Since the term “Rock and Roll” was coined in Cleveland in the 1950s, the genre has played an important role in the city’s identity. Guests can celebrate both the music and the country’s best rock artists with a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The striking, angular building, also known simply as the Rock Hall, holds permanent and rotating exhibits celebrating the origins of rock and roll. You’ll also discover music’s influence on social, political, and cultural history. Artifacts and exhibits showcase artists like Janis Joplin, Mick Jagger, and Aretha Franklin. An absolute must for all music fans.
The West Side Market and its iconic clock tower are on the west side of downtown, in the Ohio City neighborhood. It's the oldest market space in the city, hosting hundreds of vendors selling everything from produce to poultry and spices to confectionery. Climbing the clock tower that stands on one corner of the market is a transformative experience. You work your way up inside the tower to a height of about 130 feet, then get the most amazing views across the market and the wider city. Tours, including a clock tower climb, are limited, so ask locally for the best chance at this unique experience.
Rarely does public space feel so well-celebrated as in Cleveland’s downtown district. Perk Plaza is a lovely place to enjoy a coffee or read a book, while Willard Park hosts the Free Stamp, a famous piece of public art. Make sure you take a stroll through the Cleveland Public Square, the central plaza of the city. This area is home to a 125-foot monument to the Civil War and gives you a great chance to take some photos of Cleveland’s three tallest buildings — Key Tower, the Terminal Tower, and 200 Public Square.
Sports fans, this is where you get to see the Cleveland Guardians play live. Progressive Field is more than just a field — it’s a Downtown stadium with a famous giant scoreboard. Because of its location, it’s easy to grab a bite to eat or a craft beer before the game — or several more beers after to celebrate or commiserate. You can even book a tour to get a behind-the-scenes look at the facilities.
East 4th Street is unarguably the heart of downtown. A pedestrian street lined with independent cafes, bars, and world-class dining, it’s no wonder residents say that East 4th is like no other street in the world. For dinner, look for one of the many local restaurants opened by world-renowned chefs. Then you can take in the game at a sports bar or taste a unique cocktail at one of the city’s luxurious bars. How about finishing up your night at a renovated arcade or bowling alley? It’s impossible to be bored on East 4th.
If you’re feeling lucky, spend an evening at the JACK Cleveland Casino. Located in the former Higbee's department store building in Tower City Center, the casino has over 100,000 square feet of premier gaming space. Like many casinos, this venue is open 24 hours, so you can get your gaming fix at any time — remember to gamble responsibly! While you’re there, go next door to Terminal Tower and take the elevator up the 52 stories to the viewpoint at the top. You’ll find an unrivaled view of the city at the top of what once was the tallest building in North America outside of New York City.
If you're looking for the authentic Cleveland experience, you'll have to come back sometime during the fall. There is nothing quite like attending a Browns game with 80,000+ of your closest friends. This is our year... Go Browns!