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In Cleveland, we’ve got world-class experiences without the world-class ego. And for that, you’re welcome.
World-class experiences without the world-class ego.
Here in Cleveland, we’ve got beef cheek in our pierogi, truffles on our hot dogs and beer in our donuts. Balance.
Whether you’re into the thread count of your linens or just a place to crash for the night, we’ve got a hotel room with your name all over it.
You know those places only the locals know? Let our experts help you find them with free maps, itineraries and insider tips.
History hasn't always been easy on us. But pressure can create diamonds. Come check out our gems.
The 36th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony returns to Cleveland on Oct. 30, which makes this a perfect time for you to get out there and celebrate our city’s musical heritage. This year’s class of 13 inductees is the most diverse yet, boasting the likes of Tina Turner, Carole King, The Go-Go’s, JAY-Z, Foo Fighters, Todd Rundgren, Kraftwerk, and others. Whether it’s paying tribute to Cleveland’s rock ‘n’ roll roots or chowing down while catching a show, you’ve got to get out and Roam The Land in honor of the newest class of rock royalty.
Before this year’s inductees take the stage, locals can enjoy a week of rock-focused experiences at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Activities and events at the museum – which is the ultimate homage to rock music – include “Inductee Stories of Rock,” Inductee music in The Garage exhibit, the opening of the museum’s newest inductee exhibit and the fully themed Rock Hall Nights event on Oct. 28. The Rock Hall is open all week and it’s the perfect time to visit. After all, you never know who you might run into.
Clevelanders know that the city is the home of rock ‘n’ roll, but many may not know that it’s all thanks to a local radio DJ. Cleveland’s own Alan Freed is credited with being the first to use the term to describe the emerging music in the 1950s and became known as the “father of rock ‘n’ roll.” Music lovers can pay homage to Freed at Lake View Cemetery, where a headstone in the shape of a jukebox marks his final resting place.
One of Cleveland’s newest public art installations pays tribute to the city’s beloved rock ‘n’ roll icon, Michael Stanley. The 2,200-square-foot mural was painted by artist WRDSMTH on a warehouse in the Midtown neighborhood and includes lyrics from Stanley’s 1980 hit “Lover.” Cleveland declared March 25 “Michael Stanley Day” in remembrance of Stanley after his death in early March 2021.
Image © Nathan Rogers
A mainstay of the Cleveland music scene for over 50 years, The Agora is etched into Cleveland’s music history. Numerous big names (and Rock Hall inductees) have taken the Agora’s stage, including Bruce Springsteen, Bon Jovi, U2 and The Clash, along with 2021 inductees Foo Fighters and Todd Rundgren, who recorded a portion of his 1978 live album there. Today, Clevelanders can catch everyone from established rockers to new acts and comedians on stage.
From local favorites to groups that would become some of the biggest names in rock, Beachland Ballroom in the Waterloo Arts District has hosted them all. Kings of Leon, Mumford & Sons and even Akron’s own The Black Keys have played at the nationally acclaimed club, which now offers a rotation of local and touring music acts as well as special events.
An iconic venue offering music fans an intimate atmosphere, The Grog Shop aims to present live music seven days a week, 365 days a year, making it the perfect choice for locals looking to catch a concert on a whim. Right down the street, concertgoers can get some pre-show record perusing done at Record Revolution, the oldest independent vinyl record store in the country.
Mahall’s 20 Lanes is not your average concert hall. In addition to hosting live music acts, dance parties and other events, the Lakewood venue houses 20 bowling lanes. With the bowling alley just steps away from the stage, plus vintage pinball machines and a full-service bar and restaurant, it’s one-stop shopping for a unique night out.
Tasty food and live music live in perfect harmony at the House of Blues, located in the heart of Downtown. The Cleveland outpost of the famed music venue features free live performances at the restaurant every Thursday through Saturday, daily happy hour specials and touring acts hitting the concert stage throughout the week, making it the perfect stop for locals in search of live music or simply looking for an after-work libation.
Image © Nathan Migal
Dinner and a show get an upgrade at Music Box, which offers the chance to see big name touring artists in its Concert Hall as well as local entertainment at its downstairs Supper Club. The venue will host several Induction Week events, including a live podcast recording chronicling 2021 inductee Tina Turner’s most memorable Cleveland concerts. There will also be performances celebrating inductees of years past, including The Night of 100 Janises: The Janis Joplin Experience on Oct. 29 and a Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young brunch the morning after the Induction Ceremony.
Image © Destination Cleveland
Music fans looking for more casual – and creative – food options will find them at Happy Dog in the Gordon Square Arts District. Locals can peruse a menu that features 50 hot dog toppings, ranging from the classics (ketchup, mustard or onions) to crazy (Spaghetti-O’s, Froot Loops or mac and cheese), as they listen to live bands and DJs.
Local music lovers looking for a change of pace can enjoy live jazz at Bop Stop in the Ohio City neighborhood. The venue is part of The Music Settlement, which began as a way to welcome immigrants to Cleveland and unite them through music. Offering live music most nights, community jam sessions, and a full bar, it’s a one-of-a-kind location along the shore of Lake Erie for listeners and musicians alike.
Image © Roger Mastroianni
The Cleveland Orchestra, named “America’s finest” by the New York Times, will welcome audience members to Mandel Concert Hall at Severance for the first time since March 2020 when it kicks off its 104th season this month. Regarded by many as one of the world’s most beautiful concert halls, Severance Music Center is as much a treat for the eyes as the Orchestra’s performances are for the ears.
Clevelanders can break out their boogie shoes and hit the dance floor at Good Night John Boy, a 70’s-themed disco bar in the Flats East Bank. Local DJs spin a mix of groovy old-school hits and contemporary tunes influenced by the days of disco as the dance floor lights up and, of course, a disco ball spins overhead. There are themed drinks, fresh pizza and a vintage camper that’s been converted into a full-service outdoor bar.