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This article is part of our Destination Cleveland series. Stop back for more articles about Cleveland and what it has to offer.

 

The heart of Rock & Roll is still beating in Cleveland (among other cities, according to Huey Lewis and the News, LOL). The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Museum helps keep that pulse alive. Whether it be the King of Rock, the King of Pop, the Three Kings of The Blues, The Queen of Soul, or Queen Bey, the Rock Hall has something for everyone’s musical tastes.

 

Being the birthplace of the name Rock & Roll, Cleveland is deeply rooted in Rock history. It has been home to the Rock Hall and its museum since 1995. The Rock Hall’s unmistakable look, with its glass pyramid and tower, has become a symbol of the City. Designed by world renowned architect I.M. Pei, the building and plaza are meant to resemble a record on a turntable. 

 

The Rock Hall attracts visitors from all over the world with its collection of Rock and Pop memorabilia, its immersive exhibits and its interactive experiences. It is certainly one of our favorite things to do in Cleveland.

Top 5:

 

Speaking of things to do, here are our top 5 things to check out inside…

 

#1 – The History – The Rock Hall isn’t a “museum”, it’s an experience. For any music fan the items on display are alive. You’ll see instruments played by the founders of the genre, wardrobes worn by your favorite performers and even learn backstories you never knew. It takes you back to those great moments in Rock history. Be sure to check out John’s favorite section, The Beatles. He loves going there to see the guitar that made him want to start playing, John Lennon’s Rickenbacker.

#2 – The Hall of Fame – Look for your favorite artists on the Inductee Signature Wall and listen to their music at any of the interactive stations nearby. Do not forget to visit the Inductee Exhibit highlighting the Rock Hall’s latest class. And be sure to check out the Power of Rock Experience, highlighting great moments from the induction ceremonies over the years.

 

 

#3 – The Garage – Pick up an instrument and be an instant rockstar! Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned musician this interactive experience is the real deal. For beginners there are kiosks that let you strap on a real guitar, sit behind a real set of drums or keyboard and show you how to play. It’s like Guitar Hero, but with real instruments. For a quieter experience there is a room full of acoustic guitars. Pick up one, sit down on a couch and play your favorite song. And for the veteran players there’s a fully equipped rehearsal room hosted by Rock Hall staff who can play along. Or you can rock out with a fellow visitor that you just met. Anything can happen!

 

 

IMPORTANT NOTE: Wheelchair users can access the space but none of the instruments are adapted, so you may not be able to fully experience The Garage. Don’t worry though, you can still rock out and help with the vocals! 🙂 Mic stands and microphones are available.

#4 – Rotating Exhibits – Exhibits are ever changing at the Rock Hall. Currently they have their Get Back To Let It Be experience down in the museum, which is a collaboration with the 2021 Beatles documentary, Get Back. See The Beatles like you never have before, with footage from the Let It Be sessions playing on multiple big screens as you walk through the exhibit. And there is also the Legends of Rock upstairs, featuring artifacts from your favorite artists and interviews where they explain their craft. 

 

Exhibits change regularly so be sure to check out the Rock Hall’s website to see what is on display before your visit. 

 

#5 – Special Programs and Events – Be sure to keep an eye out for special programs, events and concerts going on. Special guest speakers and programs are not uncommon. They are a great way to connect with the history of Rock. But ultimately Rock is about the experience so be sure to check out the Rock Hall Live! Summer Concert Series, running from July through the first week of September. 

 

And that’s our Top 5 for the Rock Hall! Hope you enjoy!

Accessibility

 

Before we go we want to discuss accessibility. Angela has never had an issue with accessibility at the Rock Hall, with the exception of the interactive aspect of The Garage. For such a unique space it is a wonderful barrier free experience. 

 

Click here for more info on the Rock Hall’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, Accessibility & Inclusion.

 

 

We hope you enjoy your visit to the Rock Hall! Visit rockhall.com for more info.

 

Be sure to let us know what you think in the comments section below.

Until next time, take care!

 

This article is part of our Destination Cleveland series. Stop back for more articles about Cleveland and what it has to offer.