Renaissance Cleveland Hotel: A Historic Gem in the Heart of Cleveland

Looking for a hotel that combines modern amenities with historic charm? Look no further than the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. Located in the heart of downtown Cleveland, this hotel offers guests a luxurious experience with a touch of nostalgia.In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel, highlight its many amenities, and provide tips for making the most of your stay.

A Rich History

The Early Years

The Renaissance Cleveland Hotel has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. The hotel was originally built as the Terminal Tower Hotel in 1930, and it was considered one of the most luxurious hotels in the world at the time.

The hotel was designed by Graham, Anderson, Probst & White, a prominent architectural firm known for their work on several iconic buildings, including the Wrigley Building in Chicago and the RCA Building (now the GE Building) in New York City.

When the hotel first opened its doors, it had 1,000 guest rooms, making it the largest hotel in Cleveland. The hotel was also connected to the Terminal Tower, which was the city’s main train station at the time.

Throughout the early years, the Terminal Tower Hotel hosted many famous guests, including Franklin D. Roosevelt, who stayed at the hotel during his presidential campaign in 1932. The hotel was also a popular destination for celebrities, such as Bob Hope and Bing Crosby.

During World War II, the hotel played an important role in supporting the war effort. The hotel was used as a training center for the U.S. Navy, and many sailors were housed in the hotel during their training.

Over the years, the hotel underwent several renovations and changes in ownership. In 2005, the hotel was renamed the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel after undergoing a $60 million renovation.

Today, the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel continues to be a landmark in the city and a symbol of Cleveland’s rich history.

The Golden Age

The Renaissance Cleveland Hotel has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. During this time, Cleveland was experiencing a period of prosperity and growth known as the “Golden Age.” The city’s economy was booming, and many new buildings were constructed, including the iconic Terminal Tower, which still stands today.

It was during this time that the hotel, originally known as the Hotel Cleveland, was built. The building was designed by the renowned architect George B. Post and opened its doors in 1918. It quickly became one of the most popular destinations in the city, attracting visitors from all over the world.

The hotel’s grand ballroom, which could accommodate up to 1,500 guests, was particularly famous. Many of the city’s most important events were held there, including political rallies, charity galas, and even a few presidential speeches.

Over the years, the hotel underwent several renovations and changes in ownership. In the 1960s, it was renamed the Sheraton-Cleveland Hotel and underwent a major renovation that added a new tower and modernized the existing rooms.

Today, the hotel is once again known as the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel and has been restored to its former glory. Guests can still see many of the original features, such as the ornate plasterwork and marble floors, while enjoying modern amenities like high-speed internet and flat-screen TVs.

The Renaissance Revival

The Renaissance Cleveland Hotel has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The hotel was originally built in 1918 as the Hotel Winton and was designed by George B. Post & Sons, a prominent architectural firm at the time.

The building’s architecture is an excellent example of the Renaissance Revival style, which was popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This style is characterized by its use of classical elements such as columns, arches, and domes, as well as its ornate decoration and grandeur.

The Renaissance Revival style was inspired by the art and architecture of the Italian Renaissance, which was known for its emphasis on symmetry, proportion, and harmony. This style was particularly popular in the United States during the late 1800s and early 1900s, as it was seen as a way to express American wealth and power.

Today, the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel stands as a beautiful example of the Renaissance Revival style, with its grand facade, intricate details, and luxurious amenities. Visitors can step back in time and experience the elegance and sophistication of this historic landmark.

Luxurious Amenities

Spacious Rooms And Suites

The Renaissance Cleveland Hotel offers spacious rooms and suites that are perfect for both leisure and business travelers. Each room is elegantly designed with modern amenities to provide comfort and convenience to guests. The hotel has a total of 491 guest rooms, including 50 suites, all of which feature plush bedding, high-speed internet access, flat-screen TVs, and marble bathrooms.

The standard guest rooms at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel are approximately 300 square feet in size, while the executive suites range from 500 to 700 square feet. The suites offer separate living areas with comfortable seating, making them ideal for families or those who need extra space to work. The hotel also has a Presidential Suite, which is over 1,000 square feet and features a separate dining room, wet bar, and stunning views of downtown Cleveland.

In addition to the spacious rooms and suites, the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel offers a variety of other luxurious amenities, including a fitness center, indoor pool, and on-site restaurant. Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s valet parking and concierge services to make their stay even more enjoyable.

Fine Dining Options

The Renaissance Cleveland Hotel offers a variety of dining options for guests looking for a fine dining experience. The hotel’s flagship restaurant, Brasserie, is a French-inspired restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu features classic French dishes such as escargot, bouillabaisse, and coq au vin, as well as American favorites like burgers and steaks.

For guests looking for a more casual dining experience, the hotel also has Lobby Court Bar. This bar serves light bites, cocktails, and wine in a relaxed atmosphere with live music on weekends.

Guests can also enjoy a meal at Sansa, a Japanese restaurant located inside the hotel. Sansa offers sushi, sashimi, and other traditional Japanese dishes. The restaurant also has a sake bar with a selection of premium sake.

If guests prefer to dine in their rooms, the hotel offers 24-hour room service with a wide selection of dishes from all of its restaurants.

The Renaissance Cleveland Hotel’s dining options have received positive reviews from guests and food critics alike. The Brasserie has been recognized by Cleveland Magazine as one of the best French restaurants in the city.

Fitness Center And Pool

The Renaissance Cleveland Hotel boasts a state-of-the-art fitness center and indoor pool for its guests. The fitness center features a range of cardio and strength-training equipment, including treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes, free weights and weight machines.

Guests can take advantage of the hotel’s personal training services or join one of the fitness classes offered, such as yoga or Pilates. The fitness center is open 24/7, allowing guests to work out at any time that suits them.

The indoor pool provides a relaxing atmosphere for guests to unwind after a long day of sightseeing or business meetings. The pool area features comfortable lounge chairs, towels, and a hot tub. The pool is heated, making it perfect for a swim all year round.

For those who prefer outdoor activities, the hotel is conveniently located near several parks and trails perfect for running, cycling, or walking. The nearby Cuyahoga River also offers kayaking and paddleboarding opportunities.

The Renaissance Cleveland Hotel’s fitness center and pool provide guests with the perfect combination of relaxation and exercise during their stay in Cleveland.

Exploring Cleveland

The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a must-visit destination for music lovers in Cleveland. The museum, located on the shore of Lake Erie, showcases the history and evolution of rock and roll music. Visitors can explore the exhibits that feature artifacts, photographs, and videos that depict the lives and works of some of the most influential musicians of all time.

The museum was established in 1983 by Ahmet Ertegun, the co-founder of Atlantic Records, and opened its doors to the public in 1995. Since then, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cleveland, drawing visitors from all over the world.

Some of the most notable exhibits at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame include the Hall of Fame Inductee Gallery, which features the inductees of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the Legends of Rock exhibit, which showcases rare and iconic items from some of the greatest musicians of all time. Visitors can also explore the Roots of Rock exhibit, which highlights the early influences of rock and roll music.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame hosts several events throughout the year, including concerts, film screenings, and lectures. The museum also offers educational programs and workshops for students and teachers.

If you’re a music lover visiting Cleveland, a trip to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a must. With its impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits, it’s an experience you won’t forget.

The Cleveland Museum Of Art

The Cleveland Museum of Art is a must-visit destination for art lovers. It is one of the most comprehensive art museums in the United States, with a collection that spans over 6,000 years of artistic achievement. The museum’s collection includes more than 45,000 objects, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary art.

The museum has an extensive collection of European art, including works by Rembrandt, Monet, and Van Gogh. The museum also has a large collection of American art, with works by artists such as Edward Hopper and Georgia O’Keeffe. In addition, the museum has a significant collection of Asian art, with works from China, Japan, Korea, and India.

The Cleveland Museum of Art is also known for its impressive collection of medieval art, which includes illuminated manuscripts, sculptures, and other decorative arts. The museum’s Armor Court features an impressive display of armor from around the world, including suits of armor worn by knights during the Middle Ages.

Visitors to the museum can take advantage of a range of programs and events, including lectures, tours, and workshops. The museum also offers a variety of dining options, including a café and a fine dining restaurant.

If you’re interested in visiting the Cleveland Museum of Art, be sure to check out their website at https://www.clevelandart.org/ for hours, admission prices, and special exhibitions.

The West Side Market

The West Side Market is a historic landmark in Cleveland, Ohio. It was built in 1912 and has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike ever since. The market is located in the Ohio City neighborhood on the west side of Cleveland and is home to over 100 vendors selling a variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and more.

The West Side Market is known for its diverse selection of foods and its vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can stroll through the market’s aisles and sample different foods while chatting with vendors and other shoppers. The market is also a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs, such as locally-made jams and honey.

One of the most famous vendors at the West Side Market is Steve’s Gyro, which has been serving up delicious Greek food since 1975. Another popular vendor is Ohio City Pasta, which offers a wide variety of fresh pasta made on-site.

The West Side Market has been recognized as one of the best markets in the country by publications like Food & Wine and Travel + Leisure. It’s open year-round, with hours varying depending on the day of the week. Visitors should be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends, but the experience is well worth it.

The West Side Market is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Cleveland. It’s a great place to sample local cuisine, pick up unique gifts and souvenirs, and experience the city’s vibrant culture.

Visit the West Side Market website to learn more about the market’s history, vendors, and hours of operation.

Tips For A Memorable Stay

Book A Club Level Room

For those looking for an elevated experience during their stay at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel, booking a club level room is highly recommended. These rooms offer exclusive access to the Club Lounge, where guests can enjoy complimentary food and beverage options throughout the day.

The Club Lounge is open seven days a week and serves breakfast, hors d’oeuvres, and dessert in the evening. In addition to the food offerings, guests can also enjoy beer, wine, and spirits from the honor bar. The lounge is a great place to unwind after a long day of exploring Cleveland or attending meetings.

Club level rooms are located on higher floors of the hotel, offering stunning views of the city skyline. The rooms themselves are spacious and well-appointed, with comfortable beds and modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and high-speed internet access.

Booking a club level room also comes with additional perks such as early check-in and late checkout, as well as access to a dedicated concierge team who can assist with any requests or recommendations for things to do in the area.

Booking a club level room at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel is a great way to make your stay even more memorable. The added amenities and exclusive access to the Club Lounge make it a worthwhile investment for those looking for an elevated experience during their time in Cleveland.

Take Advantage Of The Concierge Service

One of the most valuable services that Renaissance Cleveland Hotel offers to its guests is the concierge service. The concierge is a trained professional who can assist you in making the most out of your stay in Cleveland. They are knowledgeable about the city’s attractions, restaurants, and events, and can provide you with insider tips and recommendations.

The concierge service at Renaissance Cleveland Hotel is available 24/7, so you can always get the assistance you need. Some of the services that the concierge can help you with include:

• Making restaurant reservations
• Booking tickets for shows or events
• Arranging transportation
• Providing directions and maps
• Suggesting local activities and attractions

If you’re not sure how to spend your time in Cleveland, the concierge can help you plan an itinerary that suits your interests and preferences. Whether you’re interested in art, history, sports, or nightlife, the concierge can recommend the best places to visit and things to do.

When you arrive at Renaissance Cleveland Hotel, be sure to stop by the concierge desk and introduce yourself. They will be happy to answer any questions you have and help you make the most out of your stay.

Attend A Live Event

Attending a live event during your stay at Renaissance Cleveland Hotel is an excellent way to make your trip even more memorable. The hotel is located in the heart of downtown Cleveland, making it easy to access some of the city’s best venues for live entertainment.

If you’re a fan of music, be sure to check out the schedule at House of Blues Cleveland. This iconic venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music over the years, and its intimate setting makes for an unforgettable experience. Alternatively, if you’re interested in theater, consider catching a show at the Playhouse Square Center, which is home to several theaters and hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.

If sports are more your thing, Cleveland is home to several professional teams, including the Cleveland Cavaliers (basketball), Cleveland Indians (baseball), and Cleveland Browns (football). Attending a game is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and cheer on the home team.

No matter what type of live event you choose to attend, be sure to check the schedule ahead of time and purchase tickets in advance if possible. This will help ensure that you don’t miss out on the opportunity to see your favorite performers or teams while you’re in town.

Conclusion

The Renaissance Cleveland Hotel is more than just a place to stay – it’s a journey back in time. Whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, this historic gem offers something for everyone. So why wait? Book your stay today and discover all that Cleveland has to offer.

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