Cleveland Metroparks Opens New Community Sailing Center on Lake Erie

Cleveland Metroparks has officially opened the new Patrick S. Parker Community Sailing Center at the East 55th Street Marina, creating what officials say is the first community sailing center of its kind along Lake Erie in Ohio.

The $18.5 million facility is designed to expand public access to Lake Erie and provide new opportunities for sailing, education, recreation and community events.

The center features sailing instruction, boat rentals, classroom and community spaces, and year-round waterfront dining through The Galley restaurant. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor gathering areas, lakefront views and rooftop seating overlooking the water.

A key component of the project is the Charlie Britton Sailing School, operated by The Cleveland Foundry. The program will offer sailing lessons, STEM education, boating safety classes and water-based learning experiences for youth and adults. Organizers say the goal is to remove financial and experiential barriers that have traditionally limited access to sailing and waterfront recreation.

Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian Zimmerman said the new facility helps strengthen connections between Northeast Ohio residents and Lake Erie.

“The Patrick S. Parker Community Sailing Center redefines access to our lakefront,” Zimmerman said. “This facility will be a beacon for our community to connect with and explore our waterfront.”

The center was made possible through a combination of public and private funding, with major support from Parker Hannifin Corporation, Madeleine Parker, the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation, The Cleveland Foundry and other community partners.

Officials say the project also complements ongoing efforts to improve access to Cleveland’s lakefront and east side neighborhoods, including future trail connections and waterfront improvements.

A public grand opening and dedication ceremony is scheduled for June 23 at the East 55th Street Marina.