5 things to do in Cleveland this winter
As temperatures drop and snow begins to blanket the city, Cleveland transforms into a winter wonderland full of cozy, festive and adventurous experiences.
From gliding across icy rinks in Public Square and cheering on local sports teams to browsing the West Side Market, there’s no shortage of ways for members of the Case Western Reserve University community to embrace the season.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills, cultural escapes or family-friendly fun, read on to discover five things to do around “The Land” this winter.
Get active at Cleveland Metroparks.
Shake off the winter chill while exploring more than 300 miles of trails at Cleveland Metroparks. Try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing for an energizing cardio boost—or sharpen your skills with guided instruction available in January and February. Prefer a slower pace? Lace up your boots for peaceful winter walks or take in the beauty of frozen waterfalls along scenic paths.
Light up the night with seasonal displays.
Wander through the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s Wild Winter Lights, hop on the Holiday Light Trolley or explore University Circle’s Illuminate the Circle. Members of the CWRU community can also enjoy the immersive, family-friendly FROST exhibit at Cleveland Botanical Garden, featuring a dozen winter-themed rooms and blooms, open now through Jan. 4.
Explore Cleveland’s vibrant arts and culture scene.
Just steps away from campus, attend winter concerts hosted by the Cleveland Orchestra. Upcoming shows include a Martin Luther King Jr. celebration concert, Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony, Legends of Country and Disney and Pixar’s Up in Concert. Or, take a short trip from campus to Cleveland’s vibrant arts scene at Cleveland Play House, which offers world-class theatrical performances and local productions, including Primary Trust, a story of love, balance and time, and Epiphany, which explores connection, meaning, and the fragile rituals that hold us together.
Warm up indoors at Cleveland’s museums.
Escape the cold while discovering world-class exhibits at Cleveland Museum of Art (free to all), or the Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland (free for Ohio residents). History buffs and science enthusiasts can explore the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and Western Reserve Historical Society or rock out at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Dive into Cleveland’s culinary arts scene.
From cozy cafés and craft breweries to authentic cultural eateries, farm-to-table gems and fine dining experiences, Cleveland’s culinary scene has something for every craving. Explore neighborhoods like Little Italy for handmade pasta, the West Side Market for local flavors, or downtown for creative twists on classic Midwestern fare. For a more hands-on experience, join a cooking class, brewery tasting, or check out Taste Cleveland and Relish Cleveland for food tours.
