Cleveland Overview

Often cited as a model for urban rebirth and named one of the top 10 international visitor hotspots by Travel and Leisure magazine, the city of Cleveland, located on the shores of Lake Erie, has truly lived up to its image as The New American City. Cleveland's success story today is fueled by an on-going commitment to growth and a global vision for the future. Cleveland boasts leading cultural and educational centers, internationally acclaimed health institutions and world-class sports and entertainment facilities that combine with the rich tradition and unique, ethnic flavor that has people all over the world noticing what residents have always said---CLEVELAND--- IT'LL ROCK YOU!

Whatever the interest, this lakeside community has something for even the most discriminating traveler. When it comes to attractions, there is definitely no shortage in both the city as well as the surrounding area. One of the most popular theme parks in the country is located in nearby Sandusky. Cedar Point allows guests to experience over 150 rides and attractions, including award-winning entertainment and four children's areas.

If science is of interest, a visit to The NAA Glenn Research Center should be planned. Admission is free and it offers interactive exhibits and historic artifacts that showcase NASA's aerospace programs and their benefits. Of course, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame are two must see attractions. Where else but at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame can a visitor relive the soundtrack of his/her life? There are over 50 exhibits, dynamic cinema presentations plus the largest single collection of rock and roll artifacts. Located just one hour south of Cleveland, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, knows as one of America's premier sports showplaces, presents football as guests have never experienced in Game Day Stadium Theater!

From the world's only Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum to the Great Lakes Science Center and the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and RainForest, Cleveland's bustling with excitement. Thrill-seekers will be on the edge of their seats (literally!) with some of the tallest, fastest, steepest and best roller coasters in the world at Geauga Lake in Aurora and Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky.

For those enjoying the out of doors, be sure to visit the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and The Rain Forest. With 3,000 animals living in 168 rolling, wooded acres, it's a great day of fun for the entire family. See animals and plants from around the globe including the jungles of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. In addition, there are total of 27 parks, two golf courses, three lakefront locations, a Nature Center, and a Wildlife Center and Agricultural Theme Park, available as well.

Culture enthusiasts and aficionados enjoy stellar performances at Cleveland's Playhouse Square Center, which includes five beautifully restored, circa 1920's State, Palace, Ohio, Allen and Hanna Theaters, making Playhouse Square Center the nation's largest performing arts center outside of New York City. These architectural theater gems are home to the Cleveland Opera, Ohio Ballet, Great Lakes Theater Festival, The Second City and many Broadway performances.

University Circle, one of the nation's largest concentrations of cultural arts, medical and educational institutions within one square mile, is home to many world-class treasures, including the renowned Cleveland Museum of Art and The Cleveland Orchestra. Addition treasures include HealthSpace Cleveland, the Cleveland Children's Museum, the Western Reserve Historical Society, the Crawford Auto and Aviation Museum, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, the Cleveland Botanical Garden, and the Cleveland Play House, to name a few. Also of note is the Cleveland Clinic and Case Western Reserve University's Peter B. Lewis Building designed by Frank O. Gehry.

Cleveland is known as being loyal to its sports teams as well. The city hosts big-league sports action year-round. The National Football League (NFL) and the Cleveland Browns returned to Cleveland with the 73,000-seat Cleveland Browns Stadium. Jacobs Field, featuring one of the largest scoreboards in the United States, is home to baseball's Cleveland Indians. Gund Arena hosts Cleveland Cavaliers basketball, Cleveland Barons hockey and more than 200 family events and concerts each year. There's also MISL soccer with the Cleveland Force.

Located on Lake Erie, Cleveland boasts more lakeshore than any metropolitan area in the world. The Lake Erie Circle Tour, a 200-mile stretch along the coast of Northern Ohio, offers visitors everything from major theme parks, heritage and historical visits, wineries, covered bridges, unique museums, the arts and golf to unlimited views of Southern Lake Erie.

For a little entertainment the city offers a bustling, riverfront entertainment district like no other. The Flats is located along the banks of the Cuyahoga River, housing more than 50 restaurants, nightclubs and bars, a 5,000 seat amphitheater and a waterfront boardwalk. The upscale Historic Warehouse District is home to live jazz and blues, great restaurants, trendy nightclubs and an improvisational theatre. The Historic Gateway District, a diverse area comprised of neighborhood, commercial, retail and dining venues, is also the center of big-league sports action and entertainment year-round. Restaurants, bars, and live entertainment round out the booming Historic Gateway District nightspots. A host of additional top-notch entertainment throughout the Greater Cleveland area adds yet another dimension to fun and excitement that is Cleveland.

Whether traveling for business or pleasure, in summer, winter, fall or spring, this conveniently located Ohio city is sure to excite you. Be sure to bring plenty of energy and a camera!