The City Sights Network


The near West side: Ohio City

Close by, across the Cuyahoga River from downtown and accessible by the Carnegie Bridge, the village of Ohio City was originally settled by Germans, Irish and Hungarians who exploited the boat-related trades on the river. Though the two cities were in competition for a long time, Ohio City was eventually annexed to Cleveland in 1854. One of the oldest parts of the city, it has kept much of its character as many of its historic Victorian homes have been restored to their old town charm.

     After many years of existence as the Pearl Street Market, a one-story wooden building built in 1868, the West Side Market as it stands today was finally established in 1912. A destination in itself in the neighborhood, the West Side Market is located on West 25^th Street and Lorain Avenue . Easily recognizable thanks to its clock tower, the West Side Market is an indoor-outdoor market, the largest one in the country.

     The market contains 180 booths offering from baked items to fresh produce, spices, an immense variety of meats and fish and a large choice of ethnic foods. Market Square District is the entranceway to Ohio City and leads the path to Lorain Avenue known for its numerous antique shops and to be the home of art studios. On the square, Saturdays are a feast in the summer. Outdoor musical and artistic performances, as well as a diverse array of activities take part in the summer market, which settles in for the warm season, from May to October.  

     This neighborhood is a successful mix of tradition and modernity. Numerous Hispanic and Asian Americans now populate Ohio City .  Many ethnic restaurants, trendy shops and dance clubs as well as new living communities have opened, which enhances the charm of the restored Victorian homes.  It is a neighborhood that people love for its diversity.