Cleveland, Ohio: The Comeback City

Cleveland is a three centuries old, second-most-populous (2.5 million) city in the state of U.S. Ohio that came into existence back in the year 1796. It’s located at the helm of Cuyahoga River where it connects with the Lake Erie (one of the five Great Lakes). The booming steel industry and the establishment of Standard Oil Company (reaping benefits from its access to major waterways) during and after the Civil War gave the city prominence and recognition. Cleveland improved itself significantly with its stance as an industrial powerhouse as those who reaped monetary gains from industry (Steel, Coal and Shipping) were set up for a prolonged success and they invested in museums and cultural establishments which resulting in the welfare and prosperity of the city.

After suffering from The Great Depression (in the nineteenth century) and burning up of Cuyahoga River due to saturation with decade-old pollutants the civic leaders started revitalizing the downtown area and as a result of this successful rehabilitation plan, Cleveland has entered the twenty-first century proudly as the host of Rock and Roll (Hall of Fame and Museum), Science center of the Great Lakes, the Gateway Sports Complex which is comprised of Gund Arena (basketball court for men and women) and Jacobs Field (a baseball park). The burnt Cuyahoga River was restored into a district of restaurants and bars. The implementation of the rehabilitation program successfully resulted in the re-nicknaming of the city to “The Comeback City” from the “Mis-take on the lake” (A name given during the city’s decline during the nineteenth century).

Today, the steel industry has a minor presence in Cleveland and the current economic powerhouses are academics and healthcare with wide-spread educational institutions, medical centers and associated businesses.

In 2009 the city devised and announced an ambitious ten-year-plan to transform itself into a sustainable and green city on the bank of the blue lake. The plan has grown in scope and breath by gaining huge support since its initial launch. The goal is to instill sustainability not just in daily public operations but to corporations, institutions and individual lives as well.

Cleveland is a diversified city capable of accommodating people with all tastes as it boasts a large number of attractions for tourists that include museums, parks, gardens, zoo, stadiums, science centers and casinos. It is very easy to navigate around Cleveland as the city’s transit authority has deployed a network of transport options from buses, rails, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), trolley and Van share covering its huge area. Private transport services are also available that provide all kinds of vehicles from saloon cars, luxury SUVs and even Limos for special events. This multitude of travel options makes it very convenient to get from one side of the city to the other. There are three airports within the city providing ease of access to land near your desired location.

The renowned Cleveland Museum of Arts, famous Cleveland Orchestra and the largest restoration project; Cleveland Playhouse Square make the city a cultural hub. The traditions, county arts, education and medical district are waiting to be discovered located in University Circle just past downtown center. They are an enlightening playground and provide a wealth of knowledge and sightseeing.

You must travel to Cleveland to be able to truly mesmerize in its rich history, cultural diversity and colorful environment (with a touch of modern serenity). Every year thousands of tourists visit Cleveland to delight in the fine experiences of busy metropolitan, calm suburbs and perfect beaches, all available together in one place.