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.

The Cincinnati Observatory welcomes in the holiday season with a special open house event! We will be open for tours, safe solar viewing (weather permitting), holiday refreshments, and shopping in our out-of-this-world gift shop! This year we will have gift baskets, perfect for space enthusiasts, big and small. We will also be joined by other local vendors selling their space-themed holiday decor and gifts. And be sure to take a holiday photo by the Observatory’s special Galaxy Tree. 

Admission is free.

Our Online Astronomy Club

For Kids Grades K-5th

Join us for a virtual Cosmic Kids club in 2023. These classes are free of charge (donations are appreciated), but registration is required. Dates and topics are below.

• November 15 - Space Rockets
• December 13 - Stars of Harry Potter

For each class we’ll send out a link to a Zoom meeting and a list of suggested materials. Classes will take place from 4:30-5:30pm.  Sign up for 1, 2, or all.

The Cincinnati Observatory welcomes in the holiday season with a special Mommy and Me Craft Day! The program will include 2 crafts, 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+.

At the Cincinnati Observatory

Looking for a romantic night out and under the stars? Come see what the Observatory is like after hours. You'll get to use telescopes to view astronomical objects that are not visible until late at night (weather permitting). Get a sneak preview of the next season's planets and stars a month or two ahead of everyone else.

The program runs rain or shine. If the weather does not permit viewing, we'll have fun showing you around the universe and behind the scenes at the Observatory.

Tickets: $30 per person

Space is limited to no more than 40 people. Adults Only. Singles welcome.

Camp Cosmos 

Join the Cincinnati Observatory for an out of this world winter break camp! We’ll rocket around the universe learning about planets, space rocks, nebulas and more all from the comfort of the Observatory. Snacks will be provided but campers are required to bring their own lunch and water bottle. Don’t forget to bring weather appropriate clothing and footwear, as part of our fun will include exploring the Observatory’s outdoor planet walk!

Please note: There are different age groups with different times.

Dates: 12/18/23 and 12/19/23

Ages: 1st-2nd grade

Times: 9-5 (drop-off starts at 8:45 am, campers must be picked up no later than 5:15 pm)

Cost: $150.00

Dates: 12/20/23-12/22/23

Ages: 3rd-5th grade

Times: 9-5 (drop-off starts at 8:45 am, campers must be picked up no later than 5:15 pm)

Cost: $200.00

Note, there is no before or after care for Winter Break Camp

Tickets: $15/adult, $7/child, Free for Observatory Members

Space is limited. Sign up today.

Chasing the Eclipse: Snapshots of the Past 

$10 for non-members, Free for Members

Registration is required. Space is limited