The Flats

`The Flats is an area of Cleveland, Ohio that lines the banks of the Cuyahoga River. This neighborhood is divided into the East and the West Flats. The Flats is a renovated collection of former industrial buildings and warehouses. There was a time when this area held the distinction as home to the highest concentration of bars in the Midwest. This was during the early 1990's. Due to a string of unfortunate incidents, most of the bars and businesses of the East Flats have gone out of business. There have been plans in the works for several years to rejuvenate the East Flats of Cleveland but these plans have remained stalled.

The Nautica Entertainment Complex is the center of activity for the West Flats of Cleveland. The complex includes The Plain Dealer Pavilion which boasts the capacity to seat 5,000 spectators in an outdoor arena. The scenery at the Pavilion showcases the Cuyahoga river, Cleveland skyline, and two stunning lighted bridges. The Plain Dealer Pavilion hosts concerts from early summer to early fall. The Powerhouse is also a hallmark of The Nautica. This former power station has been transformed into retail shops, a comedy club, and several restaurants. The IMPROV comedy clubs, Powerhouse Pub, Rock Bottom Brewery, Howel at the Moon Cafe, Cyrus Waterfront Restaurant, and Windows on the River catering venue are located within the Powerhouse building. The Nautica Queen cruise ship is also based in the West Flats. The ship offers scenic lunch and dinner cruises. A half-mile long boardwalk is also a notable feature of the Nautica Entertainment Complex.