Cincinnati Art Museum
A vast collection spanning 6,000 years, offering free general admission and beautiful grounds in Eden Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free special exhibits
Cincinnati Art Museum
Best Time
Free special exhibits
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast collection spanning 6,000 years, offering free general admission and beautiful grounds in Eden Park.
"One of the best art museums I've ever been to. FOR FREE!"
🎯 Free General Admission!
Enjoy the permanent collections for free! Special exhibits may have a fee, but check for free Thursday evenings.
🎟️ Library Free Passes
Check with your local library for potential free passes to special exhibitions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cincinnati Collections
Various Galleries
Explore the rich artistic heritage of the region, from historical pieces to contemporary works that define Cincinnati's creative spirit.

Art in Bloom
Various Galleries
Witness stunning floral interpretations of iconic artworks, a vibrant fusion of nature and art that transforms the museum each spring.

European Art Galleries
European Art Wing
Immerse yourself in masterpieces from renowned European artists, showcasing centuries of artistic evolution and diverse styles.
Outdoor Courtyard
Central Courtyard
A serene oasis perfect for a peaceful stroll or a moment of reflection amidst beautiful landscaping and city views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free General Admission
Plan Your Visit on Free Thursdays
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free General Admission!
Enjoy the permanent collections for free! Special exhibits may have a fee, but check for free Thursday evenings.
🎟️ Library Free Passes
Check with your local library for potential free passes to special exhibitions.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything, so wear comfy shoes!
📸 Selfie Spots Galore
The museum offers many beautiful backdrops for memorable photos and selfies.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free General Admission!
Enjoy the permanent collections for free! Special exhibits may have a fee, but check for free Thursday evenings.
🎟️ Library Free Passes
Check with your local library for potential free passes to special exhibitions.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything, so wear comfy shoes!
📸 Selfie Spots Galore
The museum offers many beautiful backdrops for memorable photos and selfies.
☕ Cafe Break
Grab a bite at the cafe and enjoy the gorgeous courtyard views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cincinnati Art Museum for its free general admission and vast, diverse collection spanning millennia. Many highlight the beautiful grounds and courtyard, making it a peaceful escape. While special exhibits may have a fee, free Thursday evenings offer a great opportunity to experience them.
"honestly one of the best art museums i’ve ever been to. FOR FREE! i’ve been here 3 times now, and each experience has been excellent. most recently spent 2 hours here and was able to see most of it! nice gift shop. outdoor courtyard. go on Thursday eves to view the paid exhibits for free!"
skylar walter
"This art museum was awesome! Especially loved the Cincinnati collections but all of the exhibits were well designed and crafted. The employees were extremely kind and helpful as well! Entry to general exhibits is free as well, so it was a great respite from the heat. Buying tickets in advance online allows a small discount to the price of the special exhibits."
Paige P
"Beautiful grounds, so peaceful. We were traveling with our dog so I just had 5 minutes to run in and visit the European art section while hubby walked the grounds with the pooch. Breathtaking collection. I wish I had an hour to spend there. Free admission, free parking. Check out the sculpture on the way out."
Paula Elliott (MortalMombat)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cincinnati Art Museum is located in Eden Park. You can reach it by car, with free parking available on-site. Public transportation options are also available via Metro bus routes.
Yes, the museum offers free parking for visitors. It's a convenient option, especially if you're driving from out of town.
Yes, several Metro bus routes stop near the Cincinnati Art Museum, making it accessible via public transit. Check the Metro website for specific route information.
Yes, the Cincinnati Art Museum is situated within the beautiful Eden Park, offering scenic surroundings and views.
Driving with free parking is a popular choice. Public transport is also viable. For those looking for a unique experience, consider a scenic walk or bike ride through Eden Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the Cincinnati Art Museum's permanent collections is free for everyone! Special exhibitions may require a separate ticket purchase.
General admission is free. Ticket prices for special exhibitions vary, but purchasing online in advance can sometimes offer a small discount.
Yes, the museum offers free admission to special exhibitions on Thursday evenings. This is a popular time, so expect more visitors.
Yes, you can purchase tickets for special exhibitions online in advance. This is recommended, especially for popular exhibits, and may offer a slight discount.
The museum's hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the diverse Cincinnati Collections, the vibrant Art in Bloom displays (seasonal), and the extensive European Art galleries. Many visitors also enjoy exploring the ancient artifacts and contemporary pieces.
You can spend anywhere from 2 hours to a full day. Many visitors spend 4 hours and still don't see everything, as the collection is vast.
Yes, the museum offers engaging exhibits and a beautiful space for families to explore. The free admission makes it a great option for a family outing.
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in the permanent collection galleries, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Always check signage for specific exhibit rules.
The museum often offers guided tours or educational programs. Check their schedule upon arrival or on their website for details on available tours.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a cafe where you can enjoy lunch or snacks. Many visitors appreciate the option to dine with views of the courtyard.
The museum features a beautiful outdoor courtyard where visitors can relax and enjoy their food, especially during warmer months.
The cafe typically offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, and light fare. It's a convenient spot for a break during your visit.
While the museum has its own cafe, there are also dining options in the surrounding areas of Cincinnati if you prefer to venture out.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum galleries. It's best to consume your own food in designated areas or outside.
📸 📸 Photography
Personal photography is usually permitted in permanent collection galleries, but always check for signs regarding specific exhibits. Flash and tripods are typically not allowed.
Yes, the Cincinnati Art Museum is a popular spot for engagement photoshoots, with its beautiful architecture and art providing stunning backdrops.
Absolutely! The museum's elegant courtyards and grand interiors make it an ideal and picturesque location for wedding photography.
The outdoor courtyard, grand staircases, and galleries with unique artworks offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Commercial photography or videography often requires special permits and advance arrangements. It's best to contact the museum directly for their policies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Couples & Date Nights
🖼️ Art Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Treasure Trove of Art: The Collection
Particular strengths lie in its American Art collection, featuring significant works from the colonial period to the present day, and its European Art holdings, with notable pieces from the Renaissance through the 19th century. The museum also dedicates significant space to Asian Art, showcasing artifacts and artworks from various East Asian cultures. For those interested in local culture, the Cincinnati Collections offer a unique perspective on the region's artistic contributions.
Beyond the permanent displays, the museum frequently hosts traveling exhibitions, bringing world-renowned art to Cincinnati. These special exhibits often require a separate ticket, but are a fantastic opportunity to see unique pieces not typically housed at the museum. Keep an eye on their schedule for upcoming shows, which have included popular artists and themes.
Events and Experiences at CAM
For those seeking a more active experience, programs like Art in Motion offer dance classes inspired by the artworks, encouraging participants to express themselves creatively. The museum also hosts special events like Art in Bloom, where local florists create stunning arrangements inspired by specific pieces in the collection, transforming the galleries into a fragrant wonderland.
Furthermore, the museum is a sought-after venue for weddings and private events. Its elegant architecture, beautiful courtyard, and diverse galleries provide a sophisticated and memorable backdrop for celebrations. This multifaceted approach ensures that the Cincinnati Art Museum remains a dynamic and engaging destination for all visitors.
Photography Opportunities
For those planning engagement or wedding photos, the museum is a top choice. The combination of art, architecture, and manicured grounds creates a romantic and timeless atmosphere. While personal photography is generally permitted in permanent collection galleries, it's crucial to be mindful of museum policies. Always check for signage regarding specific exhibit restrictions, and avoid using flash or tripods, which can damage artworks.
Even for casual visitors, the museum offers countless opportunities for memorable selfies and artistic shots. The diverse exhibits, from ancient artifacts to contemporary installations, provide unique and inspiring subjects. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the art itself while capturing your memories.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit