Cleveland National Air Show

The Cleveland National Air Show, held each Labor Day weekend along the shores of Lake Erie in downtown Cleveland, combines educational exhibits with thrilling fly-bys and tactical demonstrations by exciting air teams, including the famous "Blue Angels." Begun in 1964, the Cleveland Air Show has become one of the city's Labor Day traditions. The 2008 dates are August 30 - September 1.

Attractions: Attractions at the Cleveland National Air Show include cockpit photos for kids and adults, BBQ from the Johnsonville Big Taste Grill, and an interactive exhibit sponsored by the NASA Glenn Research Center.

Fly-bys: Scheduled fly-bys at the Air Show include a British Spitfire, the Canadian Forces CP-140, a USAF F-22 Raptor, a USAF B-1B bomber, and a USAF F-117A Nighhawk, among others.

The Blue Angels and More: The Blue Angels demonstration is the highlight of the Air Show. These talented flyers are the best of the best and fly in incredibly tight formations in and around the grandstand. In addition, scheduled air demonstrations include a USAF A-10 Warthog, an Ohio Air National Guard C-130 Hercules, and the US Army Golden Knights Precision Parachute Team.

Tickets: Tickets for the Cleveland National Air Show may be purchased online from the Air Show's website, at Discount Drug Mart outlets around Cleveland, by mail, by phone, or at the Air Show box office which opens two weeks prior to the event. One day general admission tickets are $17 for adults and $12 for children. Reserved box seating is $25 per person per day.

Attending the Air Show: Burke Lakefront Airport is easily accessible from all over Cleveland via I-90. Parking is available onsite for $10 per car. Additional downtown parking is available at the Cleveland Municipal Parking Lot and around the Galleria and the Cleveland Convention Center.

Visitors wishing to take public transportation should take the Waterfront Rapid line from Public Square.

Hotels Near the Cleveland National Air Show: The Cleveland National Air Show is within walking distance of major downtown hotels, such as the Renaissance Cleveland (check rates), the Ritz Carlton(check rates), and the Marriott Key Center (check rates). The Holiday Lakeside (check rates) is another convenient option, particularly if you are also visiting the Great Lakes Science Center and/or the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. For less expensive accommodations, try one of the hotels at the I-77/Rockside Road corridor, such as the Days Inn Independence(check rates).

^{(last updated 2-06-08)}