Revealing the heroic stories of the Underground Railroad to present day era, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center strives to shed light on the history of slavery in the United States and how it relates to contemporary times. Tucked away along the banks of the Ohio River, this educational center and museum opened in 2004. Permanent and traveling exhibits challenge and inspire visitors to learn more about the past with informative displays.
You'll find the Cincinnati Art Museum nestled in scenic Eden Park. Inside is a collection that spans 60000 works and 6000 years, including pieces from Greece, Rome, America, Africa, and the East. The collection also spans a range of mediums, from paintings to sculptures and more. There's even a gallery dedicated to Cincinnati natives.
A huge part of Cincinnati's transportation history, the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal recounts the significance of this historical building. Built in the Art Deco style, this station was one of the last stations of its size ever built. Since opening in 1933, the station has been transformed and now houses three exciting museums: the Cincinnati History Museum, Museum of Natural History and History, and Cinergy Children's Museum. Great for kids and adults of all interests, the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal is a can't-miss cultural hub.
Established in 1875, the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is the second oldest of its kind in America. Over 500 species of wildlife call this 65 acres (26 hectares) landscape their home. The zoo offers visitors a plethora of fascinating exhibits and educational programs. Explore the Reptile House for its snakes, turtles, and alligators; Monkey Island for its playful primates; and Wings of the World for its penguins, flamingoes, and array of feathered friends. Families can also enjoy amusement rides and a 4D theater experience. Here you will get to also see some exotic flora and fauna.
Home of the famed Cincinnati Reds, the Great American Ball Park has been hosting devoted fans and sports enthusiasts since 2003. Replete with state-of-the-art technology and excellent seating, the stadium marked its eighth season in the top flight (the MLB) in the 2010 season. Fans will appreciate the Great American Ball Park's scenic and central location on the Ohio River, as well as the many amenities offered here.
The Taft Museum of Art is, for any art enthusiast, an enriching and exciting outing. Located in a 19th-century National Historic Landmark called the Baum-Longworth-Sinton-Taft House, the museum contains art from all over the world. Its collections include porcelain artifacts, European and American paintings, decorative artifacts, furniture, sculptures, and works of art by Rembrandt, Goya, Reynolds, Gainsborough, and many more greats. Today, apart from its regular exhibitions, the museum also hosts a number of events including photography exhibitions, music events, workshops, educational programs, and more.
In the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood lies this 150-year-old park where many community activities take place. A popular spot for walking, jogging, and biking for locals, Washington Park boasts a playground and interactive water park. The park also hosts an array of cultural events like concerts, festivals, markets, and more. In 2012, Washington Park underwent extensive renovations that included an expansion and the addition of underground parking. Come for a quiet afternoon or local festivities, just don't miss out on Washington Park on your tour of Cincinnati.
This quirky museum is dedicated to the art of American signage. Owner and proprietor, Tod Swormstedt, has put together a massive collection of over 500 vintage signs once found throughout the country. An avid collector, his compilation ranges from advertisements to shiny Las Vegas neon lights. Take a guided tour through the museum and be entertained with fun and interesting stories of the life and times of American signs.
Nestled in the heart of Cincinnati, Fountain Square dates to as far back as 1871. Having been the primary locus of the city's civic and commercial nuances, this iconic square has been an integral part of the city center ever since its inception, and array of restaurants, shops and offices lie strewn across its structural expanse. Perhaps the centerpiece of this sprawling square is the incredibly ornate, bronze-cloaked Tyler Davidson Fountain, which was built when local businessman Henry Probasco wanted to honor his brother-in-law. Popularly known as 'The Square', this cherished landmark comes alive with effervescent dusky hues come night, further accentuated by the mellow glow and gushing fervor of the fountain lying in the foreground. With its tagline 'Where Cincinnati Connects' doing justice to its communal, inclusive and spirited tenor, the Square is, indeed, an indelible landmark of the city. Fountain Square has played host to a string of well-known festivals and events including Oktoberfest, and continues to do so.
Located along the Ohio River, Eden Park is one of the most scenic and attractive parks in the region, offering something for everyone. History buffs can admire architectural landmarks like the Elsinore Arch and Eden Park Stand Pipe that call this garden home. The park also has an art museum, the Krohn Conservatory, a beautiful lake with a kids play area, and a number of viewing points boasting panoramic views of the scenic Ohio River. Eden Park is also a great spot for a casual stroll through the greenery.