Whether it’s the vast, glistening expanse of Lake Erie or the twisty turns of the mighty Cuyahoga River, Cleveland’s waterways are among its greatest assets. The best part? These massive bodies of water provide no shortage of opportunities for fun, adventure and more than a little partying.
In 2019, Cleveland celebrated the 50th Anniversary of our beloved Cuyahoga River catching fire — and the amazing subsequent restoration and environmental reforms that followed.
It’s never been easier to get up close and personal with the Cuyahoga. Row, row, row your kayak, rent a jet ski or just grab a brew and leave the navigating to someone else on a relaxing cruise. No matter how you do it, you can’t go wrong. Here are just a few of the ways you can experience the beauty of one of Cleveland’s most enduring attractions:
Lake Erie is your adventure oyster, thanks to Great Lakes Watersports. Located at the mouth of the Cuyahoga River, the business rents jet skis, powerboats and kayaks to novices and experts alike from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Recognized as one of the top kayaking schools in the Great Lakes region, 41° North offers kayak rentals and instruction that allow all visitors to enjoy the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie from the best vantage posible: paddling along right on top of them.
How’s this for alliteration? BrewBoat CLE calls itself "Ohio's first and only pedal-powered paddle-wheel party-boat." But it’s no hyperbole—the company books Cuyahoga River cruises for up to 14 people to sip drinks and enjoy a pumped-up playlist while pedaling a cycleboat.
Tiki culture makes its way to CLE with the arrival of Tiki Barge cruises, setting sail this summer with daily two-hour cruises. Hop aboard a Polynesian-inspired pontoon boat, bring your own fruity cocktails and take a tropical spin ‘round the Cuyahoga.
If letting someone else navigate our fair waters is more your style, the majestic Goodtime III and Lady Caroline boats offer a variety of waterfront cruises—ranging from sightseeing jaunts to romantic dinner voyages.
Round up your crew and sign up for one-hour rowing classes at The Foundry, located on the river in the Flats district. Less than a mile away, its sister location hosts sailing classes at Cleveland’s Historic Coast Guard Station.