Grateful Cle

Written by Sage Colón

Top 10 reasons to be Grateful for Cleveland.

Grateful Cle

November is best known for full plates and family gatherings, but it’s also a time to pause and appreciate what we have – if you’re from Cleveland, Ohio, there’s plenty to be grateful for. Sure, the city has been unfairly dubbed the “Mistake on the Lake,” but those who live here know better. From its stunning lakefront views to its passionate people, Cleveland has a charm that outsiders often overlook.

As the season of gratitude begins, here are 10 reasons why the Cleveland State community is thankful to call this city home.

#1 “You can go to the beach every single weekend at Edgewater.”

-Natalie Keller, 20, a junior at Cleveland State University

Cleveland’s lakefront is one of its greatest treasures. Edgewater Beach, just minutes from downtown, offers the perfect spot for swimming, tanning, paddleboarding or simply watching the sunset over Lake Erie. It’s a reminder that you don’t need to leave the city to enjoy a little piece of summer paradise.

#2 “The diversity and good people who all get along in Cleveland make it a unique place you don’t find everywhere.”

-John Ban, Cleveland native, a professor at CSU

Cleveland’s diversity is one of its strongest qualities. From Little Italy to AsiaTown to the West Side Market, every neighborhood brings its own culture, food and traditions to the city. People here look out for each other and embrace differences, creating a community that thrives on connection and kindness.

#3 “The downtown experience is the best!”

-Madeline Crissman, 21, a senior at CSU

Downtown Cleveland is full of energy and excitement. Whether it’s catching a show at Playhouse Square, cheering at a Guardians game or exploring the Flats, there’s always something to do. The city’s vibrant atmosphere makes it easy to create lasting memories with friends and family.

#4 “My mom taught me how to be independent, but it wasn't until I stepped foot in Cleveland that I actually learned it.”

-Dhyey Rana, 22, a senior international student at CSU

Dhyey shared an Italian phrase that reflects his experience: “Non si impara a nuotare stando a riva” – you don’t learn to swim by standing on the shore. Cleveland teaches independence in a hands-on way. From learning to cook for yourself to finding your first apartment, the city helps people grow while still offering a welcoming, supportive community.

#5 “I really like the museums here, there are many different ones for learning and adventure.”

-Inez Braswell, a staff member at CSU

From the lush Botanical Gardens to the world-class art museums, Cleveland's art and culture scene opens doors to countless cultures and stories. Each visit offers a chance to explore new histories, identities and perspectives from around the world – all within the heart of the city.

#6 “I really like the sports culture here and the sense of community it builds for Cleveland.”

-Aubrey Evans, 19, a sophomore at CSU

Sports bring Clevelanders together like nothing else. With all the major arenas and stadiums just blocks apart, fans fill the city with excitement year-round. Whether you’re cheering for the Browns, Cavaliers or Guardians – and soon the upcoming WNBA team – the Cleveland’s sports scene unites the city in pride and passion.

#7 “The Metroparks are just great. There are so many hiking trails, scenic routes and places to have family fun.”

-Kevin Moran, a staff member at CSU

On Thanksgiving mornings, Moran remembers playing football with friends at the Cleveland Metroparks – a tradition full of energy and joy. The Metroparks bring a bright, youthful spirit to the city, offering countless places to run, bike, hike and explore nature. From the Mastick Trail to the Rocky River Reservation to the Holden Arboretum, each spot invites Clevelanders to find freedom and peace in the beauty of the outdoors.

#8 “I have had the opportunity to live in many places around the world, and I am grateful that I am back in the Cleveland area. You experience the four seasons of nature, sports teams and even Cleveland's own theatre district.”

-Susan Hunter, a staff member at CSU

For many Clevelanders, home is something you feel in the changing leaves of fall, in snow-covered mornings, and on the first warm spring day that fills Public Square with life. Cleveland offers all four seasons in full color, each one bringing its own traditions and excitement. From football in the crisp autumn air to summer evenings under the Playhouse Square chandeliers, the rhythm of the city shifts throughout the year. For those who return after time away, like Hunter, it's a reminder that Cleveland’s charm is not just in one moment but in the way the city grows and changes with you.

#9 “Working alongside my peers at Cleveland State is a special opportunity. Coaching athletes who are close in age creates space for genuine friendships to grow. It is a chance to guide others while also learning with them and from them along the way.”

-Rowan Amman, a staff member at CSU

Cleveland State University prides itself on creating a collaborative atmosphere within its athletic programs. Coaches who work closely with student-athletes contribute to a supportive environment where leadership skills and teamwork are developed every day. The shared experiences on the field and in training help build mutual respect and growth. It is another example of how CSU strengthens the broader Cleveland community through education, athletics and connection.

#10 “This city is full of grit and pride and creates a community built on perseverance and hard work.”

-John Coughlin, 22, a senior at CSU

Those who call Cleveland home have heard all the jokes and criticism before, and they simply don’t care. That powerful confidence comes from a city that’s been knocked down more than once, yet never stays down for long. Folks here keep showing up, keep working hard and keep taking care of each other. That resilience defines the city’s identity. Living here teaches you to stay humble, stay hungry and take pride in where you come from because being from Cleveland means embracing the grind with your head held high.

As we celebrate the season of gratitude, all of us at The Vindicator want to thank our readers for supporting local storytelling and for being part of what makes Cleveland special.

The following are pictures of Cleveland and its popular places; Visual ways to remind us somethings we may take for granted!