Saint Peters Lick Run Historic District

Saint Peters Lick Run Historic District: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Located in Cincinnati’s South Fairmount neighborhood, the Saint Peters Lick Run Historic District stands as a testament to the city’s immigrant roots, its architectural legacy, and its ongoing commitment to urban revitalization. Originating in the 19th century, the district grew around Lick Run Creek and became home to German and Italian immigrant communities. The district’s centerpiece, St. Peter’s Catholic Church, remains a cultural and spiritual anchor, surrounded by the echoes of industry, urban growth, and environmental innovation. Today, with the restoration of the creek through the Lick Run Greenway project, the area offers visitors a unique blend of history, community, and nature (Cincinnati Magazine; Wikipedia).

This comprehensive guide provides essential details on the district’s history, significance, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and travel tips, ensuring a rewarding visit to one of Cincinnati’s most storied sites.

Origins and Settlement
Industrialization and Urban Growth
Architectural and Cultural Significance
Environmental Transformation: The Lick Run Greenway
Visiting Guide: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility, and Tours
Must-See Sites and Visitor Experience
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Origins and Settlement

The Lick Run valley, shaped by its namesake creek, provided fertile ground for farms and early industries supplying Cincinnati’s growing population in the 19th century. German and Italian immigrants established the neighborhood, building St. Peter’s Catholic Church as a center for worship, education, and community life (Cincinnati Magazine). The surrounding area reflected their traditions, with communal celebrations and faith-based schools fostering a strong sense of identity.

Industrialization and Urban Growth

By the late 1800s, the valley evolved from rural farmland to a bustling urban-industrial corridor. Breweries, mills, and slaughterhouses relied on Lick Run Creek for water, but heavy use led to environmental decline and public health issues. In 1893, the city buried the creek within a massive brick sewer tunnel—the largest combined sewer overflow system in the U.S. at the time—transforming the district’s landscape and infrastructure (Cincinnati Magazine; Redi-Rock).

Architectural and Cultural Significance

The district’s architectural core is defined by St. Peter’s Catholic Church and its associated parish buildings, which showcase Gothic Revival and Italianate influences. These structures, built primarily of local brick, feature pointed arches, stained glass, and decorative cornices. Their enduring presence illustrates the importance of religious, educational, and social institutions in the neighborhood’s immigrant heritage (Wikipedia; Wikiwand). The district’s inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places since 1989 underscores its cultural significance.

Environmental Transformation: The Lick Run Greenway

From Sewer to Greenway

Decades of environmental challenges, including sewer overflows and pollution, eventually spurred a transformative initiative: the Lick Run Greenway. Starting in 2017, the city “daylighted” the long-buried creek, restoring it to the surface and creating a 1.5-mile green corridor lined with native landscaping and recreational amenities. The project, led by the Metropolitan Sewer District, diverted up to a billion gallons of overflow annually from Mill Creek, dramatically improving water quality and reducing flooding (Infra Global; WVXU; Soapbox Media).

The Greenway revitalized South Fairmount, a neighborhood long affected by economic decline. Blighted properties were cleared, green spaces and recreational facilities were established, and community programming—including events like the Lick Run 5K—fostered neighborhood pride and engagement (Soapbox Media).

Visiting Guide: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility, and Tours

Hours and Admission

Saint Peters Lick Run Historic District (exterior): Open year-round, daylight hours (typically 8 AM–6 PM).
Lick Run Greenway: Open daily from dawn until dusk.
St. Peter’s Catholic Church & Parish Buildings: Access may vary; check with the parish office or official site for hours and tour availability.

Admission: There is no fee to visit the district, greenway, or view historic exteriors. Donations may be appreciated at the church.

Accessibility and Amenities

Greenway Paths: Paved, wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Historic District: Exterior sidewalks are generally accessible; some historic buildings may have limited accessibility.
Facilities: Restrooms and water fountains available at the Greenway pavilion; on-street parking and public transit access via Metro bus routes.

Guided Tours and Events

Guided walking tours of the district and Greenway are occasionally offered through local historical societies and community groups. Check community calendars or the South Fairmount Community Council for upcoming schedules.
Special events include festivals, educational workshops, and the annual Lick Run 5K.

Must-See Sites and Visitor Experience

The Greenway

A highlight for visitors, the Lick Run Greenway features a meandering daylighted stream, native wildflowers, a two-acre pond, walking and biking trails, interpretive signage, playgrounds, and picnic shelters (Soapbox Media; WVXU). It is ideal for family outings, photography, birdwatching, and community events.

Historic Landmarks

Don’t miss St. Peter’s Catholic Church and its parish school and rectory, which together embody the district’s architectural and cultural roots. The church’s Gothic Revival design and brickwork offer compelling photographic opportunities and serve as a window into Cincinnati’s immigrant history (Saint Louis Patina).

Nearby Attractions

The district is close to Over-the-Rhine’s historic architecture, the Cincinnati Zoo, Eden Park, and other notable Cincinnati destinations (Visit Cincy; The Crazy Tourist). Combine your visit for a full day of exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the district’s visiting hours?
A: The district’s exterior is open year-round during daylight hours. The Greenway is open daily from dawn to dusk. For interior access to St. Peter’s Church, check with the parish.

Q2: Is there an admission fee or are tickets required?
A: No; all public areas are free to access. Guided tours may require advance registration.

Q3: Is the Greenway wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, all primary paths are paved and ADA-compliant.

Q4: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, seasonally and by arrangement. Check with local historical organizations or the parish.

Q5: Where can I park?
A: On-street parking is available along Queen City Avenue and nearby streets. Observe local signage for restrictions.

Q6: Can I bring pets?
A: Yes, pets are welcome on leashes; owners must clean up after them.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Saint Peters Lick Run Historic District embodies Cincinnati’s spirit of resilience, adaptation, and community. Through the preservation of historic architecture and the innovative restoration of Lick Run Creek, the district offers a powerful story of heritage and renewal. Visitors are invited to experience this intersection of history, culture, and environmental stewardship.

Plan your visit today and explore the district’s unique blend of past and present. For up-to-date information on events, guided tours, and travel tips, download the Audiala app, explore our related articles, and connect with local heritage organizations on social media. Experience the best of Cincinnati’s historical sites and discover how this dynamic neighborhood continues to inspire.