🍂 Lowkey CLE Adventures Before Winter Hibernation

Simple, cozy, and close-to-home things to do before the deep freeze hits.

You know that time between Halloween and full-on holiday mode, when the costumes are packed up (or maybe still in the hamper) but you’re not quite ready for peppermint everything? That’s where we are right now.

This weekend felt like the definition of lowkey CLE. No major plans, just a few cozy, simple adventures before the real chill sets in. If you’re looking for ideas that don’t require advanced planning (or a second mortgage), here are a few of our favorites inspired by what we actually did around town.

And to my demise, we still haven’t put this baby in a pumpkin, but I’m determined to make that happen before fall is officially over and our pumpkins hit the compost pile. 🎃

Ice Cream in November? Always.

A friend sent me one of those “If their name starts with this letter, they owe you an ice cream date” Instagram videos, so we loaded up the kids and headed out. I mean, who am I to say no to what was clearly fate?

I had sent a few options to my husband, and he and our toddler decided on Battr in Tremont. Bubble waffles, gelato, and a ridiculous number of toppings. YES. They have a few tables outside, but we opted to head upstairs where there’s extra seating and seriously incredible ice cream.

Bonus: our toddler was desperate to go for a walk, so we strolled the five minutes over to Camp Cleveland and sat on the swing soaking in the skyline. It’s right across from the newly opened Mosaic Brewing Company, which we’re hoping to check out soon.

Team Thanksgiving, But Still Cozy

Before we go full holiday mode, can we agree that Thanksgiving deserves its moment? We’re firmly on Team Give Thanksgiving Time to Shine around here.

That said, even we caved and watched our first holiday movie this weekend. (The Family Stone, because Diane Keaton forever.) Maybe it’s the cold air creeping in, but Cleveland feels ready for cozy.

And if your house looks anything like ours and you’re drowning in Halloween candy, here’s your reminder: stash some away for gingerbread houses, birthday pinatas, or donate it to your kid’s teacher’s treasure box. Win-win for everyone (because sometimes even parents hit their candy limit).

Pizza That Feels Like Thanksgiving Dinner

Probably my favorite November 1 tradition is the Thanksgiving Pie from Ohio Pie Co. (Yes, it’s as glorious as it sounds.)

If you haven’t tried it, picture this: buttery mashed potatoes, stuffing, perfectly moist turkey (yes, I said it), gravy, cheese, and a side of cranberry sauce, all on Ohio Pie Co.’s incredible crust. We’ve been ordering it every November for years, and at this point, I should probably be on their payroll because I tell everyone I know about it. 😂

Scenic Drives That Feel Like Therapy

After picking up the pizza, we decided to skip the freeway and take the long way home. We ended up on Valley Parkway in the Metroparks, a fall staple that never disappoints. Windows cracked, music playing, trees showing off their last bursts of color, the perfect kind of Cleveland reset.

If you’re in the mood for more of a drive, try Route 303 through Peninsula for small-town charm or the Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail for those unbeatable lakeside views.

Cozy Stops + Simple Joys

After a long week, sometimes the best plans are no plans at all. This is the season for warm drinks, slow mornings, and the little adventures that don’t require packing a bag. Stop by your favorite local spot for cocoa, head to a nature center like Rocky River Nature Center or Shaker Lakes Nature Center, or just let the kids take the lead.

And if your big weekend outing ends up being a Costco run (we’re here for the hot dogs) and a drive through the park afterward, that counts too.

Lowkey Ideas for Your Own November Adventures

If you’re craving something simple before the holiday rush:

• Visit a nature center and take the “long way home.”

• Pair a playground stop with a bakery treat.

• Check out drive-thru light displays starting to open mid-month.

• Or do absolutely nothing. Cozy counts too.

The Calm Before the Sparkle

November is that quiet pause before the city lights up. It’s a chance to slow down, explore close to home, and make a few memories before hibernation officially begins.

We’ll be sharing our full Winter in Cleveland Guide soon, with every light show, rink, and cocoa spot you can imagine. But for now? Keep it simple. Keep it local. Keep it lowkey.

📸 What’s your favorite “lowkey CLE” outing this time of year? Tag @CLEfamilies. We love seeing where you explore!

Explore More: Indoor Play Guide | Rainy Day Ideas | Fall in Cleveland Guide