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Events

Pop-up Planetarium

6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Join us to gaze at the stars and learn through hands-on fun in this astronomy-themed pop up. The Cincinnati Observatory, in partnership with Madtree Brewing (Oakley), will present planetarium shows in their inflatable planetarium, provide spooky crafts and activities for kids, and gaze at Saturn through telescopes (weather permitting). Guests are encouraged to dress in costume for our costume contest that will be judged at 7:00 (kids) and 8:00 (adults). We will also have “trick-or-treat” stations with candy and non-candy options for space enthusiasts of all ages.
 
Last Planetarium show starts at 8:40pm.

Tickets: $10/person, $30/family (children under 4 free)

Walk-ins welcome!

Astronomy Evenings

8:00 pm - 9:30 pm
8:00 pm - 9:30 pm
8:00 pm - 9:30 pm
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

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. Hands-on tour of our 1845 Mitchel telescope and viewing through the 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.

Join us for an immersive tour of the Cincinnati Observatory and surrounding historic district. Learn common architectural features that make up the Observatory buildings and  homes along Observatory Place and Avery Lane and the important role they play in the Architectural History of Cincinnati. This walking tour will engage you in common architectural themes, building materials, and the people who made it all possible.
 
Tickets: $20/adult, $15/member

Family Astronomy Night

7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Family Astronomy Night is our fun and interactive craft/activity night for families at the Cincinnati Observatory. A cross between our Cosmic Kids and Astronomy Evening programs, this program is geared for families with children 5-12 years old. The evening includes viewing through a telescope (if clear), a quick presentation on the theme for the evening, and a hands-on space activity or craft. An entertaining evening for the whole family.
 
Theme:  October 22 - Monster Constellations
               November 12 - Comets
 

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

Please note, the October dates are sold out.

Observatory After Hours

10:00 pm - 12:00 am
10:00 pm - 12:00 am
Calling all night owls! Experience the wonders of the cosmos with our "Observatory After Hours" event. Enjoy exclusive late-night access to our historic telescopes, hands-on tour of our 1845 Mitchel telescope, and an informative astronomy talk. This event is perfect for those who prefer their stargazing a little later, offering a unique and immersive look at the universe when the night is at its deepest. Ages 18 and up. Ticket price includes admission, non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks for the evening.

 

Tickets: $30/person, Ages 18+ 

The October sky has more than just crisp air and falling leaves to offer — it's home to some genuinely spooky sights, from the eerie glow of the Ghost Nebula to the shadowy Witch Head. Join us for a seasonal tour of fall's most hauntingly beautiful deep-sky objects, paired with the myths and legends that gave many of them their names. Bring your curiosity (and maybe a costume) as we hunt for cosmic phantoms hiding in plain sight overhead. Perfect for anyone looking to get into the Halloween spirit while learning to navigate the autumn sky. 

 

Class level: Introductory - This class is recommended for guests of any background.

 

Tickets:

Non-members $25/class

Members $20/class

Student (with valid ID) $10/class

Image credit: NASA

Family Game Night

6:00 pm

Enjoy some family time at our historic observatory for an out-of-this-world evening of cosmic fun, delicious food, and hands-on exploration.

Event Highlights

  • Cosmic Fuel: Enjoy pizza, snacks, and drinks to keep your crew energized throughout the night.
  • Telescope Viewing: Peer through our legendary historic telescopes for a guided look at Saturn and stars (weather permitting).
  • Space Trivia & Board Games: Test your astronomical knowledge in family-friendly trivia, or challenge each other to a variety of space-themed tabletop games.
  • Observatory Scavenger Hunt: Embark on a quest through our historic halls to uncover hidden celestial artifacts, solve cosmic riddles, and win stellar prizes.

Tickets:  $15/adults, $10/kids (Includes pizza, drink, and all activities). Free for children under 3

Interstellar Adventures

6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Interstellar Adventures is a Saturday evening program at the Cincinnati Observatory, geared for families with children 5-12 years old. The evening includes adventures that take you around the Observatory and around the Cosmos. Pizza is included in the price of admission. We will view through the telescopes (if clear). Each adventure is around a different space-related theme.

 

Themes:   Saturn

 

Tickets: $15/adult and $10/child 

Girls Night Out

6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Get ready for an out-of-this-world evening of sparkle, science, and serious fun! Our Girls' Night Out is a cosmic adventure for young girls and their favorite grown-ups—dads, moms, aunts, grandmas, mentors—designed to make unforgettable memories.

 

Prepare for an evening packed with dazzling activities that will ignite imaginations and inspire future stars:

• Telescope Viewing (Weather permitting, specialized equipment provided.)

• STEM Activities

• Games

 

This is the perfect opportunity for bonding, unleashing inner sparkle, and exploring the universe together. Snacks and refreshments will be provided.

 

Tickets: $15/adult + 1 child, $5/additional child

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