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Contemporary Arts Center
44 E 6th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, United States
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O'
Review №1

Im not a big fan of Contemporary art but I did enjoy taking my son who loved it. It is a fun fan favorite if you have an artist. They take no payments.

Ko
Review №2

Great museum and architecture from Zaha Hadid. Exhibitions are free.

Aa
Review №3

Cool place. Good to kill an hour or two looking at the exhibits. They rotate exhibits frequently enough that you can visit multiple times a year. The docents follow you around (a bit too closely and obviously) to make sure the displays arent messed with, which makes relaxed viewing a little challenging at times but its necessary I reckon.

An
Review №4

This was my favorite place to bring my toddler to play pre-COVID. Obviously, cant do that now, but still a gorgeous building and highly recommend checking out the exhibits. One of the very few new buildings in Cincinnati that adds and doesnt detract from the city streetscape.

Ur
Review №5

I parked in a parking deck 1 block away and paid $12 for just over 2 hours, which turned out to be great since the museum was free, and there are tons of other cool stuff around it...including the Cincinnati Art Galleries which was also free AND had food!The interactive experiences in this place though were wonderful! Very cool modern contemporary building design...even the gallery below which didnt have art in it at the time was simply a wonderfully designed space to be in!

Co
Review №6

Cool place. The staff and security were welcoming and informative. There were a few rooms that were somewhat hidden.When we visited the second floor was closed to change exhibits. The ever changing exhibits keep the public coming back for more.The free admission provide no excuse for not going to this museum several times a year.

Br
Review №7

Very fun art museum if you’re in the CBD of Cincinnati. Easily walkable from fountain square, Carew Tower, and many other places. Although there isn’t a large amount of stuff there ( at the current moment) it is definitely worth seeing for free !

Pr
Review №8

Its an amazing art institution. Its free and have a focus on youth.

Na
Review №9

My first Zaha’s building. Quite a decent exhibit for free entry. But the building is good in terms of architecture.

Vi
Review №10

Absolutely amazing spot to spend a couple hours in a wide variety of contemporary exhibitions featuring exhibits from not very well known artists who are doing fantastic work and pushing the boundaries of the definition of art. I enjoyed every artifact inside with some ranging from the extremely small to the extremely large but the interactive artifacts are amazing. I love the flashlight activated music room. Great spot and shouldnt be missed.

Ha
Review №11

This was an amazing experience for my family!! So much for the kids to do and touch and manipulate! We also happened to be there while one of their artist residents was teaching a watercolor course, so we hopped in and got to create our own art!

Ka
Review №12

Free admission and neat place to check out if you need something to do for a few hours in Cincy. Exhibits also change out, so you can have a new experience if you visit again.

Pa
Review №13

Great place for kids. Friendly staff. Most of the museum is free!

Sh
Review №14

Neat place. The staff and security were welcoming and informative. There were a few rooms that were somewhat hidden.When we visited the second floor was closed to change exhibits. The ever changing exhibits keep the public coming back for more.The free admission provide no excuse for not going to this museum several times a year.

La
Review №15

A fun place to stop and a free museum at that. It does have some exhibits geared towards kids and interaction, which is great. We were there with elderly in-laws, and they had a bit of a time getting around. Some of the exhibits were better than others, some were just head scratching. The staff was great, although the store was a bit pricey. The bathrooms were not easily visible.

Ga
Review №16

Ive seen the two most incredible installations here that Ive seen in my whole life, and thats saying a lot. If youre curious, they were the recent SWOON install and the Beautiful Losers show from many years back. And its free now too, by the way. So just go and see whatever they have going on, its always something great!

CS
Review №17

My daughter and her friend loved it, but me not so much but my taste are different when it comes to art. But I do appreciate art and know some art I dont have to love and its not all going to be to my liking. All exhibits were open which was great it was an enjoyable evening.

Kh
Review №18

Very cool museum. Exhibits change frequently.

Ri
Review №19

In downtown Cincinnati this is a free gallery that changes exhibits on a regular basis. Some areas were closed off for new exhibit installation while we visited. The art we saw was thought provoking [dynamic 3 dimensional, motorization, video, and use of unusual materials in juxtaposition] and well presented in the space. One upper floor was designated interactive exhibit space geared for all ages. Four young boys and their guardian were having a great time there while we were there. There is a restaurant at entrance level.

St
Review №20

This place is really fun and worth a visit. I was really impressed with the whole experience. I think it offers fun for all ages. The cost is free so there’s no excuse to take a stroll through and support our city!

vi
Review №21

I could not fully enjoy the art because my friend and I were followed by security the entire time, cutting our 2 hour trip in half. We left early because we didnt feel like we were wanted there. The art we were able to see was nice. Note: I visited during the first week of March.

Br
Review №22

Ive always loved the contemporary art center! Such a great place for new unique arts

Kr
Review №23

Wonderful, I just love my visit to the CAM and the kids really enjoy the atmosphere!

sa
Review №24

Wonderful space (designed by Zaha Hadid) showcasing contemporary artists in a variety of mediums. It is free, always has unique installations on display, and the staff are helpful. Do not expect a full museum, jam-packed with art. The space is art as well. I always recommend it to out of town visitors.

sy
Review №25

At the moment, viewings are by appointment with a maximum number of patrons per two hour block. One exhibition was open to walk-ins. The gift shop doesnt justify the name. Oh well. Id still go, just to marvel at the building, anytime.

Be
Review №26

Love this place! I feel like Im someplace else, its a getaway right in town. The Un-museum ia great for kids, and we love to get a hot chocolate or coffee in the bistro. GREAT gift shop! Friendly staff and FREE admission!

K
Review №27

Amazing place from layout to content to lighting. Gives you world class art with information to go with it. Lets say an intimate space for art education & enjoyment.

mi
Review №28

My new favorite place to get away!

Ut
Review №29

Was not able to locate any van accessible parking within a 5 block radius. Had emailed CAC the week prior asking about parking and received no reply. Extremely disappointed that I drove over an hour and was not able to enter. Note: many wheelchair vans do NOT fit in parking garages, including mine. Please resolve this issue.

ma
Review №30

Fantastic exhibits. however during my visit theres only level 2 & 6 that are open. i would come back next time!!

Sh
Review №31

Beautiful art takes about two hours to get through

Ca
Review №32

Cool exhibits, very nice place! Its free!!!

El
Review №33

Very nice collections of art, I enjoyed my visit.

Di
Review №34

LOVED the exhibits here. And the interactive section upstairs was fun for me as an adult, so Im sure kids of all ages would love it. Im so glad we happened upon it. I would definitely go back. I hope they keep showing unique and fun exhibits.

Fe
Review №35

Incredible Maya exhibition. Worth the visit! Artifacts on loan from Guatemala first-time ever out of the country

Za
Review №36

Small-ish art museum. Nice place to stop in town if youd like to see something that was supposed to have a deeper meaning that you understand. The exhibits when I went were well created, with enough signs to explain what I was missing from the pictures.Kids area on the top floor is nice for kids that like to sit and do one thing for a long time. There isnt a ton of things to do up there and it can get crowded, so getting one of the fun ones can be tricky.

An
Review №37

Love the interactive museum! Loved our visit!

An
Review №38

This is absolutely one of my most favorite places to bring my tribe.

Il
Review №39

What a great museum! It apparently doesnt have any permanent connections which means you could come here many times and see something new. The theme at this time has a lot to do with mankind and our relationship to animals - interesting perspectives, definitely some humor and really creative ideas. The 2nd & 3rd floors were closed for an installation but even still, I felt like we got to see & appreciate a lot of unique art. The admission was free which was just wonderful. Definitely worth a visit.

Ch
Review №40

Front desk was welcoming and kind. The museum was ok, and had some thoughtful pieces. Was followed by security and no one else was. Very uncomfortable

Ri
Review №41

I think the biggest challenge for someone new to the city was downtown parking near the center. There is no fee for this building. The sixth floor has a lot of things for elementary age to color and create. So many unique things to see out of the normal framed art. A staircase, creative projects, artistic visual and sound displays. Good to note the restrooms are in the basement. So many beautiful pieces. The staff is friendly and shared many insightful things about the art and artists represented.

Be
Review №42

Really neat pieces of art. The 6th floor is great for kids. And its all free!

Gu
Review №43

Wonderful free museum with pretty frequent exhibit rotations. If you pay attention they will challenge your perceptions and preconceptions as well as provide for a couple hours of good fun.

Lo
Review №44

Beautiful building, creative space and always has interesting exhibitions.

ge
Review №45

Throughly enjoyed myself. The exhibits were amazing and the UnMuseum on the 6th floor in which you get to have an interactive experience truly made it a memorable experience. I highly recommend if you are looking for an entertaining way to spend your time.

Ca
Review №46

The Google directions are not correct, but an amazing museum!

t
Review №47

You will learn a lot! A lot of fun!

st
Review №48

It was a great place for the wedding and reception! We enjoyed walking around and looking at all the art exhibits. It also had some beautiful views of the city of Cincinnati. Definitely a great place to visit!

Nu
Review №49

Great work by Architect Zaha Hadid. A must visit when you are in Cincinnati.

Fr
Review №50

Great opening night for 3 new exhibitions. Wish I had arrived earlier in the evening to see more of the crowd!

Ch
Review №51

Its nice being able to get your children exposure to art for free. There are 6 floors to view and the design and layout of the museum is very cool. The 6th floor is the interaction floor where kids and adults can engage interact and actually make some art. In theory this was great but unfortunately when we visited most of the art supplies were depleted and this left the kids with not much to do in the way of creating art.

Ma
Review №52

Such a cool place! I visited to film a video for a school project and I know I chose the perfect location. Ive only ever gone to normal art museums so I didnt know what to expect. The art was all so unique and fascinating! The range of the crowd was great. There were lots of children and adults looking very interested in the art. The top floor, especially, appeals to kids (and adults too!) The fact that this place allows you to enjoy art and unleash creativity for free is amazing. The atmosphere was wonderful. All the staff were very helpful and answered all of my questions. I know that they keep a constant flow of new art, so I will definitely be visiting again.

Ha
Review №53

Really enjoy coming here, I just hope for more interactive sections soon. I remember a few months ago we came in and made a large rope artwork as a group. It was so cool and so unique.

Lu
Review №54

Wonderful exhibition about racism in society by artist Firelei Baez. Had a brilliant guided tour by Paola Garrido. Helped me really understand the purpose and intentions of the artist.

An
Review №55

Location: Downtown Cincinnati! Very walkable if youre staying in the downtown core, and probably a 20-minute walk from OTR.The place: My main purpose in coming here was to see Swoons exhibit, The Canyon. That said, they had other exhibits to see, including those that featured local talent. The space is vast, spacious, and the works are spread out nicely so that if there are groups, I dont think you would feel like a sardine.Service: Great - the ladies working at reception are friendly and happy to offer up info and tips.Price point: Free! But they happily accept donations so dont be shy - help support the arts.

Ju
Review №56

The art here is world class and it is free to take in. Everyone in Cincy should come at least once a year as it is a fantastic addition to the cultural scene in our city. We took in the Swoon exhibit and it was very inspiring. It is small enoigh that you can get through everytning well in 1.5 to 2 hours but large enough that it van attract serious exhibitions.

Da
Review №57

The things in the unmuseum never work. The past few times I have been there sections were closed. I cant remember the last time I was there and everything was open. However, what was open was visually stimulating.

Jo
Review №58

Was free on Sunday when we went which is amazing so worth money too

Mi
Review №59

Im a college student who has been doing internships in the art world for the past few years. I came to Cincinnati for a conference and stumbled upon the CAC while killing time downtown. The fact that its free is amazing. The staff were also incredibly helpful and kind. The current exhibition, Creatures, is possibly my favourite exhibition Ive seen in recent memory. I loved the diversity of takes on the idea of art with, for, and even by animals. There were works that engaged all of the senses (insect perfume?!) Not to mention, a whole enclosure of adoptable kittens on Sundays. Finally, Id recommend asking for the access card to the Tranquility Room when youre done and making yourself a cup of tea. Every museum should have a room like that.

Na
Review №60

Love the contemporary art center in cincinnati. This museum is free to get into. Its weird and quirky. It is a fun place to check out. There is a kid friendly level thats all hands on.

Na
Review №61

This was such an amazing art center! There were different pieces of art from various artists from all over the world. Then on the 6th floor, everything was touchable! I had an awesome time there! The views were also perfect!

Mi
Review №62

One of the gems of our city. An incredibly dynamic modernist building designed by Zaha Hadid that is a piece of art unto itself. Wonderfully captivating and engaging rotating exhibits. I try to go once every few months to see the new exhibits, but Ill often go back to see things again as admission is free. One of my favorite places to spend a Saturday afternoon.

St
Review №63

Love itThe hosts & security & doorman are all very accommodating and helpful. My oldest granddaughter (15)loves photography and she is so in awe of this place. Thank you for giving the community an affordable and classic entertainment /arts

Ki
Review №64

Took my 7 year old grandson today. I love this place! So interesting and very cool artwork too. He loved the interactive 6th floor!

La
Review №65

Wonderful staff and incredible exhibits. I will make a point to come back every time I visit Cincinnati.

Mi
Review №66

Very engaging work and is always rotating their exhibits. They also offer art workshops for youngsters.

Ma
Review №67

Very interesting pieces. 2 floors of exhibits are available at this time which is plenty for the free price of admission.

Yo
Review №68

Not bad but not impressive. Not much variety. Too narrow theme.

Ma
Review №69

This is a wonderful museum that is always changing. There are multiple floors. The stairs are convenient and an elevator is available. There are some great kinetic art installations spread through out. Some of the installations use light and sound as well. There is a sufficient kids area upstairs to keep them busy and allow them to create as well. I look forward to returning soon to see some of the new stuff coming..

Li
Review №70

Ive been going to the Contemporary Art Center for years and it never fails to impress. It always has great art displays on gives you hours of enjoyment if you are a person that enjoys the arts. Its also very cheap to enter making it a great place to visit if youre looking for low-cost things to do in Cincinnati.

Za
Review №71

A pivotal landmark of Cincinnatis art and culture, now fully donation-based making it a great place to stop in any day of the week for free and enjoy some incredible exhibits. Featuring the Un-Museum on the 6th floor for the family and younger attendees, theres something for people of all ages

Bj
Review №72

Wonderful Architecture - the art was ok. not a @fredrikmalt which i expected

Ka
Review №73

Amazing art work from talented artists

Al
Review №74

Great exhibits, and the perfect quantity. You can spend a few hours here and dont feel overwhelmed by the amount of art like in a traditional gallery.

We
Review №75

I always love my visits to the CAC. Facility maintenance could be better at times but the time and energy that is put into exhibitions makes up for it.

Al
Review №76

Only had 2 floors open when I visited. Top floor is an interactive museum and that was neat, especially for families.

El
Review №77

Even my husband who is not an art guy loved this place! Some very beautiful and thought-provoking galleries and we just had the best time. Could have spent the whole day!

Ma
Review №78

Great place to explore, with kids or without. Loved being able to meander down the steps to different themes. Totally free and totally worth the visit!

Su
Review №79

We love the CAC it is date night and family friendly! The UnMuseum is my favorite I cant lie. Shark Girl is just too cool

Re
Review №80

I think the art was more our experience in the museum than the actual exhibits

Hy
Review №81

Love it the staff make you feel welcome all ways a good time when I come

Ja
Review №82

Love the kids activities, the exhibits and the fact its free!!

Review №83

Fun spaces. Interactive art

Da
Review №84

Wasnt very interesting at all for the most part. Probably why it was free. Id recommend some of the many other art galleries downtown where you can actually buy the pieces and support local artists.

Da
Review №85

Love that space. Always interesting work.

Da
Review №86

The art was arty, Im not a professional art critic or anything but it was a fun place to go and the exhibits were awesome. Entrance is free which is also a plus and they do have a few cool exhibits that you can go if you pay a little more.

Mi
Review №87

This museum is an architectural gem in downtown Cincinnati. Admission is free thanks to a generous gift from local arts supporters. Check out the interactive art education exhibits on the top floor!

Ni
Review №88

I didnt really like the latest exhibit but its a great museum with a kids area up top. We will be back, its free !

Ra
Review №89

There are always interesting shows. We just saw Creatures: When Species Meet. It was truly delightful.

Ku
Review №90

The architecture is what launched Zaha Hadid and is worth the visit, however the exhibits have something to be desired. The works, while interesting exploration don’t deserve to be in a museum like this. Ironically at the top floor is a sign that seems to sum things up. Hadid gets five stars, the exhibits get one.

CR
Review №91

Entertained the kid and had awesome exhibits with types of media that were new to me. The un-museum was great as well.

Ra
Review №92

The setup for Blink was beautiful and we saw an amazing contemporary art exhibition upstairs.

UD
Review №93

Great museum for all agesAccessible to other downtown museums as well

Le
Review №94

Such a cool place! I visited to film a video for a school project and I know I chose the perfect location. Ive only ever gone to normal art museums so I didnt know what to expect. The art was all so unique and fascinating! The range of the crowd was great. There were lots of children and adults looking very interested in the art. The top floor, especially, appeals to kids (and adults too!) The fact that this place allows you to enjoy art and unleash creativity for free is amazing. The atmosphere was wonderful. All the staff were very helpful and answered all of my questions. I know that they keep a constant flow of new art, so I will definitely be visiting again.

Ra
Review №95

This place always has something good. 5 floors of exhibits, great friendly staff, multiple exhibits on display and well installed presentations. Plus some weeknights there is no charge. Even when there is a charge, you really get more than you paid for. I have never visited the CAC where I was disappointed in the least.

T
Review №96

I LOVE this place! Its always nice when you walk in you are ALWAYS greeted with a nice smile and a warm welcome! The artists are amazing and the most important feature is...ITS FREE!!! The Unmuseum is great for kids and the interactive interfaces are awesome!1

Pi
Review №97

What a treasure, right in a heart of the city. Zaha Hadids first American commission, its a beautiful building, full of surprising angles and views, shadows and light. I loved two of the four exhibits, and for me, thats saying a lot. (Im pretty critical.) Oh, and I loved being able to access the meditation room!

Mo
Review №98

THE premier contemporary art museum in Cincinnati, the CAC is where you’ll find living artists in all stages of their careers showing stimulating work within the CAC building: an architectural spectacle by Zaha Hadid. Admission is FREE! Don’t forget to check the CAC calendar online for performances. They do an excellent job curating their performance art series. Excellent location in the Central Business District - surrounded by the city’s best restaurants. They also have a small cafe inside of the museum.

Sa
Review №99

A very thoughtful museum, if the art show cases dont catch your train of thought the contemplation room will. Its full of heartfelt little books to read made by artists, and their interactive floor takes you back to the core of having fun and being a goofball. Its a much needed visit if you want to shift your perspective on life a little

Ni
Review №100

A very fun place to explore and hang out with some friends! You have to check out the room of contemplation.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:44 E 6th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, United States
  • Site:http://contemporaryartscenter.org/
  • Phone:+1 513-345-8400
Categories
  • Art gallery
  • Art museum
  • Museum
  • Performing arts theater
  • Tourist attraction
Working hours
  • Monday:Closed
  • Tuesday:10am–7pm
  • Wednesday:12–7pm
  • Thursday:12–7pm
  • Friday:10am–4pm
  • Saturday:Closed
  • Sunday:Closed
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible lift:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:No
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
  • Restaurant:Yes
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