NEW! Warehouse District

The Warehouse District, often called Downtown’s First Neighborhood, is Cleveland’s 19th century commercial center; the Downtown of that era. Bank Street (now West 6th Street) was Main Street for banks, churches, theaters, newspapers, and hospitality. The mix of architecture and scale made this a perfect place for the adaptive reuse that emerged in the 1980s and continues today.

Early History Route

Explore the District as it emerged in the mid-19th century as the city’s commercial core. Lined with Civil War–era buildings and shaped by early industrialists, this neighborhood was once a hub of commerce, trade, and enterprise. This tour brings to life the architecture, people, and industries that defined the city’s first business district and set the foundation for its future growth.

Characters you may meet along the tour: Levi Johnson and George Worthington

Modern History Route

Discover how the Warehouse District became the catalyst for downtown Cleveland’s revival. Once facing decline, this historic neighborhood led the way in the 1980s through pioneering preservation efforts and the strategic use of historic preservation financing tools. These investments sparked one of the city’s first large-scale adaptive reuse movements—transforming vacant warehouses into vibrant residences, restaurants, and workplaces. This tour explores the vision and partnerships that turned preservation into progress.