COOL AND UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN CLEVELAND WITH KIDS
Looking for unique things to do in Cleveland with kids that aren’t on every “best of Cleveland” list? I’ve lived in Northeast Ohio my whole life, and even after years of exploring this city, I’m still finding new hidden gems around every corner.
In this blog, we’re exploring all the things in Cleveland that are truly special and make our home in Northeast Ohio so unique. Since growing up in Cleveland my whole life and now experiencing it through the eyes of my own kids, I still feel like we are able to find new and exciting ways to explore our own city and it is so much fun!
There are a lot of lists out there that include the “best” or the “most popular” places to visit in Cleveland, Ohio, but I really wanted to take time to dive into those cool, unique, and sometimes hidden gems of our awesome city. From a free monster truck art studio to a secret library floor with the world's tiniest book, here are our favorite unique Cleveland spots to explore as a family.
Notice something missing from our list? Send us message, because we’d LOVE to hear about it!
Unique & Hidden Gem Things To Do in Cleveland With Kids
1. Tim Willis Monster Trucks (FREE)
2265 E. 83rd, Cleveland, Ohio
Tim Willis is a self-taught local engineer and artist. He builds all his creations from scraps to make monster trucks and robots. His place is so neat and inspiring, and it’s a great place for people of all ages to visit. You are welcome to walk around and check out all of Tim’s creations. He also has his number posted, and you can call him. If he's available, he’ll come out and show you around. My kids gave this unique art experience a 10/10. There is free street parking right on E. 83rd. It’s FREE and open to the public daily 10 a.m.- 7 p.m.
See a closer look at Tim Willis Monster Trucks here 👇
2. Downtown Cleveland Public Library Special Collections — Miniature Books & Superman Comics
325 Superior Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114
While the library building is breathtaking and worth seeing, there’s also plenty to explore inside. On the 3rd floor, you’ll find the Special Collection Room. This room has fun and unique chess sets, folklore, and the game’s history. The main reason we love visiting this floor is to see the miniature books collection. It has what was once known as the world’s tiniest book. We had to use a magnifying glass to see the words. It was so cute!
The 2nd floor houses a Superman collection consisting of comic books, toys, clothing, photographs, and other memorabilia. Items in this exhibit rotate every 6 months. We also like visiting the kids’ floor to read and play (my daughter’s favorite), the technology room to see projects being 3d printed, and taking the elevator to the 10th floor to see the city from the observation deck.
The Downtown Branch of the Cleveland Public Library is a real treasure, and if you haven’t been at least once, then you absolutely have to check it out!
3. Superman Statue in Downtown Cleveland (FREE)
1275 Ontario St, Cleveland OH
Did you know Superman was created right here in Cleveland by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster? And there’s a Superman Statue in Downtown Cleveland dedicated to their revolutionary character! The Superman Man statue stands outside the Huntington Convention Center at the corner of St. Clair Avenue and Ontario Street. The Superman Statue is 18 feet tall and depicts Superman soaring through the sky.
The second statue is of Jerry Siegel, Joe Shuster, and Joanne Siegel. Jerry Siegel wrote and created the character; Joe Shuster illustrated Superman, and Joanne inspired the character of Lois Lane. Joanne also spent years trying to get Cleveland to recognize itself as the birthplace of Superman.
The statue shows the three of them looking toward the Superman statue, and it shows Joe drawing the Superman character on a sketch pad. There's also a 3rd statue of a telephone booth that looks like Clark’s changing room. It’s a really cool homage to Superman’s original birthplace!
The next time you find yourself in downtown Cleveland, be sure to stop by the Superman Statue outside of the Huntington Convention Center.
4. Cleveland Cultural Gardens — 30+ Gardens & Hidden History (FREE)
Martin Luther King Jr Dr, Cleveland, OH 44106
Built in 1916, these gardens are some of Northeast Ohio’s oldest and most beautiful treasures. 🌳
There are more than 30 gardens that are designed and cultivated by distinct cultural or nationality groups, and many feature symbolic statues and monuments. I think it truly is one of Cleveland’s best hidden gems!
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens are fantastic for any occasion, whether going on a family hike, a date night, or taking out-of-towners on tour.
We love how the gardens let us share our family heritage with our children while also showing how each culture uniquely contributes to making the world a better place. 🌎
On our last visit, we spent about an hour exploring and made it to seven gardens.
The Cultural Gardens are also home to the Rockefeller Greenhouse. It’s one of my favorite places to visit, and it’s FREE! If you’re going to the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, I recommend making time to visit the greenhouse, too.
5. Rockefeller Park & Greenhouse (FREE)
750 E 88th St, Cleveland, OH 44108
If you're visiting number 4 on our list (Cleveland Cultural Gardens) this one goes right along with it and is actually at the starting point of those gardens, so you can do both at the same time and it's FREE.
The Rockefeller Greenhouse & Botanical Garden is one of Cleveland’s hidden gems aaaand we just can’t get enough of it! 😍 The greenhouse isn’t huge, but it’s always fun to walk around and see all the beautiful plants and cacti.🌵There are also some really nice paths to walk right outside of the greenhouse. We love visiting here, and it’s ABSOLUTELY FREE!
My kids always love looking around at the incredible variety of plants at this greenhouse. It really is a breath of fresh air! It’s also a big plus that it’s right down the street from the Cleveland Museum of Art (also free & amazing) and is at the starting point of the Cleveland Cultural Garden.
Their website says they are open every day (including Holidays ) from 10 am - 4pm
Parking and Admission are always free!
6. Worden's Ledges Loop Trail — Hidden Rock Carvings in the Cleveland Metroparks (FREE)
Wordens Ledges Loop Trail, Hinckley, OH 44233
Incredible carvings hewn into the ledges that really make this trail feel enchanted and otherworldly. Most of the carvings are faces, but there’s also a pirate ship, a cross, a sphinx, and I’m sure a few others we have yet to discover. Every time we visit, we find a few more hidden carvings that we missed the last time.
The ledges are a part of the Cleveland Metroparks. They were carved by hand sometime in the 1940’s by a man named Noble Stuart, who was the son-in-law of the previous owner, Hiram Worden.
This is a good hiking trail for littles because it’s under a mile long, and the carvings are easy to spot since it’s a loop trail. But the trail is DEFINITELY NOT stroller-friendly. The path is full of rocks, roots, and uneven ground.
7. West Side Market — Historic Indoor/Outdoor Market in Ohio City
1979 W 25th St, Cleveland, OH 44113
Built in 1912, the West Side Market is one of the most beautiful indoor/outdoor markets with over 50 independently owned and operated businesses.
You will find everything from fresh bakery to fresh flowers, coffee, nuts, meats, dairy, and all kinds of food from around the world. Whether you want to go and shop or just walk around and marvel at its beauty, it is definitely a place to add to your must-visit list when visiting Cleveland.
My kids' favorite part is going up the steps on the west end of the building (near the crepe stand) to eat on the observation deck that overlooks the market.
8. A Christmas Story House — The Real Movie House in Cleveland
3159 W. 11th Street in Cleveland
How lucky are we that the house from A Christmas Story is right here in Cleveland and is open year-round? This 19th-century Victorian house was used for exterior and some interior scenes of Ralphie Parker's house in the 1983 film A Christmas Story.
The home has been completely remodeled to look and feel just like the house we know and love from the classic movie. The living room even features a leg lamp display in the window.
My kids thought it was so cool to walk through “the Christmas movie” in person. It really does feel like you’re in Ralphie’s house!
Admission also includes the Museum, and don't forget to stop by the gift shop next to the museum after your visit. Visit The Christmas Story House website here. THE CHRISTMAS STORY HOUSE
9. Lakeview Cemetery & The Haserot Angel (FREE)
12316 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106
Bet you didn’t think you'd see a cemetery on this list, did you?
Lakeview Cemetery is one of the largest and most beautiful cemeteries in the country, modeled after the Victorian and Edwardian garden cemeteries of France and England.
One of the main reasons we’re adding this to our list is because of The Haserot Angel, also known as The Angel of Death Victorious. This bronze angel looks like she is crying, but it’s actually because of the bronze oxidizing over the years. The angel also holds an upside-down torch, symbolizing a life that was extinguished.
You’ll find the Haserot Angel near the intersection of Lake View Cemetery road and Summit Road. It’s east of Wade Memorial Chapel.
(Video courtesy of ConsistentlyCurious.com!)
At Lakeview Cemetery, you’ll also find the Presidential Memorial for James. A Garfield, Wade Memorial Chapel, as well as the final resting places of historical figures like John D. Rockefeller, Carl B. Stokes, and Eliot Ness.
Many Clevelanders don’t know that Lakeview Cemetery played a crucial role in the establishment of Little Italy down the road from the cemetery. High demand for granite and monumental work for the cemetery drew skilled masons and artisans from Italy to immigrate to Cleveland. Giuseppe Carabelli, who owned a company that specialized in this type of work, encouraged artisans to move into the nearby neighborhood, then called the East End, so they could be close to where they would be working. Eventually, this neighborhood became known as Little Italy.*
10. Cleveland Museum of Art (FREE)
11150 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 4410
Cleveland is home to one of the best art museums in the world, and it’s completely FREE and kid-friendly!
You can literally walk right up to paintings by Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh, and then minutes later see medieval armor and ancient sculptures thousands of years old.
They offer hands-on art experiences, interactive displays, and plenty of opportunities for kids to create, get inspired, and stand in awe. My daughter especially loves visiting during “Open Studio” which happens on Sundays from 10a-2p. It’s a free, drop-in art making session designed to encourage creativity through hands-on activities.
Whether your family is full of art lovers or you’re looking for a unique Cleveland experience, we think every family should visit the Cleveland Museum of Art at least once.
11. Viaduct Park — Walk Through a Tunnel to a Waterfall (FREE)
Viaduct Park, Willis St, Bedford, OH 44146
Ever wanted to crawl through a tunnel to see some gorgeous views?
Viaduct Park is part of the Cleveland Metroparks Bedford Reservation, and it's a true hidden gem. You can climb through a stone tunnel (if you’re over 4ft, be prepared to crouch down ) and see the beautiful Great Falls of Tinkers Creek waterfall on the other side! There are also other ways to view the waterfall, but the tunnel is always my kids' favorite part.
It’s also a quick and easy beginner hike for kids. If you’d like to view the waterfall from the tunnel, the tunnel and steps down to the tunnel are not stroller-friendly. Some people find the tunnel can be a little creepy, but the beautiful falls on the other side are totally worth it.
12. Judy's Hand Pavilion & The Museum of Contemporary Art (FREE for Ohio Residents & Kids 18 & Under)
11400 Euclid Ave. Cleveland, Ohio 44106
Judy's Hand Pavilion is located right outside of moCa, and it's a fun sight to see for all ages. Tony Tasset (Chicago-based artist) modeled the hand from a cast of his wife Judy’s hand. The hand stands 21 feet tall and weighs 7 tons.
And while you're there, be sure to check out moCA (The Museum of Contemporary Art); it's free for Ohio residents and youth 18 and under. $10 for adults who live outside of Ohio. moCa is always full of new contemporary art to explore with its rotating art exhibitions every few months.
13. Cliffs Pump Track (FREE)
CanalWay Center, 4524 E 49th St, Cuyahoga Heights, OH 44125
Pack up the kids and the bikes and head to Cliffs Bike Park. This track is absolutely AMAZING! There are tracks for all ages, and It's also right next to my daughter’s favorite nature center. It does get quite busy on weekends, so be prepared.
One important note: the track is totally FREE and open to the public.
14. Squires Castle — A Real Castle in the Cleveland Metroparks (FREE)
2844 River Rd, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094
Is there anything cooler than exploring a real-life castle? 🏰 The stone structure was originally built by Feargus B. Squire as a gatehouse and caretaker's quarters.
We love Squire's Castle and think it’s the perfect unique outing. The castle is small, but it’s fun to see. There are also nice trails around the property to hike, and a huge open space in front of the castle, so we usually bring a kite and pack a lunch for a picnic.
Squires Castle is a part of the Cleveland Metroparks and definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for a fun, unique family outing.
Unique Food & Restaurants in Cleveland With Kids
15. Bourbon Street Barrel Room — New Orleans Flavor in Tremont
2393 Professor Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113
Tucked away in the heart of Tremont, one of Cleveland’s trendiest neighborhoods, this gem brings the flavors, ambiance, and festive spirit of New Orleans right here to the Midwest. From the moment you step inside, you’re transported to the French Quarter with warm hospitality, vibrant décor, and tantalizing smells that remind you of a classic Southern kitchen. BSBR is known for delivering authentic Creole and Cajun flavors.
Bourbon Street Barrel Room is family-friendly and offers a great kids menu. From the moment you step through the doors, you’re whisked away to New Orleans. The food, the drinks, and the ambiance works together to create a dining experience that feels like a mini getaway.
It’s perfect for families, couples, or even just a solo brunch to treat yourself.
See everything we ate and our experience at Bourbon Street Barrel Room!
16. Jeff's Candies — Watch Old-Fashioned Candy Made Live (Free Demonstrations)
1238 Lost Nation Rd, Willoughby, OH 44094
Jeff is Cleveland's self-proclaimed Willy Wonka. He makes old-fashioned candies right on location; and you can see free Live Demonstrations: Every Hour Saturday 12pm-5pm & Sunday 12pm-4pm
Jeff uses old-fashioned methods to make his candy, like copper pots, candy stoves, and hand-pulling/making ribbon candy and taffy. It’s such a cool, unique experience to be able to see this method of candy making up close and personal.
My family ran a local candy shop for many years, and it makes me so happy to see Jeff continuing on the tradition of classic candy making.
17. Bearden's — Old-Fashioned Diner in Rocky River
19985 Lake Rd, Rocky River, OH 44116
Bearden’s is a really cute old-fashioned diner in Rocky River. When I told my kids I was putting together a list of unique places to visit and wanted a food section on the blog, they insisted Bearden’s make the cut.
My husband and son love the peanut butter steak burger (which doesn't sound like two things that should go together to me!), and they love it! The kids' meals come in the cutest old-fashioned cardboard car and include a mini pack of Oreos (make sure you check under the wax paper to get them). They also have kids-sized milkshakes.
They also have Magic Mondays from 6-7:30 (check their Facebook to confirm) with a magician providing entertainment and sometimes balloon animals. High chairs are available. And while you’re there, don’t miss out on their delicious milkshakes!
18. Mitchell's Ice Cream Ohio City — Ice Cream in a Historic Theatre
1867 W 25th Street, Cleveland, OH
If you’re from Cleveland, then you definitely know Mitchell’s Ice Cream, but their Ohio City Kitchen location is a unique experience many locals don’t know about. It’s built in an old historic theatre, with the main entrance under the beautiful marquee.
At this location, you can eat on the main level or upstairs. Huge glass windows also overlook the kitchen, where you can watch the ice cream being made on site.
THat’s the end of our cool and unique places to visit in cleveland with kids!
That's our list of unique, hidden-gem things to do in Cleveland with kids, and honestly, we're still discovering more all the time! Cleveland has so much more going on than the typical tourist attractions, and we love sharing these local favorites with other families.
Looking for more Cleveland family fun? Check out our Northeast Ohio city guide, playgrounds, and kid-friendly restaurants for even more local ideas. And if you know a hidden gem we haven't found yet, send it our way!
