Portrait of Edward Satchwell Fraser, Jr. painted by Henry Raeburn

Taft Museum Of Art

Taft Museum of Art Cincinnati: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Cincinnati, the Taft Museum of Art stands as a remarkable blend of historic architecture, artistic heritage, and community engagement. Housed in the city’s oldest surviving wood-frame residence—the Baum-Longworth-Sinton-Taft House—this National Historic Landmark invites visitors to journey through centuries of American and European artistry. The museum’s collection is renowned for its masterpieces by Rembrandt, Gainsborough, Goya, Turner, and others, as well as for its significant decorative arts, American furniture, and the iconic pre–Civil War murals by Robert S. Duncanson, one of the earliest African American artists to receive a major U.S. commission (Taft Museum of Art Collection, Cincinnati Magazine, SAH Archipedia).

Beyond its collections, the Taft Museum of Art offers accessible amenities, guided tours, and dynamic educational programs. Its central location places it among Cincinnati’s top attractions, such as the Cincinnati Art Museum and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. This comprehensive guide will provide all the essential information you need to plan your visit—from hours and ticketing to accessibility, collection highlights, and travel tips.

Annunciation relief carved in Honestone by Loy Hering

Portrait of Jean d'Albon de Saint-André circa 1535 in historical attire

Contents Overview

Introduction
History and Architecture
Notable Collections
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Accessibility and Visitor Services
Museum Experience: Layout, Amenities, and Tours
Special Exhibitions and Events
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Plan Your Visit
Sources

History and Architecture

Origins and Early Ownership

The Taft Museum of Art’s home, the Baum-Longworth-Sinton-Taft House, is a preeminent example of Federal architecture. Construction began in 1819 under Martin Baum, a key Cincinnati businessman and former mayor. Baum’s vision to reflect the city’s prosperity was short-lived when financial troubles forced him to sell the property in 1826 (Cincinnati Magazine).

Nicholas Longworth, a lawyer and wine pioneer, acquired the property in 1830. He transformed the house into a focal point for Cincinnati’s cultural and horticultural life. His appreciation for the arts set the stage for the property’s future as a leading museum.

The Longworth Era and Duncanson Murals

Longworth’s most notable contribution was commissioning Robert S. Duncanson to paint eight monumental landscape murals (1850–1852) in the entry hall. These murals are recognized as the most significant pre–Civil War domestic murals in the United States, marking a groundbreaking instance of a Black artist receiving a major commission in antebellum America (Taft Museum of Art Collection).

The Sinton and Taft Families

David Sinton, an industrialist, purchased the house in 1871. His daughter, Anna Sinton, married Charles Phelps Taft, a lawyer, publisher, and half-brother to President William Howard Taft. The home became a hub for Cincinnati’s social and political life, famously hosting the acceptance of William Howard Taft’s presidential nomination in 1908 (SAH Archipedia).

Becoming a Museum

In 1927, Anna and Charles Taft donated their home and art collection to the city with the stipulation it be used as a museum. Opened in 1932, the Taft Museum of Art remains a vital institution, preserving the landmark residence and its remarkable holdings for public enjoyment (Taft Museum of Art Collection).

Notable Collections

The museum’s collection spans European and American paintings, decorative arts, American furniture, and significant historic murals.

European Paintings: Works by Rembrandt, Gainsborough, Goya, Turner, Corot, Sargent, and Whistler.
American Art: Portraits, landscapes, and furniture reflecting the nation’s artistic evolution.
Decorative Arts: French Renaissance enamels, Chinese porcelains, watches, and rare medieval ivory sculpture.
Duncanson Murals: A series of eight landscape murals by Robert S. Duncanson, celebrated for their artistry and historical context.

The collection is displayed within period rooms, creating an immersive historic experience. Many items can be viewed online through the museum’s digitized catalogue (Taft Museum of Art Collection).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Hours: Wednesday–Monday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Closed Tuesdays and major holidays including New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, President’s Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Indigenous People’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day (Taft Museum Visitor Information).
Tickets: Adults $15; Seniors (65+) $12; Youth (17 and under), Military, and Members: Free.
Free Admission: Sundays and Mondays are free for all visitors.
Purchasing: Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. Advance purchase is recommended for special exhibitions.

Accessibility and Visitor Services

The Taft Museum of Art is Cincinnati’s first Sensory Inclusive™ certified museum, prioritizing accessibility for all visitors (Taft Museum Accessibility). Features include:

Wheelchair access, elevators, and ramps.
Accessible restrooms and diaper changing stations.
Sensory accommodations (quiet room, noise-reducing headphones).
Braille and large-print guides.
Trained staff for assistance.
Umbrella strollers and infant carriers permitted; coatroom and lockers available.

Museum Experience: Layout, Amenities, and Tours

Layout and Flow

The galleries are arranged within the historic mansion, maintaining period authenticity. A full visit typically takes 2–3 hours (WhichMuseum).

Amenities

Parking: Limited free on-site garage parking (opens 15 minutes before museum hours); additional street and garage parking nearby.
Wi-Fi: Complimentary in designated areas.
Museum Shop: Books, jewelry, handcrafted gifts; 10% discount for members.
Café: Artfully prepared meals with vegetarian and vegan options; garden patio seating available. Reservations recommended.
Garden: The Rowe Long Family Garden offers a tranquil retreat.

Security and Photography

Bags are inspected; backpacks must be carried by hand or on the front. Photography is allowed in designated areas without flash or tripods. Notify staff if you do not wish to be photographed by the museum.

Tours and Audio Guides

Guided Tours: Available by reservation for individuals and groups.
Audio Guides: Rent or download for insightful commentary on the collection and history.

Special Exhibitions and Events

The museum presents rotating exhibitions, lectures, and workshops. Notable upcoming exhibitions include “J.M.W. Turner: Watercolour Horizons” and “Mystery & Benevolence: Masonic and Odd Fellows Folk Art.” The Duncanson Artist-in-Residence program supports contemporary Black artists, honoring Duncanson’s legacy (Taft Museum of Art Exhibitions, Soapbox Media).

Check the official exhibitions page for schedules.

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Nearby Museums: Cincinnati Art Museum, National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Contemporary Arts Center.
Historic Sites: Lytle Park, Over-the-Rhine district.
Transport: Served by Cincinnati Metro bus routes; walking and biking are convenient due to the central location.
Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings or Thursday evenings (extended hours) for fewer crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the Taft Museum of Art’s visiting hours?
A: Wednesday–Monday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed Tuesdays and major holidays.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, free for youth (17 and under), military, and members. Free admission on Sundays and Mondays.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the museum offers extensive accessibility features.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by reservation for individuals and groups.

Q: Can I take photos inside the museum?
A: In designated areas, without flash or tripod.

Q: Where is the museum and how do I get there?
A: 316 Pike Street, Cincinnati, OH. Accessible by car (limited parking), public transit, bike, or on foot.

Plan Your Visit

Purchase tickets online for your preferred date and time (Taft Museum Visitor Information).
Download the Audiala app for audio guides, interactive maps, and the latest updates.
Follow the museum on social media for news about exhibitions, events, and community programs.
Check out related articles for more on Cincinnati’s cultural attractions and history.

Final Tips and Summary

The Taft Museum of Art offers a distinctive blend of history, artistic excellence, and community spirit. Its stewardship of Cincinnati’s oldest wood-frame residence, coupled with a world-class art collection—from Duncanson’s murals to European old masters and decorative arts—makes for an immersive and enlightening visit. With robust accessibility, guided tours, a tranquil garden, and proximity to other cultural landmarks, the museum is a key destination for anyone seeking to experience Cincinnati’s heritage and creativity.

Plan ahead, take advantage of free admission days, and explore both the permanent collection and special exhibitions for a rewarding visit to this Cincinnati treasure (Taft Museum of Art Exhibitions, Lost in Cincinnati).