We are going to be in Cleveland
for the Michael Flatley, Celtic Tiger at the Quicken Loans Arena. We will be staying at the Hampton Inn on 9th street. Is the arena within walking distance of the hotel, and is it safe to walk? Are there any restaurants in the vicinity that you would recommend? Thanks.

Hi sumreknot
I'm sorry I don't know the answer to your safe for walking question as I don't know where the Hampton Inn is located on 9th. We live 30min outside of Cleveland so we never stay there but drive in and park and have never felt unsafe in the places we visit. If you have a car, I can highly recommend Piew W for a special evening. It is pricey, but the food is terrific and the view outstanding! It is built out over a cliff and you have a wonderful full view of Lake Erie with downtown Cleveland in the background. Sunday's they have a buffet for 29.00 pp that includes more than I can remember.

What night of the week will you be there? What kind of restaurant are you looking for? I would not recommend PierW, as it is not in Downtown. It's on the Gold Coast, about 15 minute cab ride away. For the most variety, check out the warehouse district, especially West 6th street, about a 5 minute cab ride. (You could walk it in about 20 minutes) Downtown Cleveland is pretty safe to walk, but like any city, be smart and make sure you're not "alone" out there!

My favorite places on West 6th are Sushi Rock, Johnny's Bistro, Liquid, Blind Pig, then around the corner are Blue Point (fabulous seafood), Chop House, and many many other cool and popular places. There are also several dance clubs right in the area. Great for people watching, very fun, lots of cabs, etc. etc.

We are going to be there on the 9th...going to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on the 10th..is it worth it?
Thanks for all the tips.

Safe unless the Pittsburgh Steelers are in town. Check your calendars!!

I thought the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame was one of the greatest museums I have been too. I spent about 6 hours there and found it was not nearly enough. I think the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame alone would be worth a trip to Cleveland although it is a nice city with a lot to do.

DEFINITELY worth it. Cleveland is not a large city area-wise, but there is a lot to do in a concentrated area, like where you are going to be.

Rock Hall of Fame - you'll love it. The science center is great too, but you probably won't have time.

Being a relocated Cleveland native, it's so nice to see the positive commentary and recommendations. It's a challenge to convince people of what a great city it is. I am convinced of it and although I often miss my home, for the next 6 months I won't.

If you want to continue your Celtic weekend, New Barleycorn will be performing at Flannery's, an Irish pub and reataurant on Dec. 9&10. New Barleycorn is a fun Irish band that we enjoy. They start playing at about 9 p.m.

I am a young woman who works downtown and walks every night several blocks to the Terminal tower, often past sunset. Although I felt unsafe the first few months, the only thing you really have to worry about is being harassed by the homeless, although there are not as many out in the winter.

Be wary if you attend the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on induction day next year. The fans of the Sex Pistols will be en-camped for the event.

I think safe is relative. If people can tell you're from out of town they'll bother you. Try and act normal. Don't have a $500 camera hanging on your neck, and dress in shorts and flip-flops then I think you're ok.

Thanks to all who responded...we went to see Michael Flatley at the Arena, stayed at the Hampton Inn downtown. We walked to the show, to lunch and to dinner. After the show, we walked back to our hotel. I loved the city and would like to return when the weather is warmer. The next day we visited the R&R Hall of Fame. We felt very safe walking everywhere.

Glad you had a nice time! I feel safe everywhere downtown. (Don't feel safe in the flats anymore though).

What is considered a safe area? Every place you go,you have to worry about something happening. No such thing as safe any more........... If you are worried about saftey don't go.