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Tickets: $30/person, Ages 18+
Events
Cosmic Kids
9:30 am
9:30 am
9:30 am
Cosmic Kids
Inspire your kids to be future astronomers, physicists, scientists, and engineers with our monthly Cosmic Kids class at the Cincinnati Observatory! Participants will be engaged in an astronomically fun and interactive program each month. Parents are welcome to join in on the cosmic fun or drop off their kids for the program. Participants who join us for the entire 9 class series will receive a discount.
- December 21- Black Holes
- January 18 - Living in Space
- February 22 - Coding
(see registration link for entire list of dates and themes)
- 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.
Mommy and Me Craft Day
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
The Cincinnati Observatory welcomes in the holiday season with a special Mommy and Me Craft Day! The program will include everything you need for our starry night ornament craft, a take-and-make hot chocolate bar, tours, safe solar viewing (weather permitting), and holiday refreshments! And be sure to take a holiday photo by the Observatory’s special Galaxy Tree. Great for ages 4+.
Tickets: $20/adult + 1 child, $5/additional child
Sunday History Tours
12:00 pm - 3:00 pm
12:00 pm - 3:00 pm
12:00 pm - 3:00 pm
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.
Tickets are $10/adult, $5/kids (recommended for kids 12+), $5/senior, $5/veteran, FREE for Observatory members
Space is limited. Advanced reservations are recommended.
Astronomy Evenings
7:00 pm
7:00 pm
7:00 pm
7:00 pm
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.
Reservations required. Space is limited.
Family Astronomy Night
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Family Astronomy Night is our fun and interactive craft/activity night for families at the Cincinnati Observatory. A cross between our Cosmic Kids and Astronomy Evening programs, this program is geared for families with children 5-12 years old. The evening includes viewing through a telescope (if clear), a quick presentation on the theme for the evening, and a hands-on space activity or craft. An entertaining evening for the whole family.
Themes: December 28 - Winter Constellations
January 23 - Venus
Tickets: $15/adult, $7/child, FREE for Observatory Members
Late Night Date Night
10:00 pm
10:00 pm
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. Ages 18 and up.
Tickets: $80 per couple December is SOLD OUT.
21+ Only.
Interstellar Adventures
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Interstellar Adventures is a Saturday evening program at the Cincinnati Observatory, geared for families with children 5-12 years old. The evening includes adventures that take you around the Observatory and around the Cosmos. Pizza is included in the price of admission. We will view through the telescopes (if clear). Each adventure is around a different space-related theme. January is Nebulae.
Join us for at least 5 Interstellar Adventures in 2025 to be entered to win a free Family Membership to the Cincinnati Observatory in 2026!
Tickets: $15/adult and $10/child
Observatory After Hours
10:00 pm
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Understanding the Big Bang
7:00 pm
For over a century, the idea that our Universe began in a "Big Bang" nearly 14 billion years ago, has stood the test of time. This class will examine the origins of the theory, its classic experimental verification, and current studies that continue to unlock the secrets of the cosmos.
Class level: Intermediate - This class is recommended for guests that have some background of astronomical knowledge and are comfortable with mathematical material.
Classes will be held in-person at the observatory. Pricing details are below:
Non-members
$25/class
Members
$20/class
Adult Space Camp
6:00 pm
Space Camp isn't just for kids anymore. Join us to flex your science brain by building a closed-circuit LED constellation. Your new constellation masterpiece can be used as home decor or just to impress all of your friends. Great for ages 16+
Price includes materials for the activity, snacks, and drinks.
The cost is $30 per person and includes supplies and light bites. Recommended for ages 16+.
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The Ever-Changing Sky
7:00 pm
Our view of the night sky changes depending on the time of day, the time of year, and our location on the Earth. We'll discuss the mechanisms that lead to these differences based on the motions of the Earth. We'll also investigate how our view of the stars compares to that of our ancestors or our distant descendants.
Class level: Introductory - This class is recommended for guests of any background.
Classes will be held in-person at the observatory. Pricing details are below:
Non-members
$25/class
Members
$20/class
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Nearest Neighbors Series
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
The Cincinnati Observatory is continuing its lineup of classes instructed by astronomer Dr. Wes Ryle. Each series consists of three self-contained courses that share a common theme. Pick your favorite individual topic or sign up for the entire series at a discount for a more complete picture. Courses are intended for astronomy enthusiasts ages 14 and up. Participants under the age of 16 should be accompanied by an adult.
Level: Introductory - This class series is recommend for guests of any background.
Classes will be held in-person at the observatory. Pricing details are below:
Non-members
$25/class
$65/class series (3 classes)
Members
$20/class
$50/class series (3 classes)
To register for all three classes click here.
Nearest Neighbor Series: Venus
January 28th, 7-8:30pm
Despite sometimes being referred to as Earth's twin, Venus is anything but Earth-like. Extreme surface temperature and pressure coupled with an inhospitable atmosphere make Venus one of the most hazardous places in the Solar System. This class will take a look at the history of our knowledge of Venus and what led to it becoming a hellish world.
To register for Venus only click here.
Nearest Neighbor Series: The Moon
February 4th, 7-8:30pm
This class will take an in-depth look at our nearest celestial neighbor, investigating the origin of Earth's Moon, how it has changed over time, its effects on the Earth, and exploration of the lunar surface.
To register for The Moon only click here.
Nearest Neighbor Series: Mars
February 11th, 7-8:30pm
The "Red Planet" has fascinated humankind for centuries. That interest continues today with investigation of Mars' watery past and the prospects of human exploration of the planet. This class will overview our detailed knowledge of Mars' history along with the obstacles in place for future crewed missions.
To register for Mars only click here.
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Our Nearest Neighbor Night
6:00 pm
Join us for an enchanting evening as the Cincinnati Observatory invites you to celebrate "Nearest Neighbors Night!." This celestial soirée will showcase Earth's closest companions in the nightsky—the Moon, Venus, and Mars—each radiating its own unique allure. Delve into fascinating presentations that uncover the secrets and stories of the Moon, Venus, and Mars. Learn about their significance to life on Earth and the thrilling possibilities of future human exploration. Engage with hands-on demonstrations that bring the wonders of our neighboring worlds to life. Whether you're a budding astronomer or a space enthusiast, these activities will ignite your curiosity. Little astronauts can get creative with space-themed crafts, making their own interstellar masterpieces to take home. Weather permitting, gaze through our historic telescopes to marvel at the breathtaking views of the Moon, Venus, and Mars.
Tickets: $15 for adults, $10 for children and members
Valentine's Night
6:30 pm
The Observatory is again creating a beautiful evening for you and your Valentine! Experience the Observatory as we create a unique romantic experience for our attendees. This year, we’re setting the mood with a delicious dinner provided by Pompilio’s finished with gourmet desserts at individual tables for 2. You and your special someone will also go on a romantic tour of the Observatory that will include viewing through our historic scopes (weather permitting), and more surprises throughout this very special evening. Each couple receives a set of Observatory logo wine glasses to take home to remember the romance.
Seating is extremely limited and we anticipate this event will sell out. Register today!
21+ only, please
Tickets: $190/couple, $175/Observatory Members
Valentines Night Saturday
8:00 pm
Love is in the air as the Observatory is again creating a beautiful evening for you and your Valentine! Experience the Observatory as we create a unique romantic experience for our attendees. We’re having two events this year, and this one will be held Saturday, February 15. This special evening will include hors d’oeuvres, sweet treats, a romantic tour of the Observatory that will include viewing through our historic scope (weather permitting), and more surprises.
Tickets: $125/Member couple, $140/General Public couple
Space is extremely limited and we anticipate this event will sell out. Register today!
21+ only, please
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