Gordon Square Arts District
Cleveland's dynamic arts district, brimming with theaters, galleries, unique shops, and a diverse culinary scene.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere, shows, and dining
Gordon Square Arts District
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere, shows, and dining

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cleveland's dynamic arts district, brimming with theaters, galleries, unique shops, and a diverse culinary scene.
"A vibrant hub for creativity, culture, and delicious eats in Cleveland."
🎯 Catch a Show
Book tickets in advance for Cleveland Public Theatre shows to secure your spot!
🍺 Great Bar Food
Parkview Tavern is a Cleveland classic for good beer and reasonably priced bar food.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cleveland Public Theatre
Various venues within the district
Experience groundbreaking performances and diverse theatrical productions that push artistic boundaries.

Superelectric Pinball Parlor
Detroit Avenue
Relive classic arcade fun with a vast collection of pinball machines and craft cocktails.

Paddle Ball Sculpture
Near Superelectric Pinball Parlor
A quirky, 14-foot tribute to the game invented in Ohio, perfect for a photo op.

Local Boutiques & Galleries
Throughout the district
Discover unique art, fashion, and gifts from local artists and independent retailers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Arts & Eats
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch a Show
Book tickets in advance for Cleveland Public Theatre shows to secure your spot!
🍺 Great Bar Food
Parkview Tavern is a Cleveland classic for good beer and reasonably priced bar food.
☕ Local Coffee Fix
Gypsy Beans offers delicious pastries and GF options for an early morning treat.
🕹️ Pinball Fun
Superelectric Pinball Parlor has great drinks, fun games, and is family-friendly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch a Show
Book tickets in advance for Cleveland Public Theatre shows to secure your spot!
🍺 Great Bar Food
Parkview Tavern is a Cleveland classic for good beer and reasonably priced bar food.
☕ Local Coffee Fix
Gypsy Beans offers delicious pastries and GF options for an early morning treat.
🕹️ Pinball Fun
Superelectric Pinball Parlor has great drinks, fun games, and is family-friendly.
🎨 Explore Local Art
Wander through galleries and boutiques for unique finds and support local artists.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Gordon Square Arts District's vibrant atmosphere, diverse arts scene, and excellent dining options. The Cleveland Public Theatre and unique shops are frequently highlighted as major draws. While generally positive, some visitors note that parking can be challenging during peak event times.
"I love going to this location for absolutely anything whether it's blank canvas theater or a holiday show being done by the Cleveland Bazaar it's all super amazing fun interesting great stuff"
Jerry Yaro Sedlecky
"Very beautiful"
Richard Urnick
"We went to the pinball place great drinks fun games family friendly"
brenda owens
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gordon Square Arts District is easily accessible by car, with street parking available. Public transportation options, including RTA buses, also serve the area. Many visitors find it convenient to park and then walk around the district.
Street parking is generally available throughout the Gordon Square Arts District. Some lots may also be available, especially during busy event nights. Arriving earlier can help secure better parking spots.
Absolutely! Gordon Square is a very walkable district, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within easy strolling distance of each other.
Yes, several RTA bus routes service the Gordon Square area, making it accessible via public transportation from various parts of Cleveland. Check the RTA website for specific route information.
The best way to explore Gordon Square is on foot. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere, discover hidden gems, and easily hop between theaters, galleries, and eateries.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry into the Gordon Square Arts District itself is free. However, individual venues like the Cleveland Public Theatre or specific events may require tickets for performances or entry.
Tickets for shows at venues like the Cleveland Public Theatre can typically be purchased online through their respective websites or at the box office. It's recommended to book in advance, especially for popular performances.
Yes, Gordon Square often hosts free events, such as block parties and community gatherings. Keep an eye on the Gordon Square Arts District's social media and local event listings for announcements.
Operating hours vary by venue. Theaters typically have showtimes in the evenings, while shops and galleries may have daytime hours. Restaurants and bars generally stay open late, especially on weekends.
You can enter the Superelectric Pinball Parlor to look around, but you will need to pay to play the pinball machines. There's no entry fee just to browse.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Cleveland Public Theatre for live performances, the quirky Paddle Ball Sculpture, and the fun-filled Superelectric Pinball Parlor. Exploring the local boutiques and galleries is also a must.
Gordon Square features a diverse range of art, from live theater and performance art at Cleveland Public Theatre to visual arts in local galleries and public art installations like the Paddle Ball Sculpture.
Yes, the Superelectric Pinball Parlor is a great family-friendly spot with games and drinks. Many events, like Dyngus Day, are also family-oriented.
Gordon Square has a vibrant, creative, and community-focused vibe. It's known for its thriving arts scene, diverse culinary offerings, and lively atmosphere, especially on evenings and weekends.
Yes, Outfitness Co. is mentioned as an LGBTQ+-friendly fitness space within the Gordon Square District, indicating an inclusive environment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
For great bar food and beer, try Parkview Tavern or Stone Mad Pub. Gypsy Beans is a local go-to for pastries and breakfast sandwiches. Astoria and Flight Cleveland are also popular dining spots.
Yes, places like Parkview Tavern offer reasonably priced bar food, making it a good option for budget-conscious diners looking for a casual meal.
Gordon Square offers a diverse culinary scene, ranging from classic American bar food and pastries to more contemporary dining experiences. You can find a variety of options to suit different tastes.
Gypsy Beans is noted for having a generous selection of gluten-free pastry options, catering to those with dietary restrictions.
Stone Mad Pub is a local favorite for drinks. Astoria.cle and Flight.cle are also mentioned as popular spots for food and drinks within the district.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique vibe with shots of the Paddle Ball Sculpture, the vibrant street art, the exterior of the Cleveland Public Theatre, and the lively atmosphere of the local shops and restaurants.
Photography policies vary by venue. Generally, photography is not permitted during performances at the Cleveland Public Theatre. Check with the specific venue for their guidelines.
The 14-foot-tall Paddle Ball Sculpture is a prominent and fun public art installation perfect for memorable photos.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for capturing the architecture and street scenes. Evenings are also great for capturing the illuminated signs and lively atmosphere.
The architecture of the historic buildings, the colorful storefronts, and any temporary public art installations or murals that appear are great subjects for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the pinball machines, exploring the unique shops and galleries can also be an adventure for younger visitors, sparking their creativity. While the Cleveland Public Theatre focuses on adult-oriented productions, the overall atmosphere of the district is welcoming. Consider checking local event listings for specific family-oriented programming or festivals that might be happening during your visit.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Don't miss the public art scattered throughout the district, such as the eye-catching Paddle Ball Sculpture, which adds a playful and artistic element to the urban landscape. The district also hosts events like the Sidewalk Fashion Block Party, which celebrates creativity in fashion and design. The vibrant streetscape itself, with its unique architecture and lively atmosphere, provides ample inspiration for photographers and art enthusiasts alike.
🍔 Foodies & Drink Connoisseurs
For a more contemporary dining experience, Astoria.cle and Flight.cleveland are popular spots known for their delicious menus and vibrant atmospheres. The district's growing residential population means a constant influx of new culinary ventures, so exploring the latest openings is always a good idea. Whether you're looking for a casual bite or a more sophisticated meal, Gordon Square has something to satisfy every craving.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Heartbeat of Gordon Square
This dedication to the arts is palpable as you wander through the streets. You'll find independent boutiques offering handcrafted goods and unique finds, reflecting the creative spirit of the area. The Gordon Square Arts District actively promotes its artistic community, making it a dynamic destination for art lovers and cultural explorers alike. Whether you're catching a play, browsing a gallery, or simply enjoying the public art, the artistic heartbeat of Gordon Square is undeniable.
A Culinary Journey Through Gordon Square
The district also features more contemporary dining experiences. Astoria.cle and Flight.cleveland are popular choices for those seeking a more refined meal or a vibrant evening out. The presence of new residential developments like The Edison at Gordon Square and Welleon Living further enhances the dining landscape, bringing more residents and visitors to explore the area's culinary offerings. From casual pub fare to more upscale dining, Gordon Square provides a rich tapestry of flavors waiting to be discovered.
Community and Inclusivity in Gordon Square
The district's growth, with new residential developments like The Edison at Gordon Square and Welleon Living, further contributes to a dynamic and inclusive community atmosphere. This blend of arts, culture, dining, and a commitment to welcoming spaces makes Gordon Square a unique and engaging destination where residents and visitors alike can feel a sense of belonging.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit