Top Free Activities in Cleveland You Can’t Miss

Attend Cleveland Orchestra Community Concerts

Address: Public Square, Cleveland, OH, USA

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The Cleveland Orchestra, often regarded as the “Best Orchestra in the World,” hosts several free community concerts throughout the year. Notably, the July 4th weekend concert on Public Square attracts hundreds of thousands of attendees who enjoy Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” accompanied by a stunning fireworks display.

Explore Cleveland’s History at Lake View Cemetery

Address: 12316 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA

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Phone: +1 216-421-2665

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Lake View Cemetery, established in 1869, is the final resting place of notable Clevelanders such as John D. Rockefeller and President James A. Garfield. The cemetery features exquisite stone monuments and must-see sites like the Garfield Monument and Wade Chapel, which showcases a beautiful Tiffany window.

Savor the Sunset over Lake Erie

Address: Edgewater Beach, Cleveland, OH 44102, USA

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The sunset view from Cleveland’s Edgewater Park is breathtaking. Visitors can enjoy a picnic dinner while watching the sun dip below the horizon or take a leisurely stroll along the beach.

Pick up Free Music and Movies at the Cleveland Public Library

Address: 10200 Superior Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106-1109, USA

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Phone: +1 216-623-6975

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The Cleveland Public Library system boasts over 10 million items including books, tapes, DVDs, and CDs. Visit the historic main library or request items online for local branch delivery. DVDs and CDs can be checked out for seven days and are renewable.

Go to the Zoo

Address: 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109, USA

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Phone: +1 216-661-6500

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Cuyahoga County residents can visit the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo for free every Monday with valid identification. Although the free offer does not apply to the Rain Forest, there is plenty to see within the zoo’s exhibits like “Australian Adventure” and “Wolf Wilderness.” Parking is always complimentary.

Hit the Beach

Mentor Headlands Park, located east of Cleveland, features a long stretch of white sand ideal for relaxation or exploration. Visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the water and a picturesque lighthouse. The park offers ample free parking.

Marvel at the Old Arcade

Address: 420 Superior Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114, USA

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Phone: +1 216-575-1234

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The Cleveland Arcade, built in 1890, is an architectural treasure that features a stunning five-story atrium and intricate details. It serves as a delightful space for visitors to relax and appreciate the beautiful architecture.

Enjoy the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes

Address: 2600 S Park Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44120, USA

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Phone: +1 216-321-5935

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The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, established in 1966, offers various trails and exhibits showcasing Northeast Ohio’s natural habitats. Visitors enjoy a peaceful environment free of admission fees.

Go Antiquing

Cleveland features diverse antique districts, perfect for browsing without any cost. Notable areas include Lorain Avenue for architectural antiques and Larchmere Avenue for high-end china and furniture.

Stroll along the Ohio and Erie Canal

Address: Cleveland, OH 44105, USA

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Phone: +1 216-206-1000

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The Ohio and Erie Canal, built in 1825, is now a scenic mixed-use trail for biking, hiking, and jogging. It passes through the beautiful Cuyahoga Valley National Park and features educational signage along the historic route.

Spend the Day at the Cleveland Museum of Art

Address: 11150 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA

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Phone: +1 216-421-7350

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The Cleveland Museum of Art offers free admission to its permanent collection, allowing visitors to explore its extensive assortment of artwork at a leisurely pace.

Canton Museum of Art

Address: 1001 Market Ave N, Canton, OH 44702, USA

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Phone: +1 330-453-7666

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The Canton Museum of Art enriches Stark County’s cultural landscape with diverse exhibitions. The museum offers free admission on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Explore the Bridges of Ashtabula County

Address: Ashtabula County, OH, USA

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Ashtabula County is home to 17 historic covered bridges. Visitors can embark on a self-guided tour to admire the unique structures set in picturesque surroundings.

Visit the Hard Rock Rocksino

Address: 10777 Northfield Rd, Northfield, OH 44067, USA

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Phone: +1 330-908-7625

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The Hard Rock Rocksino combines gaming, dining, and rock memorabilia. While slots are not free, admission to the venue is complimentary and it is open year-round.

Medina Toy and Train Museum

Address: 7 Public Square, Medina, OH 44256, USA

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Phone: +1 330-764-4455

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This engaging museum in Medina features model train setups, interactive exhibits, and classic toys. Admission is free and it opens Saturdays and Sundays.

First Mondays at the Cleveland Children’s Museum

Address: 3813 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44115-2503, USA

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Phone: +1 216-791-7114

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On the first Monday of each month, the Cleveland Children’s Museum offers free admission from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., providing families with engaging and educational experiences.

Explore the Allen Museum in Oberlin

Address: 87 N Main St, Oberlin, OH 44074, USA

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Phone: +1 440-775-8665

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Founded in 1917, the Allen Memorial Art Museum at Oberlin College showcases a stunning array of over 11,000 art pieces. Visitors can enjoy free admission and explore remarkable collections.

Cleveland Accordion Museum

America’s first accordion museum is located in the home of Jack and Kathy White in Rocky River. The collection boasts over 300 accordions and several artifacts related to the art form. While admission is free, visitors are encouraged to call ahead for availability.

Enjoy the Kent State Museum on a Sunday

Address: 515 Hilltop Dr, Kent, OH 44240, USA

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Phone: +1 330-672-3450

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The Kent State University Museum boasts an impressive collection of apparel and textiles. It offers free admission on Sundays, making it a fantastic destination for art lovers.

Visit the National McKinley Birthplace Memorial

Address: 40 N Main St, Niles, OH 44446, USA

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Phone: +1 330-652-4273

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This memorial honors President William McKinley, who was born in Niles. Admission to the monument is free, and it is a significant landmark commemorating his legacy.

Cuyahoga County Archives

Address: 3951 Perkins Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114, USA

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Phone: +1 216-443-7250

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The Cuyahoga County Archives, located in a historic Victorian mansion, houses valuable documents and maps relevant to Northeast Ohio history. It is a great resource for genealogical research.

Marvel at the Bridges of Ashtabula County

Address: Ashtabula County, OH, USA

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These covered bridges, a product of 18th-century architecture, symbolize the region’s history. A self-guided tour allows visitors to appreciate these charming structures set against beautiful landscapes.

Explore the Butler Institute of American Art

Address: 524 Wick Ave, Youngstown, OH 44502, USA

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Phone: +1 330-743-1107

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This museum exclusively features American art and includes works from celebrated masters. Admission is free, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Wade Oval Wednesdays

Address: 10820 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA

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Phone: +1 216-791-3900

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Summer brings a wonderful series of free concerts to University Circle, featuring a range of musical styles. Area museums offer extended hours and discounted admissions during these events.

Temple Tifereth Israel Museum of Religious Art

Address: 26000 Shaker Blvd, Beachwood, OH 44122-7106, USA

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Phone: +1 216-831-3233

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The museum features an impressive collection of Judaic art and artifacts. Although part of the collection is displayed at the Maltz Museum, the Temple is still home to numerous important pieces worth exploring.

Rockefeller Park Greenhouse

Address: 750 E 88th St, Cleveland, OH 44108, USA

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Phone: +1 216-664-2512

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This beautiful greenhouse features exotic plants and tropical displays. Entry is free, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers and families alike.

Cleveland Cultural Gardens

Address: Cleveland, OH 44106, USA

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Phone: +1 216-220-3075

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The Cultural Gardens celebrate diversity showcasing 24 ethnic gardens. This outdoor museum is open from dawn to dusk and provides a tranquil setting to learn about the various cultures represented in Cleveland’s rich history.

SPACES Gallery

SPACES Gallery, located along the Superior Viaduct, serves as a vibrant venue for local artists. since 1978, it has featured diverse works, providing a platform for creativity in the region. Admission is free, with hours varying by exhibit.

Cleveland Browns Training Camp

Address: 76 Lou Groza Blvd, Berea, OH 44017, USA

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Phone: +1 440-891-5000

The Cleveland Browns Training and Administrative Complex opens its doors to the public during training camp, offering fans a unique chance to watch their favorite players at no cost.

The Cleveland Sculpture Center

Address: 12210 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA

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Phone: +1 216-229-6527

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This center offers ever-changing exhibitions and free admission. Located near Lake View Cemetery, it’s a haven for art lovers and those interested in contemporary sculpture.

Cleveland Police Historical Museum

Address: 1300 Ontario St, Cleveland, OH 44113-1600, USA

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Phone: +1 216-623-5055

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The Cleveland Police Historical Museum offers a glimpse into the city’s law enforcement history, showcasing artifacts like the first police call box and exhibits about the K-9 unit’s training.

The Peter B. Lewis Building at Case Western Reserve University

Address: Peter B. Lewis Building, 11119 Bellflower Rd, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA

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This architecturally stunning building is home to Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management. While closed during the weekdays, free tours are offered on weekends.

Cowan Pottery Museum

The Cowan Pottery Museum features over 1,100 pieces of Art Deco ceramics created by R. Guy Cowan’s studio. Located in the Rocky River Library, the collection is rotated for visitors’ enjoyment.

Old Woman Creek Natural Reserve

Address: 2514 Cleveland Rd E, Huron, OH 44839-9720, USA

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Phone: +1 419-433-4601

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This 572-acre state nature reserve is a fantastic spot for nature enthusiasts looking to see unique wildlife in their natural habitat. The reserve is open daily with no admission fee.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Free Museums

On Martin Luther King Day, various museums in the Cleveland area offer free admission to honor the civil rights leader. Participating venues may also have free performances.

Ohio Free Fishing Days

Ohio residents can enjoy two free fishing days each spring, allowing them to fish without a license in multiple lakes and streams across the state.

Cleveland Institute of Art Galleries

Address: 11610 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA

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Phone: +1 216-421-7000

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Visitors to the Cleveland Institute of Art galleries can witness the talent of students and local artists alike in this vibrant artistic venue, welcoming visitors from across the region.

Murray Hill Art Walks

In June and December, the Murray Hill Art District opens its studios and galleries to the public during a three-day art walk, showcasing local art with complimentary light refreshments.

Four Seasons of Festivals

Throughout the year, Cleveland and Northeast Ohio host numerous free festivals celebrating seasonal changes and cultural diversity, such as the Hessler Street Fair and the Geneva Grape Jamboree.

Free Rock Hall Concerts

Address: 1100 E 9th St, Cleveland, OH 44114, USA

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Phone: +1 216-781-7625

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The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame regularly hosts free outdoor concerts during the warmer months, showcasing a variety of talent and genres.

Soldiers and Sailors Monument in Public Square

Address: 3 Public Square, Cleveland, OH 44114, USA

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Phone: +1 216-443-6878

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This historic monument, completed in 1895, honors local Civil War veterans. It features intricate stained glass and memorial panels, accessible Monday through Saturday.

The Dittrick Museum of Medical History

Address: The Allen Memorial Medical Library, 11000 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA

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Phone: +1 216-368-3648

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This museum, part of Case Western Reserve University, displays an extensive collection related to medical history, offering free admission during regular hours.

Squire’s Castle

Address: 2844 River Rd, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094, USA

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Phone: +1 216-635-3200

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Squire’s Castle, nestled within the North Chagrin Reservation, is a historic structure with diverse legends and offers picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.

Ukrainian Museum

Address: 1202 Kenilworth Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113-4417, USA

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Phone: +1 216-781-4329

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This charming museum in Tremont showcases Ukrainian culture through various exhibits and special displays like the annual Easter egg collection.

The Cuyahoga Valley Historical Museum

Address: 1775 Main St, Peninsula, OH 44264-9536, USA

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Phone: +1 330-657-2892

The museum offers insight into the history of the Cuyahoga River Valley and is open Wednesday through Sunday, showcasing local history through various exhibits.

Wildwood Cultural Center

Address: 7645 Little Mountain Rd, Mentor, OH 44060, USA

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Phone: +1 440-974-5735

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This cultural center features a historic manor house and a 20th-century landscape perfect for hiking or enjoying community events, most of which are free to attend.