The West Side Market originally had 109 stalls and a wraparound produce arcade with 80 stalls for fresh produce vendors, and a lower-level storage area was added in 1953. A number of the West Side Market’s stalls are still run by families that have been there since the opening of the market, while many other stalls are operated by vendors from East and Western Europe and the Middle East. The market is host to multiple food festivals, and in 2010, it was recognized by the Food Network as “America’s Best Food Lovers’ Market.” Also designated as one of the “10 Great Public Places in America” by the American Planning Association in 2008, West Side Market is a gem of culture and community. Getting lost in the hustle and bustle of this market is a highlight not to be missed when visiting Cleveland.

The West Side Market hosted the 7th International Public Markets Conference in 2012.

Located on West 25th Street and considered by locals to be the anchor of Cleveland’s Ohio City neighborhood, the West Side Market is the oldest continuously operating and municipally owned market in Ohio. Though the market began several decades earlier, in 1868 a one-story wood framed building dubbed the Pearl Street Market was built. The current market building, located across the street, replaced the Pearl Street Market in 1912 in order to accommodate population growth and the increased patronage. This spectacular brick building boasts a 44-foot vaulted ceiling complete with Guastavino tile and a 137-foot clock tower. In 1973, the market was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Image Credits: All photos from Erik Drost, via Flickr

Website: http://westsidemarket.org/

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