Cincinnati is a city full of art and history. From the architecture to the museums, this Midwestern city has so much to offer visitors. Here are 5 must see museums in Cincinnati:
Cincinnati Art Museum
The Cincinnati Art Museum is the largest art museum in Ohio and the third-oldest art museum in the United States. It was founded in 1881 by a group of citizens who sought to establish “a public art gallery worthy of the Queen City” after a visit to Europe inspired them with ideas for expansion. They wanted to create an institution that would promote learning through works of art and provide opportunities for all people, regardless of class or race, to experience beauty. For over 130 years now, this mission has been carried out through collections, exhibitions and programs and it continues today with a growing audience of visitors from around the world.
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
This museum features interactive exhibits, a film about the Underground Railroad, and a walk-through replica of the Harriet Beecher Stowe House in Cincinnati. It also includes an actual steamboat that once transported slaves northward on the Ohio River.
Taft Museum of Art
The Taft Museum of Art, located at the corner of East Third and Vine streets, is a must see.
The museum was constructed in 1931 as part of the “Taft Renaissance” and is named after William Howard Taft, who was the 27th U.S. President (1909-1913).
While visiting this museum try to make sure you take advantage of their art classes that are offered every month! The Taft Museum offers both introductory classes as well as more advanced ones for those who want some more hands-on experience when viewing art work or creating their own pieces with guidance from an instructor at The Taft Museum itself!
Cincinnati Museum Center
On the museum front, Cincinnati is home to a number of different museums that are worth visiting. The Cincinnati Museum Center, which has three different museums on one site, is a great place to start.
Located at 1301 Western Ave., this museum complex offers visitors everything from art to history and science.
The Cincinnati History Museum offers up exhibits on the city’s past, including Native Americans and immigrants who settled here over time.
Contemporary Arts Center
The Contemporary Arts Center (CAC) is located in Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, a historic district that was long neglected but has recently become one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. The CAC has been at its current location since 2000 and features an eclectic mix of permanent exhibitions, including pieces from local artists, as well as traveling exhibitions from established and emerging artists around the world.
The CAC’s permanent collection includes over 3,000 works by more than 300 artists, including Andy Warhol’s famous Campbell’s soup cans. The rotating collection includes pieces by contemporary artists such as Louise Bourgeois and Joan Jonas alongside emerging artists like Lauren Jenkinson and Jodie Mack.