What a super cool museum! We got a tour and learned so much about all things SIGNS. You can learn about all the history of signs from metal signs to plastic signs to ones with light bulb to the neon signs that we know and love today. The collection really is huge and you can see some very antique signs. Lots of photo opportunities. I think they might even be expanding and adding more signs. It was definitely a fun way to spend my afternoon in Cincy! read more

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We had a really fun time at this museum! There is an audio tour available through QR codes and also a scavenger hunt with three different levels to help you better engage with the museum. It was interesting seeing the historical progression of signs through different eras. I really loved the way the town shop area was set up. Staff was extremely helpful and knowledgeable. Plenty of free parking right outside the museum doors. The only reason I knocked off a star is that it was smaller than I expected. You will only need a max of two hours here. read more

It's worth a visit once if you're from Cincy- it's a neat little spot and perfect for babies too, since there are a ton of colorful lights to look up at from a stroller. You can get free passes from the Cincy Library if you plan ahead and reserve them. read more

What a cool stop! I've been seeing this place on social media for a while so when I was in the area for my half marathon, I had to check it out! I did not have as much time as I wanted to devote to the museum, but I was able to spend almost an hour there and see everything. If I had more time, I would look more into the history of the signs. If you're in the area, definitely check this out! read more

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What a fun place! So much to look at. Everything from small signs, to huge signs, even spinning and lights. If you're traveling in the area this is a you have to see it for yourself. Family friendly. Plenty of parking and clean restrooms. Don't forget to stop by the gift shop. I know I didn't forget too lol read more

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Hubby and I used the Cincinnati Library's Discovery Pass to get tix for the American Sign Museum for free! We'd never been before and loved it!! The parking lot is small, but they have overflow parking across the street. There was also a small bus tour starting when we arrived, so we probably started in the middle and worked our way around. We happened upon a small video viewing room, and I wish we had started there. We watched two consecutive films about their history and general layout with SO much amazing information that gave us a deeper appreciation of the museum and the artists who helped create this amazing place! We also found out when we were leaving that there is a QR code on a sign that you can also use to do a self-guided tour. I'll definitely return when we have guests in town visiting! read more

American Sign Museum - A few of the fun signs!! - Museums Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Unique travel through time experience [Cincinnati OH] This museum in Cincinnati about commercial signs and sign-making (neon bending demonstration) has it all. It covers 20,000 square feet of indoor space and over a century of American history... I didn't recognize many of the signs since I'm not a century old, even though I may look it LoL! The signs dated back from early 1950's and even goes back in 1900's plus I didn't grow up in the Midwest so I wasn't familiar with these businesses but I was so wide-eyed in fascination with all the lights, colors and shapes all around me especially on "Main Street." I did recognize the Shell (gas station) and Colonel Sanders (KFC). Admission was $20 for adults. We spent about an hour in the museum. There is a gift shop as you enter. Plenty of parking on their private lot including street parking. Fun place to visit. If you are in the Cincinnati area and are looking for something different, the American Sign Museum is worth a visit. The museum covered more than 100 years of American sign history. Instagram: @americansignmuseum Review #3884 read more

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The history of commercial and promotional SIGNS in America. This may be something you never thought about, but it's a fascinating study and this museum walks you through the development of sign technology and design while providing a dazzling visual experience. From early wood/metal, composition, through gas then electric powered illumination, moving signs, animated signs, neon letters and artwork, logos, characters and more. As you move through the museum there is posted information in every section about the era and the types of materials and sign trends of the time, and some fascinating backstories on the history and acquisition of various pieces. There is also a workshop where restorations are done, and a little movie theatre showing a film of the processes. Quite a number of steps in bending a neon tube to spell out a word but we saw it happen. I would allow a good hour for the whole experience. Don't rush through it. The exhibits are all on one level and it's fully accessible. The admission price seemed a little high, but considering what their electric bill is probably like, it's fair. There's a good veterans discount. Plenty of free parking. Recommended! read more

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The American Sign Museum is honestly one of the coolest spots I've been to in Cincinnati. Walking through feels like stepping back in time--there are neon signs, old storefronts, and all kinds of vintage pieces that light up the place. It's colorful, fun, and way more interesting than I expected. The staff are super friendly and know a ton about the history behind the signs, which makes the visit even better. I loved seeing signs from old local restaurants and businesses--it's nostalgic if you grew up around here, but even if you didn't, it's still fascinating. The museum is clean, easy to get around, and perfect for families, couples, or anyone who just wants to do something different. It's not too expensive either, which is a nice bonus. If you're in Cincinnati, this is a must-see. It's unique, memorable, and you'll leave with a whole new appreciation for something you probably never thought much about before--signs! read more

American Sign Museum - Museums Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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What a cool museum! The staff is SO nice. We took the 2pm tour and Gabby was fantastic. She was so bubbly and full of energy. We learned a lot! There are plaques to read with each era of signs, but I highly recommend the tour - it's free and takes 45 minutes. read more

Found this place thru social media and it didn't disappoint, felt like a hidden gem! Great place to see some cool signs and it felt really immersive as if you're in a whole other era. Perfect for date night! They do have discounts for students and seniors which is a plus! Great place for photos ops read more

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I volunteer at a local aircraft museum and an antique neon sign was donated that need some work. They have a shop that repairs signs and so we brought our WACO sign in. They knew right away what it needed and gave us a reasonable quote to repair it. While we were there we also went through the Museum. Such a cool place! Signs from all over the US and all varieties. Some I remember ( McDonalds, Burma Shave, Sinclair gas,) many I don't think I ever saw. Such a very cool place to spend some time! And parking is free in back. It's worth a visit. It gets a recommend! read more

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We were fortunate enough to be invited for a cocktail evening at the museum. It was a great event and we got to hear the backstory on how the museum was founded and the early history. They have a new book detailing the museum and its history of 25 years. We really enjoy the museum but being there at night was really cool to see the signs outside lite up. If you have not been there I highly recommend seeing it for yourself. read more

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Very cool museum. Great signs and figures from history. i learned a lot. 20 dollar admission a little steep. read more

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Three generations (26-85 years) of our family went here today and really enjoyed it! It's a fun place for the whole family, even babies would enjoy the lights and colors! We got a family pass that includes two adults (me and hubby) and four guest passes. Individually, it would have cost us $90 to get in the door but the season's pass was $75 and we still have one guest pass to take someone else. read more

American Sign Museum - Museums Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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One of our favorite anniversary trips has been to Cincy last year. The year prior, we were in northern Kentucky and realized we were only an hour or so drive from Queen City, so we drove there across the Ohio. Found this museum and fell in love with the color, history, self guided tour, and interesting signs that still look as beautiful today. We can't wait to see what else is in store with the gift shop, workshop/classes, and more! read more

American Sign Museum - Beautiful neon! - Museums Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Very cool place. You can't miss it driving up- signs all along the side of the building. You can park by them, on the street, but there is a mid-size lot by the main entrance. A few spaces in it on a Sunday near the holidays. Hours are 10-4 Weds-Sun. Inside, friendly staff, a small gift shop, and signs. Everywhere. Many neon, but also metal, porcelain coated, gold leaf, and more. Small placards for each with a bit of history, but mainly you just walk around mouth agape. They are cool, and nostalgic, and sometimes huge. A little expensive, sure, but where else are you going to see big neon signs lit up? They used to be everywhere. Kids are free. Senior discounts. It's worth a detour. Maybe not a special trip- it's not huge- but as part of a family get-together in our case, or a Cinci trip for the aquarium or Childrens' museum etc., a fun hour. read more

Cool and neat but not $20 per person cool and neat. Yeah I know the money not only pays for staff, upkeep and obtaining new memorabilia, but honestly I feel like $10-$12 maybe $15 per person is more in line. Now, don'y get me wrong, it's a neat place to reminisce about old businesses we don't see anymore. The staff were welcoming and the place was clean. Is it a must/see, not exactly. Was it cool to check out, yes of course! read more

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This place is so fun Signs everywhere Neon signs wood signs and so much more You walk in and it's full of colors and fun memories from childhood It's not a huge museum but there is so much you could miss something So glad we went!! read more

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This was my favorite thing we did on our vacation while in the area. We did a lot of stuff but it really stood out. We loved walking around and of course my son managed to find something he wanted from the gift shop. I'd highly recommend coming here if in the area! read more

This had been on my list for a while and I talked the hubby into taking a ride with me. I really like the art and the history of old American signs. I am 64 years old and saw a lot of signs from my childhood. The other thing I liked was they showed some of the kits that the salesman carried and the people who worked on the signs their tools of the trade like their paint brushes and such. They even had signs that were still in their crate that had never been open to be used. I really liked this place and I saw that the kids that were looking had a scavenger hunt page in their hands I found it as I was on my way out so if you stop don't forget to grab one of those at the beginning. Also along the outside are the really big signs so don't forget to take a drive down the street along the side of the building. read more

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Much more interesting than you might think! The American Sign Museum is a passion project. The contents are well displayed with informative descriptions. There are also areas with contemporary signs created using historic techniques. We spent more time in the video room than expected because it was so interesting. There are event rooms, making the museum an interesting choice for a corporate event. read more

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How can anyone not be impressed by flashing neon lights! Everyone in our group loved our experience. We had young and old including a nine year old and a teenager. Bright lights and nostalgia is a perfect combination. We really enjoyed the movie in the theater explaining the origins of some of the signs. This is a must see stop if you are in Cincinnati. read more

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I honestly didn't plan on going. I had it on my map of places to see while I was in Cincinnati. While I was driving from one place to another, it was on the way and I figured there wouldn't be any harm in taking a few minutes and checking it out. It is an extremely well done, small museum. While I could imagine that in the process of setting this up that they could get lost in the stories of the businesses themselves, they didn't waiver on their dedication to educating me about the signs. When they did talk about the companies, it had to do with signage and a particular sign's history. Cincinnati was a random weekend get away from me. While I enjoyed the city, I do have to say that if I go back and bring someone with me, there is no way we WON'T go to the American Sign Museum. If for nothing else, that few minutes of late 90s nostalgia for Austin Powers was enough to put me over the top. read more

CINCINNATI - Loves me a somewhat quixotic museum, like the Cold War Museum outside Manassas, Va., or this collection of mostly 20th century advertisements. It's almost like an art museum; you learn some things while you're there, but really you go to experience the designs and colors and aesthetics. Mmmmaybe a bit expensive at $20, but like the Rock HoF it's worth partaking at least once. read more

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There are a number of reasons why you should visit Cincinnati - it's a lovely city, they have some decent sports teams if that's a thing, they have great art museums, they have a vibrant downtown area and they have some excellent restaurants in all different price ranges. But none of those are a stronger reason to visit than the American Sign Museum. It's not cheap but it is a unique experience that can be enjoyed by all ages. The collection of signs here, inside and out, is without peer. The explanation of how advertising signs have changed throughout the years is wonderful. It's a tremendous museum and you do not want to miss it! Five stars! [Review 20500 overall - 227 in Ohio - 1481 of 2023.] read more

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This is such a cool museum! I have been wanting to make it in whenever I visit Cincinnati, and I am happy I finally did! I brought my boyfriend to my hometown and the American Sign Museum was one of the stops that I had planned. My brother also joined us. All three of us really enjoyed our time here and learned something new! There's so much to look at and learn about. I had no idea so much when into signs, coloring, and lettering. The history was interesting, too. There was a 20 minute informational video that played that was in-depth about each part of the museum, which was a nice overview. The "Main Street USA" area was so cool and made for some really unique and memorable pictures. Overall, it was a great visit! All the employees we spoke to were really friendly and knowledgeable. I definitely want to come back once the expansion is complete. read more

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Such a great museum with incredibly preserved history. Admission fee is modest. Definitely a must see when visiting Cincy.

A unique museum you must visit in Cincinnati. It's not a huge museum, but it has so much culture and history to see inside. The cost $15 for adults and $10 for students- it's reasonable. This place has its own free parking lot and a short drive from downtown. One of the large exhibits I liked was McDonald's neon sign from 1960's Alabama. read more

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I had the privilege of visiting the American Sign Museum. Visitors should plan on spending about 60-70 minutes here. If you are in the Cincinnati area you don't want to miss this museum. Museum gives you a view on the history of signage as well as multiple artifacts. There is an anticipated 20,000 feet expansion which will be very interesting. Artifacts are both local and national. Really great museum! read more

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This is one of the coolest museums I've visited. It's laid out well and there is something interesting everywhere you look. Most of the museum is laid out like a city street so you feel right in the action. I also enjoyed the timeline to show the evolution of signage throughout history. It took us only about 30 minutes to walk through on our own but they also offer guided tours at specific times. Parking was free and it was easy to get to from Downtown Cincy. read more

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I was on bus tour and stopped here. Pretty cool place. I really enjoyed it. It's not something you would think to do but im glad they found this for us to do. read more

A cute little sign museum while we were there. Small with a little gift shop but we like the scavenger hunt. Got a cute little magnet for our magnet wall and took some cute pictures. Not a really big place but no one has signs anymore so this was a nice visit to reminiscent the sign histories and to see how they make the signs. We enjoyed it just for the pictures for memories alone. But it is a one and done thing. However we're glad we paid a visit. read more

American Sign Museum - Museums Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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I didn't even know this place existed for years so I was excited to check it out! While it may not be a huge place, it is packed with signs. If you're a fan of neon and vintage signs this is definitely worth checking out. They even have a neon shop on site. We spent about 30 minutes here but I still thought the price of admission was fair. An audio tour is available with the price of admission as well. My favorite part of the museum was the area that was designed to still look like a street. I thought it was well done. Worth checking out at least once if you're in the area! read more

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We had a great time visiting the sign museum! I loved learning about the history of signs in advertising and the materials used over time. It's not super big, so it was manageable in an hour or so, and the kids stayed entertained throughout. read more

American Sign Museum - Museums Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Great history of our country's sign development. Easy self paced tour and after watching the movie at the end of the tour, we backtracked to see some sights we missed. read more

American Sign Museum has a vast American signage collection from 1870 through 1970. The founder and owner of the museum, Tod Swormstedt, had began collecting signs since 1999. He decided to open a museum dedicated to signs in 2005. However because of the size of some signs being too big for the museum, he had to find another location. So in 2012, he moved his museum to its current location now, which was a former parachute factory four times the size of the former museum. With 28-foot-high ceilings it has room for all but the tallest of Tod Swormstedt's signs. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for senior citizens, first responders and college students. Tours are available only on Saturday and Sunday, and is included with your admission price. It does annoy me that the employee who helped us out when we paid for our admission did not bother to inform us about the tour, which really would have enhanced our experience from the beginning. After we were done with most of our visit, we saw a large docent led tour and so we just joined in for a part of it. Anyways, this museum has many, many signs that are all very different and utilizes different material, has different styles that is with the times it was made, etc. There is just one sign that I wanted to share about, the Big Boy sign. This smiling fiberglass Big Boy his holding a very large cheeseburger and has a slingshot in his back pocket. This sign is from the 1960's. From the plaque that I read, later on (in the 1980's), the stripes on his overalls were changed to checkered overalls. Also in the 1990's, his slingshot was removed. Although I did not read this at the museum, in 2016, Big Boy was redesigned and was drawn slimmer. Then the following year, his beloved slingshot was added back to the design. My husband and I spent a little over an hour here on our visit reading most of the plaques, view the view towards the back of the museum and tour the entire museum. There are clean restrooms right past where you pay for your admission. There is a small gift store. Parking is free. It was a good visit for this museum but would highly recommend looking into the free tour if you end up coming on the weekends. read more

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This museum exceeded my expectations. Make sure you attend the free 45 minute guided tour and the neon making demonstration. read more

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This museum will bring back so many memories for the baby boomers and others. I just loved all the colors and old signs I remember from my Childhood. I want to think all involved in keeping and restoring these signs and memorable for making signs. They even have a library about sign making, designing, etc. They do have a $15 admission, $10 if you are over 65. But, well worth it considering they probably have a huge light bill...LOL! This is a must see in "Cincy". Free parking, but small parking lot. read more

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Small but very interesting museum. I highly recommend watching the short but very informative film about the museum itself and the signs on display. Do that first. It gives you a whole other perspective and you will see things you missed before. We actually revisited a few sign after watching the film and then noticed so may additional details that we had previously missed, simply because we had no clue. Cool photo ops and signs outside the museum, in the parking lot and the side of the museum. Is it the Smithsonian? No, but it is one of a kind and worth a visit. If you are older, many of the sign may remind you of businesses long gone and take you on a trip down memory lane. I, for one, won't look at signs the same way again. Now I can dazzle others with my vast sign knowledge. read more

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