MileHacker Logo
Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Great Lakes, USA

Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options from Hostels to Luxury Hotels

  • Hostels:

    Options are limited, with The Cleveland Hostel in Ohio City serving as a main choice. This hostel has dormitory beds and private rooms, a social atmosphere, and budget-friendly rates.

  • Budget Hotels/Motels:

    Found mainly on the outskirts of the city and near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. These properties have basic amenities, comfortable rooms, and competitive pricing.

  • Mid-range Hotels:

    Numerous options exist downtown and in neighborhoods like University Circle. Brands like Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton Inn balance comfort, amenities (fitness centers, pools, free breakfast), and reasonable prices.

  • Luxury Hotels:

    High-end options are mainly located downtown, with full-service amenities, fine dining restaurants, concierge services, and prime locations. The Ritz-Carlton, Metropolitan at The 9, Autograph Collection, and Kimpton Schofield Hotel provide an elevated experience.

Unique Local Accommodation Types

  • Boutique Hotels:

    Several unique boutique properties display distinct character and design, often housed in historic buildings. These hotels deliver a more individualized and memorable stay.

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options:

    Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo list a wide range of apartments, houses, and private rooms throughout Cleveland. These rentals are popular in neighborhoods like Ohio City, Tremont, and Detroit-Shoreway. Vacation rentals are a good option for longer stays, families, or groups, with more space, kitchen facilities, and a localized experience.

  • Homestay and Community-Based Tourism:

    While less formally structured, vacation rentals sometimes display a similar experience, where visitors stay in residential areas and encounter local life. Some bed and breakfast establishments, though few, provide a more intimate, personalized stay.

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation:

    No direct camping exists within Cleveland city limits. Cuyahoga Valley National Park has primitive camping options and lodging like Stanford House. Cleveland Metroparks have basic camping cabins or tent sites mainly for groups. Off-site camping is the recommended approach for most visitors.

Neighborhood Guide

Cleveland's diverse neighborhoods each display a distinct character and appeal for travelers. This guide details areas, highlighting their positive aspects, considerations, safety, and proximity to attractions.

Downtown

Positive Aspects
  • Central location for major attractions (Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Great Lakes Science Center).
  • Excellent public transport (RTA Red Line, free trolleys).
  • Abundant dining and nightlife, close to sporting venues.
Considerations
  • Can be pricier for accommodations.
  • May have a less residential feel.
  • Can be quieter after business hours away from entertainment.

Ohio City & Tremont

Positive Aspects
  • Trendy, lively atmosphere, unique local businesses.
  • Excellent dining and nightlife, highly walkable.
  • Easy access to downtown. Home to The Cleveland Hostel.
Considerations
  • Can be noisy, especially on weekends.
  • Parking can be challenging.
  • Tremont has less direct public transit to downtown.

University Circle & Others

Positive Aspects
  • Rich cultural offerings, beautiful architecture, green spaces.
  • Generally safe, well-connected by Red Line.
  • Gordon Square: bohemian vibe, close to Lake Erie access.
  • Little Italy: excellent food, charming atmosphere.
Considerations
  • University Circle: Can be pricier, less nightlife.
  • Gordon Square: Still developing, further from central attractions.
  • Little Italy: Small, mainly dining, limited lodging.

Important Information

Safety:

Tourist-focused areas are generally safe during the day and early evening. Exercise caution, especially late at night. Stay aware of your surroundings.

Proximity & Ambiance:

Most recommended neighborhoods have good access to RTA public transportation. Downtown is central for city-wide transit. Ambiance ranges from bustling (Downtown, East 4th) to lively (Ohio City) to quieter (University Circle, Little Italy).

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies secure the best accommodation for your Cleveland trip, balancing price, availability, and flexibility. Plan bookings according to the season and anticipated demand.

Advance Booking Recommendations by Season

  • High Season (Summer) & Major Events: Book 3-6 months out. Prices will be highest and availability limited.
  • Shoulder Seasons (Spring/Fall): Booking 1-3 months out usually results in good selection and competitive prices.
  • Low Season (Winter): More flexibility. Booking a few weeks out or last minute is often possible, with better deals.
  • Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Prices are highest in summer and during major events. They are generally lowest in winter, excluding major holidays.

Booking Systems and Policies

  • Global Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Use Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, Hotels.com, Kayak, or Trivago for price comparison.
  • Vacation Rentals: Airbnb and Vrbo are main platforms. Read reviews and confirm host responsiveness.
  • Direct Booking: Booking directly through the hotel's official website often results in the best rate, loyalty points, or more flexible cancellation policies. Check for "best rate guarantee."
  • Deposit and Cancellation Policies: Policies vary. Always check specific deposit requirements and cancellation policies before finalizing your reservation.

Negotiation Customs

Walk-in Rates:
  • Negotiating walk-in rates is less common in the U.S. For established hotels.
  • You might find a deal at a budget motel on the outskirts of the city, but it is not standard practice for reputable hotels.
General Practice:
  • Booking online in advance generally yields better rates than walk-in rates.
  • Online platforms and direct bookings often provide the most favorable pricing.

Additional Considerations

Peak Times:

During major events, timed entry tickets or early reservations are often recommended or required.

Flexibility:

Many hotels offer free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before check-in, a good option for flexibility.

Non-Refundable Rates:

Non-refundable rates are usually cheaper but offer no flexibility if your plans change.

Accommodation Recommendations Comparison Table

This table displays top accommodation picks in Cleveland, categorized by budget and travel style, with options for various preferences. These recommendations try to guide your comfortable and convenient base for Cleveland adventures.

Budget & Mid-Range

The Cleveland Hostel Ohio City

Price: $30-$60 per night

  • Offers dorms and private rooms.
  • Shared kitchen, common areas, lively Ohio City location.
  • Good for solo travelers and social atmosphere seekers.
Tru by Hilton Cleveland Midtown Midtown

Price: $90-$130 per night

  • Modern, no-frills option with free breakfast.
  • Good value, accessible by car.
  • Short drive to attractions, comfortable, efficient stays.
Hilton Garden Inn Cleveland Downtown Downtown

Price: $150-$250 per night

  • Reliable chain with good amenities (pool, fitness center).
  • Within walking distance to Progressive Field and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
  • Close to RTA.

Luxury & Unique Stays

Kimpton Schofield Hotel Downtown

Price: $180-$300 per night

  • Boutique hotel in a historic building.
  • Stylish rooms, excellent restaurant (Parker's Downtown).
  • Pet-friendly, centrally located near East 4th Street.
The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland Downtown/Tower City

Price: $300-$500+ per night

  • Directly connected to Tower City Center and RTA.
  • Luxury amenities and impeccable service.
  • Direct access to shops and restaurants.
Hyatt Regency Cleveland at The Arcade Downtown

Price: $200-$350 per night

  • Situated within the stunning historic Arcade building.
  • Central location, beautiful architecture.
  • Unique guest experience.

Family-Friendly

  • Residence Inn Cleveland Downtown (Downtown)

    Price: $180-$350 per night. All-suite hotel with full kitchens in rooms, free breakfast, and pet-friendly policies. Suitable for longer stays and families seeking more space.

  • Glidden House (University Circle)

    Price: $160-$280 per night. Charming boutique hotel in a historic mansion, with free breakfast. Within walking distance to museums and cultural institutions in University Circle.

  • Metropolitan at The 9, Autograph Collection (Downtown)

    Price: $250-$450+ per night. Trendy, modern luxury hotel with a rooftop bar (Azure), an indoor dog park, and a pool.

  • Extended Stay America Suites - Cleveland - Downtown (Downtown)

    Price: $100-$180 per night. Kitchenettes in rooms and laundry facilities, making it suitable for extended visits. Basic but functional accommodations.

Explore More Options

  • Travel Planning:

    Consider your travel group's size and needs. Are you traveling solo, with family, or for business? This shapes your ideal accommodation choice.

  • Location Focus:

    Determine which attractions or activities are your priority.

  • Budget Allocation:

    Decide how much of your trip budget will go towards lodging. This guides your search between budget-friendly and luxury options.

  • Personal Preference:

    Do you prefer a quiet residential feel, a bustling downtown experience, or a cultural hub? Cleveland has neighborhoods for every preference.

Booking Tips

Read Reviews

Always consult recent guest reviews on booking platforms. They contain valuable insights into the actual experience at a property, cleanliness, and service quality.

  • Pay attention to comments about noise levels.
  • Look for consistency in positive feedback.
  • See how management responds to issues.
Check Amenities

Confirm essential amenities like Wi-Fi, parking, breakfast, or accessibility features, especially if these are important for your stay.

  • Verify parking costs and availability.
  • Check pool or fitness center hours.
  • Confirm pet policies if traveling with animals.

Cancellation Flexibility

Free Cancellation

Many booking platforms display free cancellation options up to a certain period before your stay.

Non-Refundable Rates

These rates are often lower but involve no refunds if plans change. Choose these only when your travel dates are definite.

Travel Insurance

For significant trips, travel insurance with cancellation coverage protects your investment against unforeseen circumstances.