Cleveland really is one of America’s best kept secrets. Outsiders might not know just how awesome the Forest City is, from our vibrant arts and culture scene to the majesty of the Lake Erie coast. There are many reasons to love Cleveland and everything that comes from it, but these nine offer a decent crash course in the true magic of our hometown.
1. Cleveland knows beauty.
Cleveland is one of the most beautiful cities in America. Whether you're looking at out elegant architecture, our amazing parks, or our many fantastic museums, Cleveland is always radiant.
2. Clevelanders are a big family.
It's not hard to make friends in the Forest City. Most everyone in Cleveland shares a special bond with their fellow residents that overrides every possible barrier, and that's never more apparent than in the middle of a citywide victory celebration. Inside, we're all Clevelanders.
3. The party doesn't stop.
There is no shortage of amazing things to do in Cleveland once the sun goes down. From the bar scene on East 4th to an orchestra show at Severance Hall, the nightlife in Cleveland is vibrant.
4. The food is to die for.
Cleveland's status as a foodie's paradise is well-documented. Our regional fare caters to a wide variety of ethnic tastes, from Italian to Polish. And our obsession with trying to fit as much corned beef as humanly possible between two pieces of bread results in the best sandwiches ever.
5. There's no place like Lake Erie.
There might be five Great Lakes, but none of them are quite as magical as Cleveland's Lake Erie. From summer afternoons spent lazing on Edgewater Beach to the rich history of Cleveland's shipyards, everyone in the city has a special memory associated with this legendary lake.
6. Winning feels more special in Cleveland.
Cleveland may not be the first city people think of for a sports dynasty, but the passion of Cleveland fans makes every season feel like magic. Whether you're watching the Indians come so, so close to a World Series win or rooting for Lebron as he leads the Cavs to a comeback victory over the juggernaut Warriors, being a Cleveland fan is a special kind of devotion that other cities can't match. And when the Browns win a Super Bowl, the city will never be the same.
7. Cleveland seriously rocks.
Detroit has Motown, Nashville has country, but Cleveland has rock and roll. The term originated from Cleveland disc jockey Alan Freed, and the splendor of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a testament to just how vital the city was in the formation of one of music's greatest movements.
8. The Forest City loves nature.
Cleveland has a unique relationship with the natural world that many other cities lack. The Cleveland Metroparks rival Central Park with their size and splendor, and sites like the Cleveland Botanical Gardens treat the great outdoors with the respect and wonder they deserve.
9. Cleveland is home.
Ultimately, the single greatest reason to love Cleveland is that for many of us, it will always be home. No matter how far you stray from the jewel of the North Coast, the magic of the Forest City clings to you. It just goes to show that you can take the Clevelander out of Cleveland, but you can't take Cleveland out of the Clevelander.
What are some of your favorite things about Cleveland? Is there anything truly special about the city that we forgot to mention? Tell us about it in the comments!
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