There are so many great things to do in Cleveland in the summer, but I found myself getting nostalgic for the things that I would do as a kid. And plenty of those places and activities still exist, so your child can experience the same fun you did (and you can be a kid again, too!)
Memphis Kiddie Park
Memphis Kiddie Park has been in operation since 1952 and has been delighting kids ever since. The rides are classic and fun, from the Big Dipper, which is the oldest operating steel roller coaster in the country, to the train to the airplanes. There’s also miniature golf fun to be had there. If you grew up around Cleveland, you likely remember going to Memphis Kiddie Park, so taking your own kids there is a great slice of summer nostalgia.
Euclid Beach Park Grand Carousel
Euclid Beach Park was a summer staple in Cleveland up until the park closed in 1969. The Euclid Beach Park Grand Carousel re-opened to the public in 2014 at the Western Reserve Historical Society’s Cleveland History Center and is a beautiful piece of Cleveland nostalgia.
The Cleveland Orchestra Blossom Music Festival
As the Cleveland Orchestra celebrates 50 years of the Blossom Music Festival, this summertime tradition is bigger and better than ever. You can hear one of the world’s best orchestras while relaxing on the lawn at Blossom Music Center with your own picnic or sitting in the pavilion to be closer to the action. Even better, two children under 18 are free with each adult admission to the concert or series. This longstanding summer event will certainly bring back nostalgia while opening your children up to some amazing live music.
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
If you grew up in Cleveland, you have fond memories of going to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Take your kids to not only relive your zoo favorites, but to see the incredible new exhibits. Asian Highlands just opened in June and is a stunning example of the renovations made at the Zoo in recent years.
Cleveland Indians
While it’s not Municipal Stadium or called Jacob’s Field, and while Chief Wahoo is on his way out, nothing says multi-generational summer memories like a Cleveland Indians baseball game. While the Family Deck and The Corner are new, the crack of the bat and the taste of the hot dogs will bring back lots of great memories!
So, head to one of these spots to relive your own childhood summer memories and make some new ones with your own children!
From Cleveland That I Love,
Jen