Affordable fun with something for every member of your clan. If it's thrills you seek, head west to explore the Lake Erie islands, splash around enormous indoor water parks, plunge over roller coaster drops. Looking to add a little culture to your family getaway? Stop by the museum dedicated to the music your parents didn't understand...the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame + Museum. Then, make your way to the many museums and gardens of the circle...University Circle, that is. Outdoor recreation in order? Visit Holden Arboretum, kayak on Lake Erie, ride the vintage rails of the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad or monkey around at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo + RainForest.
+Yummy Your five year-old isn't quite ready for seared foie gras, so find restaurants with more kid-friendly fare here. +more
+Sleepovers You're never too old for a slumber party, especially when it means getting to spend some time with the kids. Find hotels with pools here. +more
+Free and Affordable Try some of these entertaining activities that won’t break the bank but will surely keep the kids busy for hours. +more
+Family Fun Whether the sun is shining or the snow is falling, one thing is for sure, you and “the fam” won’t be lacking any amusement. +more
Use the Visiting Cleveland section of our website for more vacation planning information.
Traveler's Tips
Take advantage of the numerous annual festivals taking place in Cleveland during the summer season. Many of these festivals and street fairs offer one-of-a-kind local art, Cleveland memorabilia, delicious food and live music at affordable prices. Some notable family-friendly festivals include: Coventry Street Arts Fair, Parade the Circle, Taste of Tremont, iNGENUiTY Festival and Feast of the Assumption.
If rain is in the forecast, head over to South Park mall for some indoor glow-in-the-dark mini golf action at Fireflys Mini Golf. Everything glows in this amusement park themed mini golf course.
Spend the day at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and stop for lunch inside their green inspired Blue Planet Café. Entertain the kids and feed them at the same time! Choose from a variety of fresh and healthy meals.
If the kids are too young to appreciate the Great Lakes Science Center, take them to the Children’s Museum for an educating and entertaining experience that will suit them better.
Reigning in as the greatest amusement park in the world, it’s no wonder Cedar Point attracts the biggest thrill seekers from near and far. If the youngsters aren’t yet ready to board The Magnum or Top Thrill Dragster, then Planet Snoopy will certainly fit the bill. Cedar Point's Planet Snoopy features seven rides, including a mini-tea cup-style ride, miniature train, 4 x 4 trucks, a bouncing tower, spinning balloons, rocket ships and a crazy sub ride.
Century Cycles is considered one of the best bicycle retailers in the nation. Take advantage of their inexpensive bike rentals and hit the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail.
From candy cigarettes to PEZ dispensers to gourmet jellybeans check out b. a. Sweetie Candy Company Inc. This amazing store has every delight for every sweet tooth.
Big Fun is packed with cards, kitsch and collectibles from lunch boxes, blow-up advertising toys, Barbie dolls, and reproduction and original classic toys.