The museum is located inside a restored 1933 Art Deco train station, which features one of the largest half-dome structures in the world.
The interior 'Climb' exhibit allows children to navigate a multi-level structure that represents the local Ohio River valley landscape.
The facility includes a 'Little Sprouts Farm' designed specifically for toddlers to learn about agriculture and nutrition through sensory play.
The museum is part of a larger complex that also houses a limestone cave replica and a massive collection of local archaeological artifacts.
The rotunda walls of the main building contain historic glass mosaic murals created by Winold Reiss.
The museum floor utilizes original architectural elements of the Union Terminal concourse, including massive glass windows that allow for significant natural light.
The Children's Museum is housed within the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, a designated National Historic Landmark. It occupies the space formerly used as the terminal's concourse and incorporates the building's iconic Art Deco architecture. The museum is designed for children aged 12 and under, focusing on experiential, hands-on learning through immersive thematic zones. Key areas include a climbing structure representing local geography, a simulated water play area, and an interactive craft workshop. As part of the Cincinnati Museum Center complex, it shares facilities with the Museum of Natural History & Science and the Cincinnati History Museum. The venue emphasizes science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) principles tailored to early childhood development. It features specialized areas for toddlers and pre-schoolers to ensure age-appropriate engagement. The museum frequently updates temporary exhibits to incorporate seasonal themes or community-partnered displays.
The interior of the massive main rotunda featuring the iconic Art Deco ceiling and mosaic murals.
Visit on weekdays during the school year to avoid peak crowds from weekend family visitors.
Pack a change of clothes for children, as the water-play areas can lead to wet garments.
Explore the rest of the Cincinnati Museum Center complex during the same visit to maximize the experience.
Attempting to see all three museums within the Cincinnati Museum Center in a single day often leads to fatigue; focus on the Children's Museum for younger kids.
Closed on Mondays.
Socks are required for certain climbing and soft-play areas; shirts and shoes must be worn at all times.
