If you have ever visited Lake Erie, which is situated on the border of Canada and the U.S. you could not have missed the beautiful city of Cleveland. Cleveland is positioned on the southern shore of Lake Erie, in north-eastern Ohio, and is a vibrant and evolving city. The atmosphere in the city is one to compete with the world's best cities, as it is not merely a collection of buildings: it is a place of connections.
The diverse, downtown, neo-classical architecture allows for Cleveland to be rich in history and heritage, as well as being nice to look at. The city is surrounded by scenic park systems, which offer endless opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, sailing and many other fun, outdoor activities. The rich heritage can also be celebrated with a good old family picnic, through a neighbourhood festival, the stunning gallery exhibits and the pride parades that are a frequency in Cleveland.
The best way to discover all of these wonderful things about Cleveland is to hire a car and embark on your own self-paced adventure. Your rental car will come in very handy when you want to explore Cleveland's stunning scenery, take a drive out to the Lake or embark on a wine trail experience. Your hired vehicle means that you don't have to stay within the city of Cleveland itself, while also saving you a bucket load on cab fares.
1. African Safari Wildlife Park
The perfect way to begin your holiday in Cleveland is to take part in a wild and exhilarating adventure, discovering some of the world's most fascinating animals. The good news is that you can do all of this from the safety and comfort of your rental car. The African Safari Wildlife Park in Cleveland is the mid-west's only drive-thru safari, and truly is the adventure of a lifetime.
The safari will give you the opportunity to see and feed over 300 beautiful and exotic animals. The animals literally come right up to your car, so be sure that there is someone in the back with the kids. Take a break from your car and have a go at the free camel and pony rides, take an educational tour or watch a pig race.
This is essentially Cleveland's version of Africa, and with over 100 acres of giraffes, zebras, alpacas and camels, you are sure to find something you will enjoy.
2. Cleveland Museum of Natural History
From dinosaurs to diamonds, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History is a beautiful blend of traditional and interactive galleries, related to history, art, and the natural world. The mission of the museum is to "Inspire, through science and education, a passion for nature, the protection of natural diversity, the fostering of health, and leadership to a sustainable future".
The museum is the ideal destination for curious minds as they will find plenty to see and do. These curious minds can enjoy the dinosaurs, a hands-on Discovery centre, outdoor gardens and wildlife habitats, live animal shows, and daily planetarium programs. Everything here relates to nature, making it the perfect place to get back in touch with the world's most treasured feature.
3. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum
Relive the soundtrack of your life at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum in Cleveland. If you are a fan of basically any kind of music then this establishment is definitely worth a visit while in town. Home to over 50 exhibits, dynamic cinema presentations and the largest single collection of rock and roll artefacts in the country, it is safe to say that this is any music lover's paradise.
The permanent collection of the museum draws from the most impressive and iconic rock and roll artefacts in the world, and is dedicated to exploring the past, present and future of music. Highlights of the museum would have to be the exhibit of rock's roots, the music scenes of various cities, and the showcases of the lives of individual artists.
4. Ohio Wine Producers Association
Explore the treasures and discover the charm of Ohio's best wineries. Nestled in rolling vineyards, sparkling lakes and quaint countryside of Cleveland and surrounding areas, you will find unique gift shops, enjoy picnics in the sunshine and bathe in the fun of local festivals and tours.
Enjoy life on a self driving tour in your rental car and embark on a wine trail to suit you. Popular tours that depart from Cleveland include the Wing Watch and Wine Trails and the Vines and Wines Wine Trail. These trails are also the perfect way to discover the wonder and beauty of Lake Erie, all while enjoying some of the nation's finest wines.
5. Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park Resort
When it comes to keeping the kids happy, you really cannot go wrong with a visit to the Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park Resort. When it comes to attractions, this park has it covered for everyone. Popular areas in the park include the Kids Zone, which features shallow water attractions just for the kids, and "Takin' It Easy", which is home to easy rides for the times you need to slow down. For those extreme thrill seekers out there, "Wild Slides" and 'Extreme Rides" are just right for you and your fast paced requirements. Whatever pace you enjoy, Splash Lagoon is sure to cater for your tastes.
Cleveland is full of adventure, fun and entertainment, and to top it off, it is also full of beauty too. So when planning your next North American holiday, be sure to add Cleveland to the top of your list.
Christine Barton
