Planning your Cleveland wedding weekend? You’ve come to the right place! Gone are the days of one-and-done wedding days — now, it’s all about extending the experience and turning the occasion into a weekend-long celebration.
With loved ones coming in from out-of-town, it’s the perfect opportunity to show them all there is to love about The Forest City. But not everyone shares the same interests! While some may come bearing children, others will look forward to exploring the city’s nightlife. So to cover your bases, you’ll need to provide recommendations for various activities to suit everybody’s preferences.
And if you’re wondering how to entertain your Cleveland wedding guests, we’ve got you covered with eight activities that are sure to keep them busy!
Host a museum crawl
There’s plenty to do in Cleveland, but most will agree that the Cleveland Museum of Art is a can’t-miss activity for visitors. Free entry makes it accessible to all your guests, and the adjacent Botanical Gardens are a wonderful way to extend the experience! For those who prefer a modern take on art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is a must.
Cleveland is also home to the renowned Rock & Roll Hall of Fame! Those who can’t get enough of The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Guns ‘n Roses, or Michael Jackson will love spending the afternoon learning—and listening—about the history of rock and roll. Just be sure to purchase tickets in advance! As one of the most popular attractions in the city, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame can get busy and requires you to reserve a time slot with your ticket.
Catch a sports game
Whether you’re a fan of the Browns, Cavs, or Guardians, there’s no questioning that Cleveland is a sports city! If you’re getting married in Cleveland during the fall or winter, it’s the perfect time to squeeze in an NBA or NFL game. Spring and summer weddings in Cleveland are prime time for baseball, so make sure to bring your game face!
Grab lunch at Heinen’s
While grocery shopping doesn’t make it into most wedding weekend itineraries, Heinen’s Supermarket might be the exception. Located in downtown Cleveland, Heinen’s lives in the Cleveland Trust Rotunda — a stunning display of architecture filled with marble and topped with a stained glass dome. So while you and your guests may not need to meal plan for the week, it’s worth stepping in to browse the market in all its glory.
The Cleveland Arcade
Visit the Cleveland Arcade
No, the Cleveland Arcade isn’t for skeeball and air hockey. As the first-ever indoor shopping mall, Cleveland’s “Crystal Palace” is a breathtaking experience with soaring ceilings, wood and iron detailing, and a 300-foot-long skylight. Stop by to sample some sweets, get a massage, or pick up some last-minute wedding necessities!
Have fun on the water
Set on the southern shores of Lake Erie, water lovers will have plenty to do during your Cleveland wedding weekend! From renting a kayak to fishing at Edgewater Pier, there’s no shortage of waterside activities. For those who prefer a more chill weekend, they’ll love the chance to soak in the sun at one of our sandy beaches — followed up by some briny oysters and a drink!
Go for a walk through Public Square
Not everyone wants a jam-packed itinerary with too much to do. Fortunately, a stroll through Public Square is a fun and low-key way to explore the city and see what sparks your interest. With scenic gardens, murals, food trucks, coffee shops, and a splash pad, it’s a great place to take the family for an afternoon. Check the calendar to see what fun events are happening during your Cleveland wedding weekend!
West Side Market
Explore Ohio City
If you’re looking for the hippest neighborhood in Cleveland, many locals agree that Ohio City is the spot. Just on the other side of the Cuyahoga River from downtown, you’ll find this colorful district filled with trendy restaurants, breweries, and boutique shops. You can book a guided tour of the neighborhood, but we think Ohio City is the perfect no-plans-just-vibes place to visit and explore for an afternoon. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to walk through West Side Market and soak in the city’s rich history!
See a show at the House of Blues
There is always something going on at the House of Blues! Set on bustling 4th Street, music lovers will love the chance to take in a show at this lively concert venue, restaurant, and bar. And with so much else to do on 4th Street, you won’t have to go far to find a great spot to pre-game, grab dinner, or go for a nightcap. Share the calendar with your guests so they can plan accordingly!
So whether your guests love watersports, music, sports, or simply a chance to explore a new city, there’s so much to offer guests during your Cleveland wedding weekend!
Looking for more recommendations? Get in touch with us! While we are experts at planning weddings in Cleveland, we’re also big fans of the city and have plenty of tips for taking in the best of the 216!
