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- Destinations
- North America
- United States of America
- Cleveland
Cleveland
Founded in 1796, Cleveland became an industrial town with the
opening of the Erie-Ohio Canal that linked the Ohio River to Lake
Erie, and the city's vast iron and coal supplies made it one of the
most important steel and shipbuilding centres in the country, a
sprawling mass of oil refineries, mills and warehouses along the
shores of Lake Erie. Industrial success poured money into the city
and wealthy tycoons built the downtown area that today has outgrown
its 'steel town' image and is a bustling place, a city of green
parklands and lively neighbourhoods with a vibrant atmosphere. Once
the heavily-polluted victim of much mockery, its industrial
character has moved beyond the city limits and the downtown
warehouses and factories now house trendy clubs and restaurants,
while museums, and sporting and cultural events attract many
visitors to the city.
Located on the southern shore of Lake Erie at the mouth of the
Cuyahoga River, Cleveland has a growing cultural presence that has
been enhanced by newly added attractions such as the Rock and Roll
Hall of Fame and Museum, the enormous Great Lakes Science Center
and six-storey OMNIMAX Theatre, and the professional sports arenas
and stadiums of the Gateway District that host major sporting
events as well as live entertainment. These are welcome additions
to a city already boasting a world-class orchestra, a celebrated
art museum, lively theatre district and the restored lakefront
area. Neighbourhoods buzz with restaurants and shops, and the
Flats, once the industrial heart of the city occupying both banks
of the Cuyahoga River, is now the booming entertainment and
nightlife district of Cleveland. The historic Warehouse District is
downtown's oldest commercial quarter and is a national Historic
Landmark with over 70 fine examples of Victorian architecture. Once
housing merchants' and manufacturers' goods, the old warehouses are
now home to music clubs, galleries and trendy dining spots.
Some miles out of the city centre are two theme parks with some
of the world's tallest and fastest roller coaster rides at the
Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky, and the Six Flags Worlds of
Adventure in Aurora.
Information & Facts
Climate
The weather in Cleveland follows the Midwest seasonal pattern,
but is modified quite strongly by Lake Erie which counters the
worst of the summer heat waves, and makes for a milder winter
season than in other northern cities. Summers are warm and humid,
and winters are cold and snowy. Rainfall in Cleveland is moderate
and fairly constant through the year.
Getting Around
Cleveland's public transport system is currently being improved
with the implementation of the Euclid Corridor Transportation
Project that includes seven miles (11km) of bus lanes on arterial
streets. This should be operational by the end of 2008. Electric
trolley buses serve downtown and buses run to the suburbs. Most
sights can be reached on foot or light rail. A car is not necessary
downtown, but is more convenient for wider exploration of the city.
To hire a car, drivers must be 21 years old (some require a 25-year
minimum), and must have a valid driver's license and sometimes an
international driving permit as well. A passport is required for
non-US residents. Taxis are expensive and usually take a while once
summoned.
Language
English is the most common language but Spanish is often
spoken in south-western states.
Money
The US Dollar (USD) is the unit of currency and is divided into
100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are
widespread and credit cards and travellers cheques are widely
accepted. Travellers cheques should be taken in US Dollars to avoid
hassles. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.