Public Square, Cleveland (must see)

Public Square, situated at the heart of Downtown Cleveland, serves as the city’s historic central plaza and has been a focal point of civic life since its establishment in 1796. Designed by city founder General Moses Cleaveland as part of the original town plat for the Connecticut Land Company, the square mirrors the layout of traditional 18th-century New England town commons. This 10-acre (4.0 hectares) space has witnessed the evolution of Cleveland from a burgeoning settlement to a modern metropolis and was recognized for its historical significance by being added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

Public Square was originally divided into four smaller squares, with Superior Avenue and Ontario Street crossing at its center. In 2016, the area was redesigned, unifying the sections into a pedestrian-friendly space by removing the Ontario Street segment and restricting Superior Avenue to buses. The northern side now has green spaces and a statue of Mayor Tom L. Johnson, while the southern area includes a plaza with a café, water feature, the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, and a statue of city founder Moses Cleaveland.

Surrounded by some of Cleveland’s most prominent buildings, including Key Tower, 200 Public Square, and the Terminal Tower, the square stands as a testament to the city’s architectural heritage. Landmarks such as the Old Stone Church and the former Higbee’s department store—famous for its appearance in the 1983 film A Christmas Story and currently housing the Jack Cleveland Casino—highlight the area’s historical and cultural importance.

Public Square has not only been a hub for commerce and civic engagement but also a place of innovation. In 1879, it became the first street in the world to be illuminated by electric arc lamps, designed by Cleveland native Charles F. Brush. Over time, it has hosted numerous events, including political rallies and community gatherings, and continues to be the site for annual celebrations like the Cleveland Orchestra’s Independence Day concert. Its unique role in Cleveland’s development and blend of historical reverence and modern utility make Public Square an iconic symbol of the city’s past, present, and future.