Cuyahoga Heights Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Cuyahoga Heights is a village located in Cuyahoga County, Ohio. Listed below are the best attractions and things to do in Cuyahoga Heights.
1. Bacci Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION | CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS OH
Bacci Park is a popular recreational area featuring a large fishing lake and diverse outdoor amenities. The park offers walking trails that wind through scenic natural settings, providing opportunities for hiking and nature observation. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, sports facilities, and a playground for family-friendly activities. During winter, the park becomes a destination for sledding enthusiasts, with its slopes attracting locals and visitors alike.
2. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
SCENIC TRAIN RIDES | PENINSULA OH
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad offers picturesque train excursions through the heart of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of the park's diverse landscapes, including rivers, forests, and wildlife, from the comfort of vintage railcars. The railroad provides various themed rides and special events throughout the year, catering to different interests and age groups. Its National Park Scenic excursion is particularly popular, offering a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the region.
3. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
WILDLIFE & CONSERVATION | CLEVELAND OH
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a 183-acre zoological park home to over 3,000 animals representing 600 species from around the world. The zoo features diverse habitats and exhibits, including African Elephant Crossing, Asian Highlands, and the RainForest, providing immersive experiences for visitors. Educational programs and conservation initiatives are integral to the zoo's mission, offering opportunities for learning and engagement. Special events and seasonal attractions, such as the Asian Lantern Festival, enhance the visitor experience throughout the year.
4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
NATIONAL PARK | BRECKSVILLE OH
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a 33,000-acre preserve showcasing the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Cuyahoga River valley. The park offers an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, including the popular Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which follows the historic canal route. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, from forests and wetlands to waterfalls like the iconic Brandywine Falls. The park also features historical sites, scenic train rides, and seasonal activities such as winter sports and summer concerts.
5. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
MUSIC MUSEUM | CLEVELAND OH
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a world-renowned museum dedicated to celebrating the history and cultural impact of rock music. The iconic I.M. Pei-designed building houses extensive exhibits featuring memorabilia, artifacts, and interactive displays from legendary musicians and bands. Visitors can explore multiple floors of music history, from the roots of rock to contemporary artists. The museum also hosts special exhibitions, live performances, and educational programs throughout the year.
6. Great Lakes Science Center
INTERACTIVE MUSEUM | CLEVELAND OH
Great Lakes Science Center is an interactive museum focused on STEM education and exploration. The center features hundreds of hands-on exhibits, covering topics from space exploration to the science of sports. Visitors can experience the NASA Glenn Visitor Center, which showcases space-related artifacts and exhibits. The museum also houses Cleveland's only dome theater, offering immersive film experiences, and hosts traveling exhibitions and educational programs for all ages.
7. Cleveland Museum of Art
WORLD-CLASS ART | CLEVELAND OH
The Cleveland Museum of Art is a renowned institution housing a diverse collection of over 45,000 works spanning 6,000 years of human creativity. The museum's permanent collection includes masterpieces from various cultures and periods, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary installations. Visitors can explore the beautifully designed galleries, including the stunning atrium that serves as a central gathering space. The museum offers free admission to its permanent collection, making world-class art accessible to all.
8. Cleveland Metroparks
OUTDOOR RECREATION | CLEVELAND OH
Cleveland Metroparks is an extensive park system encompassing over 24,000 acres of natural areas, hiking trails, and recreational facilities. The "Emerald Necklace" includes 18 reservations that encircle Cleveland, offering diverse outdoor experiences from beaches to forests. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, golfing, fishing, and boating across the various parks. The system also includes the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and features numerous educational programs and events throughout the year.
9. West Side Market
HISTORIC MARKETPLACE | CLEVELAND OH
West Side Market is Cleveland's oldest public market, featuring over 100 vendors offering a diverse array of fresh and prepared foods. The market's iconic clock tower and vaulted ceiling create a unique architectural backdrop for the bustling marketplace. Visitors can explore stalls selling everything from local produce and meats to international specialties and artisanal goods. The market is not only a food lover's paradise but also a cultural landmark, reflecting Cleveland's rich culinary heritage and diverse communities.
10. Cleveland Botanical Garden
URBAN OASIS | CLEVELAND OH
Cleveland Botanical Garden is a lush urban retreat featuring 10 acres of outdoor gardens and an 18,000-square-foot glasshouse. The Eleanor Armstrong Smith Glasshouse transports visitors to the spiny desert of Madagascar and the cloud forests of Costa Rica. Outdoor themed gardens include the Herb Garden, Rose Garden, and the whimsical Children's Garden. The garden hosts seasonal events, educational programs, and art installations, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers and families.
11. Sokolowski's University Inn
ICONIC RESTAURANT | CLEVELAND OH
Sokolowski's University Inn is a beloved Cleveland institution known for its hearty Polish and Eastern European cuisine. The cafeteria-style restaurant has been serving generous portions of comfort food since 1923, including favorites like pierogi, stuffed cabbage, and schnitzel. The warm, family-run atmosphere and vintage decor contribute to its charm and popularity among locals and visitors. Sokolowski's has received national recognition, including a James Beard America's Classics Award, cementing its status as a culinary landmark.
12. A Christmas Story House
MOVIE LANDMARK | CLEVELAND OH
A Christmas Story House is the restored home featured in the beloved holiday film "A Christmas Story." Visitors can tour the house, which has been meticulously renovated to match its appearance in the movie, complete with iconic props and memorabilia. The adjacent museum showcases behind-the-scenes photos, costumes, and artifacts from the film. Fans can even stay overnight in the house, immersing themselves in the world of Ralphie Parker and his quest for the perfect Christmas gift.