ABOUT Cleveland
Unlike Chicago, its Rust Belt sister to the West, Cleveland requires an appetite for exploring. Several are familiar with basketball star LeBron James, “Iron Chef” Michael Symon, and Ieoh Ming Pei’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, yet for most, Cleveland remains a small spec on the tourist path from Chicago to New York. Still, this Ohio hub on the shores of Lake Erie is experiencing a cultural transformation that beckons travelers to get up and take notice. Here’s why:
Moderate, But Damp Days
Winters are often bitterly snowy and cold, as its location on the shores of the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie means lake-effect weather patterns. As cold as winter is here, summer months are just as sultry and hot. There are a number of beaches situated along Lake Erie to keep you cool, however, several of which have diving facilities, picnic areas, fishing, playgrounds and more.
Economy on the Cutting Edge
It's not surprising that biotechnology is attracting investors in Cleveland. Researchers at the world-famous Cleveland Clinic, in partnership with technology entrepreneurs, are exploring new ways to test for common diseases. The Cleveland Clinic leads in health care, but a broad spectrum of health care providers is one of the biggest contributors to Cleveland's economy. You'll find an emphasis on science—Case Western Reserve is one of the nation's top-ranked private research universities—and science museums for kids and adults are popular attractions. Innovative technology for applications like renewable energy and fuel efficiency is another sector in which Cleveland pushes the economic envelope.
Some Notes About Cleveland
You can't skip the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame when you visit here. This repository of endless rock and roll memorabilia, stage costumes, photographs and hand-written lyrics will exceed your expectations. Check out a vast collection of species at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. You can spend hours here seeing creatures from around the world here such as reindeer, elephants, kangaroos, storks and more. The world-renowned Cleveland Orchestra is one of the city’s popular treasures. In April, they play in Severance Hall, known by many as of the country’s most gorgeous concert halls. If you plan ahead, you might be able to score some tickets.
Getting There
Cleveland is midway between Chicago and New York, along Interstate 90. From the south end, the region is accessible from Interstates 71 and 77. Those flying here will find numerous nonstop flights. Amtrak and Greyhound also serve the city, with routes connecting Cleveland with New York/Erie/Buffalo to the east end and Fort Wayne/Chicago/Toledo to the west.