CLEVELAND — Northeast Ohio is full of attractions, local businesses and cool, unique places to hang out. But, for the last seven months many of these gems have seen far less visitors due to the COVID-19. But the creator of the Cleveland Bucket List and Public Square just teamed up to help get residents and visitors safely back into our communities.
Cleveland's Unplug Guide features 20 activities that encourage exploration.
“It’s all about putting your phone down, walking away and just kind of exploring your city unplugged," said Haley Mills. "I think it’s really welcomed right now because people are looking for an opportunity to safely get out and explore and also leave their phones behind for a bit.”
Mills is the brains behind theCleveland Bucket List, or TCBL, and called the collaboration with Public Square "a natural fit."
“It started out just on Instagram with me just posting photos or places that we went and it really didn't have a plan or a purpose," the 27-year old from Avon Lake said.
Created in 2018, TCBL has racked up more than 30,000 followers on Instagram and receives thousands of page views on its website weekly. Mills creates guides and bucket lists to help spread the word about experiences in Cleveland. From must-see spots, to best patios to street art, Mills' website is full of printable lists for those who've live in Northeast Ohio or visitors just passing through.
“At some point I saw that other bigger cities had accounts like a bucket list account or influencers were starting, and I figured Cleveland needed it and why not start it myself," she said “It's been so crazy to watch. I just find it so interesting that 30,000 people are interested in Cleveland. I love that and it’s just been absolutely amazing seeing it grow the last there years.”
The content produced by TCBL focuses heavily on local businesses. Mills said she wanted the account to reflect the great accomplishments of our region and give small business owners an opportunity to be in the spotlight without spending much money.
“We have plenty and for any category that you’re looking for, Cleveland already has it in a local business so I would much rather support our local economy and our local businesses," she said.
Mills said the Unplug Guide is an easy way to discover Cleveland while also supporting the local economy.
“It’s time to re-explore downtown, it's getting back out and support our local business this was a great way to do both," she said.
To download Cleveland's Unplug Guide, click here.
