Break out the sunscreen, shorts and sunglasses. Summer is here. To prepare, we’ve put together a to-do list of fun activities and adventures for summer 2024. Whether you're looking for a great hike, a weekend filled with good and music, or a way to get out on Lake Erie, Cleveland has something to offer. So, what are you waiting for? Dive in to these great events. 

Rock Out at Cleveland's Best Concerts

Janet Jackson at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse (June 25)
Embarking on her ninth headlining tour, Janet Jackson will celebrate her illustrious career one more time in Cleveland this summer. Joined by fellow music sensation Nelly, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee will prove that she surely hasn’t gone out of style. $86+, 1 Center Court, Cleveland, rocketmortgagefieldhouse.com

Justin Timberlake at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse (July 7)
Justin Timberlake is bringing sexy back, but did it ever really leave? A mainstay in the world of pop music, he’s churned out years of chart-topping hits, and he will continue to in anticipation of his newest album, Everything I Thought It Was. Touring for the first time since 2019, Timberlake has his “Suit & Tie” ready to go for his long-awaited return. $112+, 1 Center Court, Cleveland, rocketmortgagefieldhouse.com

Kid Cudi at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse (July 31)
Shaker Heights’ very own takes the big stage in the heart of Downtown Cleveland to celebrate the release of his 10th studio album, INSANO — and to establish a new iteration of his Moon Man's Landing music festival, after canceling it last June due to venue concerns related to RMFH. Joined by other rap icons Pusha T. and Earthgang, local rising stars Siena Bella and Chelsea Pastel will also perform. $49+, 1 Center Court, Cleveland, rocketmortgagefieldhouse.com

Hozier at Blossom Music Center (Aug. 6)
Following the release of his third album, Unreal Unearth, the Irishman will grace the United States with his spine-chilling ballads and deep baritone belting. His tour will swing into one of his largest performances in Northeast Ohio yet, when he gets set tp perform at the Blossom Music Center in August. Experimental hits like “Eat Your Young” and “Francesca” will join classics like “Take Me to Church” and “Work Song” for a performance of indie-folk excellence, outside and under the summer stars. $65+, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation.com

Avril Lavigne at Blossom Music Center (Sept. 6)
Here’s to never growing up! Avril Lavigne brings her greatest hits on the road for a show out of every pop-punk teen's dreams. Hear timeless classics like “Sk8er Boi," “Complicated” and “Girlfriend." $67+, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation.com

Read More: Check out our full of summer concerts, including Red Hot Chili Peppers, Billy Joel and more. 

Hangout at Cleveland's Best Street Festivals

Kirtland Kiwanis Strawberry Festival (June 13-15)
Commencing for its 63rd year, Kirtland Schools presents a weekend of live music, crafts, games, parades, rides, contests and of course: strawberries. Take them fresh, or find them in the form of shortcakes, lemonade, sundaes or covered in chocolate. Free, 9252 Chillicothe Road, Kirtland, kirtlandohio.com

Taste of Tremont (July 21)
Park in the heart of Tremont for a lovely Sunday afternoon and evening, and get a taste of all the local flare this trendy neighborhood has to offer. Sample delicious and savory food from some of the best chefs in Northeast Ohio while shopping for merchandise from local artists, makers and vendors, all backdropped by live music, courtesy of up-and-coming talents. Free, 2406 Professor Ave., Cleveland, experiencetremont.com

BorderLight Theatre Festival (July 24-27)
Over 100 artists in the world of theatre come together for a weekend of singing, dancing, acting and good memories. Immerse yourself in more than 30 local and national performances, covering a wide range of genres and cultures. 1501 Euclid Ave #200, Cleveland, OH 44115, Playhouse Square, borderlightcle.org

Twins Days Festival (Aug. 2-4) 
The 49th Twinsburg Twins Days Festival celebrates everything in pairs, as twins, triplets and more from around the globe gather for a weekend of double takes. After a parade of multiples kicks off the weekend, tournaments, talent shows, food, music and fireworks are all in store for siblings looking to celebrate their lookalikes. The thrill will stay alive all three days. $12.50+, Twinsburg Community Center, 10260 Ravenna Road, Twinsburg, twinsdays.org

Little Italy’s Feast of the Assumption (Aug 15-18)
Fill your stomach and your soul as you wander the streets of Little Italy during this tight-knit community’s celebration of the Catholic Feast of the Assumption. Free, 12021 Mayfield Road, Cleveland, littleitalyfeast.com

Waterloo Arts Fest (Sept. 14)
A music, arts and food festival all in one, this historic lakeside neighborhood has put its entertainment scene on display for over two decades. Marvel at the work of 90+ art galleries, and get the chance to make crafts. Free, 15605 Waterloo Road, Cleveland, waterlooartsfest.org

Read More: Check out our full list of this summer's best festivals here.

Spend a Day on Cleveland's Waters

41 North Coastal Adventures
Part of the Cleveland Metroparks Rocky River Reservation, this comprehensive servicer provides a myriad of resources for the most experienced athletes, and those just looking to have fun. Take a guided kayak tour of Rocky River and Lake Erie, or rent a kayak or paddleboard and choose your own route. Rentals are also provided for novices in one of their many watersport classes. Pricing varies by service, 41n.com

Float the River
Peacefully glide away from the hustle and bustle of life with this lazy river experience. The full-service outfitter sends groupings of inner tubes on a one-of-a-kind experience, perfect for a fun family outing, romantic getaway or afternoon hang with friends. $25, floattheriver.net

BrewBoat Cleveland
Tap into BrewCLE’s pedal-powered cycleboats, which accommodate up to 16 people, or the all-electric, 12-passenger Duffy boats for a memorable summer day. The machines include coolers, Bluetooth sound systems and ample space to party. $225+, brewcle.com

Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors. This Metroparks-operated shop is the ideal starting point for anyone renting stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and pontoon boats to explore the picturesque lake. It also offers food, beverages, fishing bait and tackle, apparel, books and more. $20-$80, clevelandmetroparks.com

Enjoy a Day at These Northeast Ohio Beaches

Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park Beach
Home to the iconic Lighthouse Hill, this 21-acre park features sandy shores for sunbathing along the Lake Erie coast, an accessible boardwalk, paved hiking trails and picnicking areas. Dedicated spots for boating, swimming, fishing and canoeing make this the perfect place for all your summer activity needs. For those looking to take a break from the sun, the nearby Marine Museum provides an expansive history of the Lighthouse and park as a whole.

Euclid Beach Park
Once the site of an amusement park, this quaint spot is now 650 feet of pure beach, with remnants of the park’s attractions still peeking through the area. Take a swim, or stroll down the 315-foot pier, spanning directly over Lake Erie, for breathtaking water views. Other picnicking and walking areas make this a great hub for a summer party.

Main Street Beach
This not-so-secret hotspot in the heart of small-town Vermillion has everything you need for an all-day summer getaway. The pet-friendly beach offers unobstructed views of the lake and is the ideal spot for swimming, fishing, boating and bird watching. Then, when you’re ready to dry off, scour the nearby shops and restaurants Vermillion’s shoreside has to offer.

Hike These 10 Great Northeast Ohio Trails

4.8-Mile Lake to Lake Trail in Big Creek Reservation
True to its name, this paved trail passes two lake marshes, making for a plethora of waterfront views. Along the way, you can read educational signage about glaciers that once swept the area.

2.8-Mile Hemiock Trail in Brecksville Reservation
For those that like a challenge, this scenic dirt trail has an elevation change of 175 feet, making for a joyride on the way down. But don’t forget to save some energy for the climb back to the car!

1.5-Mile Jewelwing Loop in West Creek Reservation
Get three trails in one, as this Cleveland Metroparks app-exclusive links various routes together to make for one scenic hike, featuring water views, prairie land and wildlife.

1.6-Mile Edgewater Trail in Lakefront Reservation
Traverse past the lake we know and love as you take in the sites of Edgewater Beach, backdropped by the Downtown skyline. Ending conveniently at Edgewater Park’s Cleveland script sign, the finish line is a built-in photo op to remember your journey.

1.0-Mile Eastern Ledge Trail in Euclid Creek Reservation
This trail’s suspension bridge and timber stairs make this hike as interactive as it is invigorating. Also featuring an overlook, you can find breathtaking sights unlike any other spot in the city.

2.4-Mile Hatchet Ridge Loop in South Chagrin Reservation
See the sights of four different trails across the reservation, including the Henry Church Rock Loop, where you can find the work of blacksmith Henry Church Jr. himself: a massive sandstone rock dating back to the late 1800s, featuring handmade carvings of various images. Take the hike and see how many of the pictures you can find. 

5.5-Mile Royalview Red Loop in Mill Stream Run Reservation
This shared-use mountain bike trail may be lengthy, but deems perfect for any runner, walker or biker looking for a true adrenaline rush.

2.0-Mile Bridle Trail in Hinckley Reservation
Whether on foot or on a horse, this equestrian trail leaves much to explore, promising a scenic route and a run-in with some furry friends.

1.8-Mile Emerald Necklace Marina Paddle in Rocky River Reservation
Embark on an easy, breezy paddle past boats and fisherman for a laid-back exercise on the water, and take in some stunning views of Lake Erie along the way.

1.7-Mile Woodpecker Way in Acadia Reservation
This trail is one of the longer paved options, but it still makes a great option for those looking for something more accessible. Walk, run or bring a bike — whichever way suits your needs.

Send the Kids to These Five Summer Camps

Nature’s Artists Camp (North Chagrin Reservation)
At this camp, art imitates life, as kids go on hikes to find supplies for their next masterpiece, meeting wildlife along the way. Creativity and education inform each other throughout this brief-but-impactful three-day experience, giving campers the chance to sharpen their science and art skills. $130, July 1-3, clevelandmetroparks.com

Guardians Youth Summer Camps (Various Locations)
Major League wannabes can put their skills to the test as the Cleveland Guardians hit the road to bring beginner-level, world-class baseball and softball competition across Northeast Ohio. Kids can learn pro tips from expert instructors and sharpen their skills across the bases. $175+, various dates, mlb.com

Wildlife Wonders Camp (Great Lakes Science Center)
Kids can learn the ways of a zookeeper as they build habitats for their favorite animals, based on what they need to survive. Zoologists will be on-site to guide campers as they build a safe and happy environment for their species. $315, June 17-21, greatscience.com

Youth Backpacking Campout (Brecksville Reservation)
Kids can be one with nature at this overnight excursion, made to teach campers the ways of an expert backcountry backpacker. Using their own tents and making their own meals, campers will learn the safety basics for a night in the woods, and get the chance to trek through the stunning reservation. $75, Aug. 7-8, clevelandmetroparks.com

Laurel’s School for Witchcraft and Wizardry (Laurel School)
Enter a world of magic in a week of spellbinding fun. Through trivia, scavenger hunts, crafts, writing exercises and other mystical activities, wizarding wannabes will develop valuable skills and find the potion for a perfect summer day. $425, July 8-12, laurelschool.org

Go for Gold at These Five Summer Runs

4 Miles 4 Water: June 8
Four miles signifies the average distance a person will have to walk to find water, and many times, this water is still unfit for drinking. 4 Miles 4 Water raises funds and awareness of global water scarcities. Run or walk your way across the Flats East Bank for this refreshing cause. runsignup.com

Burning River Endurance Run & Relay: July 27-28
Run with the sounds and sights of Cuyahoga Valley National Park and the Summit Metro Parks, whether you opt for the full marathon or can knock out the ultimate 100M challenge. westernreserveracing.com

Tri-Cle Rock Roll Run Triathlon: August 18 
This Olympic swim, run and bike course features live entertainment throughout. The event features a one transition layout throughout Edgewater Park. rockrollrun.com

Ohio Brewery Running Series: Market Garden Brewery: August 24 
Run for beer (literally) at this laid-back 5k, whose mission started simply as a way to incorporate exercise into drinking beer. breweryrunningseries.com

LifeAct Move For Mental Health: September 8
Commencing for its second year at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, this short race’s impact goes a long way. You will be aiding in LifeAct’s mission to aid teens and others in further suicide prevention. runsignup.com

Find Fresh Air and Great Food on These Patios

17 River Grille
Though its menu might be the simple staples of American cuisine, this grille’s outdoor seating experience is nothing short of spectacular. The roofed patio overlooks the Chagrin Falls waterfall for a comfortable and picturesque meal. Elevating all the senses, diners can taste the slow-roasted short rib ($28). The hearty beef is complemented by a rich demi-glace, fried onion straws, freshly whipped potatoes and broccoli topped with mascarpone butter. 17 River St., Chagrin Falls, 440-893-0797, 17rivergrille.com

Collision Bend Brewing Co.
Lay back and ride with the current at this brewery’s riverside patio, serving comforting bar food and locally made draft beers. Stop in for a plate of their beer cheese mac ($18), filled generously with blackened pork belly and brussels sprouts, and topped with toasted bread crumbs and crispy pork rinds. Pair it with a Collision Bend-original ale for the optimal meal. 1250 River Road, Cleveland, 216-273-7879, collisionbendbrewery.com

Luca West
The beloved Cleveland spot’s Westlake location serves up reputable Italian cuisine with a rustic ambiance. A courtyard-style patio centered by a wraparound bar brings a small, Northern Italy feel to this bustling hotspot. Venture out of the ordinary to try the Sacchetti pasta ($36) stuffed with truffle-essenced ricotta cheese. Topped with a white truffle cream sauce and a fig balsamic glaze aged to perfection, this combination of flavors is hard to find anywhere else. 24600 Detroit Road, Westlake, 216-201-9600, lucawest.com 

Trellis Rooftop Bar
Lakewood’s first rooftop bar boasts a tropical vibe, so you can feel like you’re on a getaway vacation while still in the Cleveland suburbs. Wood tables under cabanas, white chair cushions, and fire pits create a minimalist vibe. Sip on a margarita and try the street corn nachos ($14) as a starter, made with freshly fried tortilla chips. A mixture of cheese, chili-roasted corn, jalapenos and Mexican crema all come together in perfect harmony and can be topped with your choice of steak, chicken or shrimp. 1384 Hird Ave., Second Floor, Lakewood, 216-801-4286, studiowest117.com/trellis

Read More: Check out Cleveland's 28 best restaurant patios, including BrewDog, Astoria and more. 

Free Things to Do in Cleveland This Summer

Be proud, or proud to be an ally, at Pride in the CLE. Less than 10 years after gay marriage became legal in Ohio, nearly 20,000 members of the LGBTQ community and their allies gather Downtown on June 1 for parades, games, live music, vendors, after parties and a show of solidarity. lgbtcleveland.org/pride

See blight turn to beauty at Rooms to Let. For the past decade, the community development group at Slavic Village, one of the hardest-hit areas in the country during the Great Recession of 2008, has helped Cleveland reconsider vacancies with this art festival. Since its inception, nearly 20 empty houses and historic buildings have been temporarily reimagined into immersive exhibits by more than 300 of Cleveland’s best artists. slavicvillage.org

Don't forget to celebrate Cleveland's birthday on July 22.  In 1796, General Moses Cleaveland founded the city on the mouth of the Cuyahoga River as a port connected to the Atlantic Ocean by the St. Lawrence Seaway.

See top NFL talent at Browns Training Camp. Face it: It’s nearly impossible to get in and out of Cleveland Browns Stadium for less than $100 a head. Even with free tickets, a beer and a dog runs you $20. Luckily, you can get a taste of NFL action at the Browns Training Facility in Berea. Last year, fans got eight chances to watch position battles, meet the team’s newest stars, and get food from food trucks, and snag complimentary Browns swag. Don’t miss Youth Football Day, where youngsters get to play in a flag football competition on the same turf as the pros. You also could adopt a puppy from the Northeast Ohio Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. clevelandbrowns.com/training-camp

Recognize Cleveland culture at One World Day. Since 1946, Cleveland has celebrated its 254-acre Cultural Gardens, which features more than 40 monuments honoring the city’s far-ranging heritage, with a naturalization ceremony, a parade of flags and live music. clevelandculturalgardens.org