9 Long Gone Places Every Clevelander Misses
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Nikki Rhoades
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Those who grew up here in The Land have witnessed the very cityscape evolve. Our culture has too, which fortunately has allowed us to witness the city shaking its unfortunate “Mistake On The Lake” reputation. Unfortunately, however, we have had to witness the loss of some incredible local destinations. If you spent your childhood in Cleveland, you probably fondly remember these nine places:
From 1845 to 1968, this incredible department store was a destination for Cleveland's most fashionable residents every time they went Downtown. Around the holidays, we feel a particular longing for the charm of this store's ginormous decorated Christmas tree and extravagant holiday outfits.
Geauga Lake long delighted locals. The original recreational picnic area became an amusement park when a ride was added in 1889, and locals could not have been more ecstatic. The amusement park operated under many names over its existence, including Six Flags Ohio, Six Flags Worlds of Adventure, and Geauga Lake and Wildwater Kingdom.
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This nostalgic eatery got its start in 1961 in Springfield, Ohio. Northeast Ohioans were among the first to enjoy the flavors of the Big Barney burger before the chain spread throughout 19 states and two additional countries. Even though this restaurant has been defunct since 1988, some of us still have its jingle stuck in our heads. "When the hungries hit..."
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From 2001 to 2013, the old concert club sat at East 21st and Euclid Avenue, spilling a variety music onto the surrounding streets night after night. It was formerly located at Old River Road, and locals remembered catching early performances by the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Pearl Jam. Countless musical performances took place at this coveted club, and locals mourned its closing when it was acquired and razed by Cleveland State University in 2013.
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We all love the West Side Market, but there was a time when the Central Market was just as intriguing. From 1856 through the 1990s, this charming market was the place to go for unusual goods and ethnic eats. Unfortunately, the complex was plagued with financial troubles and was eventually razed to make way for the Gateway Sports and Entertainment Complex, which was unveiled in 1994.
Beef Corral was known for its 11 restaurants throughout the community, and locals couldn't get enough of its menu. There was nothing like an ice cold Coke and Giant Buckaroo Cheeseburger to end a long week!
Royal Castle was a chain known throughout Florida, Georgia, Ohio, and Louisiana for its food that was undeniably "Fit for a king!" Its founder was from Columbus, and he infused the flavors of a Midwestern palate into his menu. Locals absolutely raved about the delicious burgers and Birch Beer. There was nothing like swinging by Royal Castle for breakfast and enjoying a glass of freshly squeezed OJ!
From 1895 to 1969, this lakefront amusement park was at the center of local culture. It could be found in Collinwood, and toward the end of its run, featured attractions such as a dance hall, roller coasters, and Humphrey Company popcorn balls. Locals remembered it as the site of several civil rights riots in 1946 and a series of arson fires following its closure. The entrance to the park can still be seen, and many of its features still grace the landscape.
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The name of Hough Bakery is enough to make locals' mouths water. From 1903 to 1992, this charming, family-owned bakery served Cleveland and its suburbs at over 30 locations. Clevelanders loved the sticky pecan rolls, hot cross buns, and other irresistible confections. These bakeries closed seemingly without warning, traumatizing loyal customers across Northeast Ohio and leaving them with only super-sweet memories. However, many of the Hough Bakery classics live on today at Archie's Lakeshore Bakery.
Greater Cleveland has undeniably changed over the years. It has improved in many ways, but we have also lost some of our most beloved landmarks. What do you miss most from the Cleveland of your childhood? Tell us about your most cherished destinations in the comments!
Did you enjoy that glimpse back into the Cleveland of yore? You’ll love this walk down memory lane.
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