Cincinnati Museum Center

The Cincinnati Museum Center (CMC) is a non-profit organization based in Cincinnati, Ohio, operating within the historic Union Terminal, a National Historic Landmark and one of the last grand-scale Art Deco-style railroad terminals. Established in this iconic location, it has become the largest cultural institution in Cincinnati.

Overview

CMC is a multi-museum complex offering diverse educational programs and experiences that span science, regional history, and interactive learning. It hosts over 1.8 million visitors annually, making it a major cultural attraction in the Midwest. The complex includes the Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History & Science, the Duke Energy Children’s Museum, the Cincinnati Historical Society Library and Archives, and the Robert D. Lindner Family OMNIMAX Theater.

Collections and Research

The Cincinnati Museum Center houses over six million artifacts, artworks, and archives, which are integrated into exhibitions, research, and educational programs. A key part of CMC is the Geier Collections and Research Center, a state-of-the-art facility supporting these efforts.

Community Engagement and Awards

CMC is highly recognized for its contributions to the community. In 2009, it received the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the highest national honor for museums and libraries, acknowledging its extraordinary civic, educational, economic, environmental, and social contributions. Additionally, in 2012, CMC achieved accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), a distinction held by only a small percentage of museums nationwide.

Conservation Efforts

CMC collaborates with the Ohio Chapter of The Nature Conservancy to protect the Richard & Lucille Durrell Edge of Appalachia Preserve System, the largest privately owned protected area in Ohio. This partnership supports critical habitats for over 100 rare species and enhances educational programs in the Adams County community through the Eulett Center.

Special Exhibitions and Programs

CMC frequently hosts traveling exhibitions in its newly restored Westheimer Exhibit Halls, bringing world-class shows to Cincinnati. The center also offers a variety of programs, including day and overnight camps, public lectures, and community-wide cultural events.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

CMC strives to be accessible to all visitors by providing amenities such as elevators, push-plate doors, accessible parking, and accommodations for guests with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can engage with the center's rich offerings.