Gift Shop
What We Are
The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center opened in August 2004 on the banks of the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. Our purpose is to tell the story of the struggle for freedom in the United States through exhibits and programs that focus on America's battle to rid itself of the ugly scourge of slavery and treat all its citizens with respect and dignity.
The frame of reference of the museum is the compelling drama of the Underground Railroad. This was not an actual railroad, with tracks and cars and engines, but instead a secret network of escape routes that existed in the years leading up to the Civil War. One major escape route passed through the region in and around Cincinnati. These paths was used by escaping slaves fleeing those states where slavery was legal; along the way, they were often given food, shelter and guidance by sympathetic citizens who opposed slavery.
The underlying theme of the Underground Railroad, which we reinforce with programs, presentations and children-focused activities, is that the path to freedom -- historically and in contemporary times -- is a constant struggle requiring courage, perseverance and cooperation among people of diverse backgrounds willing to help one another.
In addition to five major permanent exhibitions, we present a full calendar of changing exhibits, programs and activities throughout the year. Our Gift Shop offers a wide array of books, recordings and unique gift items. Our North Star Cafe, open for lunch on Tuesdays through Sunday, is a relaxing place for our guests to enjoy a delicious meal at a bargain price.
Watch Our Video
The Freedom Center's brief introductory video, "Impacting the Future," explains our mission, exhibits and programs and related offerings. The video features Chief Executive Officer Don Murphy, Board Co-Chairman John Pepper, as well as testimonials from visitors, students, and volunteers. Click on this link to watch the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ggg0bI7LqZA
Address, Phone, & Hours
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center50 East Freedom Way
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
Telephone: 513.333.7500 or 877.648.4838
Open Tuesday - Saturday 11:00 - 5:00
The Freedom Center is handicap accessible, call 513.333.7504 for details
Ticket Prices
The Freedom Center has extended Value Visit Prices indefinitely. Admission prices are as follows:
Adults: $9.00
Students (ages 13-21) & Seniors: $7.00
Children (ages 6-12) & Educators: $6.00
Children 6 & under: free (with paid adult)
For families, the Freedom Center is offering a new Family Value Pack for $18.00. A typical family of four (with two children ages 6-12) would pay $36.00 at current prices. Please note that Family Value Packs do not apply to pre-booked groups or walk-up groups.
Same day passes are sold at the Freedom Center until 4:00pm (passes not available by telephone). Audio tours, one for adults and another for children, are available free of charge with paid admission. Sorry, audio tours are not available for groups of 10 or more. Last ticket sold at 4 p.m.
Directions and Parking Information
The map and directions provided below are for The Central Riverfront Parking Garage which is located directly below the Freedom Center building. (Please note: there is a $4.50 daily rate, cash only).Visitors should be aware that parking rates are increased by Hamilton County for ALL Cincinnati Reds home games. To view the Cincinnati Reds' schedule click here.
For directions to the Freedom Center main entrance please click here.
Public Transportation
Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (Metro)
Nearly all of the Metro routes end in Downtown Cincinnati at Government Square which is located 3 blocks north of the Freedom Center. For more information on routes and schedules visit the Metro Web site at http://www.sorta.com/.
Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky (TANK)
Many of the TANK routes cross the Ohio River on the Roebling Suspension Bridge and run directly by the Freedom Center. The Southbank Shuttle is the most frequent. For more information on routes and schedules please visit the TANK Web site at http://www.tankbus.org/.
Area Attractions, Restaurants & Hotels
Check out Cincinnati USA for information on nearby dining, hotels and other attractions.
