Cleveland Airport Layover? Guide & Tips

Top 5 Layover Ideas for Cleveland Hopkins Airport

Have a long layover at the Cleveland Hopkins Airport? Don't just sit around and wait. Cleveland has a lot to offer. Here are the top 5 layover ideas to make your wait time enjoyable and memorable.

1. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum

Just a short ride from the airport, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum is a must-visit for any music lover. With an array of exhibits showcasing the history, culture, and influential figures of rock and roll, this museum is sure to keep you entertained. Don't miss the largest Elvis exhibition outside of Memphis on the top floor.

2. Jacobs Field

If you're a sports enthusiast, you might want to check out Jacobs Field, home of the Indians baseball team. With the largest freestanding scoreboard in the U.S. and numerous fan activities, it's a great place to catch a game or just explore the stadium.

3. West Side Market

Experience the flavor of Cleveland at the West Side Market. This historic marketplace is a food lover's paradise, offering everything from fresh produce to unique ethnic foods. It's also a great place for people-watching and experiencing Cleveland's multicultural atmosphere.

4. Lola Bistro & Wine Bar

For a taste of Cleveland's culinary scene, head over to Lola Bistro & Wine Bar. This premier bistro serves high-end comfort food with a twist. The menu, crafted by Chef Michael Symon, features a variety of dishes that blend traditional favorites with innovative techniques.

5. Tommy's

Tommy's is a local favorite known for its macrobiotic-friendly menu. Whether you're a vegetarian or a meat-lover, you'll find something to enjoy here. The menu features a variety of soups, sandwiches, and salads, along with standout dinner plates like flame-grilled eggplant baba ghanoush and a shiitake mushroom and green bean bowl.

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Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If your layover extends beyond 12 hours, you might want to venture a bit further from the airport. Cleveland is a city rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, and there's plenty to see and do if you have more time to spare. Here are some attractions that are worth the extra travel time.

1. Cleveland Museum of Art

Considered one of the top art museums in the U.S., the Cleveland Museum of Art is home to over 45,000 works of art from around the world. The museum's collection spans 6,000 years, from ancient masterpieces to contemporary pieces. The museum is also known for its interactive Gallery One, which allows visitors to engage with art in new and exciting ways.

2. Cleveland Botanical Garden

For a breath of fresh air, head to the Cleveland Botanical Garden. This urban oasis features 20 unique gardens, including the Japanese Garden and the Rose Garden. The garden's Glasshouse is a must-see, housing hundreds of butterflies and exotic plants from the Costa Rican rainforest and the Madagascar spiny desert.

3. Playhouse Square

As the country's largest performing arts center outside of New York, Playhouse Square is a hub of Cleveland's vibrant arts scene. The district features nine theaters hosting a variety of performances, from Broadway shows to concerts and comedy acts. The iconic outdoor chandelier, the largest in the world, is a sight to behold.

4. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Animal lovers should not miss the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Home to over 3,000 animals representing 600 species, the zoo offers an exciting and educational experience for all ages. Highlights include the RainForest, the African Elephant Crossing, and the Australian Adventure.

5. The Great Lakes Science Center

For those interested in science and technology, the Great Lakes Science Center is a must-visit. The center features hundreds of interactive exhibits, a six-story IMAX theater, and the NASA Glenn Visitor Center. It's a fun and educational way to spend a few hours, especially if you're traveling with kids.

Updated on: November 22, 2023

Layover Ideas