You've probably been there. You're staring at a map of downtown Cleveland, trying to figure out which "nearby" hotel won't actually leave you sweaty and frustrated after a half-mile trek in a suit. Most travel sites just dump a list of names at you. But if you're headed to the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland, the layout is a bit weird because the center is mostly underground.
Choosing the right spot isn't just about the stars on the door. It’s about whether you have to deal with the Lake Erie wind in February or if you can literally walk to your keynote in your slippers.
Honestly, the "best" hotel depends entirely on how much you value your sleep versus your proximity to a decent steak. Here is the reality of staying at hotels close to Cleveland Convention Center.
The "One and Only" Underground Connection
If you want the absolute shortest commute, there is only one name you need to know: Hilton Cleveland Downtown.
It’s the big, glassy tower that dominates the skyline. Most people don’t realize that this hotel is physically connected to the convention center via an underground walkway. You can take the elevator down, walk through a climate-controlled tunnel, and pop up right inside the exhibit hall. No snow. No rain. No humidity ruining your hair before a big presentation.
The views here are kinda wild, too. If you bag a room on the higher floors facing north, you’re looking straight at Lake Erie. It feels like you’re on the edge of the world. Just keep in mind that because it’s the "official" hotel, it fills up fast. If there’s a massive medical conference in town, you'll be fighting 600 other people for the morning latte at the lobby Starbucks.
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The "Across the Street" Contenders
So, the Hilton is booked. Or maybe you just don't want to stay where everyone else is. Your next best bets are the properties that sit directly on the perimeter of the Mall (that big green park space the convention center lives under).
Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower is effectively right across the street. It’s tucked into the base of the tallest building in Ohio. It feels a bit more "old school corporate" in a good way—marble, quiet corners, and a very solid fitness center. It's less than 0.1 miles away. You’re basically there.
Then you’ve got The Westin Cleveland Downtown. This one is a bit more "design-forward." They’ve got a massive art wall in the lobby that’s actually pretty cool to look at while you’re waiting for your Uber. It’s technically "adjacent," but you will have to walk outside for about three minutes to get to the convention center entrance.
- Hilton: Connected (Underground).
- Marriott Key Tower: Directly across the street.
- The Westin: One block away.
Why the Drury Plaza is the Sneaky Favorite
I’ve talked to a lot of frequent Cleveland travelers, and many of them swear by the Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland Downtown.
It’s not a five-star luxury brand, but it’s housed in the old Board of Education building. Think high ceilings, historic murals, and massive windows. It's about 0.2 miles from the center.
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The "kicker" for most people? The food. They do this thing called the "Kickback" where they serve free hot food and drinks in the evening. If you’re a business traveler on a budget—or just hate hunting for dinner after a 10-hour day on the trade show floor—it’s a lifesaver. Plus, their breakfast is actually included, which is rare for downtown hotels these days.
Luxury and History: The "Worth the Extra Walk" Spots
Sometimes you want the stay to feel like a vacation, even if you’re just there to talk about logistics software.
The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland is about 0.4 miles away. It’s connected to Tower City and the casino. It’s the highest-end experience you’ll find, but you are looking at a 10-minute walk or a very short ride to the convention center.
If you want history, check out Hyatt Regency Cleveland at The Arcade. The "Arcade" is a 1890s architectural marvel with a massive glass ceiling. The hotel rooms are actually built into the upper floors of this shopping landmark. It’s gorgeous, but the walk to the convention center (about 0.3 miles) involves crossing Superior Avenue, which can be a bit of a wind tunnel.
Recently, the Fidelity Hotel opened up and it’s already gaining a reputation as a "Michelin Key" level gem. It’s a boutique vibe that feels much more like a cool apartment than a sterile hotel room. It’s roughly 0.3 miles away, making it a very manageable stroll.
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The Reality of Parking and Logistics
Let’s be real for a second: parking in downtown Cleveland is a headache.
Most of these hotels charge between $40 and $60 per night for valet. If you're driving in, factor that into your budget immediately. A "cheap" room rate can quickly get ballooned by parking fees.
The convention center area is very walkable, so if you can get in via a shuttle or ride-share, you basically won't need a car. Most of the best food—like the stuff on East 4th Street—is within a 10-minute walk of all the hotels mentioned above.
Making the Final Call
Don't just pick the cheapest option on a booking site. If you’re coming in the winter, the Hilton or the Marriott are worth the premium just for the lack of outdoor exposure. If it’s summer and you want some character, go for the Hyatt at The Arcade or the Kimpton Schofield.
Basically, the "Convention Center District" is compact enough that you have options, but far enough apart that a "0.5-mile walk" feels very different at 7:00 AM in a Cleveland lake-effect snowstorm than it does on a map.
Practical Next Steps
- Check the Hilton first: If they have a room and you hate the cold, book it immediately for the tunnel access.
- Look at the Drury: If you’re traveling with a family or want to save on food costs, the value here is unbeatable.
- Download a ride-share app: Even "close" hotels can feel far if you're carrying heavy display materials; a $10 Lyft is often better than a sweaty walk.
- Confirm your entrance: The convention center has multiple entrances (Lakeside and the Global Center); ask your hotel front desk which one is open for your specific event to avoid walking around the entire block.