Stories From Our History

This special program offers those seeking to learn more about the Observatory’s history a more detailed, in-depth guided tour at Noon or 1:30pm. All the wonderful details covered in a Daytime Tour are included - as well as more stories of how the Observatory came to be (and almost didn’t!). You'll also discover the Observatory’s role in weather forecasting and timekeeping as well as visit our interactive Sundial, original 1843 cornerstone, and more! Tours last approximately one hour with plenty of time for questions and some behind-the-scenes fun! Perfect for local history, astronomy and science buffs ages 12 and up.

General Admission $10 (recommended for kids 12+), $5/senior, $5/veteran, FREE for Observatory members

Space is limited.  Advanced reservations are recommended.

The worlds created by science fiction authors are full of astounding technological feats. We’ll take a look at some of the most common examples and test the scientific viability of the human imagination. From space elevators to interstellar travel, we’ll see where our dreams can take us!

Class level: Introductory - This class is recommended for guests of any background.

Tickets: Non-members $25/class.   Members $20/class

This Astronomy Archives presentation will spotlight unique artifacts from our extensive historical collections, showcasing over 180 years of history. Many of these items, particularly those related to the Space Age, are rarely seen by the public, giving you an exclusive glimpse into the Observatory’s treasures. You'll also have the opportunity to ask about archives, collections, and conservation, and learn how to preserve your own personal history at home.

Non-members - $20 / Children $5 / Members $15

Walk-ins welcome!

Weekly Public Program

Astronomy Evening at the Cincinnati Observatory is the perfect program to get acquainted with all of the offerings of your local observatory. Located in picturesque Mount Lookout on the East Side of Cincinnati, the Cincinnati Observatory is the oldest one of its kind in the country that still uses its original telescope from 1845, and now you too will get to participate.

This 90 minute long, family-friendly program features an Astronomy themed presentation on the different things you can experience in the night sky. Tours of our historic buildings and viewing through our telescope takes place during the second part of the evening (weather permitting).

Tickets: $15/adult, $7/child, FREE For Members.  Please note:  April is sold out. 

Reservations required.  Space is limited.

Greetings, starfighters! The Cincinnati Observatory invites you to boldly go to an
out-of-this-world sci-fi celebration. Grab your sonic screwdriver and join us for a fun, family
event that focuses on our favorite science fiction books, shows, and movies. 

Cosplayers of the 501st Legion and Rebel Legion from a galaxy far, far away will be present throughout the event. Additional activities include an adult and child costume contest, engaging presentations on the interplay of science fiction and science discovery, food, crafts, and games. Acclaimed local artist Michael Thompson leading an interactive art project that will dive into alien worlds and environments(www.michaelthompsonstudios.com).

Tickets: $15/adults and $10/children/members 

Preregistration is recommended but don't panic! Walk-ins are still welcome.

Tickets: $15/adult, $7/child, FREE for Observatory Members 

Embark on a romantic celestial journey with our "Late Night Date Night" at the Cincinnati Observatory. Couples will enjoy a star-filled evening complete with guided stargazing through historic telescopes (weather permitting), an intimate astronomy talk, and a cozy atmosphere perfect for making memories under the night sky. Whether it’s a first date or a special anniversary, this enchanting evening promises to bring the magic of the cosmos a little closer. Ticket price includes admission for two, mocktails, and dessert. 

Tickets: $80 per couple  18+ Only.  Please note: May is SOLD OUT.

The number of known planets orbiting other stars, or exoplanets, continues to increase each year. This class will take a look at the techniques used by astronomers to detect these worlds and examine some of the most interesting targets discovered to date. We’ll also take a look at what additional discoveries might be on the horizon with future missions.

Class level: Introductory - This class is recommended for guests of any background.

Please note: This class is on a Wednesday.

Tickets: Non-members $25/class. Members $20/class

Join us for our early-morning events in 2025, Sights Before Sunrise. These are clear-only events so we will let you know the day before if the event is a go. This program is for those who want to be the first to see objects that will be up later in the year at our typical viewing times. This event will include viewing through our historic Mitchel telescope of 1-2 planets and the
Moon. Coffee and donuts will be available.

$5/person, Free for members. If you would like to join our email list for cancellation notices, please fill out this form.

Like any profession, astronomy has numerous branches and subfields to explore. We’ll take a look at the different sides of astronomy, including astrometry, photometry, spectroscopy, and interferometry, as well as how astronomers can specialize in observation, instrumentation, or theory. There are lots of ways to study the cosmos!

Class level: Introductory - This class is recommended for guests of any background.

Tickets: Non-members $25/class. Members $20/class

A Comprehensive Tour of the Cincinnati Observatory

For 150 years the Cincinnati Observatory has explored the universe from our site in Mt. Lookout. But as the Birthplace of American Astronomy our history goes further back than that.

You’ll hear the fascinating history of the founding of the observatory and learn why 30 years earlier John Quincy Adams traveled to Cincinnati to lay the original cornerstone. We'll explore our two grand telescopes, tour the museum, and take a peek behind the scenes. Learn about the work of our astronomers including their contributions to time-keeping, weather forecasting, World War II and the early space race. Weather permitting we'll treat you to spectacular views of the Moon through the oldest continuously used telescope in the world.

Tickets: $30/person non-member, $25/person members 

Aliens, Atoms and Allegories!: Cold War Influences in Science Fiction

Fear! Paranoia! World annihilation? Colonies in Space? This presentation explores themes in Science Fiction during the Cold War and how anxieties and technology influenced the genre through allegorical narratives. Iconic films, literature, and media were a powerful tool for self-expression, propaganda and the explanation of the unknown.

Tickets: Non-members $15 / $5 child / Free for Members

Walk-ins welcome!

Join us for the final Cosmic Kids, at least until next fall!

Comets, meteors, and asteroids, oh my! Join the Observatory to learn about the different types of space rocks. Together we will make an Earthbound comet and you might even get to touch something that is out of this world.

• Grades K, 1, 2 classes meet 9:30 - 10:30am
• Grades 3, 4, 5 classes meet 11:00am - 12:00pm

Single Class Tickets:

$12.00 per class non-member
$10.00 per class member

You may also decide to stay with your child for the class or drop them off and pick them up after, parents will not be charged as participants. Not sure which session would be best? Give us a call 513-321-5186.

Black holes remain one of the most fascinating subjects in astronomy due to their extreme and bizarre properties. This class will explore the theoretical prediction of black holes and their detection in nature, from the Cygus X-1 binary system to the supermassive black holes at the centers of galaxies, including our own. Take a dive into the event horizon and beyond!

Class level: Intermediate - This class is recommended for guests with some science and mathematical background and will incorporate some mathematical equations and concepts.

Tickets: Non-members $25/class. Members $20/class

Journey to the stars and indulge in an afternoon of refined elegance at our Afternoon Tea at the Cincinnati Observatory. Nestled amidst the historic domes and telescopes, you'll experience a truly unique tea party, blending the wonders of the cosmos with the comforting ritual of afternoon tea. A presentation on Victorian era tea and dress etiquette at the Cincinnati Observatory in the Victorian age will take you back in time and place you amongst the many distinguished guests that came to visit.

Our carefully curated menu features a selection of Churchill's most captivating teas, chosen to complement the serene and inspiring atmosphere. Your ticket includes tea, light bites, and a celestial inspired goodie bag to take home.

Tickets:  $60/person