Hamilton is Here

If you were one of the 60,000 people to score a ticket to the Broadway blockbuster "Hamilton" playing in Cleveland July 17-Aug. 26, congratulations! The massively popular performances at the Key Bank State Theatre in Playhouse Square, tell the story of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies, who became George Washington's right-hand man.

There's no doubt you're going to love the show. But why stop there? Here's how to make the most of your "Hamilton" experience while in Downtown Cleveland.

Pre-Show Dining

This world-class theater district is home to several historic theaters simply dripping with opulence. But outside these institutions is a colorful array of nosh spots ranging from nouveau French dining to a street-side burger joint. The key to making the most of your pre-show timing? Make reservations well in advance.

If you're looking to go on the fancier side, make reservations at Cowell & Hubbard, which sits along Euclid Avenue in what was once a famous jewelry store. This place is still churning out "gems" with an upscale menu of French-inspired dishes.

Or, make it a white-table-cloth affair at Cibreo Italian Kitchen or District, which are both adjacent to Key Bank State Theatre.

For something a little more casual, the neighborhood offers up the diner-esque Yours Truly, outdoor burger joint Dynomite Burgers, plant-centered Phuel Cafe, Asian-focused Sung's House and small-but-mighty Zaytoon Lebanese Kitchen.

Or, grab an ice cream cone at Green Rooster's Creamery where they'll be dishing ice cream on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays until 7 p.m. to accommodate "Hamilton" goers.

Or, tempt those taste buds with a sweet stop at Cleveland's famous Corbo's Bakery, located right next door to the theatres of Playhouse Square. Get the full Cleveland experience with Corbo's decadent strawberries-meet-cream cassata cake.

After-Show Refreshments

Few things top off an incredible Broadway blockbuster quite like a little post-show nightcap (or two). Thankfully, Playhouse Square is bursting with an array of bars and lounges that'll add a little extra buzz to your night on the town. 

While the kitchen at Ghost Light Restaurant & Lounge (located inside the Crowne Plaza Cleveland at Playhouse Square) closes at 11 p.m., the lounge is open until a cool midnight. Just cross Euclid Avenue and you're there.

Or, tip back a couple of margs at Puente Viejo, which, on the weekends, has a bar open until 1:30 a.m. It's a hop, skip and a jump from the Key Bank State Theatre and an excellent spot for pre-show tacos, as well.

Tequila not quite your style? Make it a late night at Parnell's Pub along Euclid Avenue. This American-Irish mainstay in Playhouse Square is a great spot to sip frosty pints long after the show ends.

Or, make your way to Cleveland's version of Bavaria where you simply mustn't resist the urge to dance on the tables. Top off that awesome theatrical production with a few, hefty German lagers from the world-famous Hofbrauhaus Brewpub, located just behind the theatre.

Then, belt out a few show tunes whilst sipping libations at Azure at The 9. Azure's stunning rooftop terrace, which boasts an uber sleek and sophisticated design, offers jaw-dropping views of Downtown.

Stay Overnight

Want to stay overnight within walking distance to the Key Bank State Theatre? Easy. Stay overnight at the recently renovated Crowne Plaza Cleveland at Playhouse Square or budget-friendly Comfort Inn - Downtown.

Or, if you're up for a quick (and free!) trolley ride down Euclid Avenue, consider an overnight stay at The Metropolitan at The 9 or Kimpton Schofield, which are located less than a half-mile from the excitement of Playhouse Square.

Need A Little Hand-Holding?

Everyone needs a little hand-holding sometimes. When it comes to exploring Cleveland, we've got you. Find your way around town and create your own experiences with Destination Cleveland's app.