After decades of serving as the nation’s favorite punch line — “Mistake on the Lake” ring a bell? — Cleveland has blossomed into a vibrant world-class city with a heart of gold. Approachable, affordable, and overflowing with good Midwestern folk, this unpretentious town consistently exceeds visitors’ expectations. That’s why these days, as Alec Baldwin’s character on 30 Rock put it, “We’d all like to flee to the Cleve.”

Is it any wonder Cleveland’s two million residents are a contented lot? They have short commutes from reasonably priced homes in charming, tree-lined neighborhoods — neighborhoods that beg to be explored. In these ethnically diverse nooks, burgeoning art districts share space with century-old churches. Sprinkled throughout are chef-owned bistros, idiosyncratic dive bars, and avant-garde theaters.

Despite its Rust Belt roots, Cleveland is very much a modern city. Numerous universities and grad schools keep the area forever young, and eco-friendly transit zips people to and fro. And though Cleveland is modest in size, it is blessed with first-rate cultural attractions like the Cleveland Orchestra, Cleveland Museum of Art, and PlayhouseSquare, along with a robust dining scene.

Less highbrow but no less enjoyable are the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, three pro sports teams, and more than 50,000 acres of parkland, topped off with a Great Lake. A short drive away, you’ll find wineries on the shores of Lake Erie; the world’s largest Amish community; and “the Best Amusement Park in the World,” Cedar Point.

Last but not least, this city is a fantastic place to get your groove on, with its multitude of live-music venues. Cleveland was, is, and will always be a rock-and-roll town.

Dive into Cleveland’s Best…

• Sights
• Restaurants
• Nightlife
• Arts & Leisure
• Shops
• Hotels
• Excursions