The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is one of Cleveland’s most popular attractions, and rightly so. This marvelous structure, built in 1995, would be remarkable for its architecture alone. With sloping glass walls and a memorably angular design, the Hall of Fame cuts an eye-catching figure on the shores of Lake Erie.
Head inside, of course, and you will find an extensive set of displays dedicated to the genre of rock and roll. Watch documentaries that chart the rise to stardom of such bands as The Rolling Stones and The Who, and browse through handwritten lyrics and composed pieces for songs including The Beatles’ Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds. The museum’s incredible collection of rock memorabilia includes John Lennon’s guitars and Iggy Pop’s costumes.
Enter the building on the third floor, since the other floors are below ground. Films, interviews, and photographs of famous band are shown on large screens. Follow the line of signatures by Hall of Fame inductees and you will reach the museum’s temporary exhibitions on the third and second floors. Don’t miss the interactive booths on the second floor, where you can listen to some of rock and roll’s greatest musicians – and some one-hit wonders as well.
Make your way to the Hall of Fame’s bottom floor, where the permanent exhibits can be found. Discover the origins of rock and roll, which has its roots in blues and gospel music, and learn about the first Cleveland DJ to dub the music ‘rock and roll’. Make sure you visit the exhibition dedicated solely to a little-known Liverpool group called The Beatles.
Stop by the café to recharge and then peruse the in-house music shop. If you visit Cleveland in the summer, you might catch a live concert in the plaza in front of the Hall of Fame.
From its location in Cleveland’s North Harbor, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame overlooks Lake Erie. It is accessible from downtown by driving or by taking the city’s bus, trolley, or light rail services. The museum is open every day of the year except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Entry costs a fee, although children under 9 are admitted for free and there are discounts for those aged between 9 and 12 or over 65.
