Stretching more than 30 miles around the shore of Lake Erie, Cleveland is the second-largest city in Ohio and is made up of four counties, according to the City Data website. The winds off Lake Erie cause an abundance of snowfall and frigid temperatures during the winter months. Despite the wintry temperatures, Cleveland offers indoor and outdoor activities for people of all ages.
A 40x80 structure located behind the Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland Museum of Natural History and Cleveland Botanical Garden, the Rink at Wade Oval opened in 2008, drawing more than 10,000 skaters in its inaugural season. The Rink at Wade Oval, the first outdoor skating rink in Cleveland, contains a surface made of a special polymer that does not require water or electricity to maintain it. Skating is free and if needed, patrons can rent skates. The rink is open November through March.
The Rink at Wade Oval
11150 East Blvd.
Cleveland, OH 44106
216-707-5033
universitycircle.org
An annual Cleveland tradition, the Winter Warmer Festival, presented by the Rock Bottom Brewery, features more than a dozen of Ohio's best microbreweries. During the February indoor and outdoor festival, participants may enjoy a buffet-style lunch, live music, and samplings of quality beer from around the Buckeye State. A portion of the ticket proceeds benefits the Ohio Brewer's Guild.
Rock Bottom Brewery
2000 Sycamore St.
216-623-1555
rockbottom.com/cleveland
The 1983 holiday movie "A Christmas Story" comes to life in Cleveland as visitors can tour the restored house that was featured in the film. Across the street stands a museum that houses original movie props and behind-the-scenes photos. Visitors can even purchase a replica leg lamp that was featured in the holiday hit. Proceeds from the museum are used to preserve the house and museum.
A Christmas Story House and Museum
3159 W. 11th St.
Cleveland, OH 44109
216-298-4819
achristmasstoryhouse.com
During the winter months, the Cleveland Cavaliers of the National Basketball Association play home games at the Quicken Loans Arena, which holds more than 20,000 fans. Fans will not miss a minute of action waiting in line for food or souvenirs as the building houses more than 500 televisions. During the game, fans can enjoy performances by the Cavalier Girls, an NBA dance team. The Cavs Crew also entertains fans through activities, promotions and in-game contests.
Quicken Loans Arena
1 Center Court
Cleveland, OH 44115
888-894-9424
theqarena.com
