CLEVELAND (Sept. 4, 2025) – This fall, Cleveland comes alive with new ways to explore the city. Visitors can stroll or sail along lively waterfronts, chase peak foliage in scenic parks or dive into the city's world-class arts scene. From haunted attractions to outdoor discoveries, Cleveland is serving up fresh experiences for visitors.

Adventure Awaits on Cleveland's Nationally Recognized Waterfront

Cleveland's riverfront is making headlines: the Cuyahoga River has been designated a National Water Trail, recognizing its dramatic ecological rebound and inviting paddlers, hikers and cyclists to explore its clean, refreshed path. Visitors can experience the river and surrounding lakefront in new ways, including a hop-on, hop-off Water Taxi that currently links entertainment areas along the Cuyahoga River, with future stops planned for parks and beaches, highlighting connections across the city.

The Towpath Trail is fully reopened following a three-year riverbank stabilization project. Stretching 101 miles along the historic Ohio and Erie Canal, it links downtown Cleveland to the rolling landscapes of Cuyahoga Valley National Park and beyond, offering some of the nation's most scenic hiking and biking. Along the trail, Mosaic Brewing Co. opens this September in a restored historic building. Located in the Tremont neighborhood, its rooftop patio offers skyline views and direct trail access, making it a must-stop for cyclists, walkers and urban adventurers.

Meanwhile, major developments are underway at Cleveland's near east side waterfront. The Mandel Community Trail will create a safe, off-road connection from downtown to the Cleveland Metroparks E. 55th Street Marina. In 2026, the Patrick S. Parker Community Sailing Center will open at the marina, offering year-round public access, sailing programs and community spaces along Lake Erie.

Fall Road Trips to Cleveland: Leaf-Peeping, Haunted History and Game-Day Spirit

Nearly two-thirds of Americans are chasing seasonal getaways. Cleveland is answering the call with unforgettable autumn adventures. As Cuyahoga Valley National Park celebrates its 50th anniversary, visitors can soak in peak foliage on breathtaking hikes or from the comfort of the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, which now features a new open-air car for unobstructed leaf-peeping.

Cleveland's seasonal appeal doesn't stop at the colors of fall. History and hauntings converge at Franklin Castle, one of the scariest haunted houses in America. Daring guests can now spend the night in ghostly rooms. The occult and oddities scene extends to the Buckland Museum of Witchcraft and the soon-to-open Witch Doctor, an apothecary-inspired space blending herbs, spirits, stained glass and a backyard garden. Seasonal tours like Great Lakes Brewing Company's Haunted History Tours add another layer of eerie excitement.

For major thrill-seekers, Cedar Point's HalloWeekends (Sept. 11–Nov. 2) delivers roller coasters alongside haunted mazes, completing a fall itinerary packed with adrenaline. Sports fans can catch the action across the city this fall as the Cleveland Browns kick off their NFL season at Huntington Bank Field. Rocket Arena will also bring the energy, hosting Cleveland Cavaliers games and the Cleveland Monsters' AHL home opener.

Cleveland Pays Tribute to Its Entertainment Roots and Welcomes New Fall Cultural Experiences

Cleveland continues to stake its claim as a top cultural destination, known for its iconic music legacy. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame celebrates this heritage with its “SNL: Ladies & Gentlemen… 50 Years of Music” exhibit, displaying the show's five decades-long impact on music, comedy and pop culture. The museum remains open while undergoing a $135 million expansion, set to debut next year. Meanwhile, Cleveland cements its place as a Broadway tour launch pad this fall as two highly anticipated musicals, “Hell's Kitchen” by Alicia Keys and Ingrid Michaelson's “The Notebook,” begin their North American runs at Playhouse Square.

Film enthusiasts can explore “Hollywood on the Cuyahoga: Northeast Ohio and the Movies,” a new exhibit at the Cleveland History Center. The exhibit spotlights the region's cinematic legacy and $100 million annual economic impact, especially timely as Cleveland takes a starring role in the latest “Superman” film.

Global Flavors and Fresh Concepts Enhance Cleveland's Culinary Scene

Cleveland's dining landscape continues to evolve this fall with buzzworthy openings. Sushi Kuwahata and Kyuu Juu, created by the same team, offer two distinct experiences in the Ohio City neighborhood. Upstairs is an intimate omakase counter with limited seating, while the main floor is home to a casual izakaya serving Japanese small plates.

Just blocks away, the team behind Cordelia, one of Cleveland's most celebrated restaurants, prepares to open a yet-to-be-named, intimate concept. James Beard Award-nominated Chef Vinnie Cimino and co-owner Andrew Parks will build on the success of Cordelia's “Midwest Nice” approach with a thoughtful, chef-driven experience.

New Hotels Reflect Cleveland's Growing Appeal

Cleveland's rising destination profile is fueling hotel development downtown. In 2026, visitors can look forward to the boutique 123-room Marriott Tribute Hotel and the 141-room AC Hotel by Marriott. The W Hotel, slated for 2027, which will offer luxury amenities, sweeping city views and a full-service spa and gym. These projects ensure travelers have stylish, comfortable accommodations while exploring all the city has to offer.

To keep up to date on new developments and activities, please visit www.thisiscleveland.com or follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or YouTube. 

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ABOUT DESTINATION CLEVELAND: Destination Cleveland is Cleveland's destination marketing and management organization. The private, non-profit organization's mission is to stimulate economic growth by attracting people and connecting them to experiences that illustrate Cleveland's diversity, creativity and contagious passion. In 2023, visitation increased for the third straight year to 18.3 million visits. For more information, visit www.thisiscleveland.com.