You’re probably expecting a standard, cookie-cutter hotel experience when you book a room at the Drury Inn Cleveland Ohio (officially known to locals and regulars as the Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland Downtown). Most mid-range chains feel the same. Stale air. Fluorescent lights. A lobby that smells like burnt coffee and disappointment.
But this place is weirdly different. It’s housed in the old Cleveland Board of Education building, a massive 1930s landmark that looks more like a set from a Wes Anderson movie than a budget-friendly hotel. When you walk in, you aren't greeted by beige wallpaper. You’re looking at two-story marble columns and massive 1931 murals by Cora Holden. Honestly, it’s a bit jarring to see a "5:30 Kickback" sign sitting next to Depression-era fine art.
The Historic Pivot of the Drury Inn Cleveland Ohio
People often mistake the Drury Inn Cleveland Ohio for just another downtown skyscraper. It’s not. This building sat vacant for years before Drury spent millions to scrub the grime off the marble. They kept the original board room—the actual place where the Board of Education used to meet—and turned it into meeting space. They even kept the old auditorium stage.
If you’re a fan of architecture, you’ll notice the "Group Plan" influence. This was part of the city’s early 20th-century effort to make Cleveland look like a mini-Washington D.C. It worked. The hotel sits right on East 6th Street, surrounded by City Hall and the Public Auditorium. It feels heavy. It feels permanent.
The room layouts are all over the place because they had to work around the original 1931 floor plans. There are 49 different room configurations. You might get a standard king, or you might end up in a suite that used to be a library, complete with original oak bookshelves. It’s unpredictable in a way that modern hotels usually aren't.
Why the 5:30 Kickback Actually Matters
Let's talk about the food. Most hotels offer a "continental breakfast" that consists of a lonely banana and a dry muffin. Drury does things differently. You’ve probably heard of the 5:30 Kickback. If you haven't, it’s basically a free dinner.
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Every night from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m., they serve hot food and drinks. We’re talking sliders, tacos, pasta, and—the kicker—three free adult beverages per guest. For a family of four, this saves about $80 a night on dining out in downtown Cleveland. Is it Michelin-star dining? No. It’s "mom’s kitchen" quality, but when you're tired from walking the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, a free plate of nachos and a cold beer feels like a gift from the universe.
The Teachers' Lounge
If you want something a bit more sophisticated than the buffet line, they have an on-site bar called the Teachers' Lounge. It’s a nod to the building’s history. It’s cozy. It’s quiet. You can grab a local craft beer or a cocktail without having to leave the building and brave the Cleveland wind.
Location: The Hidden Perk
You can walk to almost everything from the Drury Inn Cleveland Ohio.
- The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is about a 10-minute walk.
- Progressive Field (Go Guardians) is less than a mile away.
- Huntington Convention Center is basically across the street.
The downside? Parking is a headache. Like most of downtown Cleveland, there is no "free parking" hidden in a secret alley. It’s valet-only at the hotel, and it’ll cost you around $40 a night. Some guests try to find cheaper garages nearby, but honestly, in the winter, you’ll regret that 5-block walk.
What Guests Get Wrong
A common complaint is the "small pillows." For some reason, Drury uses these square, almost throw-pillow-sized cushions. If you’re used to giant, fluffy king pillows, bring your own or ask the front desk for extras.
Another thing: the pool. It’s an indoor pool and whirlpool, which is great for kids. But because of the "free food" perks, this hotel is a magnet for families. If you’re looking for a romantic, quiet getaway, maybe don’t head to the pool at 6:00 p.m. It will be loud. It will be chaotic. It will smell like chlorine and joy.
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Nuance and Reality
While the Drury Inn Cleveland Ohio wins on value, it’s not a luxury hotel. The carpets are clean but standard. The TVs are modern but not massive. It’s an "Upper Midscale" experience. You’re paying for the convenience and the architecture, not for a butler to iron your socks.
One thing that genuinely stands out is the staff. There's a guy named Yunis at the front desk who guests have been raving about for years. That’s the "Drury way"—they’ve won J.D. Power awards for guest satisfaction like 15 years in a row. It’s a family-owned company, and you can sort of feel that they actually care if your stay was okay.
Actionable Steps for Your Stay
If you’re planning a trip, do these three things to make it better:
- Request a High Floor: The views of Lake Erie or the downtown skyline are significantly better from the 5th or 6th floors.
- Check the Kickback Menu: It rotates. If it’s taco night and you hate tacos, that’s the night to walk over to East 4th Street for dinner at Mabel’s BBQ.
- Join the Rewards Program: Even if you only stay once, Drury Rewards members often get better cancellation flexibility, which is vital if a lake-effect snowstorm hits.
The Drury Inn Cleveland Ohio is a rare beast. It’s a historic preservation project that doesn't charge $500 a night. It’s a family-friendly hub that doesn't feel like a cheap motel. Just remember to bring your own pillow if you’re picky, and budget for the valet.
If you're heading to Cleveland for a game or a concert, this is the most logical choice. It’s efficient. It’s grand. It’s basically the best-kept secret that everyone already knows about.
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Practical Logistics
- Check-in: 3:00 p.m. (Early check-in is sometimes available for a fee, usually around $40).
- Breakfast: Starts at 6:00 a.m. on weekdays, 7:00 a.m. on weekends.
- Fitness: 24-hour access, though it’s a bit small.
- Pets: They are pet-friendly, but there is a daily fee, so call ahead.
Once you’ve settled in, take ten minutes to just look at the murals in the lobby. They represent the history of education and industry in Ohio. Most people walk right past them to get to the free popcorn, but they’re worth the pause.
Before you arrive, download the RTA Cleve app if you plan on using the Rapid transit. It’s a cheap way to get to the airport without paying for a $50 Uber. The hotel is close enough to the Tower City station that you can make it work if you're traveling light. Otherwise, stick to the valet and enjoy being in the center of the city.