Take an Elevator Ride to an Ohio Overlook That’s Like the Miniature Empire State Building

Cleveland may not be New York City, but it does boast some pretty great tourist spots that feel like dupes of places in the Big Apple. Take, for instance, the Terminal Tower, a lookalike attraction in Ohio that reminds me of the Empire State Building. Similar to the iconic NYC skyscraper, this high-rise building even has an observation deck with panoramic views of downtown Cleveland, the Cuyahoga River, and all the way across to Lake Erie (on a clear day). Riding the elevators (yes, there are two) to the deck feels like a step back into the building's history; it’s an experience on its own. 

This observation deck is something of a hidden gem in Ohio, and it’s absolutely worth checking out the next time you're in the area on a road trip.

What Makes This Ohio Attraction a Lookalike

Rising 771 feet above Public Square in Downtown Cleveland, the Terminal Tower is one of the most recognizable buildings in Cleveland's skyline. Built during the Skyscraper Boom of the 1920s and '30s, the Terminal Tower once held the record of the second-tallest building in the world at 771 feet. Much like New York's Empire State Building, this iconic landmark offers beautiful, sweeping views of the city.

Sure, at over 1,400 feet, the Empire State Building is almost twice the size of Terminal Tower, but they have some similarities. Both skyscrapers are similar in shape, sharing that classic 20th-century architecture style that features a wide base, a towering middle that rises into a spire at the top. But the Terminal Tower offers a more low-key experience without the NYC crowds, and it feels like it has a more historical significance than its famous counterpart, which is part of its charm. Whether you're a longtime resident or you're on a road trip through the area, this towering skyscraper is worth the detour.

Why It’s Worth Adding to Your Ohio Bucket List

During the spring and summer months, guests can ride the elevators to the observation deck to behold the view. Standing at the observation deck, you'll be 42 floors above Downtown Cleveland, with views of both the city and Lake Erie. You'll want to visit on a clear day with little to no fog or cloud cover, and be prepared for a jaw-dropping scenery that is nothing short of astounding.

Standing at the observation deck is not about the view; it's about the experience. Seeing the Cuyahoga River winding through downtown and the expansive views of Lake Erie will be a memory that you walk away with. Although you can't see Canada, the views are still unlike anything that you will see in Ohio. Aside from the river and the lake, visitors can enjoy views of the stadiums and other skyscrapers in downtown.

Not to mention that stepping into this building is a trip into Cleveland's history. It's been around for almost 100 years, and it has been an iconic building shaping the skyline ever since. The lobby is also stunning with its high ceiling, marble details, and geometric patterns on the ceiling, which are a reflection of the elegance of an era, gone but not forgotten. Many locals have skipped visiting the observation deck, and some don't know that it exists, so you'll be seeing what I consider one of the most underrated places in Ohio.

If you want to see more of the Buckeye State, check out some of the best hidden gems in Ohio. Or I would encourage you to visit the Ohio Tourism website to discover more places to love.

Tips for Visiting This Ohio Hidden Gem

Visitors should note that tickets to the Terminal Tower Observation Deck must be purchased online and cannot be bought in-person. Additionally, tickets are timed entry and allow you 15 minutes to soak up the views from the deck. That is more than enough time to see the sights and take pictures, too. If you go early (at noon, as soon as the deck opens), you could probably linger a bit longer since it will be less crowded.

If you're on a road trip, you'll need to plan ahead because the deck is only open on the weekends from April to December. Also, street parking is available along E. 9th Street (a five-minute walk from the tower) for less than $2 an hour; otherwise, you'll be paying extra cash for parking lots.

Keep in mind that you'll need to check in at the lobby, and you'll also have to take two elevators to get to the viewing deck, so factor in extra time for that process. The first elevator takes you to the 32nd floor, and when you exit, you'll follow the signs to the second elevator to the 42nd floor. Even before you get to the viewing area, you'll be walking through the halls of this historical building in Cleveland.

Be sure to visit the Eventbrite website for Terminal Tower Observation Deck to learn more and to purchase your timed-entry tickets! This lookalike attraction in Ohio might not be on the same scale or have the same fame as the Empire State Building, but the tower has been part of Cleveland's story for almost a century, meaning you'll be experiencing something truly unique to Ohio.