Places to Visit in Cleveland
On each trip back to Cleveland, Ohio I get more and more excited about this city’s future. With the Republican National Convention coming to town, the city has a lot in the works including new hotels, restaurants and shops, some of which are worth a visit each time I am in town.
Sweet Moses: Old Fashioned Soda Fountain
During my most recent trip, I scoped out some new spots but had to start the trip with a visit to one of my favorite places for sweets, Sweet Moses, a vintage inspired soda fountain in Gordon Square. On the menu, find inventive and classic scoops for monstrous sundaes, malts and shakes. Making this a true soda fountain, pharmacy style phosphates and egg creams combine to make house sodas. Soda jerks sporting button up white collared shirts and tucked in black ties deliver everything.
Address: on the north side of Detroit Avenue, between 67th and W. 69th
Happy Dogs: Whacky Ingredients Top Hot Dogs
Just down the street from Sweet Moses, I tried a new spot, Happy Dogs, where customers can check off wacky ingredients to top hot dogs. Some of the craziest being fruit loops, spaghetti O’s and peanut butter. Less shocking ingredients include bacon, Brie cheese and mac and cheese. Vegetarian dogs from field roast are available too. No matter how many ingredients you decide to top your dog with, the price is six bucks. Add French fires or tater tots for $3.
Address: 5801 Detroit Ave, Cleveland, OH 44102
Restore: Healthy Juice and Smoothie Bar
After my most recent visit, I also wrote about ways to eat healthy in Cleveland and have another one to add to the list- Restore Juice Bar. The modern architecture gives this spot a feel good vibe. On the menu, find fresh pressed juices, avocado toast, smoothies and primal coffee (made with coconut oil and ghee). I opted for the acai bowl ($8) with almond butter, chia seeds and bananas.
Address: 1001 Huron Road, Cleveland, Ohio
Barley House: Flair Bartender Throws out Fiery Tricks
When it comes to nightlife in Cleveland, one of the most popular is on E. 6th where places like Barley House offer more of a nightclub scene. Making the scene even more dynamic is house mixologist, Robbie Turek, who uses fire flair to mix drinks. We interview Turek more here to learn how he got his start.
Address: 1261 W. 6th Street, Cleveland, OH 44113
Day Trips Outside of Cleveland:
Chagrin Falls: Quiet Village Centered Around Tiny But Mighty Waterfall
For something more laid back, check out Chagrin Falls, a suburb about 30 minutes from downtown Cleveland that is centered around a tiny but mighty waterfall on the Chagrin River. Wooden steps lead to a viewing station for those who want to get up close views. The historic main street above, offers everything from boutiques, restaurants and old time popcorn shops like Chagrin Falls Popcorn Company, which serves classics flavors like double caramel corn, white cheddar and kettle corn. For lunch, or dinner, check out Dave’s Cosmic Sub’s, a rock and roll themed sub shop just off the main drag. Try the #1 and original sub, Dave’s Cosmic Sub, with pepperoni, salami, prosciutto, lettuce, tomatoes, banana peppers, onions, garlic, herbs, provolone cheese and Dave’s Cosmic Sauce, an Italian style dressing. Make sure to get it toasted!
It’s easy to see why this village, a 20 0minute ferry ride via the Jet Express, is known as the party town. A swath of bars and restaurants greet you with drink specials and islandy drinks. Save your dollars for Splash, the world’s largest swim up bar. Afterwards, head to T&J smokehouse where a mechanical bull and dueling pianos compete for your attention. There are 600 hotel rooms on the island, so make sure to book in advance, especially if visiting during a summer holiday.
Past Cleveland Stories:
