National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
Museum · Cincinnati ·

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

Museum · Cincinnati ·

Interactive museum on slavery, film, animation, multimedia exhibits

slavery history
modern slavery
educational experience
human trafficking
interactive exhibits
gift shop
lots of reading
ohio river
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by null

Information

50 E Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202 Get directions

Restroom
Family friendly
Paid parking garage
Paid street parking
Gender neutral restroom

Information

Static Map

50 E Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202 Get directions

+1 513 333 7500
freedomcenter.org
FreedomCenter
𝕏
@freedomcenter

Features

•Restroom
•Family friendly
•Paid parking garage
•Paid street parking
•Gender neutral restroom
•Free Wi-Fi
•LGBTQ friendly
•Trans safe

Last updated

Jan 31, 2026

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Natalie

Google
The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is far from a 'basic' museum; it is a masterfully designed, immersive journey. Unlike traditional exhibits with just rows of glass cases, this museum uses interactive rooms that resemble historical surroundings to put you directly into the narrative. We were particularly struck by the short, well-integrated films throughout the floors, which add a cinematic and emotional layer to the history that you just can't get from reading a plaque. The museum spans three expansive floors, each building on the last. A major highlight for us was the third-floor terrace and the 'Eternal Flame,' which offer a peaceful space to reflect while looking out over the Ohio River. The extension of the museum's mission into modern-day issues is also impressive, ensuring the conversation about liberty continues into the present. We spent nearly 3 hours exploring and only managed to see about 85% of the museum before it closed. Honestly, we could have easily spent a few more hours there to fully absorb everything. I highly suggest giving yourself a good amount of time to explore everything the museum has to offer. Overall, this is a world-class institution that offers a perspective you simply won't find anywhere else, making it an absolute must-see in Cincinnati.

Ketta M.

Google
This museum touched my heart and made me cry! It makes you look at America in a way you’ve never seen! And the different levels of slavery that still exists is what is heart wrenching! A very educational… inspirational… and insightful experience! If you are not ready for the truth… don’t go!

Mimi B

Google
I went for a free event at this location. They had a Santa Claus set up that I took my daughter to. I really enjoyed the displays and exhibits. I had a problem with the fact that they did not have anywhere to eat. I was looking for a cafeteria or a eatery area or vending machines of some sort, and they don't have any of that available... However the bathrooms were really clean which I appreciate.

Katie G.

Google
Girl at the front desk with shoulder length braids had the worst attitude. What kind of place like this doesnt accept cash? Probably should mention that. And to thw guy that yelled at my kid for pressing the button on the revolving door to go out on the 3rd floor balcony....maybe dont yell at a kid for something they didnt know... or at least learn how to talk to people in a more kid-friendly or personable tone. Exhibit itself was nice though. Kids enjoyed the videos/theater portion. Nice mixture of art/history/exhibits/etc. Great for kids to learn and observe

Daryl N.

Google
Wow! Very strong powerful message about slavery and freedom. There are many applications to our society today. They're are 8 movies to see. All our well-done. Most of the staff is very kind. Just a couple grumpy guards. Overall a very positive experience. Just need to be in the right mind-set to absorb all the NURFC has to offer. DO NOT MISS THE GIFT SHOP! This a great place to find really unique gifts.

Silpa

Google
I was exploring the museum on my own (and kind of in a rush cause I got here about 50 minutes before closing). I met this wonderful woman Lori Jo, who gave me a quick 25 tour of what we cover together! Absolutely wonderful woman with so much passion about the Underground Railroad Freedom History! I wish I had more time to walk through the entire center with her!

Kay B.

Google
Wow this experience was awesome. I got to learn about the history of Kentucky and Cincinnati when it came to slavery. The displays would make some people a little uncomfortable but learning the history and seeing anonymous donations to the museum was an experience. We toured every floor, sat through some short films, toured every area we could. It was worth every dollar for the entrance fee. I got to sit in the pray house and listened to a hymn. Amazing experience. I would definitely visit this again.

Terhas W.

Google
I recently was here for Fevers Candlelight Neo Soul String event. It was a very nice experience. Comfortable seats. Beautiful ambiance. We sat in row 3 zone A to be up close to the action but there really wasnt a bad seat in the house. The staff was really kind. Ive been here on Juneteenth as well. Its a beautiful place to visit anytime u have the opportunity to attend an event there. Go visit!✨️
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Melitta S.

Yelp
This is a several hour excursion. We came during Emmett Till experience..... wow! My heart was so heavy about the whole horrible historical situation. People don't want to know or want to forget the horrors our ancestors have endured. I'm blessed and thankful for my family and upbringing. Never forget! It's sad that unfortunately "slavery" has not been eradicated. It just exists in different forms . I loved the entire visit. The gift shop is a gem! Found so many things I may have to come back with family
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Judith G.

Yelp
What a powerful testament to a painful and horrific time in our history! Yes, much of the information here is hard to emotionally digest, and should be. But the museum does a good job of making that journey possible and awe inspiring. 1) It is an architecturally beautiful and innovative building; 2) The exhibits are arranged well. The helpful staff gives you a user-friendly brochure with suggestions on a step-by-step process for viewing the exhibits; 3) it brings the reality to life. In particular, I was emotionally moved at the slave house -- with showed the inhumanity of slavery in a way no words could have. And at one of the interactive videos, which gave you choices to make, in your runaway journey, with the results of your decisions (I was sent back to slavery, because I didn't go all the way to Canada). 4) It is thoroughly researched, with fascinating explanations I didn't know about that time in history. 5) Just when it gets overwhelming, some bright moments show through -- important people who stood up for justice, for example. And the exhibit about actions we still need to take 6) The eternal flame outside on the balcony offers a testament to justice. But also an opportunity to see a fantastic view of Cincinnati, from The Banks to the riverfront. 7) The movies were well-produced, with compelling stories and good information. I wished it was more experiential, as that's the most recent trend of museums -- the exhibits here were either written placards or videos. But over all, it was a somber but awe-inspiring education that resonated powerfully with me -- so much so that I was too emotionally spent to view every exhibit & see every movie. But I will be back.
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Mark G.

Yelp
Highly recommend a stop. A very interesting and moving museum. You know some of the stories but not all. The slave pen was breathtaking and sad. Truly shocking what humans can do to each other. We spent an hour and a half before a Reds game you could easily spend twice that much time and it would be worth it. Mark & Nancy.
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Deonna E.

Yelp
We attended the Candlelight by Fever event: Best of Hip-Hop. The venue was a symbolic touch as the work of African-American musicians was highlighted. The auditorium was the perfect size and comfortable. I had a great view of the performers and thought it was well put together.
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Darrell K.

Yelp
I visited this place while in the area. It was recommended by a friend. It tells the story of the slave trade and the history of chamge. It was in walking distance from where I was staying. When you come un you can start of on the thirdbfloor or do to the 3rd level and work your way down. The ticket counter is also located where you enter and they give you instructions and a map. It was a great informative visit. There were things to read, short movies and interactive activities that shared the history. You could feel the energy and emotion from some of the activities. I would get there early because there is a lot to see. It was a great learning experience and was happy I went.
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karina k.

Yelp
Lots of exhibits to learn from. So much to discuss if you want to walk slowly through these with a friend. There is a lot of info and it would be nice if you had at least 3 hours to take your time with. It's good to know this history of brave people on both sides... those who fled their owners and those who helped those who fled their owners. Thank goodness for human resilience and kindness of humanity who helped people escape slave owners.
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Andrea A.

Yelp
My visit to this place was nothing short of an amazing experience! This is one of the best museums I've ever been to in my life. As long as I was there, I still needed more time to see and explore everything fully. I think it would take at least 2 days to see it all. There was so much beautiful art there! Wonderful sculptures and exhibits were on every floor. There were interactive exhibits and also a lovely gift shop where I purchased a beautiful handmade doll, some fabric and keepsakes. I learned things, and enjoyed every minute of my visit! I truly recommend this place for lovers of history, black history, art, and for those who want to learn more about African American history.
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Wendy K.

Yelp
I was really excited to go to this museum and learn more about the underground railroad, but there's almost nothing about it in the museum. -Lots of text heavy displays with fonts that jump from too large to too small to read comfortably -Displays are poorly lit which create heavy shadows making displays difficult to read -Hardly any artifacts All in all it's a big building with not much in it that you couldn't easily find on the internet. Definitely not worthy of the entrance fee of $16.50; left feeling cheated instead of enriched.
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Taysha W.

Yelp
Tip: go early and spend the day here! It's so much to see, read, and learn about. Just "stopping by" won't work. I learned lots of new things.
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John B.

Yelp
It's a must experience. Take your time and learn. The staff help you understand everything in this history crossing over the water to Ohio.
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Nikki J.

Yelp
What a great museum. I'm glad I came across it while searching things to do, it was one of the highlights of my trip. There is so much history here not only about slavery, but history throughout America including all the different policies, laws, and discussions surrounded it. There is also a section on modern day slavery and what that looks like that was very educational. You definitely need time if you want to explore all the exhibits. I'd say minimum 2 hours.
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Leslie H.

Yelp
Loved it here awesome place to visit. Me and my wife went for the first time. I wasn't sure what to expect but for someone who already knows all the history and has seen it a lot, it wasn't to bad to look at.
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Marie F.

Yelp
This was a difficult (but much needed) walk through history. It was an interesting and highly informative look at an unfortunate time in America's history. I'm glad I took a couple hours to remind myself of how far our country has come in the subject of slavery, but also how far we need to go. Admission: $16.50
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Georgie P.

Yelp
Absolutely incredible museum. Really eye opening to the horrors of slavery and bravery and resolve African Americans have shown through centuries of mistreatment. Also got in free because of it being the 5th or 3rd Sunday of the month!
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Kimberly T.

Yelp
I was excited to visit this museum, and I wasn't disappointed. I walked through for over two hours. If all exhibits were available then I would have been there longer. Due to water damage, some exhibits were closed for repairs. I learned more on this visit to go along with teachings at other museums from TN and SC I have visited. For those who say that they didn't learn anything or thought it could have been Learned on one page of a book clearly didn't soak up any information or go to learn. People are available to explain exhibits too. I hope you go and grow.
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Gilbert G.

Yelp
My wife, two teenage sons (17 yrs., 15 yrs), and I visited this museum on the riverfront after watching a ballgame. The detailed history on the economics of slavery in the U.S. and modern day human trafficking was excellent. Most history classes do not provide this level of insight (demand for cheap labor) which remains a pervasive problem in the world today. Would recommend taking at least 2 hours to enjoy the films (a centerpiece of the museum experience) and a little more time if you want to see all the exhibits. I think the museum does a great service by presenting this information on the history of slavery in an honest, direct way with the audience. When we view slavery through an economic lens, it is possible to understand why it persisted for so many years up through the Civil War. But it also reveals a painful legacy which affects race relations today. Be sure to save time for the implicit bias demonstration on the first floor before you go! If you are hesitant about the result, try the insects vs. flowers test option.
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Les R.

Yelp
I can not speak highly enough of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. I don't think my review could ever reflect the deep educational value and my overall experience. I do recommend allowing at least 3+ hours and catch every video and explore every room. We were staying at a hotel down the street and drove over to the center. I found street parking for the visit and downloaded the Cincy EZPark App. Next time I will go with the Central Riverfront Parking Garage due to the app/meter parking limit is 3hours and we actually ran out of time at the meters. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is a must visit. We were in town on a weekend getaway and wanting to check out something new that we had not seen before in Cincy. Five (5) stars all the way. It was such an invaluable, educational, and moving experience. Staff was great, and the cost was $16.50 each (adult). We utilized the free open coat check in the lobby. I was a little concerned to leave our coats unattended, but made sure I had my car keys (just in case) and they were right there waiting when we were done. We started on the 3rd floor and worked our way down. The Terrace was closed due to construction but were able to visit all the exhibits. Take time to read and take in as much as you can. There are so many stores told here. Some of the Exhibits we explored were: -The Slave Pen (authentic replica) - From Slavery To Freedom (3rd Floor) -Escape! Gallery (2nd Floor) -Invisible: Slavery Today (3rd Floor) -Free As They Want To Be We caught almost all of the films running about 20-30 mins each and they were definitely a highlight and added so much to the visit and experience. We even took some time to chat with one of the employees stationed out on the floor. It was nice and she had a lot of recommendations and highlighted some must see areas, and talked a little about the center itself. We concluded our visit with a stop in the Museum Store. I learned the most from two exhibits, the The Invisible: Slavery today where you examine forced & child labor, sex trafficking and bonded & domestic servitude. And From Slavery to Freedom, where go follow the slave trade over centuries from Transatlantic and Atlantic slave trades all the way to the Mulberry Plantation. When I thought of cash crops, I always though of cotton. I learned that tobacco and especially rice where huge crops as well. All the info on the regional and nationwide history of the underground railroad, and the larger history of the slave trade, helped to grow my understanding. I realized how basic my education was in some of the areas and appreciate all that the center has to offer.
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Erika G.

Yelp
Great experience and opportunity to learn the history of black people and how they were enslaved. This is such a sad reality but everyone should visit
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Wendy K.

Yelp
What a gem in downtown Cincinnati. This is a must see and experience for everyone who wants to learn about our country's history, slavery and ongoing human trafficking. So much history and excellent presentation, programs and messages. I highly recommend that you go more than once.
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Plenty F.

Yelp
5 stars. Such a moving experience... I was so very impressed with this American treasure. The information is presented beautifully and thoroughly, albeit loquacious. Which leads me to my first tip: Ages 11 and up. There's ALOT of reading required as you progress through the exhibits. A whole lot! Which leads me to my second tip: Buy a membership! You really cannot digest this museum in one visit. It's too much information and too many exhibits to peruse. We only made it through ONE floor! before my eyes started to tire. Plus, you can take up to 2 adults and 10 children with the Family Membership. Third tip: Take a guided tour! The docent-led tour is only offered 1x per month, though. This should be increased. Last tip: Don't skip the gift shop! It's a DEI dream. You are sure to find the perfect memento for yourself or a loved one. And you get 15% off with a membership. More savings...
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E G.

Yelp
All so can say is WOW! The exhibit was so well done and so very moving. To see so much detail of from the beginning of slavery in the US to the civil rights movement and beyond and the hope intertwined with desperation and grief was just so powerful! You could hear a pin drop in all areas of the museum. The films were powerful and educational and there is just so much to see! I did a report on Harriet Tubman when I was eight (50 years ago) and this was just so breath taking and truly amazing! This reminds us all how we need to treat every person as just that... a Person!!! No one is better than another! Just Go and see it! BRAVO! to the creators! This will forever be in my memory! Thank You! The green book portion is a new addition, don't know how long this part will be here, but it was fantastic. It also showed how robust and strong hope truly can be! Tips: you get a pass for the entire day and you may want to take a break and go in and out! There is so much information that it is hard to digest and truly read it all! and This is NOT the history you were taught in school so embrace the reality of the information! Make sure to go to the balcony to see the eternal flame which will remain lite until everyone person is free
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Kirsten J.

Yelp
Eye opening and educational. The museum staff asked us to start on the 3rd floor. It was very emotional and by time difficult for me to read about modern slavery, seeing former modern slaves pictures and their lives. The second floor is very well laid out and teaches about slavery in the US and very educational. It takes a while to get through the museum and I would recommend to come early enough so you can spend some hours - you need at least 2-3 hours pus some time in gift shop if you like. The Freedom Center is located downtown Cincinnati and walking distance to the Ohio river.
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Cynthia H.

Yelp
How can it be that the Underground Railroad Freedom Center does not have an exhibit dedicated to Harriet Tubman? I'll never understand that. I thought I had missed it and went back downstairs to ask at the front desk. They directed me to a "few reading panels" on the second floor. That was it. There were many who contributed to the Underground Railroad, a network of routes and people to help runaway slaves escape from the southern states. To not feature Harriet Tubman's widely known contribution to the movement was a complete disappointment. As other Yelp reviewers have mentioned about the Freedom Center, the Center's version was probably the worst representation of the Underground Railroad. The entire Center's layout is disorganized and confusing. It also takes the focus away from the Underground Railroad. Because of the heavy reading involved throughout the Center, it seems to completely exclude opportunities for young children and young teens to get involved on the topic. The location of the Freedom Center faces the Ohio river, so it offers a visualization of runaway slaves having to cross the Ohio river from the Kentucky border to freedom. There were a few areas in the Center that were useful to all, but such a pity there was not more.
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John B.

Yelp
This museum is really a centerpiece of the Cincinnati riverfront. Architecturally majestic, it has a view going straight down the historic bridge. And it's well worth stopping at the upper level outdoor deck for the view. Presently, tickets are only online presale, and I would definitely check the website before going. The content is a broad overview of the history of the transatlantic slave trade. I guess I had expected a bit more focus on the Underground Railroad specifically, which was definitely covered in some exhibits, but the museum was general in focus. Kentucky and Ohio are weird states with regards to this history as they weren't part of the original 13 colonies, but there is some interesting local material covered that was new for me. Another hall covered contemporary human trafficking. There were several movies that I did not have time to stop in for; it would be no trouble to spend the couple of hours they recommend here or more. The return to the ground floor leads to a room where you can take the Implicit Association Test, which I would not recommend doing, scientifically. Still, most of the museum is a worthwhile exploration of history and a somewhat surprising find in Cincinnati.

M E.

Yelp
So much history and education on how far we have come. And the location of it is perfectly tied to the history told within those 4 walls. Simply amazing. And The Raggonnon has blown my mind. I was hopeful a replica blanket or photo was sold in the gift shop but there wasn't. There also wasn't a book I could take home as highlights to show family and friends who may never get to see it in person.
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Cynthia F.

Yelp
Thought provoking. Too much to see in one visit Would have liked better signage; had difficulty finding the entrances to the rooms where films are shown. Didn't see a vending machine; was in need of a drink of water. Loved the movie brothers of the borderland Entrances to the underground garage are a few blocks away. Drive around the garage looking for signs for the freedom center before choosing a parking space.
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Frank T.

Yelp
Wow this is a great venue. Lots of information that helped me understand the journey. A lot of worrying similarities to what we're seeing now. I hope a lot of visitors come here. The recommended 3 hours is dead on. Staff are helpful and friendly. It's in a great location.
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Carolyn S.

Yelp
Incredible. A post and pictures doesn't do this place justice. You have to go in person. There is SO much to learn from visiting this monumental place. I wish I had more time to go back. I would try to go from open to close to soak it all in and go back the next day to make sure you get everything from all the floors, exhibits and videos. You will learn things you didn't learn about in school. Come educate yourself and soak in an amazing experience. They also have a great gift shop to check out as well!
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Andrea U.

Yelp
We got here when they open at 10 AM and paid $15 for admission. We spent 2 hours here, everything was well spaced out. There were many clean restrooms & a large beautiful gift shop. We started on the third floor with invisible slavery, depressing info re. children... enslaved today. The exhibit the struggle continues from slavery to freedom was well done. We walked through the plantations & slave ships to amendments & freedom. The films & artifacts from the Underground Railroad demonstrated the risks faced along the trip up north. We stopped at the freedom's eternal flame Terrace. The exhibits for beautifully presented with colorful films, personal stories, photographs, art with music and settings in the background that brought us into the era.
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Jill H.

Yelp
A moving and important historical record of the history of slavery. Interactive displays engage visitors as they learn about this history & the many ways in which abolitionists (black and white) bravely fought against oppression and for the freedom of enslaved people. An additional section on modern day slavery reminds us that we still grapple with many kinds of oppression and exploitation of our fellow human beings. Of course, one will also learn about the actual Underground Railroad system as well. A must visit if you are in Cincinnati.
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Steve S.

Yelp
This is a wonderful museum in downtown Cincinnati. It's powerful and descriptive and it takes time to process what it has to offer. There are a number of small theaters, numerous displays presenting artifacts and countless storyboards filled with information. The Museum needs help with lighting, there are many dark cases, poorly lit displays, areas where lights are improperly placed on exhibits. In spite of this, it's an excellent place to learn about a tragic time in our history.
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Christopher A.

Yelp
This is a must visit location. Very humbling experience. Also goes into the modern day sex trafficking.

Jill L.

Yelp
I'm not quite sure why this was called the Underground Railroad Freedom Center. There was very little about the Underground Railroad. it was mostly about slavery itself. It was an ok museum, but definitely didn't live up to its name!
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Kristine A.

Yelp
This is a must-see for everyone who visits the city. Obviously, if you live there too. There was so much happening w/ this museum that you actually miss out on some of the videos they have which is unfortunate. You have to be sure to leave several hours to go through it & then plan the videos around it since they're timed & some are longer than others. They have various exhibits so it isn't all about history but current events as well. People don't think about forced labor which is the same as slavery. There are different sections that are focused on various parts of US history which you may learn something. There are some parts that are interactive too. I am glad I made this a part of my visit, so important.
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Sharon K.

Yelp
Stopped here during a day trip to Cincinnati. Good museum covering parts of history that aren't always addressed. I wished there was some more hands on/interactive experiences. Parts were a little verbose and I just didn't have the attention span to focus all the time. Parking is a bit confusing if you're not familiar with the area, there are several underground lots near the museum as well as curbside parking. The museum is also close to the water so you can explore before or after visiting.
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Mrs L.

Yelp
Definitely a stop to make when you're in the area. Great layout with enough artifacts to tell a story
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Rhonda L.

Yelp
This museum was visually beautiful, but too much reading. As a teacher, I'd have liked a bit more immersive/ interactive experiences.
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Becky K.

Yelp
Anyone who comes to this city should visit this amazing exhibit of slavery that also include modern day slavery. The volunteer docents share powerful stories and history as you walk through each space.

Steph F.

Yelp
Went here for an evening event recently. What a beautiful building. The inside staff were welcoming and helpful. One thing did mar our experience. An elderly man stood inside the side doors and watched multiple people trying unsuccessfully to enter as the doors were stuck and inoperable from the outside. I'm convinced he was not an employee. After forcing him to open them from the inside, he called my husband some choice names for confronting his weird behavior. Freedom Center, please be aware. Regardless of employment status, he did not represent you in the manner which you so richly deserve.
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Danielle P.

Yelp
This was a excellent museum, thankfully I planned this spot into my travels while in Cinci area. Its located DT so parking can be a pain, I got lucky and found a spot across the street, meter pay with your credit card. The bldg. is well maintained, quite large, and handicap assessable. The customer service could use some help, I bought the tickets and the clerk didn't give us any info, so I picked up a map, then asked her to explain.... I didn't do the guided tour do to time. The museum focuses heavily on the Ohio Rivers role in slavery. There are a lot of exhibits and 3 floors, so I started at the top and made my way down. Give yourself plenty of time to read and watch all the movies thru out the museum. There are originals thru out, and a slave holding house that was moved to the museum. All the exhibits were well done. Don't miss on the 3rd floor a external flame on the balcony, great view point also. There is a large exhibit concerning human trafficking, which was educational. You will learn a lot, and yes slavery is still alive today all over the world. You wont be disappointed in your visit. Pricing was reasonable.
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Hunter S.

Yelp
This museum of course has heavy content. The Freedom Center not only focuses on African American slavery/the African slave trade, but other types of slavery, such as sex trafficking, child enslavement, and unfair labor practices. The exhibits are well done and the center is beautiful, full of light, and clean. The brass figures are beautiful and poignant. The museum covers A LOT of material, from the beginning of the transatlantic slave trade through emancipation. While there are many colorful graphics and interactive exhibits, it is a LOT of reading. I spent two hours here (I had another appointment) and feel I barely scraped the surface. This is probably not a museum you can truly appreciate with just one visit. It would be best digested over several visits. They do have annual memberships for 40 dollars, which I purchased. This museum deserves support. But don't expect to really get it in just a couple hours or single afternoon.
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Karen D.

Yelp
The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center location on the banks of the Ohio River where many crossed the mighty Ohio on way to freedom. The museum opened in August 2004 and tells the story of slavery to freedom. There are 3 floors of exhibits, a video narrated by Oprah Winfrey telling the story of what slaves went through to cross the Ohio in Ripley, OhIo also exhibit on modern day slavery- yes it still exists. I also checked our the special Motel X exhibit which cost $5 extra on the experience of human trafficking and lots of stats on the current state of this situation in Cincinnati, Ohio. Stopping by the museum is worth a visit and is free on Martin Luther King, Jr day. As other reviews have stated the museum needs some upkeep and many monitors are out, unfortunate for a newer museum. There we're a variety of docents at the museum today helping share this important story.
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Teresa T.

Yelp
Wow. What an inspiring and educational day I had at this establishment. We had a work meeting however we also got a chance to see the newest exhibition called Men of Change. It is dedicated to helping people see real black men doing great things instead of the images of negativity that are overwhelming pumped into the media and into society. The facilities where we did our meeting were well equipped with what we needed and we catered in our food items. The staff were friendly and welcoming as we entered the place and guided us to where we need to go. I would suggest they put a stand for a small sign that can direct you after getting off the elevator on the 4th floor. Parking of course is downtown parking so I won't complain. Just make sure you give yourself enough time to park and walk up To the museum. Thanks for a great day and experience !!
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Shauntae A.

Yelp
So I visited the national Underground Railroad today. And I must say it was a eye opening experience. I learned so much about slavery and what African Americans went through in the fight to become free. What you thought you knew is only the beginning and there is so much more to be learned. Our guide really brought the exhibits to life and explained so that everyone could understand. The artifacts were chilling to see and really made you under the brutality of the times. They had original shackles, they even had an authentic slave holding house that had been found in Cincinnati and moved to the museum. They had short movies about some key figures in the area that were apart of the Underground Railroad so that you could understand the sacrifice that slaves as well as those helping to escape went through. The saddest part is learning that slavery is still alive today.
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Stan S.

Yelp
First of all its a really well designed museum space, the architecture very much makes the most of the space. Excellent presentations and some very high powered traveling shows.
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Cheryl S.

Yelp
A must do in if you are in the Cincinnati area. It is a great educational experience for adults and children. Many of the displays are quite moving and incredibly calibrating. Seeing the world through the eyes of others can be both enlightening and unimaginable. The historic perspective is far greater than just Underground Railroad.
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Steve A.

Yelp
A must visit in Cincinnati is the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. It's part museum and part convention center. There's lots of important artifacts anyone who cares about humanity needs to see. It's not a large museum, but you can spend a few hours inside. The museum also has many events going on. The museum has three levels. It has much of the most important stuff on the second. These are where most of the artifacts are, and where you should spend most of your time. Among the most important things you want to see is the slave pen. This is pretty much a small cabin with almost nothing inside, which is where spaces were forced to stay. Along with the stuff from the 1800s is some newer information. Slavery still exists in parts of the world. It has an exhibition on modern slavery and an interactive exhibit. This shows how children are captured and sold into slavery. It's located in a great looking building. On the pavilion is a great view of the river. The museum could just be open later but that's why admission charges and donations are needed, to make improvements like this.
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Karen V.

Yelp
This is a must see exhibit. It should be at the top of anyone's list of must see things to do in Cincinnati. The Freedom Center is situated appropriately near one of the most popular bridges. It was the bridges like this one that slaves used to cross the Ohio River to freedom. Their are many artifacts, films, and stories throughout the 3 levels. You start at the top level and work your way down. It was interesting to see how each state fit into all of this. I was particularly interested in Florida. I didn't realize that there was so much Civil War history in Cincinnati until walking through the exhibits. There's also an outdoor area on the top floor that has the freedom torch burning for eternity. There's a wonderful view of the Roebling Suspension Bridge, and the Ohio River. Do try to view some of the historical documentaries while you are there. It's all very powerful. Allow yourself at least 2 to 3 hours if you want to see everything. There's also a section at the end that educates people about enslavement that still exists in other countries around the world. Also, don't miss the exhibit of the Berlin Wall that is near the entrance to the Freedom Center. It was given to the people of Cincinnati because of their relationship with Germany. It's also part of the center, but it can easily be overlooked. There is also a discount given to veterans and their families. I'm not sure if it was posted or not. Either way, it's all worth the admission price (with or without the discount) and shouldn't be missed when visiting Cincinnati.
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Cher N.

Yelp
I have been wanting to visit this museum for awhile and I finally got the opportunity to check it out. The setup was very nice and it provided a lot of informative information. I didn't realize it was going to focus so heavily on Ohio's role in the Underground Railroad. I felt like there was so much more that could have been explained. It had quite a few videos to watch and a lot of items to read. I would not recommend this museum for children 7 and under. There wasn't really any activities for the children to participate in like a "kids area". Overall it was a good experience. I will have to bring my kids back when they are a little older. The pricing is $10.50 for kids 3 and over and $15 for adults.