Playoffs & Championships

By Bustin’ Stuff - Burning River Roller Derby

The 2015 International WFTDA Division 2 Playoff Tournament in Cleveland will be held in the historic Cleveland Public Auditorium in downtown Cleveland, Ohio. Built in 1922, Public Auditorium features murals, ornate architectural details, and a 10,000-seat bowl that is elevated above the expansive wooden floor. It has hosted a wide array of events over the years, most recently the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction ceremonies.

Just an 8-min walk from the venue is the Lake Erie waterfront, home of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Great Lakes Science Center, and Cleveland Browns Stadium. Under a mile to the east is Playhouse Square, home to the world’s largest outdoor chandelier and a good place to catch a live show moving between Chicago and the east coast.

Food and beer reign supreme in Cleveland. A number of famous chefs, including Rocco Whalen and Michael Symon, own restaurants downtown. A 10-min walk from the venue is E. 4th Street, a small and lively street that is home to Symon’s Lola among other scrumptious spots. Check out a concert at the House of Blues; catch a comedy show at Hilarities; and bowl a few rounds at The Corner Alley. Just around the corner from E. 4th on the light rail line (<1 mile from the venue) is the Horseshoe Casino if you are feeling lucky, as well as shopping at Tower City, which is home to hundreds of retailers.

One rail stop west of downtown is the W. 25th district, home to the historic West Side Market and Cleveland’s growing beer industry. Grab a brew and a variety of food, including veggie- and vegan-friendly options. Near W. 25th in the Tremont neighborhood, choose from more foodie locales or tap your childhood and visit the famous “A Christmas Story” house, which hosts tours all year round.

A 20-min ride on light rail or bus rapid transit is University Circle, home to a fantastic (and free) art museum, the The Cleveland Museum of Natural History and Botanical Garden, historic Lakeview Cemetery (resting place of President James Garfield) and even more food and drink options.

Cleveland is gaining traction as a fun and inexpensive travel destination. Last year, it was named in three independent travel lists as a top U.S. or international must-see city. Catch some great roller derby action and explore Cleveland’s transformation since the long-past days of the burning river!

For more information on the WFTDA International D2 Playoff in Cleveland and to get tickets visit WFTDA.com/Cleveland.