We know what you’re thinking. University Circle is the cultural center of Cleveland; it’s home to the Cleveland Orchestra, Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland Botanical Garden, Cleveland Museum of Natural History and more.
But can they party? Like really party? And not just wine and cheese and chamber music.
Wade Oval Wednesdays answer that question with an unequivocal YES.
Grab a blanket or lawn chair and park yourself in Wade Oval — the green space between the Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland Botanical Garden and Cleveland Museum of Natural History — nearly every Wednesday throughout the summer, 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., for live music, local grub, craft beer, wine and plenty of space to get down.
Party On
Did you think you’d go to an event in the city that named rock ‘n’ roll and we wouldn’t have amazing live music? Shame. Wade Oval Wednesdays offers a diverse lineup of bands throughout the summer, featuring rock, reggae, Latin, jazz, R&B and more.
- June 18 – The Stix Quintet (NEO-Soul/Funk/R&B)
- June 25, LGBTQ Pride Night – Apostle Jones (Soul/Covers)
- July 2 – Carlos Jones (+) (Reggae)
- July 9 – The Michael Weber Show (Rock & Roll)
- July 16, Disability Pride Night – Follow the Sun (Covers)
- July 23 – Cream Camino (Hard Rock)
- July 30 – Raquel and the Wildflowers (Country Rock)
- August 6, International Night – Son Gitano (Latin Fusion Orchestra)
- In Partnership with the Cleveland Cultural Gardens
- August 13 – The Band With No Name (Jazz)
- August 20 – The Unit eXperience Project (Jazz/Funk)
Eat, Drink & Shop
A neighborhood block party without tasty summer treats is unheard of. You’ll find plenty of Cleveland-based restaurants and food trucks serving up everything from pizza to seafood to BBQ. Past participants have included:
- Rascal House
- Cleveland Fish & Seafood Co.
- Kernels by Chrissie
- Pop Culture
- Make Believe Family Fun Center
- Carnival Cravings
- EDWINS Butcher Shop
- Manna
- Galaxy Grill
- B&M BBQ
- Hippie Sips
On top of that, you can score Cleveland swag from local vendors or hit up the farmers market for fresh produce, baked goods and other artisan products that will really add some flair to your picnic.
For the Kids
Wade Oval Wednesdays really go above and beyond to make sure kids have plenty to do. A number of free activities including bounce houses and other fun surprises go well with the theme nights, movie screenings and fireworks that occur on certain weeks.
The Vibe
The scene is one that simply screams “CLEVELAND!” Students from nearby universities, medical professionals on break from the surrounding healthcare institutions, artists, musicians, kids on summer break and, yes, even visitors, fill Wade Oval with a vibe that’s free spirited, filled with love and the kind of rug-cutting awesomeness that’s just plain infectious.
Where to Stay
There aren’t many neighborhoods in the country that pack as much art and culture into a few city blocks as University Circle. Thankfully, you can enjoy world-class accommodations that are a short walk or rideshare away from some of the best culture in the country. Check them out here.
How to Get There
Take the RTA's HealthLine, Red Line, or eight bus lines to University Circle. Or, parking is available for a fee at The Cleveland Museum of Natural History, Cleveland Botanical Garden, Cleveland History Center and The Cleveland Museum of Art. Rates vary. For more ways to get there, click here.