J.F.
Updated: There are so many fun things to do in CLE! My husband grew up in the area, and we still have family who live there, so we are very familiar with the city and visit often.
Two days at RRHF is more than enough. I'm a serious music history lover, and I tend to want to read everything and look at everything, but even with the kids, who don't always want to examine all of the displays, I mostly feel like I get to see everything I want to see in one full day. I should note that it has been a few years since we were there, and undoubtedly, there are even more things to see, so if you have the time, you could stretch it out over two days.
But, if you are limited on your days, I'd think about spending one day at RRHF, and another day doing something else.
So, not sure when you're going. This weekend? The Indians are playing at home, and there's a lot of excitement around the team since they've clinched their division. Browns are not in town this weekend, but that doesn't matter because they are horrible this year.
Blossom outdoor amphitheater is amazing. They have concerts---from classical to pop and everything in between, but they are probably winding down for the year because of the cooler weather. I think they have concerts until the end of this month, so you may want to check.
One thing I'd highly recommend is a trip to Chagrin Falls. It's just a little suburb of CLE, so not too far, but it is so worth it. It's a tiny little town with this beautiful waterfall right through the middle of it. At this time of year, the scenery will be so pretty. There are all of these shops and restaurants, so you can walk around and dine, and wander around the falls. There is this really neat popcorn and ice cream shop where we always stop and get ice cream.
Like other big cities, CLE has some great museums, but I'm not sure how much time you want to spend in museums on your anniversary trip!
There are so many great restaurants, and it seems like there are always new ones opening. I'll stick to our old tried and true favorites. A great lunch spot is Corky & Lenny's, which is a deli that's been around (on the east side) forever. You'll probably hear more about Slyman's, which is (debatably) as good and closer to where you'll probably be staying. Other lunch type favorites are Melt and Tommy's. Geraci's pizza is also good.
If you are planning a nice meal, two of our favorites are Hyde Park, which also has been around forever, and Red. They are pricey, but it's your anniversary, and they are special places to celebrate.
There are many very good hotels near the RRHF. Westin and Hilton are always good choices, but there is also Metropolitan at the 9. Cousin just had her wedding there a couple of months ago. There are many others all in that area as well.
Just send me a PM if you have any other questions. Hope you guys have a great trip and happy anniversary!
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Yes, we have been there before, quite a few times. Before I try to answer, though, it would really help to know the ages of your children. That will make a difference with my answers.
I'll check back later tonight.