Climb to the 42nd floor of Cleveland’s Terminal Tower and look out at the city from the tower’s observation deck. The views from here are simply unbeatable. Try your hand at recognising the city’s landmarks or simply gaze out over the Ohio countryside all around. Then head inside to shop, eat, or catch a film at the Tower City Mall.
In 1930, when the Terminal Tower was first built, it was the fourth-largest building in the world. Standing some 235 metres (771 feet) high, it was also the tallest building outside New York City for a while. From its central location in Cleveland’s Public Square, the Terminal Tower remains a prominent feature of the city skyline and one of the most iconic attractions in town.
Take the elevator up to the tower’s observation deck and savour the unparalleled views of Cleveland city and the surrounding countryside. Try to make out the city’s prominent landmarks, starting with the sports stadiums. On a clear day, when you can see up to 48 kilometres (30 miles) around, get your fill of such natural sights as Lake Erie, The Flats, and the Cuyahoga River. Visit at dusk, however, and you will be able to see the evening lights twinkling in the city below.
Head downstairs to enjoy the myriad attractions of the Tower City Mall. With more than 100 specialty shops, a slew of different restaurants, and an 11-screen movie complex, the mall will not be found lacking in entertainment options.
By night, make sure to keep an eye out for the tower. The remarkable lighting displays for which the Terminal Tower is known will often change to correspond with important events and milestones. On Saint Patrick’s Day each March, for example, the tower lights up in green. For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, in October, the lights are changed to a bright pink colour.
The Terminal Tower is located in central Cleveland, on the city’s Public Square. Tower City Mall is open every day, but the observation deck is only open on weekends. Admission costs a small fee, and advance booking for tickets is recommended. Regular guided tours are available on the observation deck, so you can make better sense of what you’re seeing.
