Source: Cleveland list / R1
If you know, you really know. Here’s how to tell you’re truly from The Land.
Cleveland isn’t just a place — it’s a personality. And if you’ve grown up here, or lived here long enough, there are certain things you’ve definitely done, eaten, argued about, or proudly survived. Whether it’s snow in April, a Browns heartbreak, or waiting in line for pierogies, some experiences just hit different in The Land.
This list isn’t just nostalgia — it’s a badge of honor. From weird weather flexes to local food obsessions and cultural quirks that confuse outsiders, these 30 moments scream “Yep, I’m from Cleveland.”
How many have you done? Check off at least 15 and you’ve officially earned your stripes. Hit 25 or more? You might as well change your name to Drew Carey. Let’s go.
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1. Taken prom photos at the Cleveland Museum of Art like it’s a rite of passage.
Explore the museum’s iconic spaces, perfect for memorable photos.
2. Explained to an out-of-towner that it’s not always snowing here… while standing in snow.
A humorous look at Cleveland’s unpredictable April weather.
3. Lined up for a corned beef sandwich at Slyman’s — even if it took an hour.
Discover why Slyman’s corned beef is worth the wait.
4. Yelled “O-H!” and expected someone — anyone — to yell “I-O!” back.
The infectious spirit of the O-H! I-O! chant in action.
5. Been personally victimized by 1,000 feet of orange barrels and cones.
Navigating through Cleveland’s construction season.
6. Called off work just to hit up an 11 a.m. Guardians home opener.
Experience the excitement of the Guardians’ home opener.
7. Had a strong opinion on the best pierogi in the city (and you’re willing to fight about it).
A look into Cleveland’s pierogi scene.
8. Heard a Browns fan say “This is our year” with dead-serious conviction.
Meet Larry Schmitz, nominated for NFL’s 2024 Fan of the Year.
9. Watched a sunset at Edgewater and said, “Wow, this doesn’t feel like Cleveland.”
Witness a breathtaking Edgewater Park sunset.
10. Sat through all four seasons in one day — and just shrugged it off.
A musical nod to experiencing multiple seasons in a day.
11. Partied at Flats East Bank and woke up wondering how you got back to Parma.
A nostalgic journey through Cleveland’s Flats in the 1980s.
12. Seen Machine Gun Kelly somewhere and pretended it wasn’t a big deal.
Machine Gun Kelly’s homage to his hometown.
13. Braved the West Side Market on a Saturday and lived to tell the tale.
Experience the bustling atmosphere of West Side Market.
14. Randomly shouted “Cavs in 7!” even when they’re not in the playoffs.
Cavaliers fans passionately chanting during playoffs.
15. Taken someone to Melt and dared them to finish the whole sandwich.
Dive into Melt Bar and Grilled’s legendary sandwiches.
16. Argued with a Pittsburgher over the superiority of stadium mustard.
A glimpse into Cleveland’s love for stadium mustard.
17. Taken a date to Mitchell’s Ice Cream — because that’s just what you do.
Exploring local favorites like Mitchell’s Ice Cream.
18. Waited 45 minutes for brunch in Ohio City and said, “Totally worth it.”
The vibrant brunch scene in Ohio City.
19. Snuck a bottle into a Blossom concert like a seasoned pro.
Experiencing concerts at Blossom Music Center
20. Watched fireworks from a random parking deck downtown.
Experience the spectacular Fourth of July fireworks display in downtown Cleveland.
21. Debated the best corned beef spot like it was politics.
A look into Cleveland’s enduring corned beef tradition and its passionate debates.
22. Ridden the Rapid and silently judged tourists who didn’t know how it works.
An overview of Cleveland’s RTA Rapid Transit system and its nuances.
23. Cheered for the Browns and cried during the same game.
A Browns fan’s reaction to Myles Garrett’s new contract, capturing the emotional rollercoaster.
24. Bought Guardians gear just to stop saying “Indians” by mistake.
The unveiling of the Cleveland Guardians’ 2025 uniforms, marking a new era.
25. Gone to a wedding where “Cleveland Rocks” played during the reception.
A live performance of “Cleveland Rocks,” the city’s unofficial anthem.
26. Ordered Great Lakes Christmas Ale with a sugar rim and zero shame.
The festive tradition of enjoying Great Lakes Christmas Ale with a cinnamon sugar rim.
27. Worn shorts when it hit 50 degrees in March.
A typical March weather forecast in Cleveland, showcasing the city’s unpredictable climate.
28. Had a random cousin work at Swenson’s.
A visit to Swensons Drive-In, a beloved Ohio institution.
29. Taken a photo under the “Cleveland” script sign like it’s the Eiffel Tower.
A guide to the iconic Cleveland script signs and their picturesque locations.
30. Said “We’re not Detroit” like it’s a punchline — every time.
An exploration of the Cleveland-Detroit sports rivalry, taking it to the next level.