History Tours

Daytime history tours are held Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday at Noon, 1pm, and 2pm. The guided portion of the tour lasts approximately half an hour. It includes both of the Observatory’s buildings and two main telescopes, as well as access to our out-of-this-world gift shop. If time and weather permits safe solar viewing through a telescope will be provided.

Tickets are $10/adult, $5/kid, $5/senior, $5/veteran, free for Observatory Members

Advanced reservations are required. 

Registration closes 30 minutes before the scheduled tours begin.

At the Cincinnati Observatory

The Sun is the star attraction on this special Sunday and you can learn all about our nearest stellar neighbor. Sunday Sun-day Sundae includes short talks about the Sun, tours of our historic buildings, and safe viewing of sunspots and solar flares from our 1845 telescope (weather permitting).

As a special treat we will also have free sundaes for those in attendance.

Advanced tickets: $12/adult, $7/child

Day-of tickets: $15/adult, $10/child

Stories From Our History

This special program offers those seeking to learn more about the Observatory’s history a more detailed, in-depth guided tour at Noon or 1:30pm. These include all that’s covered in a Daytime Tour - as well as more stories of how the Observatory came to be (and almost didn’t!). These tours also cover the Observatory’s role in weather forecasting and timekeeping as well as a visit to our interactive Sundial, original 1843 cornerstone, and more! Tours last about 45-60 minutes with plenty of time for questions and some behind-the-scenes fun! Perfect for local history, astronomy and science buffs ages 12 and up.

Tickets are $10/adult, $5/kid, $5/senior, $5/veteran and free for Observatory members

Space is limited.  Advanced reservations are recommended.