Discover the Pulse of Cleveland at Tower City Center: Meetings, Shopping, and Thrills Await!
Oh, let’s not forget about the excitement that Tower City Center brings! You can feel the hustle and bustle as soon as you step in. It’s a beating heart of Cleveland full of life and energy, a melting pot of business meets pleasure.
From high-powered meetings in the towering office buildings to shopping sprees in the sprawling Skylight Park, there’s never a dull moment. Feeling lucky? Try your hand at Jack Cleveland Casino. Need a luxurious stay?
Check into the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. It’s like this place never sleeps! It’s more than just a facility, it’s a living, breathing entity that truly encapsulates the spirit of Cleveland.
So whether you’re in town for business or just passing through, Tower City Center is a must-visit. Get ready to be blown away by this intoxicating blend of history, culture, and modernity that only Cleveland can offer!
A Historic Foundation
Back in 1929, the Cleveland Union Terminal, now known as Tower City Center, was built by the Van Sweringen brothers – local railroad moguls and real estate developers. Taking inspiration from New York City’s Grand Central Terminal, this architectural marvel became the central hub for trains entering Cleveland. Its historical significance was acknowledged when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places on March 17, 1976. Pretty cool, right?
The Vision of the Van Sweringen Brothers
The Van Sweringen brothers had this grand vision for the Cleveland Union Terminal (CUT) to be at the center of a vast network of interurban lines. They even secured the right-of-way for several of these lines. The construction of the complex started in 1926, and it was a massive project, second only to the Panama Canal excavation in terms of scale. The design was handled by the famous architectural firm of Graham, Anderson, Probst & White.
The Terminal Tower and Beyond
The Terminal Tower, a truly impressive 52-story building, held the title of being the tallest building in North America outside of New York City when it was finished in 1928. It kept this record until 1964. The Tower was part of a larger complex called the Landmark Office Towers Complex, which included three other stunning office buildings: the Medical Arts Building, Builders Exchange Building, and Midland Building. All of these Art Deco wonders were completed in 1929.
The Railroad Era
The Cleveland Union Terminal was a crucial transportation hub for several rail lines, including the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, New York Central Railroad, and Nickel Plate Road. But there were challenges, like trains needing to switch from steam to electric power to enter downtown. By the late 1960s, many rail lines stopped operating in Cleveland, eventually leading to the terminal no longer being used as a railroad station.
Transformation into a Shopping Mall
In the late 1980s, a big chunk of the platform area got torn down, and the station went through a makeover to become a three-story, 367,000-square-foot shopping mall called The Avenue. At first, the mall had fancy stores like Bally of Switzerland, Barneys New York, Fendi, Gucci, and Versace. But as time went on, those high-end shops got replaced with more accessible ones.
Recent Developments
In July 2021, Bedrock, the company owned by businessman Dan Gilbert, dropped some exciting news! They’re planning to transform the mall into a cool “retail marketplace” that combines retail and entertainment seamlessly. And guess what? After all the renovations were done in 2022, they gave the main atrium a fresh new look and even renamed it as “Skylight Park.“
Nearby Hotels: Where to Stay When Visiting Tower City Center
If you’re planning a visit to Tower City Center, you’ll be pleased to know that there are several hotels nearby that cater to a variety of preferences and budgets. Here are some options to consider:
Renaissance Cleveland Hotel
Located within the Tower City Center complex itself, the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel offers the ultimate convenience for visitors. This upscale hotel provides luxurious accommodations and is directly connected to the shopping and entertainment options within the center.
The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland
Housed in the Chase Financial Plaza, which is part of the Tower City Center, The Ritz-Carlton offers a luxurious stay with top-notch amenities. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a high-end experience.
The Westin Cleveland Downtown
Just a short walk from Tower City Center, The Westin offers modern rooms and amenities like a fitness center and on-site dining. It’s a great option for both business travelers and tourists.
Hyatt Regency Cleveland at The Arcade
Situated less than half a mile from Tower City Center, the Hyatt Regency is located in a historic building known as The Arcade. The hotel offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities.
Hilton Cleveland Downtown
Located near the lakefront, about half a mile from Tower City Center, the Hilton offers stunning views of Lake Erie. The hotel features modern rooms, a rooftop bar, and is close to other downtown attractions.
Holiday Inn Express Cleveland Downtown
For those looking for budget-friendly options, the Holiday Inn Express is located about half a mile from Tower City Center. The hotel offers basic amenities and is a good choice for short stays.
Kimpton Schofield Hotel
A boutique hotel located about 0.3 miles from Tower City Center, the Kimpton Schofield Hotel offers a unique and intimate lodging experience. The hotel is known for its personalized service and chic decor.
Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland Downtown
Located in the former Cleveland Board of Education building, this hotel is less than a 10-minute walk from Tower City Center. It offers spacious rooms and a unique historical setting.
Conclusion
Tower City Center remains an integral part of Cleveland’s urban landscape, embodying the city’s past, present, and future. From its origins as a grand rail terminal to its present-day status as a dynamic mixed-use facility, it continues to adapt and evolve, mirroring the growth of the city itself.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a savvy shopper, or simply intrigued by Cleveland’s urban development, Tower City Center offers a captivating glimpse into the heart of this vibrant city.