Behringer-Crawford Museum
Discover Northern Kentucky's vibrant history through eclectic artifacts, engaging dioramas, and a captivating model train display.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration
Behringer-Crawford Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Northern Kentucky's vibrant history through eclectic artifacts, engaging dioramas, and a captivating model train display.
"A surprisingly large and wonderful museum with exhibits everyone can enjoy!"
🎯 Allow ample time
The museum is bigger than it looks! Plan for 1.5-3 hours to see all four floors.
🎟️ Affordable admission
Tickets are reasonably priced at $9 for adults, offering great value for the experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

White Christmas Costume Collection
Special Exhibit Hall
Step into the magic of the iconic film with dazzling costumes from 'White Christmas.' A festive seasonal treat!

Northern Kentucky History Exhibits
All Four Floors
Explore the diverse heritage of Northern Kentucky, from aviation and transportation to local crafts and businesses.

Interactive Model Train Display
Children's Area
A hit with all ages! Press buttons and watch the intricate model trains chug along. Pure nostalgic fun.

Nature Play at BCM
Outdoor Area
An engaging, free outdoor space for imaginative play, located adjacent to the museum in Devou Park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Behringer-Crawford Museum
Don't Miss the 'White Christmas' Exhibit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Allow ample time
The museum is bigger than it looks! Plan for 1.5-3 hours to see all four floors.
🎟️ Affordable admission
Tickets are reasonably priced at $9 for adults, offering great value for the experience.
🚂 Don't miss the trains!
The interactive model train display is a highlight for kids and adults alike.
🌟 Seasonal 'White Christmas'
Check for the 'White Christmas' costume exhibit during the holidays for a special treat.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Allow ample time
The museum is bigger than it looks! Plan for 1.5-3 hours to see all four floors.
🎟️ Affordable admission
Tickets are reasonably priced at $9 for adults, offering great value for the experience.
🚂 Don't miss the trains!
The interactive model train display is a highlight for kids and adults alike.
🌟 Seasonal 'White Christmas'
Check for the 'White Christmas' costume exhibit during the holidays for a special treat.
🌳 Explore Nature Play
The free Nature Play area next door is perfect for kids to burn energy.
🚗 Parking is convenient
Parking is available in the lot up the hill from the museum.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the Behringer-Crawford Museum's extensive collections and engaging exhibits, especially considering its affordable admission. Many highlight the interactive model train display and the unique 'White Christmas' holiday exhibit as major draws. While some note that not all galleries may be open, the overall experience is described as a delightful exploration of Northern Kentucky's rich history for all ages.
"after 6 months of living in the area, we finally checked this museum out! it’s way bigger than we anticipated, 4 floors of wonderful exhibits and local history! after going to the Cinci Museum Complex last week, this was a lovely look at Northern Kentucky/Devou! great for all ages, exhibits everyone can enjoy. i really loved the Driftwood exhibit, i believe it will be up until August. $9 for an adult ticket and well worth the price—we spent about 1.5 hours there. they have a small gift shop selection with lots of local books. the gentleman working the front counter was very kind."
skylar walter
"A combination of transport, history, and a dash of Ripley's Believe It or Not adventure, this is a very reasonably priced museum and a great way to spend an hour or so!
The museum has four floors of exhibits (they do have rotating exhibits as well as permanent ones so not all galleries may be open) which cover pretty much everything about the region from crafts, business, natural history all the way through to the rise of the automobile and aviation. My favourite was the aviation section- some great photos and I loved the stewardess' winter uniform!
For children, the layout is great with different activities on each level. The train set seemed to be a real hit with buttons to press and lots going on!
The museum has elevator access to all floors and restrooms dotted about too. There's a small shop in the entrance area too with some interesting bits from the region too if you're looking for gifts!"
Natalie D
"One of the most Fun museums ever. Even as a young adult I felt like a child, pressing all the buttons and seeing all the toy-trains go around was super fun. DO NOT MISS THE 2-HEADED CALF RIGHT NEXT TO THE TICKET WINDOW"
Pranat Shah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Behringer-Crawford Museum is located in Devou Park, Covington, Kentucky. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available in the lot up the hill from the museum. For those coming from Cincinnati, it's a short drive across the river.
While specific public transport routes can vary, the museum is generally accessible via local bus services that serve the Covington area. It's recommended to check with local transit authorities for the most up-to-date route information.
Devou Park is a large urban park situated in Covington, Kentucky, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities. The Behringer-Crawford Museum is a key attraction within the park.
Absolutely! The Behringer-Crawford Museum is an excellent option for a day trip from Cincinnati, offering a glimpse into Northern Kentucky's unique history and culture just a short drive away.
From Cincinnati, take I-71 S/I-75 S across the river into Kentucky. Take exit 192 for KY-17 N/Dixie Highway toward Covington. Turn right onto KY-17 N/Dixie Highway, then turn left onto Park Drive to enter Devou Park and follow signs for the museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are very affordable. Adult admission is typically around $9, making it a great value for exploring the museum's extensive collections.
While the museum itself has an admission fee, the adjacent Nature Play area in Devou Park is completely free to enter and enjoy.
The museum offers reasonable pricing for all visitors. It's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead for any potential group rates or special promotions.
Operating hours can vary, especially for special exhibits like the 'White Christmas' collection. It's best to check the Behringer-Crawford Museum's official website for the most current hours of operation before your visit.
While advance ticket purchase might be available, tickets are generally purchased upon arrival at the museum. The affordable pricing makes on-the-spot purchase convenient.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features four floors of exhibits covering Northern Kentucky's history, including aviation, transportation, local crafts, natural history, and even a 'Ripley's Believe It or Not' style collection.
Yes, it's highly recommended for families! Kids enjoy the interactive model train display, and the exhibits are spread throughout the museum, keeping them engaged without a single designated kids' area.
Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 3 hours exploring the museum, depending on their interest level and how thoroughly they engage with each exhibit.
Yes, the museum is accessible with elevator access to all four floors, ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone.
The '2-headed calf' is a unique and memorable artifact displayed near the ticket window, often cited as a must-see oddity by visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not have a full-service restaurant. However, there is a small gift shop area that might offer some snacks or drinks. It's advisable to plan for meals before or after your visit.
Generally, it's best to consume outside food and beverages before entering the museum exhibits to preserve the artifacts. Check with the museum staff for their specific policy on this.
Yes, Covington and the surrounding Cincinnati area offer a wide variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, located a short drive from Devou Park.
The gift shop primarily features local books and souvenirs. While some small snacks might be available, it's not a primary food service area.
Devou Park itself is a large recreational area, and while it has amenities, a dedicated cafe directly at the museum is not typically mentioned. Picnics are a great option in the park.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside the museum, but it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or in certain exhibit areas.
The 'White Christmas' exhibit, the intricate model train display, and the diverse historical dioramas offer great photo opportunities. The exterior of the museum with Devou Park as a backdrop is also scenic.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around museums and within city parks for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
Yes, capturing the magic of the 'White Christmas' costumes is encouraged for personal memories, but be mindful of any posted rules regarding flash photography.
A camera with good low-light performance and the ability to disable flash is ideal for museum photography. Many visitors use their smartphones effectively.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the free Nature Play area next to the museum for outdoor fun. With affordable admission and plenty to see and do, it's an excellent value for a family outing. Plan for at least 1.5 to 3 hours to make the most of your visit.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with the free Nature Play area adjacent to the museum for even more entertainment without extra cost. It's a great way to experience local history and enjoy outdoor activities without breaking the bank.
💖 Couples & History Buffs
During the holidays, the 'White Christmas' Costume Collection adds a touch of vintage glamour and nostalgia, making for a unique and memorable outing. The museum's manageable size and engaging displays make it perfect for a relaxed afternoon of discovery together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Northern Kentucky's Rich History
Beyond transportation, the museum highlights the region's industrial heritage, local crafts, and natural history. You'll find unique artifacts, dioramas, and informative displays that bring the stories of the people and businesses that shaped Northern Kentucky to life. The museum also features rotating exhibits, ensuring there's always something new to discover on repeat visits.
Many visitors are particularly impressed by the breadth of the collections, noting that the museum is much larger and more comprehensive than its exterior might suggest. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the depth and diversity of local heritage.
Family Fun and Interactive Exhibits
A major draw for younger visitors is the interactive model train display. With buttons to press and intricate scenes to observe, this exhibit provides hours of entertainment and sparks imagination. The museum's layout is designed to keep children captivated as they move from one floor to the next, discovering new wonders.
Adjacent to the museum, the Nature Play at BCM offers a free, outdoor space for children to explore and engage in imaginative play amidst natural elements. This adds another layer of family-friendly fun, making the Behringer-Crawford Museum a well-rounded destination for a day out with the kids.
The 'White Christmas' Holiday Spectacle
Visitors can marvel at the dazzling costumes worn by stars like Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen, offering a unique glimpse into the glamour and artistry of classic Hollywood. The exhibit is often complemented by a wonderful train display, adding to the holiday cheer.
This seasonal attraction is a significant draw, attracting visitors who want to relive the nostalgia and charm of 'White Christmas.' It's a perfect addition to any holiday itinerary, making the museum a must-visit during the festive period.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit