University Circle A Low Cost Travel Destinaton
A Cleveland Treasure Offers Endless Cultural Events and Family Fun
Jan 18, 2009
In need of an inexpensive family vacation packed with activities? The economic slump has the average family hunting for reasonably priced destinations. Travelers question whether to forego the vacation altogether or plan a reasonably priced family car trip. The answer is an excursion to Cleveland’s University Circle . It is packed with culture, great dining and performing and visual arts. Each year, The Circle (as it is better known) plays host to 2.5 million visitors.
Culture Abounds
The Circle boasts something for everyone no matter your age or interest. The most popular include Cleveland Museum of Art, Western Reserve Historical Society, Children's Museum, Museum of Natural History, Severance Hall (home of the world famous Cleveland Orchestra) and a spacious seven acre park and lake, Wade Oval. The many museums offer low cost admissions ranging from free (Museum of Art) to $9.00 (Natural History Museum adult admission). In addition to museums, The University Circle Organization along with the local cultural venues ensure that the calendar is filled with exciting free or low cost events year round.
Wintry Wind and Hot Happenings
The colder temperatures in Cleveland doesn't stop University Circle’s organization to cook up events and festivals that are sizzling. Bring along ice skates to participate in community skating on Wade Oval Outdoor Rink (rental skates:$3.00), or simply watch while sipping hot chocolate. The annual "Holiday Circle Fest" features a parade with a holiday light precession to an outdoor art installation. Martin Luther King Day celebrates with free concert with the world renowned Cleveland Orchestra. Take in a stellar shows like "Glass Menagerie" or "Raisin in the Sun" at The Cleveland Playhouse with admission as low as $23.00. The end of the winter season is celebrated with “Circle of the Masks Festival” which includes a lively parade, enjoyable dance, and interactive theater performances.
Warm Wind and Fresh Festivities
As the mercury rises, The Circle’s appealing park setting invite visitors to trek the trails or picnic on the lake. Kick off the summer solstice with “Parade the Circle”, a collaborative community event featuring unique costumes, people powered floats, and hands-on activities for children. It is held annually on the second Saturday in June. The clement weather draws crowds to weekly free concerts offered in Wade Oval Park featuring different musical genres ranging from Reggae to Rock,while providing entertainment for the entire family. An always pleasing summer destination,The Botanical Gardens boasts over nine sprawling acres of exotic plants and aromatic gardens that guarantees a relaxing, pleasurable excursion. .
Let’s Eat
Whetting the appetite is easy with the eclectic collection of restaurants and coffee houses dotting the in and around the Circle. Soul food, Mexican fare, Italian delicacies, various types of Asian cuisines and traditional American diners are conveniently located and pledge to please the most discerning palates. Close to 100 eating establishments are dotted in and around The Circle, with fare for every budget.
Where to Stay
The endless events, and fun festivities makes even the most energetic traveler in need of rest at the end of a busy day. Beautiful Historic Inns to quaint Bed & Breakfasts are available in the University Circle area with most major hotel chains offering reasonably priced accommodations in downtown Cleveland. A newly updated public transportation system whisks tourists from downtown to The Circle for approximately $2.00 per trip.
Whether it’s a day trip for locals or a jaunt for travelers abroad, University Circle promises a family escape steeped in cultural and culinary diversity and endless events without breaking the bank.
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