It's no wonder that Cleveland's famed Ohio City neighborhood has landed on the map as a prime tourist destination. Located just across the Cuyahoga River from downtown, Ohio City is one of the city's most historic neighborhoods, as well as one of its most ethnically diverse. Its location makes it convenient for visitors and locals looking to get a taste of true Cleveland culture and flavor, and its people are the friendliest and most welcoming around.
There are so many things to see and do in this area that sometimes it can be difficult to decide how to spend your day! We rounded up the absolute best things to see, do, eat and drink while you're in the area to help make building your Ohio City itinerary a little easier. Enjoy!
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What to Do | Where to Eat | Where to Grab a Drink | Where to Live
What to Do
Cleveland's beloved West Side Market is the oldest indoor and outdoor market space in the area — and a must-see destination for out-of-town guests. The market itself is housed in a historic, architecturally stunning building, and features local farmers, chefs, cheesemakers, butchers and artisans showcasing some of Ohio's best. Come by to stock up on a few groceries or grab a quick bite for lunch — pierogis, fresh pasta, sausage, oh my!
Go Shopping
The district surrounding the West Side Market is packed full of charming cheese shops, boutiques, florists and more — all ripe for exploring! You could never see all of it in one afternoon, but it's worth taking some time to meander through the streets and take a peek at the colorful window displays.
This local jazz club is housed in one of the best-sounding amphitheaters in town. BOP STOP has become a true musical treasure over the years for Clevelanders and visitors alike, and regularly hosts educational programs and performances for all to enjoy.
Completed in 1868, this magnificent stone Gothic Revival Church is the oldest consecrated building in all of Cuyahoga County. It's a marvel just to witness, but history buffs will love learning about its storied past. In fact, it was Station Hope, the last stop on the Underground Railroad during the mid 19th century. Evidence of this can be seen in the old entrance to a tunnel leading to the Cuyahoga River, which is located in the basement.
We've all seen them — the mobile pedal bars filled with delighted, singing customers hopping from pub to pub. These pedal-driven tours have become increasingly popular over the years, and if you've ever seen one and felt a twinge of jealousy, you should snag the opportunity to try it out. Cleveland Cycle Tours will take you and up to 14 of your friends through the streets of Ohio City, stopping for refreshments along the way at several microbreweries and allowing you to witness the best of this revitalized entertainment district!
Where to Eat
For Trendy New American: Crop Bistro
Photo courtesy of Crop Bistro
Crop Bistro recently landed on a list of the best restaurants in Cleveland by Thrillist— and with its fresh take on American cuisine, there's no mystery as to why! The menu includes options for brunch, lunch, dinner and dessert, and incorporates seasonal ingredients for maximum flavor. Bonus: It's also one of the most romantic restaurants in Cleveland.
For Farm-to-Table Fare: Flying Fig
This charming eatery sits right near Cleveland's West Side Market and is truly the heart of the farm-to-table movement in Ohio. The restaurant has served the neighborhood for more than 15 years, sourcing ingredients from family farms and local artisans, and using them to craft critically acclaimed menus.
For Globally-Inspired Fare: Johnny Mango
This colorful restaurant has anchored Ohio City for years and is still one of the most popular restaurants in the neighborhood! Locals flock here for festive and flavorful globally inspired cuisine, including Caribbean fried plantains, Jamaican jerk chicken, pad thai and quesadillas. The decor is as colorful as the food, including local artwork and greenery!
Photo courtesy of SoHo Chicken & Whiskey
SoHo Chicken & Whiskey lives up to its southern name, featuring several variations of delectable chicken dinner (brined, breaded and deep fried) accompanied by comforting side dishes and appetizers. The cocktail menu is definitely whiskey and bourbon forward, but includes several other craft cocktail options and beer on tap.
Heck's Cafe serves up one of the best burgers in Cleveland in a charming, historical building. Take a seat and choose from 14 different burgers and a selection of farm-to-table entrées. You could keep it simple with the Heckburger (featuring Heck's special sauce) or spice it up a bit with the Market Burger (featuring braised short ribs, béarnaise sauce and arugula).
At Mason's Creamery, Jesse Mason and Helen Qin mix up small batches of delicious and perfectly creamy homemade ice cream. It takes them a lot of time to come up with new flavors and ensure they have the recipe perfect, but they don't mind the taste testing! Come by on a hot summer day to enjoy a treat at the outdoor picnic tables, and check out an updated list of flavors here.
For Authentic Mexican Street Food: Momocho Mod Mex
Photos courtesy of Momocho Mod Mex
This hip, dimly lit Cantina is one of the six Cleveland restaurants that has been featured on the Food Network's hit show, Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. And once you taste the flavorful cuisine, you won't be surprised! A mouthwatering selection of tacos, small bites and entrées is accompanied by carefully mixed cocktails and nine margarita variations.
The Tabletop Board Game Cafe features more than 1,000 different games ranging from the kid-friendly classics to complex strategic options. Grab a few friends or your significant other and stop in for game night, and don't forget to order something tasty from the menu! Options include an impressive lineup of sandwiches and paninis, as well as some inventive appetizers and comforting soups.
Where to Grab a Drink
Photo courtesy of Great Lakes Brewing Company
Great Lakes Brewing Company was opened in 1988 by brothers Pat and Dan Conway, and is credited as the first craft brewery in the state of Ohio. The brewery has gained national recognition for its innovative and flavorful beers, which can be found in stores across Ohio and across the country. Make sure to take the brewery tour while you're here, which comes complete with a few free samples.
ABC is a bustling hotspot with brick walls, woodwork, a raised ceiling, a laid back cocktail menu and craft beer on tap, and has served the Ohio City neighborhood for more than 20 years now. In that time, it has become a neighborhood institution and a local favorite for a fun night out with friends!
Established in 1981, this laid-back legend overlooks the Cuyahoga River and provides a true feel of old-school Cleveland. Grab a beer on tap and a bar snack, and take in the vintage vibe and views of the Cleveland skyline.
Photo courtesy of the Market Garden Brewery
Located right next to the West Side Market, this chic yet casual spot is the perfect place to duck in for a refreshment after a few hours of shopping. The upstairs area boasts one of the best patios around and views of the bustling scene on West 25th Street.
Drenched in Polynesian-style decor, thatched huts, colorful accoutrements and Tiki mugs, Porco Lounge feels like an escape in the heart of Ohio City. Come for the festive vibe, but also for the innovative (and delicious) cocktail menu.
Photo courtesy of Kurt Hernon via the Velvet Tango Room
The Velvet Tango Room is your destination for pre-dinner cocktails or a romantic nightcap. The art deco decor and live piano performances add to the swanky vibe, but the real star of the show is the cocktail menu, which features classics and signatures alike — all crafted with fresh ingredients.
Where to Live
Sure, Ohio City is wonderful for a visit. But wouldn't it be wonderful to live nearby? Search homes in the area, or contact one of our knowledgeable local agents today!