Cleveland, Ohio, comes alive in the summer, and for families, the city is packed with exciting options. Museums invite hands-on discovery. Gardens burst into color. Zoos and aquariums bring kids face-to-face with the wonders of nature. And with fresh-air escapes just minutes from downtown, adventure is always within reach.
Planning your family’s next outing? These eight spots are full of energy, creativity, and classic Cleveland summer activities, whether you’re new in town, a seasoned local, or just stopping in for the summer.
1. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Lions, giraffes, and kangaroos? Absolutely. The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo delivers wild encounters and interactive experiences across habitats like The RainForest and African Savanna. Special summer programs and behind-the-scenes tours make it more than just a walk-through—it’s a full-on family safari.
Admission: $21.50 adults, $17.50 children (2–11), free under 2
2. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame isn’t just a music museum—it’s a sensory explosion. The Rock Hall invites kids to experiment with instruments, hunt for artifacts during scavenger games, and feel the beat of rock legends in larger-than-life displays. Don’t miss the interactive Garage, where visitors can pick up guitars, drums, or keyboards and jam.
Admission: $39.50 adults, $29.50 youth (6–12), free under 6
3. Children’s Museum Cleveland
Where play powers learning. The Children’s Museum Cleveland is a wonderland of interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity in young minds. From the miniature cityscape of Adventure City to the imaginative realm of Wonder Lab, kids can build, splash, climb, and create. Programs like sensory-friendly mornings and themed art sessions make it inclusive and enriching for all families.
Admission: $15 per person; children under 1 are free
4. Greater Cleveland Aquarium
Stingrays, sharks, and glowing jellyfish fill the glass-walled tunnels of this vibrant aquarium. Hands-on touch tanks, feeding sessions, and educational talks turn curiosity into discovery. The Greater Cleveland Aquarium is perfect for sea-loving kids who want to explore the depths without getting wet.
Admission: $19.95 adults, $13.95 children (2–12), free under 2
5. Cleveland Botanical Garden
At the Cleveland Botanical Garden, sunlight filters through butterfly wings while kids dig, climb, and splash through the enchanting Hershey Children’s Garden. Add in the Glasshouse, with its tropical ecosystem and rainforest creatures, and you’ve got a full afternoon of outdoor fun and exploration.
Admission: $19 adults, $13 children (3–12), free under 3
6. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Miles of trails and scenic views make Cuyahoga Valley National Park a nature-lover’s dream. Families can trek the Ledges Trail, picnic beside waterfalls, or join ranger-led programs designed for young explorers. It’s a perfect spot for screen-free adventure and wide-open space. Some park sites require a pass for entrance, so be sure to check before you go!
Admission: Free
7. Cleveland Museum of Natural History
Fossils, dinosaurs, and a living animal exhibit bring science roaring to life at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Kids can dig into hands-on discovery zones, explore the solar system, or meet wildlife ambassadors. With rotating exhibits and summer camps, there’s always something new to uncover.
Admission: $28 adults, $21 children (2–18), free under 2
8. Cleveland Metroparks Pools and Splash Pads
When the temperatures soar, kids need water—and Cleveland delivers. Cleveland Metroparks offers pools and splash pads as safe, refreshing spaces to cool off, with lifeguards on duty and family-friendly facilities across multiple locations.
Admission: Varies by location; some splash pads are free
Make This Summer One to Remember
You don’t need to spend a fortune to have fun. While some attractions charge admission, there are also plenty of free things to do with kids in Cleveland. With a mix of paid and free experiences, it’s easy to build a summer full of adventure and variety. Cleveland’s summer scene makes it simple to explore, play, and connect as a family. Pack the snacks, pick your favorites, and get out there.
Fly Through Your Move with Cardinal Moving!
Ready to make a splash moving to Cleveland this summer? Cardinal Moving & Storage provides stress-free moving services in Ohio, specifically designed with families in mind. We handle everything—from packing the first box to unloading the last—so you and your kids can enjoy the adventure. Read our blog for more local Ohio tips and download our moving checklist to stay organized. Then reach out for a free moving estimate in Ohio—we’ll handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on making memories.
