The "play" in PlayhouseSquare refers, certainly, to the world class productions that grace the district's multiple stages. As the second-largest performing arts district in the nation, the calendar bursts with theater, opera, dance and music. In addition to the five grand dames – Allen, Hanna, Ohio, State and Palace – this artsy corner of the city also boasts many smaller performance spaces ideal for cabaret, comedy and spoken word.

For those who seek to learn as opposed to just watch, PlayhouseSquare is a regional leader in arts education. By connecting students with artists and educators, a full palette of workshops and speaker series offer high-quality opportunities for artistic advancement. From field trips to dance lessons, the roster overflows with community outreach experiences. Home base for much of that programming is the state-of-the-art Idea Center building, home not only to WVIZ/PBS and 90.3 WCPN, but also a handful of high-tech companies.

Of course, actors and theatergoers need places to eat, drink and sleep. It's no surprise then that the area contains the requisite crop of restaurants, bars and hotels that cater to visitors, both short- and long-term.