9 Underrated Places You Simply Must Visit In Cleveland's Ohio City Neighborhood
By Nikki Rhoades|Published March 04, 2018
×
Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
At the heart of Cleveland’s West Side is a neighborhood that is unlike any other. Ohio City is overflowing with art, culture, and history, and its charming streets offer the best way to experience Cleveland life in a single day. We’ve all attended (and endlessly adore) the West Side Market, but what else is in this delightful neighborhood? We’re about to take you on a virtual day trip through Ohio City, and next time you’re in the area you truly must check out these epic attractions.
1. Bad Tom Smith Brewing, 1836 W. 25 Street, Cleveland
This brewery draws influence from its surrounding community, meaning that this charming tap room perfectly captures the atmosphere of Ohio City. With a chic rustic feel and an incredible selection of beer, you must stop by this Cincinnati-based brewery.
2. Bier Markt & Bar Cento, 1948 W 25th Street, Cleveland
As evidenced by the selection in the West Side Market, Ohio City is a melting pot of cultures. For nearly 15 years, McNulty's Bier Markt has been pairing mouthwatering modern Italian cuisine with the varied wonders of Belgian brews. Swing by on weekends to experience Speakeasy, a Prohibition-style hidden cocktail bar.
Advertisement
3. Campbell’s Sweets Factory, 2084 W. 25th Street, Cleveland
You may know the Campbell name from their irresistible Popcorn Shop in the Westside Market. In 2011, this location was launched as an expansion of that business, but it grew into so much more. The site now features sweets galore, from baked
goods and chocolate to popcorn (of course).
4. The Ohio City Pub Crawl via Cleveland Cycle Tours, 2930 Church Avenue, Cleveland
Cleveland Cycle Tours offer the most unforgettable way to experience the hidden wonders of the best location in the nation. This epic tour will take you past some stunning sites of interest as you peddle down West 25th Street. Along the way, you'll indulge in the flavors of the neighborhood's best micro-breweries. All the while, you'll be surrounded by some of your favorite people!
5. Crop Bistro & Bar, 2537 Lorain Avenue, Cleveland
This stunning restaurant is just a stone's throw from the West Side Market, and it certainly stands out. The upscale eatery's building was once a bank, and its interior is preserved in stunning detail. The menu, which features modern American fare with an elegant twist, features all sorts of locally-sourced ingredients and is filled with selections that cater to a variety of diets. Everyone will find something to love in this gorgeous restaurant.
Editor's Note (2021): Crop Bistro & Bar is temporarily closed, but we hope to see it open again soon!
6. Farkas Pastry Shop, 2700 Lorain Avenue, Cleveland
If you've never been to Farkas Pastry Shop, your time of enlightenment has come. This bakery is a local tradition, as it's been serving the area since 1965 and locals still can't get enough of their goodies. Here, the flavors of Europe are accented in handcrafted pastries that will drive your taste buds wild.
Advertisement
7. Greenwood Park, West 38th Street, just south. of Lorain Road
The City of Cleveland manages over 150 parks and public spaces to provide a place for urban adventure. This charming park features a friendly environment and a playground the kids will love. Bring a picnic lunch, or snack on some of the goodies you picked up in town while you explore.
8. Great Lakes Brewing Company, 2516 Market Avenue, Cleveland
Clevelanders know and love Great Lakes Brewing Company, but many of us still have yet to explore the wonders of their Ohio City Brewpub. Here you can indulge in the brews locals rave about paired with flavorful Cleveland-inspired cuisine. As it warms up, their patio is one of the loveliest places to unwind anywhere in The Land.
9. Perplexity Games Escape Room, 2515 Jay Avenue #b3, Cleveland
Do you have what it takes to crack the code to escape a mysterious locked room? Each room is filled with clues and brain-twisting puzzles, and your goal is to figure out how to escape before time runs out. This experience is great for families, office friends, and even strangers because it is a team-building experience that allows you to think outside the box. Get to know yourself a bit as you explore this delightful grown-up sized game.
From art to history, Ohio City captures the best parts of The Land and packs them into a few very walkable city streets. What are you most looking forward to visiting during your next day trip? Let us know in the comments below!