Fully completed in 1930 the Cleveland Terminal Tower
was formerly known as Cleveland Union Terminal. The original
idea for the building was invented by two brothers by
the names of Oris Paxton and Mantis James Van Sweringen.
Similar to Cincinnati’s Union Terminal, Terminal
Tower Cleveland was utilized
as a major center for rail transportation in the Midwest.
Competition from airlines to Ohio as well as the growing popularity of cars faded the need for the railway center and after some time the Cleveland Terminal Tower ceased functioning as a station for passengers. Unhappy with the station’s idle status the city of Cleveland decided to renovate and revitalize the building, transforming the original Terminal Tower into a shopping center and allowing other commercial ventures use the interior space.
This landmark building is the Public Square’s focal point with a unique architectural design much like a castle touret topped with an elevated and detailed dome. Terminal Tower sits on the end of downtown and defines the Cleveland skyline. Upon entering visitors will note ornate nature of the lobby and the fantastic example of internal beaux art. There are also beautiful fountains and skylights found inside.
The greater complex encompassing Terminal Tower is called Tower City and is a popular downtown haunt for local activity. There are office spaces, two AAA Four Diamond Cleveland hotels, HardRock Café, an array of shops and a movie theater inside. A popular spot at lunch time, the food court offers a variety of dining options.
There is a rapid transit commuter rail found in the
lower levels. When at Terminal Tower Cleveland attractions
can be reached easily. Tower City is conveniently connected
to the Gund Arena and Jacobs
Field and the during big events and games downtown
many people use the fairly inexpensive parking in the
garage. When at Terminal Tower Cleveland nightlife at
popular bars and restaurants is within close walking distance
around E. 4th Street and W. 6th Street.
Terminal Tower stands at more than 52 stories high and
was the world’s second largest building when it
was done. New
York City’sEmpire
State Building was the only building standing higher
than the Cleveland Terminal Tower at the time. When on
the observation deck Cleveland could be seen in all it’s
glory but unfortunately the deck has been closed off due
to security reasons. The record of second tallest building
in the world was held by Terminal Tower Cleveland up until
1967 when the prudential Center was erected in Boston.
Terminal Tower acts as a great starting point for visiting
many other fantastic attractions
in Cleveland. Walk from Tower City to Shaker Square
for some great shopping. From Shaker Square University
Circle is a close drive and is comprised of many attractions
including the Cleveland
Museum of Art, the Museum of Natural History, and
the Cleveland Children’s Museum offering many things
to do for those exploring the exciting city of Cleveland.
