This summer, the Man of Steel returns to the big screen—and to his roots. The highly anticipated reboot of Superman, written and directed by James Gunn and starring David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan, is not only the inaugural film in the new DC Universe, but also a love letter to Cleveland, the city where Superman was created in 1933 by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster.

While the film promises epic storytelling and reimagined characters, its connection to Cleveland runs deeper than cameos or backdrops. The production spent six weeks filming on location in the city during the summer of 2024, weaving some of Cleveland’s most iconic landmarks into the cinematic fabric of this modern mythology. For travelers with a passion for set-jetting—the trend of visiting destinations featured on screen—there has never been a better time to explore Cleveland’s role in the Superman legacy.

The upcoming Superman film showcases a wide range of recognizable Cleveland locations that now double as cinematic landmarks. Terminal Tower, Key Tower, Progressive Field, Public Square, the Detroit-Superior Bridge, and The Arcade each play a role in setting the tone and texture of the reboot. The Leader Building steps into the spotlight as The Daily Planet, offering viewers a glimpse of how seamlessly Cleveland can embody the spirit of Metropolis.

These sites are more than backdrops—they’re part of a larger narrative about a city that’s long been a creative force. Cleveland’s architecture, energy, and sense of place provide both authenticity and cinematic scale, making it the perfect stand-in for Superman’s adopted city.

For those looking to experience Superman’s story beyond the screen, Cleveland is offering a true fan pilgrimage. The city is preparing to unveil a new Superman tribute plaza and statue downtown, adding a permanent landmark to its already rich cultural offerings.

Visitors can start at the Cleveland Public Library, which currently features an exhibit on Superman’s local origins. With over three million books, historic architecture, and public art, the library offers an inspiring space that connects past and present.

Nearby, The Arcade—America’s first indoor shopping mall—offers more than visual appeal. It’s also a filming location and home to the Hyatt Regency Cleveland, allowing fans to stay in the heart of the action. Additional luxury accommodations include the newly opened Fidelity Hotel and the recently renovated Hotel Cleveland, a grand dame of the city's hospitality scene.

Another on-screen highlight: Progressive Field, home of the Cleveland Guardians. With the ballpark featured in the film and now emerging from a $200 million renovation, it’s a timely stop for both baseball fans and movie buffs. The new Upper Deck beer garden and Cleveland Beer Hall add culinary and social appeal to an already iconic venue.

And for those looking to explore beyond Superman’s shadow, downtown Cleveland offers a wealth of culture. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Great Lakes Science Center, and Playhouse Square—the largest performing arts center outside of New York—provide immersive experiences for every kind of traveler.

Cleveland’s East 4th Street dining scene, including Cordelia from James Beard finalist Vinnie Cimino, reflects the city's culinary rise, giving visitors another reason to extend their stay.

Superman’s return to Cleveland is more than a film location feature—it’s a tribute to a city that helped shape an icon. Nearly a century after Siegel and Shuster first imagined a caped hero flying through the pages of a homemade comic, Cleveland remains a source of inspiration. Now, it offers fans a way to walk in the footsteps of Superman—literally.

With the release of the new Superman film and the city’s renewed energy in arts, dining, and cultural attractions, Cleveland is ready for its close-up—and its moment in the superhero spotlight.