The pavilion was designed by the architectural firm Rapp & Meacham and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The park's location was formerly the site of the Heekin family farm before being donated to the city in 1911.
The grounds host a dedicated Japanese garden area featuring traditional stone lanterns and koi-friendly water features.
Ault Park hosts an annual 'Concours d'Elegance' car show, one of the premier automotive exhibitions in the Midwest.
The park's design follows the City Beautiful movement, emphasizing aesthetic urban planning and symmetry.
Ault Park is Cincinnati’s fourth-largest park, covering 223 acres of woodlands and manicured gardens. The centerpiece is a limestone pavilion constructed in 1930 that offers a high-vantage point overlooking the Little Miami River valley. The park features an extensive formal garden system, including a prominent rose garden and hillside flower beds. Trails wind through the park’s rugged topography, providing access to diverse forest ecosystems. It is managed by the Cincinnati Parks department in coordination with the Ault Park Advisory Council. The park is frequently used for public events, weddings, and community gatherings throughout the year.
The center of the grand limestone pavilion terrace looking out toward the valley.
Visit the lower trails for a quieter hike, as the pavilion area remains the most popular gathering spot.
Bring binoculars to scan the river valley from the pavilion deck, which offers one of the best elevated views in the city.
Check the event calendar online before visiting, as private rentals or large festivals can occasionally limit pavilion access.
Do not attempt to walk along the steep, unpaved inclines near the ravine edges, as these are unstable.
Stay on marked trails to protect native flora and prevent soil erosion in the wooded ravines.
