It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s a…Clevelander?!
Superman, the world’s first costumed comic book superhero and an enduring symbol of truth, justice and the American way, is recognizable by practically everyone around the world.
But did you know that the last son of Krypton was actually born in Cleveland? Writer Jerry Siegel and Artist Joe Shuster came up with the idea for this enduring symbol of hope while living in the Glenville neighborhood on Cleveland’s east side. From his debut in Action Comics #1 in 1938 to the filming of James Gunn’s new movie “Superman” right on the streets of Clark Kent’s real hometown, Superman is a point of pride for Clevelanders everywhere.
Here's how to spend a “Super” 48 hours in The Land.
Day One
Breakfast
You’re going to need your super-strength for the day ahead, so head to Bett’s Restaurant for breakfast staples like Cinnamon Bun French Toast, Shrimp & Grits and the Betts Benedict, which swaps out Canadian bacon for crab.
Morning
Time for the first leg of your set-jetting around The Land, hitting locations where James Gunn filmed “Superman” with David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan and much of the cast hitting the streets of “Metropolis” throughout.
Right outside Betts at E. 9th St. and Euclid Ave., PNC Plaza plays out a scene with real impact. Head down Euclid to Public Square where office workers at Terminal Tower had a bird’s eye view of Superman saving the day. Afterward, head north to the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland to the site of the Siegel & Shuster Tribute Plaza (dedication in August 2025) that pays homage to Superman and his Cleveland creators with statues and an iconic phone booth.
Lunch
Head to The Arcade, America’s first indoor mall, for a short rest and some great food. Pizza (216) fires up authentic, wood-fired pizza as well as sandwiches and salads. You don’t need a cape to eat at Flight Social, where their airline theme extends to the menu with curated flights of finger foods, tequila and bourbon. Finish off your meal with a dozen flavors of Pammy’s Ice Cream, all made in-house, and enjoy the comic book-inspired décor.
Afternoon
After lunch, head back into The Arcade for some pics of its gorgeous glass ceiling and brilliant brass fixtures, the setting for a romantic, mid-air kiss between Lois and Clark. Afterward, head out on Superior Ave. to the Leader Building, which spent summer 2024 dressed up as The Daily Planet, the newspaper of record in Metropolis. Then, head west on Superior to the Cleveland Public Library. Inside, apart from the various art installations, historic architecture and amazing collections of books, media and maker spaces, check out their exhibit that pays homage to the Man of Steel.
Dinner
East 4th St. is a great place to grab dinner. The heart of nightlife in the Gateway District, there’s no shortage of food options or places to grab a quick drink before your night begins. Michael Symon’s Mabel’s BBQ serves up Cleveland-style barbecue, featuring sauce that incorporates our beloved Bertman’s Ballpark Mustard, and offers a huge selection of bourbon. Dante Boccuzzi’s Goma serves up authentic sushi, nigiri and maki that will blow your mind. Recent James Beard-nominee chef Vinnie Cimino is creating dishes and cocktails that incorporate Midwest nostalgia and cutting-edge culinary techniques at Cordelia.
Night
There’s no better way to end the night than with a Guardians game at Progressive Field. Check out the recent renovations to our beautiful, ever-evolving ballpark that served as the home of the Metropolis Meteors in Gunn’s film. Pour your own brews at The Corner bar, check out neighborhood eateries in the stadium’s Districts and save some room if you’re there for Dollar Dog Night.
Day Two
Breakfast
Make your way to the east side in Cleveland Heights for a delicious start to the day at Luna Bakery and Café. Pick out your favorite pastry to accompany your morning coffee, or hit up one of their more savory options, like Nest Eggs or Avocado Toast. Pro tip: grab some macarons for the road.
Morning
Since you’re already on the east side, why not head to the place where it all began? Cleveland’s Glenville neighborhood has a claim to fame as the home of Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, whose childhood houses still stand. Feel free to walk by and have a peek, but real people live in these homes so don’t do anything Lex Luthor would do. From there, zip down to University Circle for even more history at the famed Cleveland Museum of Art and the Cleveland History Center.
Lunch
Head back west to Ohio City for lunch at Great Lakes Brewing Company, whose success since its founding by the Conway brothers in 1988 spurred a revival of the Ohio City neighborhood into a nightlife destination with great food and amazing local beers. Oh, and if you’ve got your own version of Krypto in tow, their dog-friendly patio is the perfect lunch spot.
Afternoon
I mean, you can’t be on a Superman-themed weekend and not stop in a comic book store, right? Luckily, we’ve got one of the best tucked away in Cleveland’s West Park neighborhood. Carol & John’s Comic Book Shop is a CLE institution. It’s bigger on the inside, filled with new comics, back issues and collectibles that will make your head spin. Free Comic Book Day is always an event, with signings and special giveaways.
Once you’re loaded up on reading material, it’s time to experience our city’s “Emerald Necklace.” No, not Kryptonite, it’s our beloved Cleveland Metroparks. Edgewater Park is a favorite place to picnic, play catch or just enjoy the waves of Lake Erie lapping at the shore. Head to the Edgewater Beach House for a cold beverage or a scoop or two, then walk the beach and dip your toes in our favorite Great Lake.
Dinner
After your lakeside lounging, The Flats East Bank is your spot for dinner and a view of the Detroit Superior Bridge, which makes an appearance during an intense battle during “Superman.” You’ve got plenty to choose from, but we suggest sitting down at Sora, which offers an elevated sushi and Japanese fusion menu amidst a stylized décor that takes its cues from manga and anime.
Night
Finish your Superman weekend down by the Cuyahoga River on The Flats East Bank, where you can stroll the riverwalk and get into your own late-night adventures. Good Night John Boy’s 70s-themed dance club combines nostalgia chic and colorful lights for a time-warp night out. Punch Bowl Social offers pool tables, bowling and karaoke, and that’s just the beginning. Or, grab a beer at Collision Bend Brewing Company and enjoy their riverside patio.