Union Terminal
Considered one of the finest examples of Art Deco train stations in the US, Union Terminal consolidated 5 different train stations into one location serving 7 different rail lines. The complex circulation systems incorporated in the building to handle pedestrian, auto, bus, and rail traffic were a model of efficiency. The station came on line during the height of rail travel that quickly began to decline with the advent of air travel reducing the demand for rail travel.
Current OwnerCincinnati Museum Center
Historic StatusListed on NRHP on October 31, 1972
Unique FeaturesThe exterior is decorated with bas-relief carvings designed by Maxfield Keck representing the themes of transportation and commerce. The semi-dome of the rotunda is the largest in the western hemisphere at 180 feet wide and 106 feet high. The interior is decorated with mosaic murals designed by artist Winold Reiss and represent Cincinnati workers in a variety of work settings. The central mural in the rotunda depicting the history of Cincinnati is 105 feet long.
Associate ArchitectRoland Wank & Paul Cret
Public AccessThe building is undergoing a renovation/restoration project, and portions of the building are not accessible. However, the Children's Museum, special exhibit area, and other functions remain open and accessible to the public.
Completion Date1933
Original FunctionTrain station
StyleArt Deco
ArchitectFellheimer & Wagner
ContractorMesser-Cargile for renovation (1990), Turner for current renovation (2016-2018)
1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45203
Renovation History
1978 / 1990 / 2016 : Conversion to shopping mall (1978) / conversion to museum center (1990) / building rehabilitation (2016-18)
The building houses the Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History & Science, the Robert D. Lindner Family Omnimax Theater, the Cincinnati Historical Society Library, the Duke Energy Children's Museum, and the Cincinnati Railroad Club.
ArchitectE. Verner Johnson (1978) / Glaser & Associates (1990) / GBBN Architects (2016)