Oct 1, 20212 min read

Cincy Spotlight: The American Sign Museum

Located in Downtown Cincinnati, this history-packed, neon museum is sure to make all locals and visitors alike say, "Wait, this is in Cincy?"

The museum opened in 2005, and remains the largest public museum dedicated to signage in the United States at over 20,000 square feet. Its owner, Todd Swormstedt, is a sign enthusiast and wanted to ensure the public had access to the history of signs and how they've been manufactured over the years.

I recommend setting aside at least two hours to go through the museum. Be sure your phone is charged for pictures, because full cameras are not permitted. Throw some headphones to connect to your phone in your bag too if you're interested in a self-guided audio tour. If you're visiting with kids, be sure to check out the "Learn" tab of their website here, for free resources and educational tools.

Upon entering the museum, you'll be greeted by friendly staff at the front desk to purchase tickets if you didn't pre-purchase from their website. You have the option to join an in-person tour (call for COVID related information), or to do the self-guided tour either with or without guided audio.

No matter which option you choose, you're sure to be delighted by the bright colors, history, and atmosphere of the museum. My favorite part of the visit was walking through "Main Street," which is a replica of a typical "Main Street USA," complete with faux-storefronts and plenty of neon signs. Before you leave, be sure to head to the back of the museum for a peak into Neonworks of Cincinnati, an actual working shop for neon signage where you can see the signmakers at work tube-bending neon signage for companies around the country!