Cleveland Arcade was built in the 1800s at East 4th Street in the historic Gateway District of Cleveland. It was built for the people of Cleveland to do their shopping and spend their time in dining and doing other recreational activities without being affected by the adversities of the weather and away from the bustling flow of people and traffic.
Decades have passed since its establishments. It has seen many ups and down and was closed for a while due to its deterioration. But the renovation and upgrading has kept it alive after all these years. The Cleveland arcade is still hale and hearty and sill the center of attraction for the Cleveland state. To shed some light on the uniqueness of the building we have listed the top 5 reasons that make the Cleveland Arcade one of the most visited and admired building:
1. Historical Importance
Cleveland Arcade was built at East 4th Street between Euclid and Superior Avenues near the major Cleveland attractions like Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, The House of Blues, Quicken Loan Arena, Playhouse Square, the Horseshoe Casino and more. It was the first shopping center in America and was called ‘Cleveland’s Crystal Palace’.
Later in 1975, it became the first building that was designated as the ’National Historic landmark’ in Cleveland and ninth in America. As the time passed the Arcade began to fall into deterioration and was closed in 1990s. Then the former Mayor Michael White worked with Midwest and Hyatt Development Corporation to restore the Arcade, which was completed in 2001.
2. Architecture
The architecture of the Cleveland Arcade was inspired by the Milan’s Galleria Vittoro Emanuele and other European antecedents. It is considered as the centerpiece of architectural wonders of Cleveland. It is made of two burgundy brick, nine story towers on each end with a five story glass and metal atrium and a 100 ft high skyline ceiling connecting the two buildings which is made of glass. It is designed as a cross between a lighted court and commercial shopping street.
When the Hyatt Corporation renovated the Arcade it built its first Hyatt Regency Hotel, which occupies the two towers and the three top floors of the atrium area. The lower floors are open for public, retail merchants and food court.
3. Shopping Hub
The Cleveland Arcade was the first shopping center in America and since its renovation; it has again become the anchor of Downtown Cleveland. People give priority to the Cleveland Arcade when going shopping as there are a number of shops obtained in the two lower floors from where you can buy anything and everything. Furthermore, there are restaurants lined in the Arcade for the tired and hungry shoppers to dine in after doing their shopping making their trip and fun and refreshing one.
4. Tourist Attraction
You can always spot a tourist in Cleveland Arcade having agape mouth and heads tilted with eyes drawn to the skyline. You can never fully appreciate the beauty of the beautiful and intricate patterns scattered all over the architecture of the Arcade. Being a Historical Landmark, Cleveland Arcade is a must in the itinerary for the tourists. You simply cannot come to Cleveland and not see the Cleveland Arcade.
5. A Boost to Cleveland’s Economy
Due to being the shopping hub and tourist magnet, the Cleveland Arcade helps in boosting the economy a lot. A number of businesses are thriving in this building such as entrepreneurs, retailers, hotelier and restaurateurs. It is a bustling and ever growing business domain, which attracts the businessmen, investors and vacationers alike.
Cleveland Arcade is a must see destination. Its unique architecture, historical importance, beauty and lively atmosphere will long lasting impression on your mind.
