If You Haven’t Visited This Amazing Hidden Gem In Cincinnati, You’ve Been Missing Out
Some of the most amazing places around Cincinnati are those historic sites that have been preserved in time. One such place can be found atop a hill in Mt. Lookout, and if you haven’t visited it yet, you’ve surely been missing out. The Cincinnati Observatory is filled with history and offers tons of opportunities for learning and exploring. It’s a unique hidden gem in our city that has been beautifully restored to its 19th century wonder.
Perfectly positioned on Observatory Avenue in Mt. Lookout, the Cincinnati Observatory is one of our city's most historic destinations.
Officially founded in 1842, the Observatory moved to its current spot in Mt. Lookout in 1873. In fact, this neighborhood in Cincinnati was renamed after its newest and most notable feature.
The property has two historic buildings, which are situated on a lovely manicured landscape.
The Observatory has been called the "Birthplace of American Astronomy" and it aims to live up to that name by continuing to inspire interest and education through its "Lighthouse of the Sky." It even has an asteroid (1373 Cincinnati) named in honor of its work!
Aside from the stunning property, the telescopes are the main draw.
The main telescopes were purchased in 1842 and 1904, meaning it houses one of the oldest working telescopes in the world! It was also the first public observatory in the Western Hemisphere and was dedicated as a National Historic Landmark in 1998.
The Observatory was underutilized as a research center for years, but has become a beloved space for those interested in astronomy.
The Observatory now offers an fantastic outreach and education program that serves the entire state, as well as programs in Indiana and Kentucky. The property hosts many special events throughout the year. With the upcoming Solar Eclipse on August 21, 2017, the Observatory will surely be an exciting place to safely watch as the sun is 90% blocked by the moon!
The Cincinnati Observatory welcomes anyone curious about its history, its future, and the incredible universe surrounding us all.
The property is open to the public Monday - Friday from 12pm - 4pm for self guided tours, as well as Thursday and Friday evenings for educational programs and stargazing. You can also arrange other tours and there are many opportunities to get involved at this historic Cincinnati landmark.
The Cincinnati Observatory is a true historic treasure that makes our city that much more special. Have you visited and toured this lovely property? Share your experience with us in the comments! The Cincinnati Observatory is located at 3489 Observatory Place, Cincinnati, Ohio 45208. For more information, visit their website here.
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A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
