Like any city that experienced an industrial boom and rapid slow-down, Cleveland is a modern urbex dream. There's abandoned buildings everywhere, from massive warehouses to tiny homes. Every city has rumors of underground tunnels: the idea is so full of mystery and adventure, kids and adults alike enjoy the intrigue. But Cleveland actually does have abandoned underground tunnels. These tunnels were part of the Cleveland subway system that used to link west Cleveland to downtown.
The Detroit-Superior subway line was operational until 1954.
Twice a year, on Labor Day and Memorial Day weekends, you can take a self-guided tour of some of Cleveland's transport history.
The trip is a little bit eerie, but beautiful. The tour takes you across the under-level of the Detroit-Superior and Veteran's Memorial Bridges, which gives you great views of the city and river. But the real hidden gem is the Detroit-Superior Subway.
The Cuyahoga County Engineers Office is now responsible for the abandoned subway tunnels.
On opening days, volunteers will guide you to the entrance.
Walk down the same steps that your parents and grandparents might have walked down over 60 years ago. Some years, the Engineers Office plays music from the era of operation as you descend the stairs. Listen to the big band fade into the distance as you wander further underground.
Some of the details from the old subway were never removed, like this sign. The original tiling on some of the walls reflects camera flashes. Many old pipes that could not be removed, or did not require removal still run along the ceilings and walls.
The star attraction of the old subway system is this original train car which has been left in the abandoned tunnels.
It's fun to imagine this brightly painted train car approaching the station platform all those years ago.
If you need any extra help imagining, here is a picture of the car in operation.
The decay is stark, but it's easy to see that these tiles and arches were impressive and beautiful in their day.
Wander around at your own pace, exploring the nooks and crannies of the subway. Try to picture it bustling with crowds of commuters, or after a game downtown!
The Veteran's Memorial Bridge was regular host to Ingenuity Fest until 2016 when it was moved to a more permanent location. This was one of the most unique ways that Cleveland combined its history with its future.
There's something fascinating about the quiet tunnels, and the reminder that what we build remains, even after we've abandoned it. It makes you wonder what else is hidden under the city.
Have you been in the abandoned Cleveland subway systems tunnels? Maybe you or someone you know remembers the subway when it was still operational. We'd love for you to share your stories and pictures with us in the comments! You love love learning about Clevelands past, you might be interested in our Cleveland history road trip.
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