Victory I Great Lakes Cruise: Cleveland

Victory II docked in Cleveland

By GERRY BARKER
North Palm Beach Life
Photos/Video by Gerry and Pamela Barker

After cruising Lake Erie, day four of our 10-day Victory I cruise on the Great lakes found us docked in Cleveland, OH., where we were greeted by a crew from the local television station as we cleared U.S. customs after our time in Canada. The city was celebrating the return of Victory I and starting May 12, Victory II, which will make some 30 stops here during the season. In fact, we saw Victory II docked here as she is prepared for her debut.

While Cleveland has a number of cultural attractions, it is maybe best known as the home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Initially established in 1983, Cleveland became its permanent home in 1986, partly recognizing the contributions of local DJ Alan Freed, who coined the term "rock and roll" and brought rhythm and blues into the mainstream.

Located on the shores of Lake Erie, near where our ship was docked, and designed by noted architect I.M. Pei, it is mecca for music lovers, and has a special meaning for this former rock music writer (check out my blog, Rock and Roll Rewind). We had a few hours to spend there on one of the ship's shore excursions.

There's so much to see, with six floors of exhibits and interactive opportunities. Here's a quick tour:

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Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Slideshow Tour