
Back by popular demand, best places to photograph the Cleveland skyline part 2!
The first location is a hidden gem. The view is so expansive, a wide angle lens would be perfect. It's on a small street just off the Hope Memorial Bridge at the intersection of West 17th and Lorain Avenue. There is a small clearing with a wide open view of the skyline. Straight ahead is a dynamic view of Cleveland's skyscrapers, the Terminal Tower at the forefront. Directly below is the flats, full of mysterious greenspaces, ominous industrial warehouses and a wish that this primo space could be used in a much more productive way. To the left and right, bridges span out over the flats and venture into downtown. This angle is one of the most geographically diverse in all of Cleveland.
The next location is perched on the Superior Viaduct. You'll have to park on the street (private parking on the viaduct), then walk to the end. This also looks over the Flats, but has a unique, up close and personal vibe. You're right in the center of things next to an old draw bridge that hasn't seen any use in quite a while. This is a great place to relax. It seems to be a peaceful respite amidst 360 degrees of downtown activity.
It's tourism time. There's a reason Voinovich Park is not only popular with the tourists, but with photographers as well. Right on the waters of Lake Erie at the end of East 9th, this small park boasts one of the most visited sites in Cleveland. It's literally surrounded by things to see and do. You have the Rock Hall, Science Center, William G. Mather, USS Cod Submarine, Burke Lakefront Airport, and Cleveland Browns Stadium all within view. On a clear day, people armed with cameras are out in full force. Look inland for a spectacular view of the Rock Hall and Science Center in the foreground with the city elevating skyward behind. Look out onto Lake Erie for the best sunset in Cleveland.
So where are the great views from the East side? Early one morning I cruised the streets in my search. It's flat and most views are obstructed by warehouses. There's no glamour or shine. The neighborhood is rough and urban, but culturally diverse and full of interesting hideaways. These locations will be more about the urban experience, rather than putting Cleveland on a post card. I really had to do some exploring and stumbled on a couple by accident.
North Marginal Road
One of the few good views from the East looking West can be found along North Marginal Road, which runs along Burke Lakefront Airport. This location could not be accessed on Google Maps, possibly due to close proximity to the airport. From East 9th, head East on North Marginal. About 1/2 mile down, the road curves to the left. At this curve, walk up a short grass hill to the right. It is here you'll find one of the few unobstructed views of downtown from the East. It also looks over Burke Lakefront Airport and Lake Erie.
I saved the grittiest for last. Near the intersection of East 26th and Lakeside lies a perfect place to capture the urban landscape. I walked about a hundred feet Eastward along the train tracks and captured this particular angle. It's not a perfect view, but sometimes we don't want to hide the realities of a city. Sometimes a powerful photo captures the truth, rather than a polished, perfect image.
I hope you've enjoyed the latest locations to view downtown Cleveland. Drop me a line if you have tips to other great shots!