Airport operations have gotten complicated with all the changes and updates flying around. As someone with extensive travel experience, I learned everything there is to know about this topic. Today, I will share it all with you.

Cleveland Airport Arrivals: A Guide to Navigating Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

I’ve flown into Cleveland Hopkins (CLE) probably two dozen times over the years, and there’s something weirdly comforting about that airport. It’s not trying to be anything fancy. Just a Midwestern workhorse that gets the job done.

Getting From the Plane to the Terminal

Here’s what actually happens when you land at CLE. Your plane pulls into one of three concourses: A, B, or C. All three connect directly to the main terminal, which means no shuttle buses or people movers to deal with. You just walk.

The signage is decent. Not amazing, not confusing. Middle of the road. Follow the arrows toward baggage claim and you’ll get there. Probably takes 5-10 minutes depending on which gate you landed at.

If you need wheelchair assistance, call the airline ahead of time. They’ll have someone waiting at the gate. International arrivals go through customs in the terminal itself. Pretty straightforward setup.

Baggage Claim

Baggage claim sits on the lower level. Head down the escalator or elevator and look for the screens showing which carousel has your flight. CLE isn’t huge, so finding your bags doesn’t involve hiking across multiple terminals.

While you’re waiting, the free Wi-Fi actually works reasonably well. Charging stations are scattered around if your phone’s running low. I usually grab my bag within 15-20 minutes of walking off the plane, though holiday weekends can stretch that.

Transportation Options

Getting out of CLE to wherever you’re actually going is the easy part. Way more options than you’d expect for a mid-sized airport.

RTA’s Red Line

This is the move if you’re heading downtown. The Red Line train stops directly at the airport, runs every 15 minutes or so, and costs a few bucks. You access it through a tunnel from the terminal. Takes about 25 minutes to get to Tower City in downtown Cleveland.

Honestly, I’d take the train over a rideshare during rush hour. No traffic, predictable timing, and you don’t have to make small talk with a driver at 6 AM.

Rental Cars

All the major rental agencies operate at CLE. You take a shuttle from the terminal to the rental car facility. Not walking distance, but the shuttle runs constantly. Budget an extra 20-30 minutes if you’re renting.

Taxis and Rideshares

Uber and Lyft work fine here. Follow the signs to the designated pickup areas. Taxis are available too if that’s your preference. Expect $35-50 to get downtown depending on time of day and traffic.

Facilities and Amenities

CLE has what you need without a lot of filler. It’s not going to wow you with artisanal coffee bars and celebrity chef restaurants, but you won’t be stranded without food either.

Dining and Shopping

Chick-fil-A, Panera, and Great Lakes Brewing Co. are the highlights. Great Lakes is actually a pretty solid choice if you have time to kill and want a local beer before your flight. For shopping, expect the usual airport stuff: books, snacks, Cleveland gear.

Accessibility Features

• Elevators and Escalators throughout
• Accessible Restrooms clearly marked
• Service Animal Relief Areas (both pre and post security)

The airport handles accessibility pretty well from what I’ve seen. Everything’s clearly signed.

Business Services

There’s a Business Center if you need to print something or take a call in a quiet room. Not something I’ve used personally, but it’s there if you’re in a pinch.

Pet Travel

Pet relief areas exist both before and after security. They’re not fancy, but they do the job. Traveling with dogs through CLE has never been a problem.

Nearby Hotels

If you need to crash near the airport, several hotels run free shuttles:

• Cleveland Airport Marriott
• Hilton Garden Inn Cleveland Airport
• Sheraton Cleveland Airport Hotel

All fine options. Nothing remarkable, but clean and functional with airport shuttle service included.

Tips From Someone Who’s Actually Done This

A few things I’ve learned flying through CLE:

• The airport isn’t that big, so an hour before boarding is usually plenty
• TSA PreCheck lines move fast here, often faster than regular lines at busier airports
• Download the RTA app if you’re taking the train so you know exactly when it’s arriving
• Great Lakes Brewing closes earlier than you’d think, so don’t count on a late-night beer

Cleveland Hopkins isn’t trying to be LaGuardia or O’Hare. It’s smaller, quieter, and easier to navigate. For a connecting hub or final destination, you could do a lot worse.