The march deeper into adulthood that comes every year might suck some of the enthusiasm out of your birthday. But just because you’re another year older doesn’t mean you can’t find some grown up ways to celebrate. We found 20 of the best places to celebrate your big day around Cleveland, and a few sweet deals to make the whole “getting older” thing a little bit easier.
The march deeper into adulthood that comes every year might suck some of the enthusiasm out of your birthday. But just because you’re another year older doesn’t mean you can’t find some grown up ways to celebrate. We found 20 of the best places to celebrate your big day (either alone or with loved ones) around Cleveland, and a few sweet deals to make the whole “getting older” thing a little bit easier.
Punch Bowl Social
1086 W. 11th St., 216-239-1508
For the indecisive birthday celebrant, at Punch Bowl Social, you don’t have to choose. They’ve got everything from bowling to arcade games to karaoke all under one beautiful roof.
Photo via Scene ArchivesQuicken Loans Arena
1 Center Ct., 216-420-2000
What better way to celebrate your birthday than watching our beloved Cavs in action? And, if you’re looking to surprise someone on their big day, consider shelling out for a customized jumbotron birthday message.
Photo via Sports in Cleveland/WikipediaClimb Cleveland
2190 Professor Ave., 216-906-4186
Designed for both experienced climbers and beginners alike, the rock wall at Climb Cleveland will give you that rush of adrenaline you need to help celebrate yet another year on this planet.
Photo via juliavivolo/InstagramThe Chocolate Bar
347 Euclid Ave., 216-622-2626
After you down one of their signature chocolate cocktails, let the staff of this downtown eatery know it’s your birthday and they’ll bring you a chocolate shooter, a shot served in an edible chocolate glass, on the house.
Photo via Scene ArchivesRay’s Place Kent
135 Franklin Ave., Kent, Ohio, 330-673-2233
This place is like the Wheel of Fortune of birthday freebies. With a spinning wheel mounted up on the wall, come to Ray’s Place and let fate decides what, from a variety of different shots, you’ll get on the house.
Photo via sjpalagyi/InstagramZócalo Tequilería
2071 East 4th St., 216-781-0420
Pro tip: before you head over to Zócalo to treat yourself to one of their massive margaritas on your special day, be sure to sign up for their email list for a free birthday appetizer.
Photo via cravecle/InstagramPlay: CLE
38525 Chester Rd., Avon, 440-695-3565
If your birthday wish is to become the next American Ninja Warrior, Play: CLE lets you celebrate and kickstart your training all at the same time. This 25,000 square foot facility features a zipline, climbing wall, and an obstacle course inspired by the one seen on American Ninja Warrior. Call for large party information.
Photo via playcle/InstagramThe Big Bang
1163 Front Ave., 216-417-6222
This dueling piano bar is an exceptionally popular spot for birthdays, so they pull out all the stops. Reserve a table on your birthday and they’ll even give you a free T-shirt to commemorate your celebration.
Photo via courtneykaniayoung/InstagramHarry Buffalo
Various Locations
Like any good regional chain, Harry Buffalo offers an online sign up complete with birthday specials. Head in for a free appetizer or menu item (up to $10) after you register.
Photo via lauritagoddess/InstagramAround the Corner
18616-20 Detroit Avenue, Lakewood, 216-521-4413
This Lakewood watering hole has food and drink specials and events every night, so expect a memorable night out — or at least a wallet-friendly discount — no matter what day of the week your birthday falls on. Let the bartender know it’s your birthday see if a free shot lands in your lap.
Photo by Emmanuel WallaceMen of Steel Male Revue
1299 W. 9th St., 440-252-0693
A favorite for bachelorette and birthday parties, the Men of Steel Male Revue is the perfect show to let loose on your big day. Ladies get in for free on their birthday. Sorry, guys.
Photo via gabrieleregalbuto_/InstagramLaUnion Saturdays
1392 W. 6th St., 216-502-0859
A special Saturday event held at UNION Nightclub, LaUnion treats guests who reserve a VIP table on their birthdays to a free bottle of champagne.
Photo via launionsaturdays/InstagramMitchell’s Ice Cream
Various locations
If you’re a member of this local favorite ice cream chain’s online “Birthday Club,” make sure to check your mailbox for a gift certificate rewarding you a free scoop on your special day.
Photo via liz_kisiday/InstagramThe Corner Alley
402 Euclid Avenue, 216-298-4070
Part bar, part restaurant, part bowling alley, The Corner Alley is the perfect place to grab and bowl a round or two with your friends while celebrating your big day.
Photo via shotupthebar/InstagramFahrenheit
2417 Professor Avenue, 216-781-8858
Rocco Whalen’s Tremont favorite helps ring in your birthday with a free dessert dished out with a massive, Instagram-ready sparkler on the side.
Photo via sammigee/InstagramTrapped! Escape Room
1796 Coventry Rd., 216-309-1796
You might be wishing you could spend more time with family and friends now that you’re a year older. There is no better way to achieve this goal than by locking yourselves in a room together with no way to leave but solving puzzles.
Photo via reneenearz/Instagram78th Street Studios
1300 W. 78th St., 330-819-7280
Even if your birthday doesn’t fall on the third Friday of the month, and you miss 78th Street Studios famous art walk, there are still plenty of opportunities to get in some art and culture on your big day. The studios feature gallery visits and walk-throughs on every first Wednesday and an open house every Friday. Event rental spaces are even available.
Photo by Emmanuel WallaceJack Cleveland Casino
100 Public Square, 216-297-4777
Members of the rewards program ClubJACK, can head to downtown’s resident casino on a specific day of their birthday month (decided on by the casino), for completely free play throughout the space. People into gambling might think that’s a good deal.
Photo via Scene Archives