You’ve seen it from the highway. That massive brick structure sitting right off I-71, just a few minutes south of the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE). If you’ve ever searched for a place to crash before a 6:00 AM flight or needed a central spot for a business meeting in Northeast Ohio, the Crowne Plaza Middleburg Ohio—officially known as the Crowne Plaza Cleveland Airport—has likely popped up on your screen.
Honestly, it’s a bit of a landmark in Middleburg Heights. It’s one of those hotels that has been around long enough to feel familiar, yet it’s undergone enough updates to keep from feeling like a time capsule from the 1990s.
What’s the Real Vibe at the Crowne Plaza Middleburg Ohio?
Let’s get the "airport hotel" stigma out of the way. Usually, these places are sterile, loud, and smell like jet fuel. This one is different. Because it’s located a solid three miles from the actual runways, you aren't jolted awake by a Boeing 737 rattling your window panes at midnight.
The lobby is surprisingly grand. We’re talking stone accents, warm wood counters, and a layout that doesn't make you feel like you’re standing in a waiting room. It’s got a "business casual" energy. You’ll see flight crews in uniform checking in next to families headed to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo or the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
The 238 rooms are split between standard setups and suites. If you’re lucky enough to snag a room on the higher floors, you get a decent view of the suburban sprawl and the distant Cleveland skyline. It's not the Burj Khalifa, but it's nice.
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The Logistics: Shuttle, Parking, and Sanity
If you are staying here, you are probably dealing with the airport. The Crowne Plaza Middleburg Ohio runs a 24-hour shuttle that leaves every 30 minutes on the dot.
Here is the thing most people get wrong: they think they can just walk out the front door and hop on. You really should call the front desk at least two hours before you need to leave to reserve your spot. It’s a popular service, especially during the "CLEvolution" airport modernization project currently happening at CLE, which has made airport parking a nightmare.
Speaking of parking, this hotel is a goldmine for the "Park, Stay, and Fly" crowd. They let you leave your car in their secured, camera-monitored lot for up to 15 days if you book the right package. It is often cheaper than the airport’s long-term lots, and your car isn’t sitting in a massive, unprotected field.
Eating at Tavolo 72
Most hotel restaurants are an afterthought. You know the type—soggy club sandwiches and overpriced Caesar salads. Tavolo 72, the on-site restaurant, actually tries. It’s an Italian-American steakhouse vibe.
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They use local ingredients, which is a nice touch. They serve Ohio City Pasta and pour Great Lakes Brewing Company beer. If you’re there for dinner, the flatbreads and the Angus burgers are the safe bets.
Breakfast is a different story. It’s a buffet. It costs about $13 for adults, and it’s a heavy spread: eggs, sausage, gravy, pastries, the works. If you’re a light eater, you might find it a bit much for the price, but if you have a long day of travel ahead, it’s worth the fuel.
The "Sleep Advantage" Program
Crowne Plaza makes a big deal about their "Sleep Advantage" program. Does it work? Sort of.
- Aromatherapy kits: You get a little spray or oil to help you relax. It's a nice perk, even if it feels a bit "spa-lite."
- Premium bedding: The sheets are high-thread-count, and the pillows are actually soft, not those weird foam blocks you find at budget motels.
- Quiet Zones: They designate certain floors as quiet zones where housekeeping and maintenance aren't allowed to make noise during specific hours.
Is it a miracle cure for jet lag? No. But compared to the paper-thin walls of the budget hotels nearby, it’s a massive upgrade.
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Amenities You’ll Actually Use
The fitness center is open 24/7. They have the standard treadmills and ellipticals, but they also provide maps of the local area for runners. Since the hotel is a two-minute walk from the Big Creek Reservation (part of the Cleveland Metroparks), you can actually get a decent outdoor run in without fearing for your life on the busy Engle Road traffic.
The indoor pool and sauna are the big draws for families. It’s large enough for kids to splash around without bothering the people in the sauna.
One weird quirk: the conference space. They have over 16,000 square feet of meeting space. If you’re there on a weekend, don’t be surprised to run into a wedding party or a local business seminar. It’s a major hub for Middleburg Heights events.
What to Know Before You Book
No hotel is perfect. This is a 3.5-star property. It’s well-maintained, but it’s an older building. You might encounter the occasional slow elevator or a room where the AC takes a minute to kick in.
Also, be aware of the "shuttle scramble." If you land at CLE late at night, calling for a pickup can sometimes be a test of patience. Some travelers have reported waiting longer than expected if the shuttle is busy. Always have the direct hotel number (the 440 area code one) saved in your phone; don’t rely on the corporate 800-number.
Actionable Insights for Your Stay
- Join IHG One Rewards: Even if you aren't a frequent traveler, it usually gets you free Wi-Fi and sometimes a late checkout.
- Request a "Quiet Zone" Room: Especially if you are a light sleeper or have a mid-day nap planned.
- Check the Metroparks: If you have a few hours to kill, walk over to Big Creek Reservation. It’s a hidden gem of greenery in a very industrial-feeling area.
- Reserve the Shuttle Early: Don't wait until you're standing in the lobby with three suitcases. Call ahead.
- Tavolo 72 Happy Hour: If you’re looking to save money, hit the bar during happy hour rather than sitting down for a full-priced dinner.
The Crowne Plaza Middleburg Ohio isn't trying to be a five-star luxury resort. It’s a functional, comfortable, and strategically located base of operations for people moving through Cleveland. Whether you're here for a Baldwin Wallace University visit or just trying to survive a layover, it does the job better than most.