Tours offer access to historic lower level and streetcar tracks, glimpse into Cuyahoga County history

Cuyahoga County, OH - Cuyahoga County is kicking off its America 250 celebration with the return of Rediscover Veterans Memorial Bridge on Saturday, June 27 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

The historic landmark will be open to the public for free, self-guided tours of the rarely seen lower level. Visitors will explore the bridge's original subway stations and walk along the long-quiet tracks that once carried streetcars across the Cuyahoga. Guests can learn about the structure’s remarkable history and meet the team working to reimagine the lower deck for future public use. Typically closed to the public, this hidden level offers a fascinating look into Cuyahoga County’s transportation heritage and engineering achievements.

“America 250 invites us to reflect on the stories, innovation, and resilience that shaped our nation and few places capture that spirit better than Veterans Memorial Bridge,” said Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne. "By opening this historic landmark to the public, we’re not only celebrating our past but inspiring new possibilities for the future. We’re thrilled to welcome residents and visitors to experience this remarkable space.”

The celebration continues just down the way at Picnic in the Park at Canal Basin Park, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. featuring live music, food trucks, and fun activities for all ages. This America 250 event is presented by KeyBank and hosted by Canalway Partners and Cuyahoga County.

“Investing in the Veterans Memorial Bridge and identifying opportunities for new connections and opportunity for public space means expanding access to places that define our community,” said Annie Pease, Sr. Advisor of Transportation for Cuyahoga County. “Rediscover Veterans Memorial Bridge events give residents a unique chance to connect to the past and imagine what the future will hold. We invite everyone to come out and enjoy the space through these opportunities.”

Cuyahoga County has once again teamed up with the Historic Gateway Neighborhood Corporation to offer experiences through Take a Hike Tours. The guided experiences include the Veterans Memorial Bridge, where knowledgeable guides and actors portraying historic Clevelanders will lead participants along the streetcar level from West 9th Street to West 25th Street. This special opportunity offers participants a one hour hands-on history lesson they won’t soon forget.

Take a Hike Tours are available every Friday at noon from June through September, except July 3. Demand is high. June tours are already sold out. Registration is required and opens one month prior to the next month's tours.

All visitors must sign a waiver before entering the lower level of the Veterans Memorial Bridge. Waivers will be available online in advance. Visitors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Well-behaved pets on leashes are allowed.

For more information about Rediscover Veterans Memorial Bridge, visit cuyahogacounty.gov.