Cleveland is the largest city on Lake Erie and one of the most populous urban areas in the country. Cleveland is a city that prides itself on its diversity, with plenty of things to offer for people who live in the area and those who are visiting. Adventure seekers, nature lovers, history buffs, sports fanatics, and foodies will all find Cleveland full of sites and attractions that give a memorable glimpse of the city.
Any list of the top things to do in Cleveland has to include a sightseeing cruise on the GOODTIME III! This two-hour narrated cruise along the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie provides an in-depth look at Cleveland’s history and provides spectacular views of downtown Cleveland, the Flats, and all of the surrounding areas. Passengers will enjoy the quickly changing panorama of Cleveland’s skyline and listen to the narrator point out many sights and little-known historical facts about this All-American city.
A GOODTIME III sightseeing cruise provides gorgeous views of downtown Cleveland that you just can’t get anywhere else. Highlighted by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, downtown Cleveland boasts several other iconic sites including the Great Lakes Science Center, FirstEnergy Stadium, Steamship William G. Mather Maritime Museum and the USS Cod, Rocket Mortgage Field House, and Progressive Field, the home of the Cleveland Guardians, one of the prettiest ballparks in the world.
Here are some other highlights of the top things to see on a GOODTIME III Sightseeing Tour, which run Tuesday through Saturday at noon and 3 pm, and Sunday at 12:30 pm and 3:30 pm. The tours run for approximately two hours and provide an unforgettable look at the best of Cleveland, Lake Erie, and the Cuyahoga River.
The Flats
The Flats is a redeveloped area on the banks of the Cuyahoga River, known for its happening nightlife, with edgy bars and clubs hosting live music, comedy and drag shows. The party vibe extends to patios and beer gardens nearby, while dining options include gourmet taco joints and hip cafes. A popular walkway lines the west bank of the waterfront, and water taxis take people from one side of the river to the other.
Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve
The 88 acres now known as the Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve began life in 1979 as a dredge impoundment to contain spoils excavated from the Cuyahoga River. About 280 species of birds have been recorded to date, and spring and fall migration can bring spectacular fallouts of birds.
The Cleveland region – Cuyahoga and Lake counties – is by far the most populous area along Ohio’s Lake Erie shoreline. It also is host to the most birders, and as a consequence, the bird life of the Cleveland vicinity is better known than probably anywhere else in Ohio. Birding is good at all seasons, and records of exciting rarities abound.
Edgewater Park
The 2,400-foot Edgewater Beach and surrounding Lakefront Reservation were recently acquired by Cleveland’s acclaimed park system, The Cleveland Metroparks. To the joy of Clevelanders everywhere, the park received a transformative facelift. As a result, this beach and the surrounding park are downright spectacular.
Located just west of downtown, Edgewater Park boasts 6,000 feet of shoreline and two beaches, plus a playground, pavilions and one of the best views of Cleveland’s skyline. It’s an ideal place to sunbathe, create a towering sandcastle, start a game of beach volleyball, or catch a wave.
Lakewood Park
Just down the shore from Edgewater Park is Lakewood Park, a stunning lakefront park that is an extremely popular destination with plenty of green, a huge playground, a brick walkway, gorgeous views of downtown Cleveland, a skate park, and a swimming pool.
Rocky River Park
Continuing down the Lake Erie shore brings us to Rocky River Park, which provides gorgeous views of parks and cabins, as well as a look at the newly renovated Bradstreet’s Landing pier.
Huntington Beach
This breathtaking lakefront is part of the Huntington Reservation, which is extremely popular, offering fantastic hiking, swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Huntington Reservation continues to serve as the lakefront home to an extensive variety of Ohio wildlife, the site of refuge and relaxation, philanthropic ventures, educational endeavors, and host to the local arts scene.
A sightseeing cruise on GOODTIME III provides the best views of downtown Cleveland and all the surrounding areas. It’s a cruise that will be among the highlights of your spring or summer and a memory of the city that you’ll cherish for a lifetime!
Please note that the route of the GOODTIME III during sightseeing tours is always at the Captain’s discretion – based on weather and traffic conditions on the water.
