First time visiting the Cleveland History Center? This guide covers opening hours, ticket prices, parking, accessibility, and how to get there.
History and overview of the Cleveland History Center
The Cleveland History Center is the headquarters of the Western Reserve Historical Society (WRHS), one of the oldest cultural institutions in Northeast Ohio, founded in 1867.
Walking through the museum complex, you’ll explore two beautifully preserved historic mansions — the Bingham-Hanna Mansion and the Hay-McKinney Mansion — which provide a window into Cleveland’s Gilded Age.
The center also includes the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum, where you can admire cars and aircraft that highlight Cleveland’s role in engineering and transport history. And for a touch of joy, don’t miss a ride on the restored Euclid Beach Park Grand Carousel — it’s included with admission.
Through its exhibits — ranging from family history and local entrepreneurship to technological innovation — the Cleveland History Center weaves a narrative that connects past and present, helping visitors understand not only how Cleveland grew, but why it remains a place of inventive spirit.
You can buy entry tickets online.
Opening hours of the Cleveland History Center
- Thursday: 12 pm – 8 pm
- Friday, Saturday & Sunday: 10 am – 4 pm
Last admission is advised well before closing.
Why book Rock & Roll Hall of Fame admission?
- Explore music history: Discover artefacts, instruments and costumes from the artists who shaped modern music.
- See legendary exhibits: From handwritten lyrics to iconic stage outfits, view rare pieces you will not find elsewhere.
- Interactive galleries: Enjoy immersive experiences that bring decades of rock, pop, soul and hip-hop to life.
- Architectural landmark: Wander through the striking glass-pyramid building designed by I. M. Pei.
- Self-guided flexibility: Explore at your own pace, with plenty of time for the Hall’s changing special exhibitions.
Ticket prices at the Cleveland History Center
- Adults (ages 13–61): $15
- Seniors (62+): $13
- Veterans: $12
- College students (with ID): $10
- Children (ages 3–12): $8
- Children 2 and under: Free
- WRHS Members, Active Military: Free
- Museums for All program (eligible participants): US$ 3 on presentation of SNAP, EBT or WIC card
Book tickets online to skip queues at the entrance.
How to get to the Cleveland History Center & parking
Location
The Cleveland History Center is at 10825 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH 44106.
Parking
- On-site parking is available behind the center, off Magnolia Drive.
- Parking fees: first 2 hours = US$ 10; each additional 30 minutes = US$ 1; daily maximum = US$ 15.
- WRHS Members receive a discounted flat-rate parking fee of US$ 5 per car during museum hours (show membership card).
Accessibility & visitor tips for the Cleveland History Center
- The museum is stroller-friendly. There are restrooms on every floor, and at least one gender-neutral, wheelchair-accessible restroom in each mansion.
- A lactation room is available in the Chisholm Halle Costume Wing.
- Because there’s a lot to see — mansions, cars, carousel — allow 90–120 minutes for your visit.
- Thursday evenings can be quieter after 6pm; Friday–Sunday mornings are often busier.
What you’ll experience at the Cleveland History Center
Begin your visit in the historic mansions, where period rooms, furniture and personal stories of Cleveland’s past come to life. Wander through original parlours, libraries and dining rooms that reflect early-20th-century elegance.
From there, explore the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum, which showcases vintage cars, motorcycles, planes and carriages — a tribute to innovation and transport history.
Don’t miss the Euclid Beach Park Grand Carousel — restored with care, it’s a slice of nostalgic fun.
Through rotating and permanent exhibits, you can trace Northeast Ohio’s history — from industrial change to cultural moments, from family stories to regional innovation.
Cleveland History Center: In summary
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What are the ticket prices? | Adults US$ 15; Seniors US$ 13; Veterans US$ 12; College US$ 10; Children 3–12 US$ 8; under 3 free; reduced rate US$ 3 with SNAP/EBT etc. |
| What are the opening hours? | Thursday 12pm–8pm; Friday–Sunday 10am–4pm |
| Where is it located? | 10825 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH 44106 |
| Is parking available? | Yes — on-site off Magnolia Drive: US$ 10 for 2 h, US$ 15 max |
| Is the venue accessible? | Yes — wheelchair-friendly, stroller-friendly, accessible restrooms, lactation room |
Nearby attractions
The Rock N Roll Hall of Fame is Cleveland’s top attraction, but there are other options near the Cleveland History Center
- Cleveland Museum of Art — A world-class museum just across Wade Park, with free general admission.
- Cleveland Museum of Natural History — Also in University Circle, great for families and science lovers.
- Cleveland Botanical Garden — Lush gardens and glasshouses near Wade Park.
- Dunham Tavern Museum — Historic tavern with deep roots in Cleveland’s early days.
- Cleveland Cultural Gardens — Peaceful, landscaped gardens representing many nationalities in Rockefeller Park.
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