Terminal Tower

Terminal Tower is a Beaux-Arts skyscraper in downtown Cleveland that extends 215.8 meters across 52 floors with limestone exterior walls and ornamental details. The structure includes observation levels that allow visitors to look out across the surrounding city.

The building opened in 1930 as part of the Cleveland Union Terminal and held the distinction of being the tallest structure outside New York City in North America until 1964. This position made it a defining feature of the Cleveland skyline during the mid-twentieth century.

The tower's exterior lights shift colors to honor local sports teams and mark important community occasions, making it a living symbol of city pride. These changing colors create a visual connection between the building and the rhythms of Cleveland's everyday life.

Visitors reach the observation deck on the 42nd floor through two separate elevator rides, and advance online ticket purchases are recommended to avoid waiting. Allow extra time for the journey, particularly during busy hours when both elevators must be used sequentially.

During World War II the tower's exterior lights were extinguished as part of civil defense measures, remaining dark for decades. The lights returned only in 1974 during a community fundraising campaign, marking a symbolic moment for the city.

Location: Cleveland

Inception: 1928

Architects: Graham, Anderson, Probst & White

Official opening: June 28, 1930

Architectural style: Beaux-Arts

Floors above the ground: 52

Elevators: 23

Height: 215.8 m

Part of: Tower City Center

GPS coordinates: 41.49833,-81.69389

Latest update: December 14, 2025 21:14