Cleveland has many of the same safety concerns as other big U.S. cities. To avoid problems, park in well-lit areas, don't walk alone at night and exercise extra caution when using ATMs after dark.
Travelers are not particularly targeted by criminals in Cleveland, but at locations that attract large crowds (shopping malls, festivals, sporting events), take precautions against purse snatching, pickpocketing and other thefts of opportunity.
Ask your hotel's concierge or at the front desk for advice about any area you may wish to visit, or specific blocks you should avoid.
Dos & Don'ts
Don't be surprised by the weather. Ever. Cleveland's proximity to Lake Erie generally makes for unpredictable spring conditions and a long, mild autumn season.
Don't ever ask who "the king" is. Local (Akron) boy turned NBA all-star LeBron James is King, period.
Don't be surprised if Clevelanders snub you if you're wearing Pittsburgh Steelers' black and gold. Regardless of the team's record, the town loves its orange and brown (Cleveland Browns).
Do learn how to say "Cuyahoga" (Ki-a-ho-ga—long i, short a, long o, soft g), the name of the county and of the river that twists and turns through town.
Do try pierogi while you're in town. They're quite tasty.
