For those who have never visited the great state of Ohio, you may be surprised to realize that Cleveland is among one of the country's greatest kept secrets for tourism. With its diverse population, Cleveland blends and infuses a variety of cultures and traditions into the very soul of the city making it an incredible place to visit.

First time visitors would behoove themselves to check out some of Cleveland's infamous restaurants. Aptly appointed the 'hot new dining city' of America by the Chicago Tribune in 2007, Cleveland has rapidly established itself at the forefront of the culinary world. Table 45, a popular downtown restaurant located in the Intercontinental Hotel offers a decadent Sunday Brunch with delicacies such as Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast with a hot banana and praline topping and the Lobster, Basil, Fontina Omelet served with a side salad dressed in Lemon Oil. Or, if brunch isn't your thing, stop by Crop Bistro and Bar to sample some of their delightfully innovative sandwiches such as the 'Willie Bird Smoked Turkey on Cornbread' with sharp cheddar cheese, peach basil chutney, and herb aioli or their twist on the Cuban sandwich with pork loin, prosciutto, pickles, jack cheese, and creamy Dijon.

To walk off a few of those extra pounds packed on at the local eateries, Cleveland visitors should visit the Cleveland Museum of Art to tour their vast collection of modern and contemporary art. While the Cleveland Museum of Natural History offers a learning experience for anyone perusing the vast galleries, so too does the Cleveland Botanical Gardens offer a naturally gorgeous aesthetic to please the eye. Afterwards, take a visit to the Cleveland Orchestra at Severance Hall and listen to the impressive sounds of one of America's 'Big Five' symphonies.

If you and your family are more into upbeat adventure make sure and check out the nation's second oldest amusement park, Cedar Point. With 17 roller coasters and countless other thrill rides and attractions, Cedar Point is always an exciting venture for Clevelanders and tourists alike. Sports fans also tend to love the city since it is the home to many well-established and beloved teams. The Cleveland Indians in the MLB, the Cleveland Browns in the NFL and the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA are just a few representations of the city's great sport's presence.

No matter what your guilty pleasure, cuisine, art, music, or thrills, 'the Cleve' has it all. One visit here and you'll no doubt understand why the locals are locals for life.