Things to Do in Cleveland in March: A Guide to Surviving the Last Bit of Winter

Things to Do in Cleveland in March: A Guide to Surviving the Last Bit of Winter

March in Cleveland is that awkward in-between season—winter's still hanging on, but spring is trying to push through. The weather? Unpredictable. The events? Surprisingly solid. Whether you're a die-hard Clevelander or just visiting, here’s a mix of indoor and outdoor things to do while we wait for patio season to return.

1. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day Like a Local 🍀

Cleveland doesn’t play when it comes to St. Paddy’s Day. The city hosts one of the biggest parades in the country, and downtown turns into a sea of green. Hit up Flannery’s Pub, The Harp, or Parnell’s for live music, strong pours, and a questionable number of Guinness pints before noon. Pro tip: Take the RTA because parking is a disaster, and you don’t want to be that guy.

2. Check Out the Cleveland International Film Festival (CIFF) 🎬

If your idea of a perfect evening involves indie films, documentaries, and feeling intellectually superior for skipping another Netflix binge, CIFF is for you. Running from March 26 to April 5, the festival showcases hundreds of films at Playhouse Square. Bonus: They also have virtual screenings if you'd rather critique cinema from your couch.

3. Rock Out at the Rock Hall 🎸

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is always worth a visit, but March is a great time to go since it’s less crowded. Check out the new exhibits, jam with your favorite legends in The Garage, and remind yourself that yes, Cleveland really is the birthplace of rock and roll.

4. Eat Your Way Through the West Side Market 🥖

If the weather is still giving off "gray and miserable" vibes, warm up with a food tour of the West Side Market. Grab some pierogies, bratwurst, or fresh pastries. Then, take your haul over to Market Garden Brewery for a locally brewed pint. You deserve it.

5. Catch a Cavs Game at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse 🏀

The Cavaliers are back in action, and even if you’re still recovering from the LeBron breakup, the team is worth watching. Grab some tickets, enjoy the arena upgrades, and pretend you understand basketball analytics when you talk about “true shooting percentage.”

6. Visit the Cleveland Museum of Art (Because It’s Free and Fantastic) 🖼️

If you need an indoor activity that doesn’t involve eating or drinking (rare, I know), the Cleveland Museum of Art is a solid choice. It’s one of the best in the country and completely free. Pro tip: Head to the atrium for a coffee and pretend you’re the cultured type who does this often.

7. See Maple Sugaring in Action at a Metropark 🍁

March means maple syrup season, and Cleveland Metroparks offers demos on how sap becomes syrup. Head to Rocky River Reservation or Hale Farm & Village for a taste test and to feel slightly better about consuming obscene amounts of pancakes.

8. Walk It Off at Edgewater Park (If the Weather Cooperates) 🌊

If we get one of those rare, sunny March days, take advantage of it. Edgewater Park’s lake views are still spectacular, even if you’re bundled up like you’re in a snow globe. You might even catch an early sunset that reminds you spring is technically coming.

Final Thoughts

March in Cleveland is unpredictable, but that’s part of the fun. Whether you're braving the cold for some outdoor adventures or staying warm with a beer in hand, there’s plenty to do while we wait for the return of patio season.

Got other favorite March activities in Cleveland? Drop them in the comments!