A kind poster suggested I post this question here.  I will be moving to Cleveland soon and will be working downtown (Public Square). Are there any places to rent (apts. lofts, condos, homes) close enough to walk to work that are safe and nice. I realize these are subjective terms but I'm interested in all opinions. I was thinking 1500 to 2000 a month.

 

You will easily find a lot of apartments within 2-3 blocks of Public Square that will be in your price (and below).  Safety-wise, you're fine.

 

Can anyone suggest a website that lists all the warehouse district apartments? 

by the way, welcome!

mrnovember-glad you made it over. here is a site to browse: http://www.warehousedistrict.org/ 

 

see the district life section. hopefully it is pretty up to date. I think Bridgeview is pretty well regarded (anyone feel free to jump in) my neighbor was just saying how much he enjoyed living there.  I think Bingham is the name of the nice building that has constantino's grocery (nice wine, dessert and cheese selection as well as all the staples) in the lobby.  Let this post float a couple days and you will get some feedback. Warehouse district is right by tower city. So is the e.4th /Gateway neighborhood. there is some  homelessness and panhandling around tower city (as well as a large mix of people working, playing, minding their own business). The Warehouse and Gateway neighborhoods are no worse safetywise than any other up and coming upscale neighborhoods in other cities.  The only issue I have heard about either area is noise from revelers on the street enjoying the clubs and restaurants.  a higher location or something not sitting over w. 6th, Prospect or E.4th should be considered if you are a light sleeper.  The area is very walkable, lots of great places to eat and drink.

here is the gateway link:  http://www.historicgateway.org/Housing.html  I know the WT Grant is especially nice.

geez, someone ought to tell the gateway district webmaster that its no longer 1996. 

 

What's odd is that gateway is run by the same people who run the Warehouse District. The WHD site is much better.

 

 

Thanks again Mr. Peabody. 

 

Maybe a little more background would help.  I'll be moving with spousal unit, no kids.  We're no longer young but I would like to think that we're young at heart at least.  I still like to drink (just not to excess anymore; hangovers get worse as you get older if you don't know) and listen to live music (just not in smoky bars which is where most of the good bands play I realize).  BTW, my moniker comes from a song from Ohio's own "The National"; I think they live in Brooklyn or the Bronx now.  Good band.  Anyway, I wouldn't be happy if I was awakened by street revelers, but wouldn't expect absolute quiet in a big city either.  We may be too old and unhip for this area and have to resign ourselves to the boring suburbs.  I'm sure I'll get a lot of feedback from coworkers once I get there, but this looks to be a cool site with a lot of knowledgable locals.  Thanks in advance for all the help.

1. Never resign yourself to the suburbs.

 

2. Be wary of suburban coworkers.

 

 

I live very close (less than a mile) to downtown in an area called Ohio City. If you are not in search of the intense young-20s nightlife, but still love an urban feel with some quality restaurants and bars. I'd take a look at Ohio City or Tremont. These areas are close to downtown and provide quick and convenient public transit to Public Square.  For $1500-2000, you will find some very nice places.  Keep in mind that the for-sale options in this area may be more upscale than some of the rentals. 

 

Take a look at www.clv-lofts.com

Peabody,

 

What's the rental situation at Stonebridge?

yeah without getting personal if you don't want to, you could give a list favorite and least favorite characteristics in housing and neighborhood. If you were to cast your net a little further than public square there are even more options- I live in an interesting area with great city and river views called the flats.. about 1/2 mile from tower city. Although I can see wanting to live right downtown-how cool to be able to walk out the door and into the office in a few steps?  As it happens Ohio City and Tremont mentioned by wimwar are very cool for living and/or visiting...but not work walkable like downtown.

As it happens Ohio City and Tremont mentioned by wimwar are very cool for living and/or visiting...but not work walkable like downtown.

 

Correct. Ohio City is not work-walkable, but its walkable in every other way.  Unless of course you happen to work in the neighborhood.

Peabody,

 

What's the rental situation at Stonebridge?

  There are two rental buildings. There are a few apartments in my building, but they are being converted to condos.  In the apartment buildings I understand a two story penthouse  with floor to ceiling windows can be had for under $2000 -views so nice that many "calender" or other famous Cleveland skyline shots are taken from Stonebridge units. I have walked from my condo to the garage at tower city in under 10 minutes. also Flats are close to Ohio City and Tremont

Thanks Wimwar

 

I'm definitely somewhere in between the MTV hiphop crowd and the boomers who still listen to the oldie station. 

 

I've never been able to walk to work before.  I've always had to commute, usually by car, and would rather not do that if I don't have to.  In another post I mentioned that the only really cold weather I've dealt with before is 2 weeks in Chicago in January so getting used to Cleveland's cold winters will be a challenge no doubt.  My wife's a nurse and probably won't be working right away and I'll be working at Public Square. I'm not afraid of panhandlers, except the schizophrenics who think I'm the devil...  If living in the Flats or Ohio City would mean getting on a bus next to my bldg. and getting off after only a few stops, then that would be doable. 

Thanks again Mr. Peabody. 

 

 

ha! Mr. peabody is my cats name...so funny you wrote that! I am a Ms, very similar demographic as you and your wife -married no kids (except step), like to drink and eat, but not too much b/c of the getting older hangovers...we both work very close to where we live. husband prof and CSU, me social services in this very community. OC as we call Ohio City is a quick rapid train ride (3 min) to Tower city. most places would be a few minute walk to the station.  Hopefully you and your wife can come for a visit to Cleveland before moving and check out Downtown, OC, Tremont-the  maybe the Flats which are kind of the middle of them all. I shouldnt be so rude, but the suburbs in my opinion stink (with the exception of the inner ring, but I would go for it and live in the city) and are to be avoided.   I usually am Ohio citys biggest booster, but the fact that you will be working in tower city makes downtown look pretty darn good. Not used to cold? oh get ready. although I moved here after I had lived 13 years in FL-and I survived.

Thanks Wimwar

 

I'm definitely somewhere in between the MTV hiphop crowd and the boomers who still listen to the oldie station. 

 

I've never been able to walk to work before.  I've always had to commute, usually by car, and would rather not do that if I don't have to.  In another post I mentioned that the only really cold weather I've dealt with before is 2 weeks in Chicago in January so getting used to Cleveland's cold winters will be a challenge no doubt.  My wife's a nurse and probably won't be working right away and I'll be working at Public Square. I'm not afraid of panhandlers, except the schizophrenics who think I'm the devil...  If living in the Flats or Ohio City would mean getting on a bus next to my bldg. and getting off after only a few stops, then that would be doable. 

 

check out www.ohiocity.com for an introduction.

 

I live on the western edge of Ohio City. I often take the bus to work. To public square, its about a 5-minute commute. Also, Lutheran Hospital (a branch of Cleveland Clinic) is located in the heart of Ohio City (in case your wife is looking for work).

I live on East 4th St. (Gateway Neighborhood), but I would recommend that if you can afford the Warehouse District or Reserve Square that you look at those places first.  And at 1,500-2,000 a month you can.  The most expensive units anywhere in Cleveland don't go for more than $2,500. 

 

The WD is much further along as a residential neighborhood than Gateway, and doesn't have nearly the amount of panhandling that Gateway does.  It also has more restaurants and bars than Gateway, although Gateway is starting to catch up.  There is a small grocery, Constantino's, but no pharmacy/convenience store (which Gateway does have).  Gateway and the WD are equidistant to Tower City and Public Square.

 

Reserve Square (in the Erieview neighborhood, which is really a modern CBD) is a huge modernist complex on East 12th, not a neighborhood.  Though architecturally bland, it has a lot of amenities, and will soon have a 30,000 sq ft grocery store in it retail arcade- incredibly convenient.  A convenience store is located a block away on East 9th, though hours are limited.  It is a little farther from Tower City/Public Square than Gateway or the Warehouse District, but still walkable.  It is mostly an office area, not a lot is open after business hours.  This is a problem in Gateway as well, though not as much.  The new management, K&D, is supposed to be very good.  They are renovating the entire building.  The Chesterfield next door is cheaper, but not as nice or well maintained.  The Statler, a renovated hotel, is also an option in that area.

 

As for Gateway, it is the "heart" of the city.  It is the center of the center, so it has the best walkability to all of downtown.  It feels like the most "urban" part of downtown, as well, because it isn't as cut up by surface lots as the WD or as sterile as Erieview.  It is also, I think, a little less expensive than the WD and more active than Erieview.  It suffers from alot of retail abandonment, although that is changing, and will continue to change over the next few years as redevelopment continues.

Ms. Peabody, Wimwar, and X

 

You don't know how much this helps.  Not only do I feel welcome, but I have a lot more insight into the neighborhoods than most newcomers do. 

 

On a somewhat related note, give me your thoughts on winter living.  Are there on line grocers that will deliver.  Any special clothes I need to get.  My daughter lived in Chicago and had some special mittens that would allow her to use her fingers for tokens and tickets on the loop.  I guess if I'm walking, that won't be a problem. 

 

After walking a few blocks I will have to spend the rest of the day in a warm office.  Is it just a matter of layering?  How about heated garages?  Are those a necessity, luxury?

The cold or even the snow to me is not worst thing about winter. rather after years in the south, the gray skys get old. plan you trips home or to sunny locals in the winter. when I lived in Fl, I knew a couple of people from this area. they recommended you do not get cooped up in the winter, rather get out on the brighter days and go for walk, hike in park, cross county ski or what have you. I do think this is very good advice, but last winter was not as good about following it as previous winters.  also there are lots of cozy pubs to sit in with a Guinness, watch the fire, and listen to a little music. you have to try and find the positive.

 

layering: I always hear about this, intend to do it, but am too lazy and get too warm. I am a person who generally is hot rather than cold. I owned nothing heavier than a blazer when I lived in FL. here, I always find offices so hot in the winter that even a sweater can be uncomfortable. Most people do layer right? I have a couple heavy jackets, a rain coat,  a lighter leather jacket, and a few assorted light ones . Most people have several jackets but for starters you can get away with one heavy, one light, maybe a trench coat style for work,ideally water proof. a place to start looking for  coats is Burlington Coat Factory. I know, lame, but the selection is huge.  and yes you will need boots/heavy shoes, gloves, hat , scarf by late DEC  and Jan. I  imagine downtown there are some services that deliver groceries-elsewhere not sure. although if grocery delivery is motivated by worries about the cold vs. convenience only, I will say the winter is not that bad! A heated garage is a luxury, not necessity. Even a covered or enclosed garage is luxury, but many will argue this to necessity. If you have a car, I will say a garage is nice and given your price range you can easily budget for one and be happy you did. Does any one know status of heated garages in Cleveland? I live in a condo with one, but not sure about how many apartments have them. Frankly it would be less uncomfortable to walk a few blocks to work than get into a cold car and wait for it to get warm to drive to work!

Welcome to Cleveland!!

 

I can help out on the winter stuff. Clothing wise, you'll need some good sweaters, sweatshirts and a warm winter coat. Nothing too crazy -- it's not the north pole (or Ashtabula:). I've done well the last 10 years with woolcoats, like a peacoat. When it gets REALLY cold as it does from time to time, you'll probably want something to cover your face while you're walking. I'd also consider some boots. That'll keep your feet warm and keep your work shoes in good condition.

 

I grew up in NEO, and I've never had a heated garage for the car. I guess the more upscale places might have this? In general, I've found that if you just let the car warm-up for a minute (that's what the manual says!), it does just fine.

 

You'll appreciate walking home or commuting via train big time when the winter comes around here. That's when traffic on the highways gets really, really, really bad. 77 and 480, the traffic corridors of doom.

Welcome, mrnovember! I hope you enjoy Cleveland as the rest of us do; it's a great city that works its way under your skin and into your heart. All of the options noted so far are good ones. Again, I would highly recommend coming to Cleveland before your move, or scheduling several days of looking before committing to a place. One of the best features of our city is that its ethnic/cultural diversity, which has produced a number of highly unique city neighborhoods, all that offer different "feels" and different amenities. And for $2,000 a month, you'll be able to rent just about any upscale unit in any upscale building in any neighborhood in the city.

 

In addition to several places in close proximity to Terminal Tower, there are a number of great neighborhoods that are accessible by train, which you can access directly from Public Square (below the Terminal Tower complex). Ohio City is a fun, quirky neighborhood. A little further to the west, Detroit Shoreway is also accessible by train and is home to an emerging cultural district and EcoVillage, a node of sustainable/green building principles. A little further to the west is The Edge, which is home to many late-night diners and vintage shops (accessible by both train and the 55 bus).

 

On the east side, the most train-friendly neighborhood is undoubtedly Shaker Square. It's also the densest neighborhood within the city proper, is culturally diverse and is home to the nation's oldest planned outdoor shopping area. Both Ohio City and Shaker Square are home to some great farmer's markets (although the West Side Market in Ohio City, by all means, eclipses all other farmer's markets for both atmosphere and offerings). All of these neighborhoods are within 15 minutes of Public Square via train. That being said, there are a lot of great options downtown and I wouldn't want to dissuade you from investing there ... it just depends on what kind of "feel" you want in your neighborhood. In Cleveland, you can pretty much find any scene! Please, please, please don't live in the suburbs!!! If you need more help and don't have time to visit before your move, I'd suggest contacting the Living in Cleveland center, which will be happy to share information about both rental and purchase opportunities here: http://livingincleveland.nhlink.net/. Or check out Downtown Digs: http://www.downtown-digs.com.

 

As for winter, as a transplant, I don't think it's quite as bad as people claim ... we have similar weather patterns to most of the upper Midwest and upper East Coast. That being said, the first winter will be daunting, and then you start to get used to it. Some tips:

 

1. Something no one tells you about is how much SALT this city pours everywhere. Cleveland is very good about getting the snow off the roads quickly, but the salt they use to do so stains both shoes and carpets if you don't clean it off pretty quickly.

2. Snow is less of a problem (in my humble opinion) than freezing rain, which can range from slush that gets you cold and wet very quickly to hard little pellets, which can really sting. Umbrellas don't stand up to freezing rain very well, as our strong lake winds often blow this precipitation horizontally or carry your umbrella away or destroy it. I'd recommend, in your arsenal, a large rain jacket and a scarf.

3. The worst month for me is February. In November and December, the snow is actually kind of beautiful. After several months of it, though, it starts to wear on you, and spring seems to drag in getting here. If you need a warm region vacation for a winter reprieve, I would definitely plan it for February or early March.

4. Don't be afraid of all the winter warnings. While it will be an adjustment, millions and millions of people have survived here for more than 200 years. And we're pleasantly rewarded each summer, when Cleveland's weather, coloring, lake breeze and people make this a truly beautiful place to live.

 

Sorry for writing a novel, but I hope it's helpful. Keep the questions coming; we love to help!

 

 

 

 

well everyone knows how much I love OC and tremont. that said there is a huge appeal to the warehouse district esp in MrNov's price range and the fact MrNOv is working in Tower City and could WALK TO WORK! the Warehouse district has such a city feel-tall buildings, glamorous lofts, and the bustling street scapes: sidewalk tables brimming with workers and players-fancy restaurants and martini bars, a few awesome not fancy ones such as my precious Little Bar and Grill, and the nighclubs (I do not personally partake, but I suppose it is an asset).  I am not going to make a NYC comparison and am only doing this in the event you are familiar with NYC,-but loosely put I think of Warehouse district  is sort of like the the upper east side...a little more upscale than the other areas in our city. Still cool, but not as much gritty character as artsy Tremont (soho or Greenwich village?) or hip, neighborhoody Ohio City (east villiage?). So OC and Tremont are lower manhatten in character and Warehouse/w6th more upper Manhatten. this is only my take-I am sure someone will disagree.  and for the record no place is as unique or interesting as Cleveland-including any hood in NYC! As a side note Warehouse area buildings will have secure parking and doors as well as security in many cases which may be reassuring to people moving in from out of town who often choose to error on the side of caution safety wise until they determine their comfort level in their new city. And yes, if you chose the Warehouse district, while plenty to see and do...you would be pulled to OC to hang out, I can assure you. But it is only a mile away so no problem! Also, as much as moving sucks can always explore your first year here and if you don't think the neighborhood you picked is perfect, you decide where the perfect place is and move.

As for winter I'd recommend that instead of outfitting yourself for an expedition you buy things piece by piece as you find you need them.  Different people definitely need different amounts of winter protections.  I get hot if I wear anything more than a heavy leather jacket, light gloves, and a scarf.  Others need heavy wool caps, scarves, multiple jackets, massive mittens, galloshes (boots that fit over your shoes), snow pants, thermal underwear, and god knows what else. 

 

I'd go out in the cold and see how it feels before buying anything.  If my ears freeze, I'd go buy some earmuffs.  If my head was cold, I'd buy a hat, etc.

 

Also, the worst thing about winter downtown is the wind, which comes off the lake very strong and whips down the streets as if down a tunnel.  Sometimes the sidewalks aren't cleaned consistently, so there can be a bit of climbing over the drifts left by the street plows.  Even downtown, things are run for the automobile!

Welcome, Mr. November!

 

If I were to live downtown, I'd live on E. 4th. The buildings are just as cool as the Warehouse District and it has a slightly more mature vibe. I also like the renovations I've seen here better than in the WD -- more hardwood floors, more open floor plans.

 

Ohio City is one train stop or a short bus ride from downtown, and having lived there for a year I echo all the other positive things that have been said. If you want to walk to the train station, I'd look at some of the buildings on W. 25th. Howard Hanna is a big realtor with offices on W. 25th, and I know they handle some rental properties. The branch phone is 216.696.4800. I also reiterate 8SOG's advice to visit and explore neighborhoods before moving if you can. Good luck!

Welcome to the forum, and welcome to Cleveland.

 

Everyone has given some pretty good advice so far. I'm not sure if you mentioned it, but will you have a car? Parking fees, while cheap compared to some cities, are something to consider. However, one thing I'd strongly recommend (especially in your price range) is to try to find several properties you are interested in and get them to earn your business (aka play them off each other). See if you can them to offer extra amenities or discounts - the market is currently in your favor. As far as specific buildings, if I were to live in the Warehouse District, I would consider the Perry-Payne Building on Superior if location was my main criteria. It's a little bit away from the hustle and bustle of West 6th, and it's closer to Tower City (and its train station). I have heard less-than-stellar reviews from more than one person of the National Terminal building on West 9th Street. As far as the Gateway District - although East 4th has some great buildings, it will become a lot less quiet in the next year with new entertainment venues opening soon.

 

Also as far as winter gear goes, X is correct that you'll need to find what suits you. However, I strongly, STRONGLY recommend a pair of the following. They're available at places like Target, Kohls, etc. I've found they're great for keeping the bitter cold wind off and out of your ears, and unlike a hat, don't mess up your hair.

 

Also, there are certain buildings/structures that offer "warm cuts" (instead of short cuts) throughout downtown. Sometimes taking that one-block shortcut on a super-cold day makes a world of difference. You'll want to become familiar with those - one of these days, I'll make a map.

 

 

To add on to what MayDay has said.

 

the most important thing for me is a good pair of Boots.  A functional pair of good water resistant boots.  Cleveland and the 'burbs clear snow very well, however, slush and the salt from the roads is a b*tch!

 

Cute designer boots are only cute if you're going from your home to the car to the venue, but for everyday use...a good pair of boots is essential.

 

One other thing to remember is its not the snow this is the problem its wind (wind chill-the air temperature).

 

I am not going to make a NYC comparison and am only doing this in the event you are familiar with NYC,-but loosely put I think of Warehouse district  is sort of like the the upper east side...a little more upscale than the other areas in our city. Still cool, but not as much gritty character as artsy Tremont (soho or Greenwich village?) or hip, neighborhoody Ohio City (east villiage?).

 

So OC and Tremont are lower manhatten in character and Warehouse/w6th more upper Manhatten. this is only my take-I am sure someone will disagree.  and for the record no place is as unique or interesting as Cleveland-including any hood in NYC!

 

I'd like to give my impression of Cleveland neighborhoods to similar neighborhoods around the country.

 

Tremont is comparable to Carroll Gardens or Williamsburg in Brooklyn; Astoria in Queens; Morningside Heights/Manhattan Valley in Manhattan.  This is a young hip neighborhood on the verge of maxing out

 

Ohio City is like Park Slope or Prospect Heights in Brooklyn; Possbily even Hyde Park in Chicago; Eastern Market in DC. A young neighborhood thats cool, with a mix of families and good restaurants and transportations

 

the Historic Warehouse District is like the Meat Packing District, Soho or Tribeca in Manhattan (the look and feel); or Dumbo in Brooklyn.  Great Big loft apartments, cool hip Devil wears Prada affect.

 

Detroit Shoreway is like Long Island City/Sunnyside or Woodside in Queens; Carroll Gardens or Red Hook in Brooklyn.  Good working class neighborhoods with nice homes, neighborhood block clubs, yet have an urban appeal and within a stones throw of "adult friendly" 'hoods.

 

Eastern Sterling-Payne is like DC's Chinatown (without the gawdy awning); and Phillies China town.  Close knit ethnic neighborhood.  There is a smaller neighborhood on the wester edge of Sterling-Payne that houses a lot of artists, similar to Miami's design district (clevland just has better buildings!)

 

Historical Upper Prospect is similar to Harlem in Manhattan, Fort Greene in Brooklyn; Eastern Market or Kalama in DC.  Nice old stately homes or Brownstones that are well kept and maintained, the area is "next" to be discovered.

 

University Circle.  I can't compare this area to any area domestically since its undergoing radical changes.

 

Shaker Square/Buckeye/Larchmere is similar to Union Square or Gramercy Park or the 90s on the Upper West Side in Manhattan; Brooklyn Heights in Brooklyn; Dupont Circle in DC;  Washington Square in Philly.  In addition Larchmere is similar to Antique's row in Philly.  Shaker Square is by far Cleveland's best neighborhood!

 

Edgewater is similar to Riverside Drive in Manhattan; Forest Hills in Queens; Brooklyn Heights in Brooklyn or Riverdale in the Bronx.

Very stable dense and diverse neighborhood with amazing prewar apartments and midrise buildings, with good views.

 

Some of our neighborhoods can't be duplicated like Little Italy, North Broadway (and its sub hoods), and the West Bank of the Flats are unique to Cleveland so I can't make note any similarities, except for Hough which reminds me of Sweet Auburn in ATL or South Shore in Chicago, but the housing in Hough has WAY better bones.

 

I also find them helpful to silence the crabbing of political gadflies who frequently call during each and every election season!

 

And when they invent a fly swatter for these gadflies, I will be among the first in line to buy one.

Thanks again for all the thoughtful responses.  I really like the way you guys have tried to analogize the neighborhoods to those in NYC.  I've never lived there (I subscribe to the New Yorker, does that count?), but I know enough about them to understand what you're trying to say. 

 

The weather wear threads are also quite helpful.  When I make a decision about where to live, I'll see what you guys have to say about restaurants, bars, doctors, barbers, etc......

Barber? There are plenty of regular barber types around downtown (and salons as well). I can recommend salons since I'm admittedly a little more high maintenance. Dentists - I've heard good things about Superior Dentistry in the Leader Building (East 6th at Superior). Feel free to ask more info :)

I guess barber is an outdated term.  I use a female "hair stylist" now...  Not sure if this high maintenance.... :-D

If you really meant barber I was going to recommend the Barber "College" (quotations added by me) in Ohio City. For male/female salon, Lipstick and Razor Blades on the Viaduct is great-also the space is too die for-in a funky building from I believe the 1890's with a great city view.

ooooh no, avoid the barber college! my hair looked like it had been subjected to a lawnmower after i went there! :(

just IMHO...

well I think a barber is a barber , no? and you cant beat a $3 haircut. once when I only needed a trim I went in there and actually got assigned a pretty good student. I went back once or twice more to get my hair trimmed with her and then she graduated. I did not press my luck and have not gone again. It is hilarious and even surreal in there, right down to the exceptionally creepy instructor I call Lurch (not to his face of course) I can see him now outside my window. If you have been there you know who I am talking about.  Anyhow, I now pay quite a bit more than $3, but am happy with the result, the salon is across the street from me...and she gives me icy cans of PBR to sip when I am there.

fyi

 

I heard that all the new students at the barber college use the western row of seats.

peabody, do you go to Zen? So does my S.O. :-)

peabody, do you go to Zen? So does my S.O. :-)

No Lipstick and Razorblades which is across the st. from where I live, Zen  is down the street from my office. I heard they are great too. The barber college can be seen out my window and provides amusement when market square is having a slow day. 

 

edit: does Zen serve PBR too??!

How much is a straight haircut at Lipstick and Razorblades? I'm similarly high maintenance when it comes to hair.

How much is a straight haircut at Lipstick and Razorblades? I'm similarly high maintenance when it comes to hair.

well I pay $40 for a womens cut from Kimberly (it seems prices are a little higher for people I have sent there over time-$45) My husband gets his cut by Alison,and she charges less. If you want more exact details, i'll ask him. Both girls are great-very talented and will do exactly what you want or be will creative if you want. Also usually have good flats west bank gossip  which of course I cannot repeat .   and the space is so awesome -original oak plank floors, tall ceilings, city view, did I mention the PBR?  great vibe in there.

where exactly is this lipstip place?

it is across from the stonebridge condo building in the old building next to the spaces Gallery building. the old man says Alison charges him $30. If you are going to go, you can always ask when you make an appt.  I have to say they do a nice job on his cut. it took his look from circa 1991 law enforcement officer to current. Prior to Lipstick and Razorblades he was the "strait hair" guinea pig at the Shaw High School cosmetology school in East Cleveland (his Cleveland st. work took him out there at the  time). fun times.

When I lived near University Circle I always went to the Barberia di Laura in Little Italy - now that they've moved to Euclid and Mayfield I think it's a lot more upscale and pricey.  Now I hit the Reagle Beagle in Lakewood for some sports on the tube, an icy draft beer, and a great cut, with neck massage too.

I personally use Rockefeller Barber and Studio Palmieri - both on W.6th St.

 

I think mrnovember wanted specific apartment building recommendations, and it sounded like he was pretty interested in downtown so he could walk to work. Here are some listings of buildings I am familar with:

 

Warehouse District: This is where the overwhelming majority of downtown residents live. It is one block west of Public Square located primarily on W.6th, St.Clair, and W.9th. It is also where the nicest restaurants downtown are most highly concetrated. The atmosphere is generally swanky upscale, but there is still a decent variety. This list is pretty much copied from warehousedistrict.org, and it is a little dated. Some of the buildings may have been converted to for-sale-housing and the Bingham is a major building that wasn't included on their list. The Bingham is a must-see because the units are brand-new, utilities and many amenities included, the neighborhood's main grocery store is in the building, it is off the main (more noisey) W.6th strip, and priced pretty reasonably I think.

 

BINGHAM - W. 9th Street

http://www.thebingham.com

 

425 LAKESIDE APARTMENTS - 425 Lakeside Avenue

http://www.downtownapartments.com

Phone: 216-861-4080

 

APARTMENTS at NAUTICA - 2249 Elm Street

http://www.downtownapartments.com

Phone: 861-4080

 

BRADLEY BUILDING - 38 units/5 suites

1220 West 6th Street

http://www.bradleybldg.com

Phone: 216-621-2001

 

BRIDGEVIEW APARTMENTS - 1300 West 9th Street

http://www.landmarkmgt.com

Phone: 216-781-8510

 

CLOAK FACTORY - 635 West Lakeside Avenue

http://www.cloakfactory.com

Phone: 696-9500

 

GRAND ARCADE - 408 St. Clair Avenue

http://www.grandarcade.com

Phone: 216-781-8510

 

HAT FACTORY - 1235 West 6th Street

http://www.apartmentguide.com

Phone: 216-861-7200

 

MARSHALL PLACE APARTMENTS - 1211 West 9th Street

Phone: 440/975-8118

 

NATIONAL TERMINAL - 1215 West 10th Street

http://www.apartmentguide.com

Phone: 216-579-9766

 

PERRY-PAYNE BUILDING - 740 Superior Avenue

http://www.landmarkmgt.com

Phone: 216-241-4340

 

RIVERBEND CONDOMINIUMS - 1444 West 10th Street

http://www.multivesting.com

Phone: 216-781-5400

 

WATERSTREET APARTMENTS - 1133 West 9th Street

http://www.landmarkmgt.com

Phone: 216-241-4340

 

WORTHINGTON SQUARE - 840 St. Clair Avenue

http://www.downtownapartments.com

Phone: 216-861-4080

 

 

Lower Euclid and Gateway: This neighborhood is on the opposite side of Public Square from the Warehouse District. It is very close to Jacobs Field and Q Arena. Other main attractions include the House of Blues, Pickwick and Frolic (upscale restaurant and comedy complex), and Lola's (reoppening soon - the flagship restaurant of national celebrity chef Michael Symon). Playhouse Square is also within walking distance.

 

COMMERCIAL, BUCKEYE, FREDERICK, WINDSOR BLOCK

E.4th Street

http://www.east4thstreet.com/

 

POINTE AT GATEWAY

750 Prospect

621-6300 

 

CARTER MANOR

1012 Prospect 

241-2850

 

HURON SQUARE

1001 Huron 

575-1175 

 

OSBORN BUILDING

1020 Huron 

575-1175 

 

STATLER ARMS

1127 Euclid 

696-6800 

 

 

Main Attractions Downtown: Any of the above mentioned apartments are within walking distance to these attractions

 

TOWER CITY CENTER - a complex of shops, restaurants, movie theater, hotels, offices, and county-wide transit hub of rail and bus lines. The city's landmark tower on Public Square, Terminal Tower, is a part of the complex.

http://www.towercitycenter.com

 

PLAYHOUSE SQUARE - The second largest performing arts center in the country in beautifully restored historic theaters.

http://www.playhousesquare.org/

 

ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME

http://www.rockhall.com/

 

LOLLY THE TROLLEY TOURS - of course its touristy, but maybe a great way to orient yourself with the city face-to-face when you get into town. The Trolley departs from Lake Erie Artists on Huron Road and in Tower City Center.

http://www.lollytrolley.com

 

 

University Circle Attractions: After downtown University Circle is the second major hub of employment and activity. It is like a ten minute drive, and where most of the musuems, the orchestra, higher education, hospitals, etc. are located. You must go there soon after you get into town. Little Italy is a neighborhood right next to University Circle with great art galleries and of course food.

http://www.universitycircle.org/

 

 

 

For Sale Housing in the City: Depending on what your plans are after initial residency in Cleveland, buying within the city might not be a bad way to go because most of the new for-sale housing downtown and in all of the city limits is presently tax-abated for 15 years. The downtown population is growing, and if you surf this site some, you will learn that a lot of really big exciting things are in development for the city in terms of transportation, new housing, retail, attractions, etc. It seems like it is relatively affordable right now, and a very good investment. Perhaps the best way to get an idea about this for-sale housing in the city is to check out Cleveland's Progressive Urban Real Estate. They pretty much list everything within the city limits right now.

http://www.progressiveurban.com

a nice list (however Carter Manor is public housing...)

a nice list (however Carter Manor is public housing...)

 

Public? I believe that it is senior housing.

where exactly is this lipstip place?

 

Its sounds like one hot lesbian bar!  :wink:

 

Vulpster03  - Good list .

 

here is information from the downtown Cleveland Partnershipt, which also needs to be updated.  As with most things, if there is not website listed, you can do an internet search for the property and most likely the website will pop up.

 

http://www.downtownclevelandpartnership.com/housing.html

 

 

a nice list (however Carter Manor is public housing...)

 

Public? I believe that it is senior housing.

well I should clarify, it is subsidized housing- I believe CMHA funded. Not sure if senior only, possible disabled too. 

Mr. V's synopsis of places was very nice. Thanks.  I like the Trolley idea.  Looks like a good way to get to know the neighborhoods.

 

 

There has been a change of plans and I will be coming to Cleveland by myself, at least temporarily, so I will need a furnished apt or something similar.  Any ideas?  Need to be close to Public Square.

 

Second thing:  I will be driving an all wheel drive vehicle from the south.  I doubt I will be driving much but was wondering about snow tires (I need new tires anyway).  Any suggestions.  Overkill or will they be useful?  Not talking about studded tires but something that will be good for dry and wet payments and aren't prone to hydroplaning.

 

Lastly, which route is best for getting downtown coming in from the south?  Is one way preferable in terms of traffic, road conditions.  I'll be coming in during middle of the day if things go as planned.

Reserve Square has furnished apartments and short term leases. You can certainly walk to Public Square from there. They're a little dated and nothing special, but for short term this might work out. I'm not familar with any other furnished apartments downtown. http://www.reservesquareapts.com/

 

I don't have snow tires on my coupe and I drive around okay.

www.statlerarms.com

 

they have some corporate suites (usually a few hundred more than the prices listed and will do month to month, 6 month, etc.)

Snow tires are probably unnecessary... The traffic here isn't bad, especially during the middle of the day.  Mapquest or Randmcnally's time should be pretty close to the time it will take you.

 

If you're interested blinker12 and I are in the process of planning our second round of Emerging Cleveland tours (www.emergingcleveland.com).  I'm a little biased, but if you're looking to see some cool neighborhoods and hidden Cleveland gems you and your wife should come :)