Discover the music and memorabilia from the greatest rock bands in the world and find out why Cleveland is so important to the world of Rock and Roll.
Find out more about some of the most famous rock songs ever written in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Browse handwritten lyrics and composed pieces, such as the song Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds by The Beatles. Watch documentaries which chart the rise of the likes of The Rolling Stones, The Who and Bruce Springsteen. See ultimate rock memorabilia, such as Iggy Pop’s costumes and John Lennon’s guitars.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame was built in 1995 and is one of the most popular attractions in Cleveland. The building’s sloping glass walls and angular frame are an impressive sight on the shores of Lake Erie.
You enter the building on the third floor, with the other floors situated below ground level. Pause at the large screens showing films, interviews and photographs of famous bands. Follow the line of signatures of Hall of Fame inductees to get to the temporary exhibitions.
Head down to the second floor’s interactive booths to listen to some of the musicians that forever changed rock 'n' roll, as well as a few one-hit wonders. This floor also has temporary exhibitions.
On the lowest floor you’ll find the permanent exhibits. Learn about the roots of rock 'n' roll in blues and gospel. Find out who the Cleveland DJ was who first named the music “rock and roll” and don’t miss the special The Beatles exhibition.
Visit in the summer and you may well catch a live concert in the plaza in front of the Hall of Fame.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has a café and music shop. It is located in North Harbour, overlooking Lake Erie. To get there, catch a bus, trolley or light rail from downtown or drive. If you park at the Great Lakes Science Centre garage you’ll get a discount at the museum’s information desk. The venue is open daily, with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas. There is an admission fee. Children under 9 enter for free and those of 9-12 and over 65 years old get a discount.
