One of Cleveland’s oldest neighborhoods, Tremont is exploding with personality — and possibility. The leafy streets are home to chubby squirrels and leisurely walkers as well as quirky cafés, eccentric bars, unique experiences and historic sites. Spend an afternoon or evening eating, drinking, touring or even climbing at the following 12 places.
1. Climb Cleveland: In this more-horizontal-than-vertical climbing experience, participants conquer climbing walls without harnesses. The facility offers yoga and dance classes as well. 2190 Professor Ave., 216-906-4186, climb-cleveland.com
2. Cloak & Dagger: This vegan craft cocktail bar and restaurant is tucked away, but stands out thanks to its one-of-a-kind concoctions and ambiance that whispers academia with its leather-bound books and moody decor. 2399 W. 11th St., 216-795-5657, cloakanddaggercle.com
3. Visible Voice Books: This bookstore feels like a cozy loft made for relaxation. Stop by to browse for a rare find — or rent the whole place out for a private night with pizza and wine. 2258 Professor Ave., 216-961-0084, visiblevoicebooks.com
4. Christmas Story House: You’ll feel a wave of nostalgia when you see the year-round Christmas lights and instantly recognizable yellow exterior. Of course, the infamous leg lamp is proudly displayed in the front window. 3159 W. 11th St., 216-298-4919, achristmasstoryhouse.com
5. St. Theodosius Russian Orthodox Cathedral: The oldest Orthodox Christian church in the state of Ohio stands proud in Tremont with a magnificent exterior and even more impressive interior. The church is a landmark to movie lovers as well, after making an appearance in the 1978 classic The Deer Hunter. 733 Starkweather Ave., 216-574-4886, sttheodosius.org
6. Affogato Cat Café: Join a room full of cats for coffee, vegan pastries and enough cat-themed decorations to make you second-guess your home décor — and your dog. Even better, the cafe has helped almost 700 cats get adopted since 2019. 761 Starkweather Ave., 440-941-5130, affogatocatcafe.com
7. Evie Lou Boutique: This sophisticated boutique offers high-end shoes and clothing designed to be as comfy as they are stylish. And owner Kim Crow is always game to give a fashion assist. 2509 Professor Ave., 216-696-6675, evielou.com
8. Dante: This maze of a restaurant features American food, brunch, sushi, indoor and outdoor concerts and more. While the main level boasts elegant decor and intricate chandeliers, the lower level showcases classic rock icons. 2247 Professor Ave., 216-274-1200, danteboccuzzi.com
9. Lucky’s Cafe: Enjoy brunch heaven and quirky decor at Lucky’s Cafe. The wide selection of caffeinated drinks and sweet treats make it the go-to spot to bring your pals for a fun morning out. 777 Starkweather Ave., 216-622-7773, luckyscafe.com
10. Hi and Dry: This restaurant/bar offers craft beer, arcade games and duckpin bowling, making it the perfect place to kick back and watch the Browns game with friends. 2221 Professor Ave., 216-566-9463,
hianddrycleveland.com
11. convergence-continuum: Live performances are back in a big way at the convergence-continuum theater. The nonprofit collective holds up-close, personal and intimate productions in this 50-seat theater. 2438 Scranton Road, 216-687-0074, convergence-continuum.org
12. The Treehouse: The Irish pub sits proudly on the corner of College and Professor avenues. The bar has been thriving for over 20 years and features live entertainment every Sunday and a giant twinkling tree overlooking the bar. 820 College Ave., 216-696-2505, treehousecleveland.com