One of the best parts about the Midwest is experiencing all four seasons – including the beautiful but cold winters. Piled on top of holiday season spending, the pockets always hurt a little more during the wintertime. Don’t worry though, Cleveland has many great (and free!) options to keep you entertained. Even though it’s February, Winter feels much longer here 🙂
Unless you are an expert at biking in the snow, don’t forget to include gas and parking costs (but the activities themselves are free). Pack a few snacks and carpool to save money and enjoy what free things Cleveland has to offer during the scenic winter season. Below, choose from outdoor or indoor activities with two almost free bonus activities!
Free Indoor Activities
University Circle
See world class art for free (aside from parking). So many hours can be spent here – my personal favorite is the famous “Water Lilies” by Monet. Even though I don’t know much about art, coming here has made me want to visit more museums and learn about what kind of art I like and am drawn to.
Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa)
University Circle
Just down the street is another museum focusing on contemporary art. It may not be for everyone, but what is there to lose with free admission? With some contemporary art I can piece together what the artist was thinking, and other times I’m not so sure. I enjoy talking about it with someone else when I go.
Ohio City
Since 2013, this has been the home of four rotating exhibitions. Another great indoor activity to stay warm during the colder days. It’s also on the westside and close to other great activities.
University Circle
The CIM is one of seven independent conservatories in the US. Looking at their calendar, they often have events that are free and do not require tickets!
Downtown Cleveland
Take a free tour at the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland and learn about how money is made, spotting counterfeits, and more.
International Women’s Air and Space Museum
Downtown Cleveland
Located at the Burke Lakefront Airport, the IWASM showcases history of women in aerospace and aviation. Amelia Earhart was the first president of the Ninety-Nines, a committee who helped open the museum in 1986.
Various Branch Locations
With different events all over Cleveland, there are variety of activities ranging from painting a piggy bank to Tai Chi. Stay up to date with their calendar here and sort by your local Branch.
Almost Free: Cleveland Public Theater
The CPT is performing How the Circus Stole Christmas in December, and ticket prices are pay as you wish (starting at $1). They are making theater more accessible, but you can pay more to help support their costs for production.
Free Outdoor Activities
University Circle
Close to many other free attractions listed here, the greenhouse is small but mighty. During the holiday season, a beautiful poinsettia display is on view, showcasing bright and vibrant flowers.
Various park locations to choose from
Being from Michigan, I loved going to the lake in the wintertime and seeing the beautiful snow piles and icy lake. Edgewater Park is always a classic, and there is nothing better than breathing the crisp air and then grabbing a coffee from a local shop. For more experienced snowshoe hikers, there are options for everyone.
Crown Point Parkway Festival of Lights
Strongsville
Farther away in the burbs, this lights display has been listed as one of the top five in the country. Stay up to date here with their Facebook page. Displays start in November!
Crocker Park Santa’s Village
Crocker Park
On the westside, Crocker Park has a handful of festive events. Walk through their beautiful lights display, ride the Express train, and take photos by their 6 foot marquee or 50 foot tree!
Various locations to choose from
Sledding will always be an activity that is exciting for five or fifty year olds – I’ve used a plastic bag (it does hurt a little) in a pinch, or that 10 year old sled from Costco in the garage. Linked is a thread from Reddit that lists many hill options. Don’t forget to bring a friend for safety.
- McDonald’s Hill on 222nd and Euclid
- Hinckley Hill
- Allardale Park
- Memphis Kiddie Park
- Cain Park Cleveland Heights
Cleveland Heights
Explore over 285 acres of the beautiful cemetery, including the unique architecture, memorials, and land. Be sure to be respectful with photos and read the guidelines here. And wear comfy shoes!
Almost Free: The Rink at Wade Oval
University Circle
Starting on December 2nd, the rink will open at University Circle. Admission is $2 ($1 for students) and skate rentals are only $3 ($2 for students)! A classic way to enjoy the scenic wintertime and then warm up at one of the museums after!
Conclusion
It was so interesting to research all of the free activities there are in Cleveland and seeing how many options there are. I’m sure I missed some too – comment below if there is something you love to do or have been meaning to check out that is free or almost free. I’ve been to a few of these, but am looking forward to visiting some new spots while saving a little bit more money for other holiday activities.
Which attraction(s) do you plan on trying? So many of these activities are starting or have started already too – I have my eye on checking out a show at the CIM and walking through Crocker Park. I hope this has helped you plan some free things to do in Cleveland this winter.
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