More about Cleveland-Baseball, the Arts, and an excellent sense of community!

The first day of my trip was exhausting because of the early morning flight and excitement I was facing. Continental was great; super friendly flight attendants, and an interesting neighbor made my trip all the more enjoyable. The moment I arrived, I was whisked away to begin my day. Here's a little of what I experienced:

Families vacationing in or around the heart of Cleveland can enjoy an Indians Baseball game at Progressive Field all season long. Enjoy a hot dog with Cleveland's own Stadium Mustard, a refreshing local brew or classic Bud, or Pepsi at one of the nations most beautiful ballparks. Prices range from $7 a ticket to $85, depending on seat location, special event, or who’s playing the Indians. Families and fans can take advantage of box seats, (starting at only $17/ ticket!), social media seating, the Indians Fan Cave, or suites at anytime. Make reservations or purchase tickets online at http://cleveland.indians.mlb.com/.

Yearly, visitors and residents can take part in the Parade the Circle event, sponsored by the Cleveland Museum of Art. People come from near and far with their artistic expressions, costumes, floats, and mascots--all handmade and extraordinary to parade down the streets of Cleveland into the heart of the city at University Circle.  The museum offers the community a chance to come in and work on their projects or costumes year round with the staff and volunteers.

The Artistic Director Robin VanLear organized the first Parade the Circle in 1990, in prepararation of the Museum's 75th birthday. Twenty years later, the program has continued and delights the community annually, attracting local, regional and global artists and spectators alike. This year the Parade of Circle will be held on June 12th and as always, no matter rain nor shine.

The Cleveland Museum of Art offers a wide array of collections from Ancient Art, to African Art, to Contemporary Art and Photography and Prints, and everything in between. Family programs are offered to locals and on specific event days throughout the year. Although the Museum was going through renovations when I visited earlier this month, of the collections I experienced, it was exquisite.

Don't let the cover fool you, The Children's Museum of Cleveland is jam packed with fun stuff for children from birth up to age 7 to discover and learn. Young children will enjoy endless opportunities to explore, create, and play while learning with their family and new friends while at the "Splish Splash!" water tables downstairs, or while pretending to farm at the "Big Red Barn".  Be sure to explore their current exhibit, "Healthier Ever After" and learn all about proper portion size, exercise, and the food pyramid like never before!

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History provides a great display of my son's ultimate favorite- DINOSAURS like T-rex and "Happy" (pictured above)- as well as a hall of gems, a planetarium, an outdoor habitat and garden, a hands-on Discovery Center, and so much more. Learn about the discovery of "Lucy", a 3.2 million year old ancestor of man, and how she has provided key evidence into the evolution of man. This summer, experience the Wild Music: Sounds and Songs of Wildlife exhibit, which demonstrates the songs and sounds of some of natures biggest and smallest creatures. Enjoy animal sounds from the city, ocean, and forest, and learn about the difference between the human voice and the sounds animals use to communicate and sing.

After exploring the arts and museums, unwind while strolling down Coventry Road in Cleveland Heights. The small-owner operated storefronts welcome tourists and passer-bys with quality service and smiles to all.

Big Fun is one of the stores on Coventry Road, and holds true to their name.. the store is truly "Big Fun"! Head "Back to the Future" as you walk through the doors and experience toys and collectibles from your youth, and perhaps even from your parents youth. As you weave through the store, shoppers of every age seem to squeal as they recognize a childhood favorite toy. From Star Wars to Shrek, to Trolls and Mad Libs; to stickers, bumper stickers and Garbage Pail Kids trading cards; to the A-Team, GI Joe, band memoribilia, and more- every nook and cranny holds a new and exciting surprise.

Finish off the day with dinner at Tommy's Restaurant and one of his 'famous' milkshakes. (My strawberry milkshake was phenominal- seriously the best shake I have ever had in my life!!) The menu caters to palates of all walks of life. Whether you are vegetarian, vegan, 'meat-a-tarian', kosher, or can't eat glueten, you'll find something on the menu that will make you happy. The home cut french fries are out of this world, and you can taste the freshness in all of the food. Learn more about the history of some of the menu items, and how Tommy's supports local farmers and dairies in our interview clip on YouTube.

The rooms at the Doubletree Hotel in Cleveland were clean and inviting, with a beautiful window view of the lake- perfect for watching the gorgeous lightning, as a storm rolls through. The bed was super comfortable, and the shower refreshing and clean.

For more information on hotels, lodging, accomodations and tourism in the greater Cleveland area, be sure to visit Positively Cleveland or contact their visitors hotline at 800.321.1004.