Explore our solar system on a guided Planet Walk tour! Starting at our Sun marker, you'll step through the inner planets before venturing out to the gas giants and beyond. Each footstep represents 8.2 million miles, culminating in a 450-foot walk to Pluto. Join us for a cosmic journey through the solar system!

The planet walk is on grassy and slightly uneven terrain. Not suitable for most strollers or wheelchairs.

Tickets: $10 non-member/$5 kids/Free for Members

Walk-ins welcome!

Journey to the stars and indulge in an afternoon of eerie elegance at our Afternoon Tea at the Cincinnati Observatory. Nestled amidst the historic, shadow-draped domes and telescopes, you’ll experience a hauntingly unique tea gathering, blending the ancient mysteries of the cosmos with the comforting, refined ritual of afternoon tea. A presentation on Victorian era tea and dress etiquette at the Cincinnati Observatory in the Victorian age will take you back in time and summon spirits of the past that came to visit.

Our curated menu features a selection of Bonbonerie tea and treacherous treats. Your ticket includes tea, light bites, and a celestial-inspired trick-or-treat goodie bag.

Tickets: $60/person 

This special program offers those seeking to learn more about the Observatory’s history a detailed, in-depth presentation and tour at Noon or 2pm (select time upon registering). You'll also discover the Observatory’s role in early Cincinnati history, weather forecasting and the original telescope that started it all,  as well as visit our interactive Sundial, original 1843 cornerstone, and more! Guests can enjoy the many snapshots from our 180+ year history and a glimpse into our future. The program will last approximately one hour with plenty of time for questions! Perfect for local history, astronomy and science buffs ages 12 and up.

Space is limited. Advanced reservations are recommended. Please select Noon or 2pm when registering.

Tickets: General Admission $10 (recommended for kids 12+), $5/seniors and veterans, FREE for Observatory members

This November 4 as we participate in Ohio Open Doors with our Walk-up Wednesdays, we are also celebrating the Cincinnati Observatory's birthday. Stop in to learn a bit of history, view through an historic 1845 telescope (if clear), and wish the observatory a very happy birthday!

The Cincinnati Observatory has a rich history dating back to November 9, 1843, when former U.S. President John Quincy Adams, at age 77, delivered a speech and laid the cornerstone atop Mount Adams. Since that founding, the Observatory has been dedicated to sharing astronomical views with Cincinnatians and visitors from around the world. Join us to celebrate almost 183 years of astronomical and historical significance with FREE access to our Mitchel telescope and grounds. Solar viewing will also be provided through our 180 year old Mitchel Telescope, weather permitting. Guests are welcome to stop by anytime from Noon-3pm. No reservations are required.