Visual Arts & Culture
Find Visual Arts, Culture & History in Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky
The Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region is steeped in a rich history and legacy. The revitalization of historic neighborhoods and the scenic riverfront – coupled with our renowned art museums, iconic landmarks and Art Deco architecture – makes the region a vibrant area for visual arts, culture and history.
Krohn Conservatory
Uptown
Krohn Conservatory
Uptown
Built in 1933 at the height of the Art Deco era, Krohn Conservatory showcases more than 3,500 plant species from around the world. The conservatory changes throughout... Read more
Built in 1933 at the height of the Art Deco era, Krohn Conservatory showcases more than 3,500 plant species from around the world. The conservatory changes throughout the year with special exhibits and programs, including the ever-popular Butterfly Show where thousands of butterflies are free to fly throughout the Krohn... Read More
Taft Museum of Art
Downtown
Taft Museum of Art
Downtown
The Taft Museum of Art is one of the finest small art museums in America. A National Historic Landmark built in 1820, the historic house was the home of some iconic... Read more
The Taft Museum of Art is one of the finest small art museums in America. A National Historic Landmark built in 1820, the historic house was the home of some iconic Cincinnatians, including: Martin Baum, Nicholas Longworth, David Sinton, Anna Sinton Taft and Charles Phelps Taft. Opening in 1932, the Taft Museum is home to an... Read More
World Peace Bell
South > Riverfront
World Peace Bell
South > Riverfront
You'll want to swing by Newport to visit the World Peace Bell: the largest, free-swinging bell in the world. Weighing in at 66,000 pounds and measuring 12 feet high and 12... Read more
You'll want to swing by Newport to visit the World Peace Bell: the largest, free-swinging bell in the world. Weighing in at 66,000 pounds and measuring 12 feet high and 12 feet wide, the bell was designed and cast by Cincinnati's own Verdin Bell Company, one of the largest bell-making companies in the world. Installed in 1999,... Read More
Lloyd Library and Museum
Downtown
Lloyd Library and Museum
Downtown
A collection covering medical botany, pharmacy, eclectic medicine, and horticulture.
A collection covering medical botany, pharmacy, eclectic medicine, and horticulture.
The Original Findlay Market Tour
Downtown
The Original Findlay Market Tour
Downtown
Experience a culinary trip around the world during this 90-minute guided tour of Cincinnati’s historic Findlay Market which stops at five specialty merchants... Read more
Experience a culinary trip around the world during this 90-minute guided tour of Cincinnati’s historic Findlay Market which stops at five specialty merchants where you'll meet the merchants, learn their history and products, and sample sips or small bites. Optional $5 add-on completes your tour with wine tasting at Market Wines... Read More
Union Terminal Rotunda Tours
Downtown
Union Terminal Rotunda Tours
Downtown
Celebrate Union Terminal’s restoration and learn about the building’s significant history with a 50-minute free Rotunda tour led by our Cincinnati Heritage Program docents... Read more
Celebrate Union Terminal’s restoration and learn about the building’s significant history with a 50-minute free Rotunda tour led by our Cincinnati Heritage Program docents. You’ll discover more about the construction, architecture and artwork of one of the world’s finest examples of art deco style. Hear details about the world-... Read More
The Banks
Downtown
The Banks
Downtown
Nestled along the river between Great American Ball Park, Paul Brown Stadium and the new 45- acre Phyllis W. Smale Riverfront park, The Banks offers something for everyone... Read more
Nestled along the river between Great American Ball Park, Paul Brown Stadium and the new 45- acre Phyllis W. Smale Riverfront park, The Banks offers something for everyone, from family-friendly restaurants to sports-friendly bars. Dining and nightlife options are Condado Tacos, BurgerFi, Holy Grail, Jefferson Social, Jimmy John... Read More
Wyoming Fine Arts Center
North
Wyoming Fine Arts Center
North
Since its founding in 1995, the Wyoming Fine Arts Center has become one of this region’s premier community art centers. We offer more programs to more students than... Read more
Since its founding in 1995, the Wyoming Fine Arts Center has become one of this region’s premier community art centers. We offer more programs to more students than virtually any other center in Greater Cincinnati. And we believe our personal approach to each student’s success is what sets us apart. The Wyoming Fine Arts Center... Read More
Waldschmidt Homestead Historical Site
East
Waldschmidt Homestead Historical Site
East
The Waldschmidt Homestead is a fully-restored 1804 home on its original site. Built by Christian Waldschmidt, a Revolutionary War veteran, the homestead was settled as... Read more
The Waldschmidt Homestead is a fully-restored 1804 home on its original site. Built by Christian Waldschmidt, a Revolutionary War veteran, the homestead was settled as part of the Ohio frontier’s New Germany community (now Camp Dennison). Camp Dennison was the site of the Union army’s largest training installation. The property... Read More
Wash Park Art
Downtown
Wash Park Art
Downtown
An intimate art gallery celebrating Cincinnati's creativity, located 3 doors south of Music Hall on Washington Park in historic Over-The-Rhine.
An intimate art gallery celebrating Cincinnati's creativity, located 3 doors south of Music Hall on Washington Park in historic Over-The-Rhine.
Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad
North
Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad
North
The LM&M takes you back in time on its 1930s train. Ride in closed cars or the open gondola car through scenic Warren County, as the conductor shares railway history... Read more
The LM&M takes you back in time on its 1930s train. Ride in closed cars or the open gondola car through scenic Warren County, as the conductor shares railway history and lore. The LM&M's specialty rides are a treat for all ages. Kids love the Magic Train, Clifford's Big Red Train Ride, A Day Out with Thomas and others.... Read More
Redtree Gallery
Uptown
Redtree Gallery
Uptown
Redtree Gallery features a selection of art from a wide variety of emerging and established artists. The gallery features affordable art within a coffee shop lounge... Read more
Redtree Gallery features a selection of art from a wide variety of emerging and established artists. The gallery features affordable art within a coffee shop lounge setting.
William Howard Taft National Historic Site
Uptown
William Howard Taft National Historic Site
Uptown
The William Howard Taft National Historic Site commemorates the only man to serve as President and Chief Justice of the United States. The house that Taft was born in has... Read more
The William Howard Taft National Historic Site commemorates the only man to serve as President and Chief Justice of the United States. The house that Taft was born in has been restored to its original appearance. A visit to the site includes a tour of the restored birthplace and four period rooms that reflect the family life... Read More
Kaleidoscope Stained Glass Studio
South > Riverfront
Kaleidoscope Stained Glass Studio
South > Riverfront
Step back in time as you stroll along Main Street of the historic Main Strasse Village (a bridge across the river from Cincinnati). At your final destination you will find... Read more
Step back in time as you stroll along Main Street of the historic Main Strasse Village (a bridge across the river from Cincinnati). At your final destination you will find an archive of beautiful old and new stained and art glass creations,where light transforms glass into brilliant sparkles of color. Pass through iron gates... Read More
Anderson Ferry
South > Southwest
Anderson Ferry
South > Southwest
The Anderson Ferry has been in continuous operation since 1817 has three Ferries, Boone 7, Little Boone and Deborah A. It is located about 8 miles west of downtown... Read more
The Anderson Ferry has been in continuous operation since 1817 has three Ferries, Boone 7, Little Boone and Deborah A. It is located about 8 miles west of downtown Cincinnati, providing the only automobile crossing between the I-71/75 Brent Spence Bridge and the I-275 West Bridge. The ferry has been in operation so long that a... Read More
Ark Encounter
South > Southwest
Ark Encounter
South > Southwest
The Ark Encounter features a jaw-dropping reconstruction of Noah's ark, built to biblical specs. At over 1.5 football fields long and reaching higher than a four-story... Read more
The Ark Encounter features a jaw-dropping reconstruction of Noah's ark, built to biblical specs. At over 1.5 football fields long and reaching higher than a four-story house, the Ark is one of the largest timber-frame structures in the world. As you explore three decks of cutting-edge exhibits, the biblical account of Noah's... Read More
Elementz
Downtown
Elementz
Downtown
Where street art meets street smart, Elementz is an urban oasis of hope and a catalyst of change for Cincinnati’s inner-city youth. What began as a way to get kids off the... Read more
Where street art meets street smart, Elementz is an urban oasis of hope and a catalyst of change for Cincinnati’s inner-city youth. What began as a way to get kids off the streets in 2001 has transformed into a thriving Urban Arts Center that fosters talent, ignites potential and inspires possibilities. Elementz helps build... Read More
Cincinnati History Museum
Downtown
Cincinnati History Museum
Downtown
The Public Landing is the first phase of permanent exhibits to reopen in The Cincinnati History Museum (part of Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal) following the... Read more
The Public Landing is the first phase of permanent exhibits to reopen in The Cincinnati History Museum (part of Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal) following the remarkable restoration work done to Union Terminal. The immersive experience transports visitors back in time to the mid-19th century, to the creak of paddle... Read More
Plum Street Temple
Downtown
Plum Street Temple
Downtown
Built in 1866, this temple is a part of the Isaac M. Wise congregation in Amberley Village and reflects the Byzantine-Moorish style that emerged in Germany in the... Read more
Built in 1866, this temple is a part of the Isaac M. Wise congregation in Amberley Village and reflects the Byzantine-Moorish style that emerged in Germany in the nineteenth century, and is the fountainhead of Reform Judaism in America.
NKU Anthropology Museum
South > Southeast
NKU Anthropology Museum
South > Southeast
Founded in 1976, the Museum of Anthropology is located on the 2nd floor of Landrum Academic Center. Our collections focus on contemporary arts of Native Americans, and... Read more
Founded in 1976, the Museum of Anthropology is located on the 2nd floor of Landrum Academic Center. Our collections focus on contemporary arts of Native Americans, and contemporary ethnographic and folk arts of world cultures, especially those of Latin America, Africa, Southeast Asia, and New Guinea. The museum currently is... Read More
Riverside Food Tours
Downtown
Riverside Food Tours
Downtown
Hungry to see Cincinnati? Immerse yourself in the rich and delicious culture of the region with a friendly certified guide who loves this city! On a Riverside... Read more
Hungry to see Cincinnati? Immerse yourself in the rich and delicious culture of the region with a friendly certified guide who loves this city! On a Riverside Food Tour, the goal is to provide you with a personable and memorable VIP experience the moment we meet. From the banks of the Ohio River to Findlay Market,... Read More
Cincy Top Ten Tour
Downtown
Cincy Top Ten Tour
Downtown
Visiting Cincinnati? This budget friendly tour is for you! Enjoy 5 mouth-watering dishes that Cincinnati is known for and visit the 10 must-see sites with a... Read more
Visiting Cincinnati? This budget friendly tour is for you! Enjoy 5 mouth-watering dishes that Cincinnati is known for and visit the 10 must-see sites with a friendly local guide. How do you do it all? You'll hop aboard the Cincinnati Streetcar (all day pass included). When the tour concludes, you will have enjoyed a... Read More
5th Street Gallery
Downtown
5th Street Gallery
Downtown
The 5th Street Gallery is a collaborative of Cincinnati-area artists presenting fine art glass, paintings, ceramics, sculpture, photography, jewelry, floral and wearable... Read more
The 5th Street Gallery is a collaborative of Cincinnati-area artists presenting fine art glass, paintings, ceramics, sculpture, photography, jewelry, floral and wearable arts. Outstanding works of art by members and frequent shows by guest artists make this a must-visit gallery for art lovers. Gallery is located in the lobby of... Read More
Washington Platform’s Over-the-Rhine Tour
Downtown
Washington Platform’s Over-the-Rhine Tour
Downtown
Tour starts at Washington Platform, opened as a beer hall and saloon in 1875 on the south bank of “the Rhine,” the canal that separated the original, Anglo Cincinnati from... Read more
Tour starts at Washington Platform, opened as a beer hall and saloon in 1875 on the south bank of “the Rhine,” the canal that separated the original, Anglo Cincinnati from its “German Quarter.” In the 1800’s, the area north of Washington Platform was, per capita, the most German neighborhood in America. The residents of this... Read More
Tharp Dayton Heritage Museum
South > Riverfront
Tharp Dayton Heritage Museum
South > Riverfront
The museum archives and honors the history of Dayton, Kentucky dating back to the first settlers in 1779.
The museum archives and honors the history of Dayton, Kentucky dating back to the first settlers in 1779.
Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum
Downtown
Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum
Downtown
The Reds Hall of Fame, which opened in 2004, is an interactive, historical museum dedicated to recognizing and celebrating Cincinnati Reds baseball.
The Reds Hall of Fame, which opened in 2004, is an interactive, historical museum dedicated to recognizing and celebrating Cincinnati Reds baseball.
Kenton County Public Library – William E. Durr
South > Southeast
Kenton County Public Library – William E. Durr
South > Southeast
The William E. Durr location of the Kenton County Public Library opened in January 2007. It is a 39,000 square-foot library, with 25,283 sq. ft. of public space. Features... Read more
The William E. Durr location of the Kenton County Public Library opened in January 2007. It is a 39,000 square-foot library, with 25,283 sq. ft. of public space. Features include a drive-through window, 2,000 sq. ft. meeting room, two study rooms, 15 station computer lab, 32 public access computers and a reading garden. The... Read More
The Nati in a Nutshell Tour
Downtown
The Nati in a Nutshell Tour
Downtown
We’re cramming all of Cincinnati into one big adventure! Explore the city’s natural riverfront beauty and amazing architecture while learning about its rich and diverse... Read more
We’re cramming all of Cincinnati into one big adventure! Explore the city’s natural riverfront beauty and amazing architecture while learning about its rich and diverse history. Throw in a streetcar ride, a visit to the local farmers’ market, views from way up high, and a few of Cincinnati’s favorite foods, and you’ll be ready... Read More
St. Peter in Chains Cathedral
Downtown
St. Peter in Chains Cathedral
Downtown
Saint Peter in Chains Cathedral is the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cincinnati. It is a Greek revival structure located at 8th and Plum Streets in... Read more
Saint Peter in Chains Cathedral is the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cincinnati. It is a Greek revival structure located at 8th and Plum Streets in downtown Cincinnati. Saint Peter in Chains was begun with the laying of its cornerstone on 20 May 1841, under the direction of then-bishop (later archbishop) John... Read More
Porkopolis BBQ & Brew
Downtown
Porkopolis BBQ & Brew
Downtown
Did you know Cincinnati was once called the Beer Capital of the World and it was also one of the top pork-processings centers in the country? Well, now you do, and we're... Read more
Did you know Cincinnati was once called the Beer Capital of the World and it was also one of the top pork-processings centers in the country? Well, now you do, and we're going to show off these two claims to fame with plenty of brews and a pork-tastic BBQ picnic! Between the food and the libations, you'll listen to stories of... Read More
Fort Thomas Military and Community Museum
South > Southwest
Fort Thomas Military and Community Museum
South > Southwest
The Ft. Thomas Community Museum's mission is to preserve, interpret and celebrate the cultural significance of our city; and to educate the public on the importance of our... Read more
The Ft. Thomas Community Museum's mission is to preserve, interpret and celebrate the cultural significance of our city; and to educate the public on the importance of our community's heritage. Fort Thomas was an induction center during WWI and WWII and over 80,000 were signed up for military duty on this very site. Dozens of... Read More
American Classical Music Walk Of Fame
Downtown
American Classical Music Walk Of Fame
Downtown
The American Classical Music Walk of Fame in Washington Park, a project of the American Classical Music Hall of Fame, is the only project in existence that combines... Read more
The American Classical Music Walk of Fame in Washington Park, a project of the American Classical Music Hall of Fame, is the only project in existence that combines classical music, mobile technology, public spaces, and a dancing fountain. An interactive classical music application that is integrated into a major urban park... Read More
Cincinnati Skirball Museum
Uptown
Cincinnati Skirball Museum
Uptown
The Skirball Museum in Cincinnati has a long history as one of the oldest repositories of Jewish cultural artifacts in America. The first stage in the museum's development... Read more
The Skirball Museum in Cincinnati has a long history as one of the oldest repositories of Jewish cultural artifacts in America. The first stage in the museum's development lasted for nearly a century, beginning when Hebrew Union College (HUC) opened in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1875 and over time began accepting donations of Judaic... Read More
Tri-State Warbird Museum
East
Tri-State Warbird Museum
East
A historic aviation museum dedicated to remembering those who fought for our freedom, and honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The Museum is a 20,000 square... Read more
A historic aviation museum dedicated to remembering those who fought for our freedom, and honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The Museum is a 20,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility which provides: An inviting atmosphere to facilitate the restoration and preservation of the aircraft, while maximizing the Museum... Read More
Esquire Theatre
Uptown
Esquire Theatre
Uptown
The Esquire is located just north of Cincinnati in Clifton, at 320 Ludlow Ave. The Esquire shows foreign films, as well as small independent features. On Wednesday's only... Read more
The Esquire is located just north of Cincinnati in Clifton, at 320 Ludlow Ave. The Esquire shows foreign films, as well as small independent features. On Wednesday's only, patrons may purchase discounted movie tickets for $6 each. At that time, they will receive a coupon for a 20 percent discount at the participating area... Read More
Christ Church Cathedral
Downtown
Christ Church Cathedral
Downtown
While the parish was founded in 1817, the current cathedral is post-modern in design and was consecrated in 1957.
While the parish was founded in 1817, the current cathedral is post-modern in design and was consecrated in 1957.
Washington Park
Downtown
Washington Park
Downtown
This park located across from historic Music Hall includes a playground for kids with a play castle, climbing wall, sandbox and slides; interactive water features with... Read more
This park located across from historic Music Hall includes a playground for kids with a play castle, climbing wall, sandbox and slides; interactive water features with more than 130 pop-up jets to provide cool relief on hot days; historic restored bandstand gazebo for weekly live music; a fenced-in dog area with 12,000 square... Read More
Tenement LIfe in North of Liberty
Downtown
Tenement LIfe in North of Liberty
Downtown
Do you know what a tenement is or how people lived in them? Our North of Liberty tour takes participants through Over-the-Rhine, north of Liberty Street, paying special... Read more
Do you know what a tenement is or how people lived in them? Our North of Liberty tour takes participants through Over-the-Rhine, north of Liberty Street, paying special attention to how people lived in this neighborhood in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The tour focuses on the built environment including outdoor toilets,... Read More
Beyond the Bricks: Outdoor Building Tour of Cincinnati Music Hall
Downtown
Beyond the Bricks: Outdoor Building Tour of Cincinnati Music Hall
Downtown
Join us for a 60-minute outdoor tour of this National Historic Landmark conducted by the Friends of Music Hall's knowledgeable guides. FMH Outdoor Building Tour of... Read more
Join us for a 60-minute outdoor tour of this National Historic Landmark conducted by the Friends of Music Hall's knowledgeable guides. FMH Outdoor Building Tour of Music Hall explores Music Hall's history, the symbolism and design of the architecture, the challenges at every step of construction, and the people who made it... Read More
Roebling Suspension Bridge
South
Roebling Suspension Bridge
South
When the Roebling Suspension Bridge opened to traffic in 1867 connecting Covington, Kentucky and Cincinnati, Ohio, its span of 1057 feet was the longest in the world. John... Read more
When the Roebling Suspension Bridge opened to traffic in 1867 connecting Covington, Kentucky and Cincinnati, Ohio, its span of 1057 feet was the longest in the world. John A. Roebling, whose next project was the Brooklyn Bridge, is the engineer responsible for creating this iconic feature of our region's skyline which is now a... Read More
Cincinnati Art Museum
Uptown
Cincinnati Art Museum
Uptown
Located in scenic Eden Park, the Cincinnati Art Museum features an unparalleled art collection of more than 67,000 works spanning 6,000 years. In addition to displaying... Read more
Located in scenic Eden Park, the Cincinnati Art Museum features an unparalleled art collection of more than 67,000 works spanning 6,000 years. In addition to displaying its own broad collection, the Art Museum also hosts several national and international traveling exhibitions each year. The Rosenthal Education Center offers an... Read More
DAAP Galleries
Uptown
DAAP Galleries
Uptown
The DAAP Galleries are intended to serve a broad and diverse audience of students, faculty, and staff of the University, as well as from the wider Cincinnati community.... Read more
The DAAP Galleries are intended to serve a broad and diverse audience of students, faculty, and staff of the University, as well as from the wider Cincinnati community.
The Betts House
Downtown
The Betts House
Downtown
Built in 1804, the Betts House, Ohio's oldest brick house, is located in the Betts-Longworth Historic District near downtown Cincinnati. The Betts House offers... Read more
Built in 1804, the Betts House, Ohio's oldest brick house, is located in the Betts-Longworth Historic District near downtown Cincinnati. The Betts House offers exhibits and public programs on architecture, historic preservation, and building technologies. Tours of the house showcase its history and construction. An ongoing... Read More
20th Century Theatre
Uptown
20th Century Theatre
Uptown
20th Century Theatre has had a long and turbulent lifespan including multiple remodels, water damage, and finally taking its place in Oakley in 1997 as a special event,... Read more
20th Century Theatre has had a long and turbulent lifespan including multiple remodels, water damage, and finally taking its place in Oakley in 1997 as a special event, concert, and wedding venue. Its retro flair and large meeting space set it apart as a premiere event venue in the Cincinnati area.
Heritage Village Museum
North
Heritage Village Museum
North
Heritage Village Museum engages visitors in entertaining educational activities that help them appreciate how changes in 19th-century family life in southwest Ohio relate... Read more
Heritage Village Museum engages visitors in entertaining educational activities that help them appreciate how changes in 19th-century family life in southwest Ohio relate to their own life experiences. Drive just 20 miles north from Cincinnati and return to small town life of 100 years ago. Heritage Village, a picturesque... Read More
Cincinnati Urban Adventures
Downtown
Cincinnati Urban Adventures
Downtown
Cincinnati embodies all there is to love about America: professional sports, historic landmarks, unique architecture, beautiful parks, festivals, cultural arts, amusement... Read more
Cincinnati embodies all there is to love about America: professional sports, historic landmarks, unique architecture, beautiful parks, festivals, cultural arts, amusement parks for family fun, charming neighborhoods, fine dining, and amazing beer. Urban Adventures' Cincinnati tours let you experience the highlights of The... Read More
Hillforest Mansion
West
Hillforest Mansion
West
Hillforest, overlooking the Ohio River, was the home of industrialist and financier Thomas Gaff and his family between 1855 and 1891. Shipping and riverboats were... Read more
Hillforest, overlooking the Ohio River, was the home of industrialist and financier Thomas Gaff and his family between 1855 and 1891. Shipping and riverboats were significant elements of the Gaff business and are reflected in the architecture of the home. Note the third floor belvedere resembling a pilot house. The style is... Read More
Veterans Memorial of Boone County
South > Southwest
Veterans Memorial of Boone County
South > Southwest
The Veterans Memorial of Boone County was conceived in 1995 when H.B. Deatherage, a Viet Nam veteran, was deeply moved by the fact that veterans in Boone County had no... Read more
The Veterans Memorial of Boone County was conceived in 1995 when H.B. Deatherage, a Viet Nam veteran, was deeply moved by the fact that veterans in Boone County had no place to heal wounds and memories of war. The names and etchings were brought to the forefront with beautiful black granite, making up the memorial honoring WWI... Read More
Xavier University
Uptown
Xavier University
Uptown
Founded in 1831, Xavier University is a private coeducational university located in Cincinnati, Ohio. Cincinnati is home to six Fortune 500 companies and two professional... Read more
Founded in 1831, Xavier University is a private coeducational university located in Cincinnati, Ohio. Cincinnati is home to six Fortune 500 companies and two professional sports teams. Xavier provides a liberal arts education in the Catholic, Jesuit tradition. The university is the third-largest independent institution in Ohio... Read More
