American Sign Museum
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Now this is a quirky place. You know there are some things that you see so frequently in life that they just exist but you don't give them much thought? That was signs for me until this museum and the demonstration on Saturday taught me that signs are absolutely an art and that there is a whole process that goes into making them. The neon bending demonstration had my attention. Then it was so fun wandering around the museum, appreciating the signs and reading about the history behind them. My family grabbed one of the scavenger hunt pages too and enjoyed finding the signs.
What a fun space! Much larger than I ever imagine. The neon signs here are spectacular. It's actually a huge collection of signs. In addition to the usual displays, there was a temporary display of Barnum circus memorabilia. Free parking is adjacent to the museum.
This is such a cool place. You can wander on your own, and there are informational displays, but I definitely recommend taking the tour. Gabby was our tour guide, and she was fabulous! The tour goes in chronological order of sign development, and I found it fascinating as well as entertaining. A couple times a day there are also additional information sessions about how neon signs are made. Gabby did give us a brief overview of that. The carnival posters are a special exhibit, and well worth a viewing.
Great experience at the sign museum on our first ever trip to Cincinnati. We had spent way longer than expected browsing at Jungle Jim's and hurried our way over to the sign museum with an hour to spare. The employee let us know they closed in an hour, but we should still have enough time (an hour was the perfect amount of time for us to read and look at all the signs). It's priced reasonably enough that I would pay to go back and see it again if I wanted. Tons of signage (haha) to read about the signs. A couple of them had QR codes you could scan to read more about. The history of the sign industry was really cool to learn about, and seeing them lit up and in action was even better. I loved the way the museum was styled and designed, making it look like you're walking down a bustling street complete with storefronts, street lamps, and even a couple fire hydrants. If you're a fan of vintage artifacts and big flashing signs, then this is the place to visit!
Lived in Cincinnati my whole life and went here today for the first time. Neat nostalgic place although it was hard to see Frischs Big Boy in there. Should at least experience this once.
This museum was a highlight of my trip. It was educational, entertaining and nostalgic all at the same time. Many exhibits highlight artist contributions to the art of signs. I found displays from Toledo which is very cool. The museum is set up like a fictional city so you can see the signs in their element. They have entire storefronts in Some cases. They offer free movies about the museum and signs. This would be a place to definitely see several times. They also offer a nice teacher discount.
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!
Another fantastic museum experience in Cincinnati. So impressed with the way the museum is carefully laid out and the delightful recreation of American Main Street. It reminds me very much of the Cincinnati Museum Center's street exhibit, which is equally wonderful and worthy of a visit.
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!
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
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
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!
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!
A must if you're in Cincinnati! I love vintage neon signs and I absolutely love that this museum has preserved and saved so many. Tickets were kind of pricey considering the place is small ($20 for adults), but I see it as supporting this amazing collection and the restoration of these signs to continue on. They also had a live neon bending demonstration when we were there, although we did not stay for the whole thing it was very interesting to learn how the signs are made and how the colors are created. They also have a section with antique hand painted freak show signs. Overall just a super cool museum with so much to discover. read more
A++++++++++++ 10 out of 10! Look, you're not going to find a museum dedicated to signs of this nature anywhere else. The American Sign Museum sat on my to-visit list for years. I couldn't wait to see it. That wait finally ended this past Labor Day weekend when we took a trip to Cincinnati. This museum is everything it's billed to be and more. In fact, you don't even need to go inside to start to experience some of the great signs that they've accumulated. From neon signs to murals to metal signs, canvas signs, posters..you name it, they have it all. I'm in my 50's so many of these signs resonate to my youth. We didn't have electronic devices back in the 1970's, so looking out the window during road trips was what we did. And it's then that I saw these signs and fell in love with them. As time strips and destroys them, it's truly awesome to see a museum that's restoring and displaying them in all of their brilliance. The artistic value alone for these signs is off the charts. And the neon signs are simply remarkable. I took about 400 pictures while we were here and will just post one to give you an idea of what's in store. Enjoy! read more
It is cool and I'm glad I saw it. That being said, I wouldn't go again and I felt the $20 admission was too much since I wasn't there more than 20 minutes. There is a parking lot and also an overflow lot across the street. read more
Now this is a quirky place. You know there are some things that you see so frequently in life that they just exist but you don't give them much thought? That was signs for me until this museum and the demonstration on Saturday taught me that signs are absolutely an art and that there is a whole process that goes into making them. The neon bending demonstration had my attention. Then it was so fun wandering around the museum, appreciating the signs and reading about the history behind them. My family grabbed one of the scavenger hunt pages too and enjoyed finding the signs. read more
What a fun space! Much larger than I ever imagine. The neon signs here are spectacular. It's actually a huge collection of signs. In addition to the usual displays, there was a temporary display of Barnum circus memorabilia. Free parking is adjacent to the museum. read more
28 days ago
This is such a cool place. You can wander on your own, and there are informational displays, but I definitely recommend taking the tour. Gabby was our tour guide, and she was fabulous! The tour goes in chronological order of sign development, and I found it fascinating as well as entertaining. A couple times a day there are also additional information sessions about how neon signs are made. Gabby did give us a brief overview of that. The carnival posters are a special exhibit, and well worth a viewing. read more
Great experience at the sign museum on our first ever trip to Cincinnati. We had spent way longer than expected browsing at Jungle Jim's and hurried our way over to the sign museum with an hour to spare. The employee let us know they closed in an hour, but we should still have enough time (an hour was the perfect amount of time for us to read and look at all the signs). It's priced reasonably enough that I would pay to go back and see it again if I wanted. Tons of signage (haha) to read about the signs. A couple of them had QR codes you could scan to read more about. The history of the sign industry was really cool to learn about, and seeing them lit up and in action was even better. I loved the way the museum was styled and designed, making it look like you're walking down a bustling street complete with storefronts, street lamps, and even a couple fire hydrants. If you're a fan of vintage artifacts and big flashing signs, then this is the place to visit! read more
4 months ago
This museum was a highlight of my trip. It was educational, entertaining and nostalgic all at the same time. Many exhibits highlight artist contributions to the art of signs. I found displays from Toledo which is very cool. The museum is set up like a fictional city so you can see the signs in their element. They have entire storefronts in Some cases. They offer free movies about the museum and signs. This would be a place to definitely see several times. They also offer a nice teacher discount. read more
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
4 months ago
Another fantastic museum experience in Cincinnati. So impressed with the way the museum is carefully laid out and the delightful recreation of American Main Street. It reminds me very much of the Cincinnati Museum Center's street exhibit, which is equally wonderful and worthy of a visit. read more
5 months ago
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
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
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
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
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
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
6 months ago
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
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
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
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
3 months ago
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
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
8 months ago
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
1 year ago
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
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
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
1 year ago
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
1 year ago
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
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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I would give an hour. Plus a stop at the gift shop.
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