Romantic Things to Do in Cleveland

Whether you enjoy the view from Cleveland's Edgewater State Park, on the city's near west side, or Mentor Headlands Beach on the far east side, the sunset over Lake Erie is one of the loveliest views in town. In the warmer months, bring a picnic dinner and dine as you watch the sun sink unobstructed into the horizon. Or, stroll hand-in-hand along the beach and enjoy the view.

There's just something magical about the Cleveland Greenhouse. Built at the turn of the (20th) century, the structure houses a tropical garden with a large variety of colorful orchids, a desert garden with cacti and other succulents, and a rain forest with citrus trees and other interesting plants. Located at the edge of University Circle, the greenhouse is rarely crowded. In the summer, you can explore the 270 acres of outdoor gardens, including the precisely manicure Japanese garden. During the holiday season, the indoor gardens are filled with red, white, and pink poinsettias.

During the warmer months, especially between Memorial Day and Labor Day, it seems that every Cleveland restaurants sports at least a small patio. Some of the area's best are located at Three Birds in Lakewood, That Place on Bellflower at University Circle, and the rooftop patio overlooking the downtown skyline at the Harp of Detroit Rd.

Located one block north of Shaker Square on Cleveland's east side, Larchmere Boulevard is home to a fascinating mix of antique stores, bookstores, stores selling handcrafted items, and eclectic eateries. Discover one-on-a-kind local arts and crafts at Sylvia Ullman's American Craft Gallery or have a burger at the historic and funky Academy Tavern.

The West Side Market, at the edge of Ohio City in Cleveland, is a cultural and culinary gem. Opened in 1912, the market combines graceful Neo-Classical/Byzantine architecture with a vibrant produce and meat, poultry, and dairy market. Pick up ingredients for a picnic to take to nearby Edgewater Park or buy the makings of a memorable dinner that the two of you create together.

The music is almost secondary to this concert stage's lovely setting along the Cuyahoga River. You'll share a view of the downtown Cleveland skyline, the ore boats plying down the river, and the bridges all festively lighted. The Plain Dealer Pavilion hosts a variety of musical entertainers from May through September each year. The outdoor venue is small and intimate -- the perfect spot for romance.

Lake and Ashtabula Counties, just east of Cleveland, are home to dozens of unique -- and tasty -- wineries. Many have restaurants and tasting rooms where you can enjoy their wares. Most offers tours of the facility, and some, such as Chalet Debonne in Madison, even host musical events throughout the year.

Cleveland has a collection of unique, cozy, and sometimes quirky establishments that serve wine by the glass - or the bottle. Cuddle up to someone you love and share a bottle of wine, a plate of cheese, and ...

What's more romantic than a night away from kids and work and chores? The Greater Cleveland area is home to a delightful -- and romantic -- collection of Bed and Breakfast inns. From stylish city retreats to country estates, there's something for every taste.