Explore the Best Cleveland, Ohio, Attractions for Adults

The many Cleveland, Ohio, attractions for adults range from historic landmarks to trendy hot spots, offering something exciting at every turn. Whether you’re looking for an evening out on the town, a unique cultural experience, or an indoor escape from the Midwest weather, Cleveland delivers. If you think you know Cleveland, think again—get ready to explore all this dynamic city has to offer with our guide to the top fun things to do in Cleveland, Ohio, for adults! 

Summary:

• Best Cleveland, Ohio, Attractions for Adults, Overall

• Fun Things to Do in Cleveland for Adults at Night

• Indoor Activities for Adults in Cleveland, Ohio

• Unique Things to Do in Cleveland for Adults

• Best Things to Do in Cleveland for Seniors

• Cleveland, Ohio, Attractions for Adults Conclusion

Best Cleveland, Ohio, Attractions for Adults, Overall

Cleveland is home to an incredible variety of attractions worth seeing that appeal to all kinds of interests. Whether you love music, sports, or outdoor exploration, we think these top destinations and fun things to do in Cleveland for adults belong on everyone’s must-visit list: 

• Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: A bucket-list attraction for music lovers, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is an immersive museum that tells the story of rock and roll through exhibits, memorabilia, and interactive displays. Rated 4.6 stars on Google with over 24K reviews as of March 2024, we’re not the only ones who think this attraction is a must-see. Don’t miss the Legends of Rock exhibit, featuring artifacts from The Beatles, Elvis Presley, and more.

• Cleveland Museum of Art: This renowned museum houses 63,000 works of art, masterpieces from around the world, and offers free admission. Along with our rave review, this popular attraction has a 4.9-star rating on Google, and visitors love exploring the impressive collection. Be sure to visit Wade Lagoon outside the museum for a scenic and peaceful stroll.

• Cleveland Metroparks Zoo: A great spot for animal lovers, the zoo features an expansive rainforest exhibit, as well as elephants, tigers, and gorillas. Rated 4.7 stars with over 21K reviews, this Cleveland attraction is a favorite among locals and tourists, and it offers the Wild Winter Lights event for a magical nighttime experience during the holidays. It’s also located just 14 miles from Del Webb active adult communities in Columbia Station, meaning an exciting day of education and animal encounters is conveniently close by.

Fun Things to Do in Cleveland for Adults at Night

Cleveland's nightlife offers everything from live music to dining with waterfront views. Here are some of the best fun things for adults to do in Cleveland at night:

• The Velvet Tango Room: A sophisticated speakeasy-style cocktail lounge with handcrafted drinks and live jazz, this intimate venue is a top pick with a well-deserved 4.5-star rating on Google. Make a reservation to get a seat and enjoy the old-school ambiance.

• East 4th Street Entertainment District: This pedestrian-friendly street overflows with popular restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. Try local favorite, Mabel’s BBQ, for a great meal, or catch a comedy show at Hilarities 4th Street Theatre for a night of laughs.

• JACK Entertainment Cleveland Casino: A high-energy casino featuring slots, table games, and poker in the heart of downtown Cleveland. Join their rewards program for perks and special offers while enjoying a night of gaming excitement.

Indoor Activities for Adults in Cleveland, Ohio

No matter the weather outside, these indoor activities for adults in Cleveland keep the fun going year-round:

• Great Lakes Science Center: A hands-on science museum with fascinating exhibits, including a NASA Glenn Visitor Center. People love the interactive displays, plus you can catch a film in the Cleveland Clinic DOME Theater for an immersive cinematic experience.

• Playhouse Square®: This spot is the second-largest performing arts center in the U.S., featuring Broadway shows, concerts, and comedy acts. Praised by theater lovers, this venue offers a rich cultural experience with seasonal performances and special events.

• Tabletop Board Game Café: Enjoy a cozy, social experience at this café, where you can choose from a massive library of classic and modern board games while enjoying great coffee, drinks, and food. Perfect for a laid-back indoor activity with friends.

• SPACES Art Gallery: A contemporary art space featuring thought-provoking and experimental exhibits from local and international artists. This gallery also offers interactive installations and avant-garde works.

Unique Things to Do in Cleveland for Adults

Looking for some out-of-the-ordinary local attractions? These distinctive Cleveland activities for adults offer a fresh take on fun:

• West Side Market®: Cleveland’s oldest public market is full of vendors selling fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and international cuisine. Visitors love the lively atmosphere. Grab a gourmet coffee and enjoy people-watching from the upper balcony.

• The Arcade Cleveland: A breathtaking and historic shopping center with boutique stores and fine dining. This stunning landmark is especially magical during the holidays when the entire arcade is adorned with festive decorations.

• The Christmas Story House & Museum: A must-visit for movie lovers, this house was the filming location for the classic holiday film, A Christmas Story. Take the guided tour to see behind-the-scenes details from the film and relive nostalgic moments.

Best Things to Do in Cleveland for Seniors

For active adults seeking accessible and engaging experiences, these top Cleveland, Ohio, attractions offer both relaxation and adventure:

• Holden Forests and Gardens: With beautifully themed gardens, a glasshouse with tropical plants, and seasonal exhibits, these lush grounds and gardens earn their 4.7-star rating on Google for their serene atmosphere. Enjoy lunch at the Garden Café for a peaceful midday retreat from the city.

• Lake Erie Cruises: These scenic boat tours showcase Cleveland’s skyline and waterfront beauty. Opt for a sunset cruise for an unforgettable experience with breathtaking views.

• Edgewater Park: This peaceful lakeside park is perfect for strolling, picnicking, and enjoying Lake Erie views. Locals love the scenic trails, and we recommend visiting at sunset for some of the best skyline views in Cleveland.

Cleveland, Ohio, Attractions for Adults Conclusion

From live entertainment to adventures along or upon the Great Lakes, Cleveland is packed with diverse activities perfect for active adults. Whether you’re exploring, looking for indoor entertainment, or discovering unique things to do, you’ll find no shortage of fun things for adults to do in Cleveland.

Explore active adult communities in Cleveland, OH, today, or browse more Del Webb blogs. 

Written By: Jordan Thomson, Freelance Writer

Last Updated: 9/03/25