Making the choice to live in or move to Cleveland is no mistake; the city is full of life! However, finding the right place to live in a city like Cleveland can be challenging. What is each neighborhood known for? Will you like the businesses around you? How will you get around? We have compiled a list of the best areas to live in Cleveland with a few standout attractions and businesses in each so that you can find the best fit for you.

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Tremont 

Situated just South of Downtown, historic Tremont is a “vibrant urban village where visitors mingle seamlessly with residents, business owners, artists and entrepreneurs.” With a multitude of parks and blooming small businesses, Tremont is a great part of the city for young and active Cleveland dwellers to live. 

Attractions in Tremont‍

The Towpath Trail is a major Cleveland highlight in the neighborhood of Tremont. This section of the 101-mile trail offers a space for outdoor recreation and makes the urban areas of the city more walkable. Bike commute to work in the morning, anyone?

Holiday movie buffs, look no further: Tremont is home to the A Christmas Story House, used during the filming of the 1983 classic. The house has been restored and is open for tours and even overnight stays. 

Shopping in Tremont

Visible Voice Books combines the cozy feel of a traditional bookstore with the offerings of a cafe and bar. Sell your old books and browse their collection of stories while sipping on a glass of red wine or a cup of hot tea. Keep an eye out for their monthly events, including a monthly book club, spoken word and live music performances, and film nights. 

Looking to furnish your new place in Tremont? Check out Rook Modern, a curated collection of “20th Century Modern Design” pieces, before buying new. They buy and sell high quality vintage furniture that is sure to liven up any place. Who doesn’t love to give an old piece a new life?

Other Shops to Check Out: Earth Angels Boutique, Wine & Design

Restaurants in Tremont

Those with a love for interesting cuisine must take note of Parallax, whose menu features “classic French cuisine reimagined with a strong Asian influence.” They offer sushi along with specialized appetizers and entrees, paired with an extensive wine list.

If you’re a cat lover, Tremont has the first and only cat cafe in the city of Cleveland. affoGATO Cat Cafe is one of the few coffee shops out there that allows patrons to play with adoptable shelter kitties in their cat lounge while enjoying your cappuccino or cup of tea.

Other Restaurants to Check Out: Bourbon Street Barrel Room, LOOP Tremont: Coffee Art & Records, Tremont Taphouse

Ohio City

Ohio City, located in West Cleveland, has a slew of cultural gems that make it one of the “most complete urban neighborhoods” in Cleveland. It is also deemed the second most walkable neighborhood in the city, making it great for those who prefer a quick commute by foot. If you are looking for a vibrant, upbeat place to be, Ohio City should be on your radar.

Attractions in Ohio City

Arguably the most recognizable landmark in Ohio City is West Side Market, Cleveland’s oldest publicly owned market. Diverse vendors offer all kinds of goods; you can find fresh produce, baked goods, sweet treats, and more all in one place. Spend the day browsing the market and stop at the West Side Market Cafe for a bite to eat.

If you’re interested in a game night that requires no host, check out Tabletop Board Game Cafe. Bring your pals and enjoy a night full of games you never knew existed, as per their 1,200 game collection, and a nice selection of snacks and quick meals. 

Shopping in Ohio City

Ohio City’s rich history continues with Campbell’s Sweets Factory, a sweets shop that got its start in 2004 at Westside Market. The sweets shop offers “Cleveland’s favorite popcorn” and other treats like chocolate Buckeyes. Their factory in Ohio City offers tours as well as their products.

Another curated vintage resale shop, Helm Collective, offers unique decor options for your new home. Hand chosen by the owner, the pieces are sure to be stylish and easy to display no matter where you live. 

Other Shops to Check Out: Joy Machines Bike Shop, Something Different Gallery

Restaurants in Ohio City

Two Cleveland-founded microbreweries, Great Lakes Brewing Company and Platform Beer Co., have homes in Ohio City. Both offer a variety of independently-brewed craft beer and have food menus in their Ohio City locations. Platform is beginning their beer subscription membership this year, and Great Lakes has “Hop College,” where you can learn the ins and outs of beer. Stop by for a cold one and/or a great meal of top-notch bar food. 

Looking for a cozy, family-oriented place to try some European cuisine? Look towards Parisian-inspired Le Petit Triangle Cafe, which the owners describe as “an extension of their living room.” Head over for brunch and indulge in a nutella crepe or go a bit later for traditional French dishes. 

Other Restaurants to Check Out: Bar Cento, Mason’s Creamery, Phoenix Coffee

Downtown Cleveland

If you want to be in all the action, Downtown Cleveland may be the place for you. Home to many entertainment venues and recognizable attractions, Downtown is always energetic and full of life. 

Attractions in Downtown Cleveland

Whether you’re a music fan, a theatre fan, or a sports fan, Downtown Cleveland has got you covered. Music fans can be sure to catch tons of live shows at any of the many music venues including Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica and House of Blues or learn about their favorite musicians at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Catch all of the musicals and plays you love in Playhouse Square, which has a large variety of shows in their theaters every month. Cleveland sports lovers can be sure to catch a game at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse, Firstenergy Stadium, or Progressive Field.

Downtown also offers a variety of family-friendly entertainment. Public Square is Downtown Cleveland’s park and greenspace, featuring gardens, art installations, special events, and more. There is a splash pad and a multitude of food trucks and vendors in the summer, and in the winter, they open up an ice skating rink. If you want a more educational experience, head to Great Lakes Science Center, with STEM-focused exhibits fit for all ages. 

Shopping in Downtown Cleveland

5th Street Arcades, known for their beautiful interiors, offer a variety of shopping and dining options to round out your Downtown experience. From clothing boutiques and housewares to pet stores and a paper florist, you can find a range of shops to fit your interests. 

The name is self-explanatory, but Cleveland Clothing Co. is the place to get tees and hoodies to show off your CLE pride. They have multiple locations around the city, but their flagship store is located right Downtown, among all the action. 

Restaurants in Downtown Cleveland

Food and entertainment collide at Punch Bowl Social. With karaoke, bowling, pinball machines, and a variety of other games, you won’t have to worry about any members of your group being bored during a night here. They have a variety of drinks, appetizers, and entrees to choose from. 

I’m from the Land, till I die! 27 Club Coffee is Machine Gun Kelly’s coffee shop, serving pink lattes as well as cocktails, smoothies, and food. They also sell merchandise that reflects the shop’s atmosphere while keeping to their pink color scheme. If you are a fan of the Cleveland artist’s or enjoy grunge decor, it is a must-try. 

Other Restaurants to Check Out: Marble Room Steaks & Raw Bar, Pickwick & Frolic

Detroit Shoreway

Just west of Ohio City is Detroit Shoreway, an up-and-coming neighborhood with a strong emphasis on community and culture. With plenty of performing art venues and eco-friendly living options, Detroit Shoreway is a great place for those with an open mind who are hoping to be close to the action of Downtown. Detroit Shoreway also has great access to Cleveland’s RTA transportation options.

Attractions in Detroit Shoreway

Detroit Shoreway is home to Gordon Square Arts District, an arts and culture destination in Cleveland worth exploring. Capitol Theatre, Cleveland Public Theatre, and Maelstrom Collaborative Arts are just a few of the organizations located in this area. Both artists and art admirers will equally enjoy what Gordon Square has to offer.

The Cleveland EcoVillage is a neighborhood in Detroit Shoreway that plans to support the community by “using sustainability and transit-oriented development as a planning strategy.” Equipped with green housing, easy access to public transportation, greenspaces, local agriculture efforts, and community events, the EcoVillage creates a sustainable, forward-thinking way to live in the Land.

Aside from being the location of one of the famous Cleveland script signs, Edgewater Park is the perfect place for an afternoon picnic or a quick swim. Rent a pavilion or take advantage of the trails for a summer day well spent. 

Shopping in Detroit Shoreway

Want to get hand-printed, well-designed apparel that helps support Cleveland’s youth? Refresh Collective is the place to look. Refresh works with struggling schools and children who need extra support by providing music workshops, studio opportunities, and the ability to collaborate with others. By buying a new Cleveland beanie or a music-themed tee, you are supporting the future of those living in the city. 

Oceanne Jewelry is a woman-owned handmade jewelry shop that ties together Cleveland and French culture. They have beautifully designed necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings, as well as modern apparel designs and more. 

Other Shops to Check Out: Reverie

Restaurants in Detroit Shoreway

Have you ever considered pairing a classic beer with a sweet breakfast pastry? Brewnuts has, and it works The donuts are made with brews, and they always have a variety of Cleveland brewery picks on tap as well. It is well worth giving the unconventional pairing a try. 

Happy Dog is not your typical hot dog shop. They offer all the burger and dog toppings you could ever ask for, including some for the more adventurous like Fruit Loops and Flaming Hot Cheetos. They also act as a live music venue, with bands performing almost every weekend, and offer the opportunity to host your own events. 

Other Restaurants to Check Out: Astoria, Toast

Lakewood

Lakewood is a western suburb of the Land, meaning it is a little further from Downtown than the rest of the areas mentioned. Though a few more minutes out from the city, Lakewood has plenty to offer on its own. With tons of booming small businesses and a walkable city environment, this suburb is a great place for anyone looking for a community feel. 

Attractions in Lakewood

Beck Center for the Arts is a nonprofit organization focused on connecting people through performing arts and arts education. With both youth and adult theatre and art opportunities, any artist can find their place at Beck Center. Catch a show, take a class, or get involved for an amazing arts experience. 

Live music, bowling, and great brunch and bar food. What more could you ask for? Mahall’s Twenty Lanes has it all, with inexpensive concert tickets for up-and-coming bands and a great atmosphere. As they say, it’s a place “to eat, drink, dance, perform, get married, bowl, take a trip down memory lane, see live music, catch an improv show, dance tango, celebrate a birthday, hear a poetry reading, screen a movie, shoot a film, pose for photos, see great art, ring in the new year.” You’ll never have a boring day spent at Mahall’s.

Love spending time outdoors? 41° North Kayak Adventures has rental kayaks and paddleboards, paddling classes, and more. Enjoy a day on the Rocky River whenever you need some time on the water.

Shopping in Lakewood

With both road and adventure bikes, Beat Cycles has got every kind of cyclist covered. From bikes, apparel, and accessories to parts and repairs, they’re a one-stop-shop for anyone who loves a good ride.

Book Brothers is any book lover’s dream. With used books from floor to ceiling and everywhere in between, bibliophiles won’t be able to resist. Whether you’re a fan of music, art, sci-fi, nonfiction, or mystery, you’ll find the perfect book to add to your collection. They also buy books and sell a limited collection of vinyl albums.

Other Shops to Check Out: All the Joy, Cuyahoga Collective, Lakewood Plant Company, The Salvaged Boutique, Uncover Vintage 

Restaurants in Lakewood

Can’t decide on what to eat? Take a trip to Lakewood Truck Park and let one of their food truck vendors decide for you! This park is open all year long and has both indoor and outdoor seating options. 

What beer is on tap? At Sauced Taproom, you’ll be taking a look at a list of around 50. With an extensive drink list and a menu full of top-level bar food, you won’t be disappointed. They also have a selection of vegan items for the plant-based people in your life. 

Other Restaurants to Check Out: Barrio, Barroco, Caffeine, Goodkind Coffee

University Circle

University Circle, on the eastern edge of the city, is the last Cleveland suburb on our list. With its close proximity to Case Western Reserve University and the Cleveland Institute of Art, it’s largely chosen by students who attend these schools but has plenty to offer new residents who are not pursuing a degree. It is known to be “a world-class center of innovation in health care, education, and arts & culture.” University Circle is also very close to Cleveland’s Little Italy, a well-known and reputable cultural destination of its own.

Attractions in University Circle

If you’re a fan of the rich history and culture of museums, University Circle is a good place to be. The Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History are all located here. Both art museums have free daily admission and often change up their exhibitions, making every trip a new and exciting one. The natural history museum has over five million artifacts set up for your viewing pleasure; you surely won’t catch everything in one visit! 

Outdoor lovers will have no problem spending a full day looking at the beautiful offerings of the Cleveland Botanical Garden. With 13 different gardens, special limited-time exhibits, and a cafe, it is a great place to be on a sunny day.

Shopping in University Circle

Many local artists call this area home. Both Small Screen Studios and Snakes & Acey’s are woman-owned boutique shops offering apparel and other goodies that were designed in-house. Stop in to check out some Cleveland-made tees, mugs, journals, and more.

Other Shops to Check Out: Appletree Books, Moonstruck CLE Vintage

Restaurants in University Circle

L'albatros Brasserie & Bar is a quaint restaurant serving French cuisine very close to Case Western. The building was originally an old carriage house, making it the perfect setting for a romantic dining experience. With an outdoor patio and an extensive beverage menu, it’s the perfect spot for a night out. 

With craft coffee, tea, and soon-to-come beer on the menu, Blue Sky Brews has everything you need from morning to night. The shop was started in 2019 and offers some new perspective to historic Little Italy. With a nice selection of pastries in-house and a great atmosphere around their large, square bar setup, it’s the perfect place to stop in for your morning coffee or spend a chatty afternoon.

Other Restaurants to Check Out: Guarino’s, Hell’s Fried Chicken, Home Bistro, Nora

Though each suburb has its own attractions and benefits, what we’re really getting at is that Cleveland is a great place to be. No matter where you decide to settle, the city has a spot for you. 

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