter?

Despite the cold weather, Cleveland offers a variety of activities and events during winter, including ice skating, holiday festivals, and indoor attractions like museums and theaters. It’s a time when the city comes alive with a festive atmosphere, making it a unique and enjoyable experience for residents and visitors alike.

Final thoughts on the best winter Cleveland activities

There’s no shortage of exciting activities to keep you entertained in Cleveland during winter.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast ready to brave the cold, a sports fan cheering on the Cavs, a food lover looking to indulge in the city’s culinary delights, or a culture buff keen to explore the best Cleveland museums, Cleveland has something for everyone.

Don’t let the cold weather deter you from exploring the best winter activities Cleveland has to offer.

Bundle up, venture out, and make the most of what Cleveland has to offer this winter. After all, the city doesn’t hibernate, even when the temperatures drop.

So don’t discard visiting Cleveland in the winter, there are still heaps of things to do Cleveland has to offer and with so many fun activities in Cleveland., what’s stopping you from booking your trip?!

Last Updated on November 10, 2023 by Hannah

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