Cincinnati a top destination for street art, museums

The Queen City received top honors in USA Today’s 10Best readers’ choice rankings for both its vibrant street art and several world-class museums, highlighting destinations just steps from campus with deep UC ties.

Cincinnati was named the No. 2 city for street art in the country by USA Today’s 10Best, a testament to the city’s dynamic public art scene. From the colorful murals in Over-the-Rhine to the ever-evolving installations across Northern Kentucky, Greater Cincinnati’s walls tell stories, spark conversations and bring neighborhoods together.

But the impact of Cincinnati street art goes beyond aesthetics. Recent UC research shows that murals and public art are powerful tools for community development and urban vitality. As part of a major NEA-funded project led by UC’s Hyesun Jeong, studies found that street art boosts local pride, supports small businesses, and fosters a sense of belonging. 

Findings have shown that murals don’t just brighten up a block — they help build stronger, more connected communities in Cincinnati and beyond. 

Read more about UC research on street art and how that research is expanding to cities like Chicago.

The city’s cultural acclaim doesn’t stop with its murals. The best museums in Cincinnati also happen to be among the best in the country. Several Cincinnati museums were voted into USA Today’s 10Best Museums lists for 2026.

Each is just a short drive or bus ride from UC’s campus and boasts various UC connections. These institutions hire UC students and alumni for co-ops, internships and careers, collaborate with UC faculty and staff, and serve as expanded classrooms across the city.

• American Sign Museum: No. 2 Best Pop Culture Museum: Home to a dazzling collection of vintage signs, this neon wonderland offers a unique look at the artistry and history of American advertising.
  • UC connection: American Sign Museum benefactor has big plans for the city
     
• Cincinnati History Museum: No. 2 Best History Museum: A destination for exploring the city’s fascinating past through immersive displays and artifacts, this is just one of several museums and attractions of the Cincinnati Museum Center, housed in historic Union Terminal.
  • Related UC news: Teaching empathy and courage: Co-op collaboration with Cincinnati’s Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center
     
• Cincinnati Art Museum: No. 3 Best Art Museum: One of the oldest museums in America, the Cincinnati Art Museum boasts over 73,000 pieces from every part of the globe, including famous works by Monet, Picasso, Rothko, Warhol and van Gogh.
  • UC connection: Century-old UC fountain records chemistry history
     
• The Children’s Museum: No. 3 Best Children's Museum: Celebrated for its interactive, hands-on exhibits perfect for curious minds of all ages, this local favorite is also located in the Cincinnati Museum Center.

Looking to explore outdoor art a little further from campus? Ranked No. 5 for Best Sculpture Park, Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park is about a 30-minute drive from UC. The park has a strong focus on contemporary abstract art and showcases more than 70 outdoor pieces spread across meadows, hiking trails, woods and lakes on 470 rolling, pastoral acres

With so many nationally recognized attractions close to campus, UC students enjoy a college experience that extends far beyond the classroom. Whether you’re mural-hopping, exploring museums or discovering hidden gems, Cincinnati is a city full of adventure.

Looking for inspiration? Check out these UC blogs for the inside scoop on the best things to do in Cincinnati:

• Top things to do in Cincinnati on a budget
• The ultimate Cincinnati bucket list
• Summer activities in Cincinnati

Cincinnati offers Bearcats a campus experience you won’t find anywhere else.