Every big city faces discrimination in some way. Whether it is associated with a state of uncleanliness or high crime, many incorrect stereotypes are given to large metropolitan areas around the county simply because it is a big city. Cleveland is no exception, as even our beloved best location in the nation cannot escape a bit of a bad reputation. Here are a few negative associations you’ve likely heard when you tell people that you are from Cleveland – and why they need to to be put to rest.
- Cleveland is just a run down Rust Belt city.
Erik Drost/Flickr Sure, Cleveland has hit some rough patches in its history. In fact, the Cuyahoga River Fire of 1969 simultaneously gave Cleveland a bad reputation while also helping solidify pollution laws on the national level. The reality is, however, that Cleveland has undergone incredible growth over the years and continues to improve on countless levels year by year.
- It looks just like every other big city.
Erik Drost/Flickr Sure, Cleveland has skyscrapers. All cities do. When you take your eyes off of the skyline, however, you may notice a few incredible features around the city. From the flawlessly designed Venus statue to an incredibly large stamp, Cleveland is home to some truly unique icons.
- Cleveland has no culture.
Frank Mixson/Flickr New York City isn’t the only cultural hub in the U.S. Cleveland, like many other large cities, has attracted a diverse population from all over the world, and they have helped shape the city’s identity with the culture they bring with them. Today, one can visit places that celebrate culture in truly unique ways… places like AsiaTown, Little Italy, and the Cultural Gardens.
- Your children will hate living in a city.
CMCleveland/Wikimedia Commons Any child that has grown up in a city will find ways to have a great time, just as children growing up in the countryside or the suburbs do. However, Cleveland offers wonders that are particularly attractive to children, ranging from the Children’s Museum to seasonal attractions.
- It’s just one big concrete jungle.
Erik Drost/Flickr Cleveland is far from just streets and neon signs. The Cleveland Metroparks provide an incredible, untamed escape, and the surrounding suburbs are bursting with charm.
- The locals are less than friendly.
Mmm…Bacon!/Flickr Ohioans may curse more than any other Americans (it’s true), but we are incredible people at the core. Our melting pot of cultures may even make you forget that we’re Midwesterners until you hear a spirited “ope” here and there.
- There’s nothing to do.
Erik Drost/Flickr If you disagree, I’d implore you to embark on some of the local road trips that you can uncover here. You’ll come to find that our lovely city and the surrounding areas are overflowing with exciting attractions.
- Nobody wants to visit Lake Erie.
Erik Drost/Flickr Lake Erie, like Cleveland, has earned quite the reputation over the years. However, its lakefront parks, festivals, and trails have shown the beauty and fun that the lake offers. And it goes without saying that Lake Erie sunsets are some of the loveliest in the world.
- There’s not even anything exciting near Cleveland.
Jen Goellnitz/Flickr One of the best parts of living in Cleveland is the opportunity to explore the surrounding communities. Whether you’re hoping for a New England-style atmosphere on the lake shore or an escape in a real-life model train town, adventure is all around us.
Though Cleveland is a lovely and wonderful city, some negative rumors have surrounded it throughout its history. Now that we Clevelanders have had the opportunity to put to rest some of the most negative stereotypes, we’d love to have you visit us! You’ll find that The Land is truly an incredible place to be.
Erik Drost/Flickr
Sure, Cleveland has hit some rough patches in its history. In fact, the Cuyahoga River Fire of 1969 simultaneously gave Cleveland a bad reputation while also helping solidify pollution laws on the national level. The reality is, however, that Cleveland has undergone incredible growth over the years and continues to improve on countless levels year by year.
Sure, Cleveland has skyscrapers. All cities do. When you take your eyes off of the skyline, however, you may notice a few incredible features around the city. From the flawlessly designed Venus statue to an incredibly large stamp, Cleveland is home to some truly unique icons.
Frank Mixson/Flickr
New York City isn’t the only cultural hub in the U.S. Cleveland, like many other large cities, has attracted a diverse population from all over the world, and they have helped shape the city’s identity with the culture they bring with them. Today, one can visit places that celebrate culture in truly unique ways… places like AsiaTown, Little Italy, and the Cultural Gardens.
CMCleveland/Wikimedia Commons
Any child that has grown up in a city will find ways to have a great time, just as children growing up in the countryside or the suburbs do. However, Cleveland offers wonders that are particularly attractive to children, ranging from the Children’s Museum to seasonal attractions.
Erik Drost/Flickr
Cleveland is far from just streets and neon signs. The Cleveland Metroparks provide an incredible, untamed escape, and the surrounding suburbs are bursting with charm.
Mmm…Bacon!/Flickr
Ohioans may curse more than any other Americans (it’s true), but we are incredible people at the core. Our melting pot of cultures may even make you forget that we’re Midwesterners until you hear a spirited “ope” here and there.
If you disagree, I’d implore you to embark on some of the local road trips that you can uncover here. You’ll come to find that our lovely city and the surrounding areas are overflowing with exciting attractions.
Lake Erie, like Cleveland, has earned quite the reputation over the years. However, its lakefront parks, festivals, and trails have shown the beauty and fun that the lake offers. And it goes without saying that Lake Erie sunsets are some of the loveliest in the world.
Jen Goellnitz/Flickr
One of the best parts of living in Cleveland is the opportunity to explore the surrounding communities. Whether you’re hoping for a New England-style atmosphere on the lake shore or an escape in a real-life model train town, adventure is all around us.
Are there any other totally wrong Cleveland stereotypes you’d love to see fade away? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
For more on the unique locals that call this city home, check out these crazy world records that have been set by Clevelanders.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
