Hoping to break free from routine and dive into new experiences in Cleveland this summer?
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural excursions or simple pleasures, there’s no shortage of activities to fill your summer days around our city.
To help members of the Case Western Reserve University community fully embrace the first official day of summer (June 20), we’ve pulled together a list of seven suggested activities.
1. Get in the groove with live music.
Kick off the summer with free outdoor concerts at the 45th annual Tri-C JazzFest, which takes place today (June 20) through Saturday, June 22. The event will feature various music styles—from blues and big band to funk and smooth jazz.
Or, see the Cleveland Orchestra perform at its summer home during the Blossom Music Festival. The lineup features performances of Broadway hits and blockbusters, such as The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. Concerts will be held through Sept. 1.
2. Engage with the community at Wade Oval Wednesdays.
Located in the heart of University Circle, Wade Oval Wednesdays feature movie screenings, art displays, free live music performance and other family-friendly activities every Wednesday through late August. Onsite activity partners include Karamu House, The Young Latino Network, Case Western Reserve University Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Center and more. These events take place Wednesday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. through Aug. 14.
3. Seek thrills at Cedar Point.
Escape the city and visit Cedar Point, home to 18 world-class roller coasters, an 18-acre waterpark and a mile-long beach. The acclaimed theme park, located in Sandusky along the shores of Lake Erie, also offers a variety of activities and special events, including Light Up The Point (July 4-5), one of the largest fireworks displays in the Midwest.
4. Fire up your grill—or let someone else handle the food.
Soak up the sun and catch up with your friends and family while enjoying the unique flavors of grilled foods—from smoky meats to charred vegetables. Need some ideas for meals to serve? Gain some inspiration from Lindsay Malone, an adjunct professor in the Department of Nutrition.
If you’d rather leave the cooking to a professional, stop by the annual Juneteenth Observance Cookout Friday, June 21, in the Thwing Center ballroom.
5. Connect with nature while camping or fishing.
Visit one of several campsites offered by Lake Metroparks or simply enjoy the comfort of your own backyard to unplug from technology and reconnect with nature this summer.
Cleveland Metroparks also offers numerous fishing opportunities to take advantage of at the area’s largest fishery resource: Lake Erie.
6. Experience our city’s unique culture during a summer festival.
From music and arts to food and cultural heritage, attending one (or more) of Cleveland’s many festivals is a great way you can experience the heart and soul of the city. Summer festivals include Taste of Tremont, Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival, Cuyahoga County Fair and One World Day.
7. Take in the view along Cleveland’s Lakefront Reservation.
An expansive stretch within the Cleveland Metroparks, the Lakefront Reservation blends natural beauty with recreational offerings such as birdwatching, hiking trails, picnic areas and more.
Some popular attractions include Edgewater Beach, Whiskey Island Trail, Heritage Park and other sites that offer fishing, paddling and boating opportunities.