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The Architectural Marvels of Cincinnati’s Downtown

Featuring diverse architectural styles as well as dozens of historic districts, buildings and more, the city of Cincinnati offers many sights to see in and around downtown Cincinnati for individuals interested in architecture. In fact, some of the most iconic attractions and activities in the city are located in buildings known for their architecture. Below, learn more about the noteworthy downtown Cincinnati architecture.

7 Downtown Cincinnati Architectural Attractions

Downtown Cincinnati and many other parts of the city feature remarkable architecture in addition to a variety of restaurants, art galleries and museums, and many other things to see and do. Whether you are interested in examples of Art Deco, Italianate, Greek Revival or various other architectural styles, you’ll encounter many different types of buildings on your adventures throughout this city. Here, discover some of the popular spots to consider including on your architectural tours around downtown Cincinnati and other nearby locations:

1. Taft Museum of Art: Over 200 years old, the building that houses the collection galleries of the Taft Museum of Art is one of Cincinnati’s architectural marvels. A National Historical Landmark, the Baum-Longworth-Sinton-Taft house is “downtown Cincinnati’s oldest wooden residence still in its original location” as shared by the museum. It is often regarded as an exemplar of Federal style. Unsurprisingly, given the history of this building, the Taft Museum of Art is also located in one of Cincinnati’s historic districts – the Lytle Park Historic District.
2. Carew Tower: As shared by Cincinnati Magazine in its exploration of the most iconic buildings in Cincinnati, the Art Deco architecture of the Carew Tower is one of the reasons for this location’s distinction. Now registered as a National Historic Landmark, this building holds the distinction of being the “first large-scale mixed-use commercial development of its kind in the U.S.”.  For over 80 years (until 2011), it was also the tallest building in the city.
3. City Hall: Cincinnati’s City Hall has been home to the city’s government for over 170 years. From the stained-glass windows and clock tower to the Romanesque style, this building has many notable features that draw the interest of passersby and architectural enthusiasts alike.
4. Union Terminal: To the west of downtown Cincinnati, one architectural standout is Union Terminal. According to the Cincinnati Museum Center (which is located here), Union Terminal is recognized for its Art Deco style. Originally designed to accommodate more than 200 trains a day and thousands of passengers, it is now more known for its multiple museums, theater and the Cincinnati History Library and Archives versus the current (and greatly reduced) train service.
5. Music Hall: Built in the late 19th century, Cincinnati’s Music Hall is revered for its Victorian Gothic architecture and for being the venue for many different events, including performances by the Cincinnati Ballet, the Cincinnati Opera, the Cincinnati Symphony and Pops Orchestras, contemporary musicians and more. It is also located in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, which is “one of the largest, most intact urban historic districts in the United States…[and] physically and architecturally comparable to New Orleans’ French Quarter,” according to the Over-the-Rhine Foundation. A stroll around this neighborhood alone may provide the opportunity to observe a variety of architectural styles.
6. Findlay Market: Also located in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, Findlay Market is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was one of the first markets with an iron frame structure and one of the only remaining examples of such construction. In addition to its architectural and historic importance, both locals and visitors to the area enjoy shopping at this market. Check out these tips for making the most out of your trip to Findlay Market!
7. Cathedrals, churches and temples: From the Isaac M. Wise Temple to the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Peter in Chains, Cincinnati’s many religious buildings also illustrate varied architectural styles. There are both organized tours of these buildings across the city, as well as the option of self-guided tours.

Whether you live in downtown Cincinnati or are just visiting the area, stunning architecture may seem to be around every corner of the city. For many residential locations throughout the city, such as the loft-style apartments of Sycamore Place, the history and architecture of the buildings may further add to the local neighborhood charm. If you are searching for apartment locations right downtown or throughout the greater Cincinnati area, our leasing agents are here to help! Contact our team today, and we’ll assist you in finding the place that you want to call home!