Hitting the Bricks
Looking for a new way to experience Cincinnati history, great architecture, and some fresh air?
Join the Friends of Music Hall’s (FMH) knowledgeable guides for a 60-minute outdoor tour of Music Hall, a National Historic Landmark, when tours re-launch on April 1.
Volunteer Becky Moegenberg answers guests questions during an Outdoor Building Tour. These are held Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings this fall.
FMH’s Outdoor Building Tours of Music Hall explore Music Hall's history, the symbolism and design of the architecture, the challenges at every step of construction, and the people who made it happen, along with information on the culture and society of the neighborhood in 1878. Wearing dark polo shirts and an identifying badge, FHM tour guides will meet guests on Music Hall’s front steps at 1241 Elm Street.
“If you’re looking for a unique outdoor activity this spring, book a tour of Music Hall,” says Mindy Rosen, executive director for the FHM. “You’ll learn all about this majestic building’s architecture and history from our knowledgeable guides.”
Historians, preservationists, architecture enthusiasts and adventurers alike will gain new insight into why Cincinnati Music Hall truly merits its designation as one of the best and most beautiful concert halls in the world. The tour does not go inside Music Hall.
“The weather is just perfect for a 60-minute walking tour,” Rosen says. “Be sure to explore Over-the-Rhine before or after your tour. Many OTR merchants provide special discounts to our tour guests.”
Find out more about the tours, and special discounts at Over-the-Rhine merchants at friendsofmusichall.org/music-hall-tours/faq.
Outdoor Building Tours are held April through November, rain or shine, on Thursdays at 4 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 a.m. Walking is required and tours are approximately 60 minutes long. Tours are offered rain or shine. Note this tour does not go inside Music Hall.
Tickets should be purchased in advance, up to three hours before the start of the tour either online FriendsofMusicHall.org, click on Tours or by calling (513) 621-2787. Tickets are $15 per person; $5 for children under 12. When 5-8 tickets are purchased together, the charge is $13 per ticket.
Student groups are eligible for $5 discounts. A 10% discount is offered to members of the Over-the-Rhine Chamber of Commerce, Friends of Music Hall, Cincinnati Arts Association members, and Certified Tourism Ambassadors.
Guests and guides are required to wear a mask or face covering. Everyone is asked to remain at least six feet apart during the walking tour. To facilitate social distancing, tour groups are limited to eight people. Larger groups can be arranged by calling (513) 744-3293 or by email musichalltour@friendsofmusichall.org.
–Tricia Suit