Colorful Cincinnati: A Walking Tour of Cincinnati Murals

Henry Holtgrewe Strongman Mural in Cincinnati Ohio

Ever since former Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory threw down a mural-making challenge in 2007, ArtWorks has been painting the town, quite literally. Today, more than 130 public murals beautify Cincy’s 44 neighborhoods. So grab your most comfortable shoes, charge your phone, and prepare to explore more than 20 impressive Cincinnati murals on this one-hour, self-guided walking tour.

This Cincinnati mural tour doesn’t cover all the 140+ Cincinnati murals (we’re not training for a marathon here). Still, it includes more than 20 of Cincy’s most Insta-worthy murals, including the “must see” murals endorsed by Cincinnati USA and several not listed on the ArtWorks Cincinnati mural map.

According to Google Maps, you can walk my tour in about an hour. It took me closer to two hours, but hey, I had some important pit stops that included:

  • An emergency coffee break. Twice. 
  • A lovely chat with the security guard at the Hamilton County Corrections facility about the Dawn is Coming: Open Your Eyes mural (who knew security guards were art aficionados?)
  • Taking bucket loads of photos and notes to make sure I created the best possible Cincinnati murals walking tour  for you! 

For an expanded list of Cincy street art, snag this Cincinnati mural map from the ArtWorks website. The map only lists about one-third of the ArtWorks murals and might be a tad outdated, but it’s still the best printable resource I could find. 

Sage Advice: If you’d prefer to have a knowledgeable guide lead the way, ArtWorks offers weekend tours from May through October. 

Have You Taken a Mural Walking Tour?

Share your favorite photo with me by tagging @sagescott.kc on Instagram and using the hashtag #everydaywanderer

    

What is ArtWorks?

ArtWorks, a non-profit organization founded in 1996 by Cincinnati’s very own Tamara Harkavy, strives to transform people and places through creativity. And boy, have they put their money where their paintbrush is! Over the past twenty-five years, ArtWorks has hired more than 6,000 local youth and professional artists to create hundreds of eye-catching murals that beautify the Queen City and boost youth employment rates.

Sage Advice: Read the brief snippet for each work of art on the route before (or during) your mural walking tour. It adds a rich context to each piece, and you can impress your friends with your newfound mural knowledge!

Cincinnati Mural: Self-Portrait, Elizabeth Nourse

1. Self-Portrait, Elizabeth Nourse

ArtWorks Map #32
Location:  8th & Walnut
Artist:  Elizabeth Nourse
Completed:  2015

In 1892, Cincinnati native Elizabeth Nourse painted the stunning self-portrait that inspired this mural. Nourse, a graduate of the McMicken School of Design (now the Art Academy of Cincinnati), was offered a teaching position at the art school, but she declined it to move to Paris and establish her career as an artist. In one of Cincinnati’s tallest murals, Norse boldly defies 19th-century norms by looking directly at the viewer – a strong and dominant pose typically reserved for men at the time. You go, girl!

Still Life #60 mural in Cincinnati

2. Still Life #60

ArtWorks Map #33
Location:  811 Main
Artist:  Tom Wesselmann
Completed:  2014

This billboard-sized mural is a tribute to the art of native son Tom Wesselmann. It’s a photorealistic painting of his iconic piece, “Still Life #60”. The original artwork consists of six canvas panels ingeniously arranged to create a three-dimensional still life. The mural mirrors Wesselmann’s unique style and technique, featuring everyday objects such as a tube of lipstick, a book of matches, and a pair of sunglasses.

Dawn is Coming Open Your Eyes mural in Cincinnati

3. Dawn is Coming:  Open Your Eyes

ArtWorks Map #28
Location:  1000 Sycamore
Artist:  Tina Westerkamp
Completed:  2015

I wondered why this Cincinnati mural is inside the Justice Center that houses the Hamilton County Jail. Later I learned that it was crafted in partnership with John Wedge, a former inmate who wanted the mural to honor the Re-Entry program of Hamilton County that transformed his life. 

Dawn is Coming Open Your Eyes Mural

This Cincinnati mural is very long, taking up an entire wall as visitors wait in line to go through a metal detector. The view still only shows a fraction of the detailed piece, and I am especially grateful that the guard at the facility allowed me to step inside at 7:00 am on a Saturday to get a closer look and snap photographs without window glare.

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Homecoming mural featuring two blue birds

4. Homecoming (Blue Birds)

ArtWorks Map #27
Location:  119 E. Court
Artist:  Charley Harper
Completed:  2012

This impressive Cincinnati mural was painted in homage to the renowned Cincinnati-based artist Charley Harper. A graduate of Cincinnati’s Art Academy, Harper was celebrated for his distinct style, often characterized by flat, geometric representations of wildlife. This mural, based on his original piece of the same name, beautifully captures his artistic essence, featuring a pair of bluebirds — a male and a female — returning to their nesting place.

5. What’s Happening Downtown

ArtWorks Map #26
Location:  1005 Walnut
Artist:  Ted Hendricks
Completed:  2008

This engaging mural perfectly captures the vibrant, ever-evolving spirit of downtown Cincinnati. The mural, designed by Ted Hendricks, portrays a lively scene of locals observing the bustling activity below, symbolizing the dynamic changes and renovations taking place, particularly in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood.

Fresh Harvest Mural at the Kroger Headquarters

6. Fresh Harvest


Renowned artist Jonathan Queen designed the “Fresh Harvest” mural in partnership with Kroger, a major grocery chain established in Cincinnati. Painted on the side of Kroger’s headquarters, the mural features a selection of realistic-looking, larger-than-life fresh fruits and vegetables cascading out of a classic Kroger grocery bag.

Quilted cat mural in Cincinnati

7. Crazy Cat, Crazy Quilt Cat 

Bonus mural not on the ArtWorks Map
Location:  30 E. Central Parkway
Artist:  Edie Harper
Completed:  2017

This delightful mural is based on a work of art by Cincinnati master artist Edie Harper. Showcasing a vibrant, patchwork depiction of Harper’s beloved cat, Katrinka, the mural’s quilt-like pattern, combined with the playful subject matter, brings a sense of whimsy and charm to the streets of Cincinnati. And the word on the street is that Edie cherished this design so much that she used it on her business cards.

Fun Fact: Edie Harper was born in Kansas City and is the wife of fellow artist Charley Harper. Their shared love for art and nature has left an indelible mark on the Cincinnati art scene.

Ice Cream Daydream mural

8. Ice Cream Daydream

ArtWorks Map #19
Location:  33 E. 12th
Artist:  Amanda Checco
Completed:  2010

Despite being partially obscured by a tree, this mural’s bright and vivid colors help it stand out against the urban backdrop. The piece features a playful, imaginative scene of dripping ice cream cones against a dreamy, kaleidoscopic background. (Is it just me, or is anyone else suddenly humming The Beatles’s “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds”?)

Lookin’ Good Mural

9. Lookin’ Good

Bonus mural not on the ArtWorks Map
Location:  1120 Jackson (Same parking lot as Ice Cream Daydream)
Artist:  Unknown
Completed:  Unknown

The Know Theatre of Cincinnati’s building serves as the canvas for this mural.

Energy and Grace mural

10. Energy and Grace

ArtWorks Map #18
Location:  16 E. 12th
Artist:  Kim Krause
Completed:  2013

Unveiled in 2013, this piece holds the distinction of being the first abstract mural completed by ArtWorks. Reflecting and celebrating the energy, vibrancy, and revival of this part of Cincinnati, its vibrant colors and flowing forms convey a sense of momentum and transformation, embodying a spirit of renewal and progress.

Cincinnati Strong Man Henry Holtgrewe

11. Cincinnati Strong Man:  Henry Holtgrewe

ArtWorks Map #17
Location:  1215 Vine
Artist:  Jason Snell
Completed:  2014

This mural tells the impressive tale of former Over-the-Rhine resident Henry Holtgrewe. Renowned for his exceptional strength, German immigrant Holtgrewe was often called the world’s strongest man. 

Cincinnati Strongman Mural by JM Wolf

The “Cincinnati Strong Man” mural documents one of his most legendary demonstrations of power – single-handedly lifting the entire 1904 Cincinnati Reds baseball team

Faces of Homelessness murals

12. Faces of Homelessness

Bonus mural not on the ArtWorks Map.
Artists:  Icy + Sot
Location:  1225 Vine (in the same parking lot as Cincinnati Strong Man:  Henry Holtgrewe)
Completed:  2017

This mural is the creation of renowned street artists Icy and Sot. Known for their socially conscious art pieces, they also designed another impactful mural, “We Need Education, Not Violence,” on the walls of Christ Church Cathedral. “Faces of Homelessness” aims to spark conversations and encourage actions addressing homelessness in Cincinnati. The piece is a collage of faces representing the diverse and often overlooked community of homeless individuals. The artists’ objective for this mural is not just to beautify the cityscape but to promote empathy and prompt action in assisting Cincinnati’s homeless population.

The Vision of Samuel Hannaford​ mural

13. The Vision of Samuel Hannaford

ArtWorks Map #13
Location:  1308 Race
Artist:  Scott Donaldson
Completed:  2009

This mural is a tribute to Samuel Hannaford, a renowned architect who left an indelible mark on Cincinnati’s architectural landscape. Born in England and raised in Cincinnati, Hannaford is celebrated for his outstanding designs, including iconic structures such as the Cincinnati Music Hall and City Hall. This mural creatively presents a window through which viewers can admire some of Hannaford’s most notable works. It not only encapsulates Hannaford’s architectural legacy but also conveys the enduring impact of his designs on Cincinnati’s cityscape. The piece offers both locals and visitors an opportunity to appreciate the historical and cultural significance of these architectural landmarks.

The Golden Muse​ Mural in Cincinnati

14. The Golden Muse

ArtWorks Map #14
Location:  28 W. 13th St (but essentially the same parking lot as The Vision of Samuel Hannaford)
Artist:  Tim Parsley
Completed:  2012

The golden muse is an 18th-century mantel clock figurine displayed at the Taft Museum of Art. In the mural, this figurine is enveloped by musical notes from Aaron Copland’s “Fanfare for the Common Man,” which was selected for the mural due to its deep ties with Cincinnati – it was written for and first performed by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra at Music Hall in 1942. The mural visually intertwines Cincinnati’s artistic and musical heritage, reinforcing the city’s rich cultural history.

No Place Like Home mural in Cincinnati

15. No Place Like Home

ArtWorks Map #16
Location:  27 W 12th
Artist:  Kenton Brett
Completed:  2013

This mural was completed in partnership with Tender Mercies, a non-profit organization that helps transform the lives of homeless adults with mental illness. The mural showcases everyday household items – such as a toothbrush,  toothpaste, toilet paper, and a key. While these common objects may be overlooked by many, they are profoundly significant to individuals who have experienced homelessness. By highlighting these simple objects, the mural reflects the importance of having a place to call home and the comfort and security that it provides.

The Face of the Arts​ Mural

16. The Face of the Arts

ArtWorks Map #23
Location:  101 W. Central (address listed on the ArtWorks Map, 1100 Race, is incorrect)
Artist:   Tim Parsley
Completed:  2012

This Cincinnati mural wraps around the Rothchild Law Office, celebrating the diverse spectrum of arts with dancers, musicians, photographers, and other artists in action. The mural is a testament to the integral role that the arts play in enriching Cincinnati’s cultural landscape, embodying the city’s creative spirit in a visually engaging way.

Mr. Tarbell Tips His Hat​

17. Mr. Tarbell Tips His Hat

ArtWorks Map #21
Location:  1109 Vine
Artist:  Tim Parsley
Completed:  2009

This tall mural is a heartwarming tribute to one of Cincinnati’s most beloved figures, Jim Tarbell. Known for his contributions as a businessman, politician, and lifelong advocate for the city, Tarbell earned the endearing title of “Mr. Cincinnati.” The mural depicts Tarbell in the guise of another local legend, “Peanut” Jim Shelton. Known for selling peanuts in a tuxedo at Cincinnati Reds games, Peanut Jim was a familiar and beloved figure at Crosley Field and Riverfront Stadium. 

Homage to Cincinnatus Restoration

18. Homage to Cincinnatus Restoration

ArtWorks Map #24
Location:  1015 Vine
Artist:  Richard Haas
Completed:  1983
Restored:  2015

The “Homage to Cincinnatus Restoration” mural pays tribute to Cincinnati’s namesake, the Roman statesman Cincinnatus. He was known for his selfless act of leaving his farm to lead Rome to victory against an enemy in a single day before resigning his post and returning to his farm.

Close Up of Homage to Cincinnatus Restoration

Initially funded by the Kroger Company in 1983 to commemorate the company’s centennial, the mural was restored by ArtWorks in 2015 in a collaborative effort with the original artist, Richard Haas. The updated mural continues to stand as a testament to the city’s rich history and connection to the values of service and civic duty embodied by Cincinnatus.

Fun Fact: Did you know that Cincinnati was originally named Losantiville? In 1790, Governor Arthur St. Clair renamed the town Cincinnati.

This mural with C3PO, a Care Bear, and Strawberry Shortcake honors Cincinnati's toy history

19. Cincinnati Toy Heritage

Bonus mural not on the ArtWorks Map
Location:  23 Court
Artist: Jonathan Queen
Completed:  2016

This whimsical mural is a playful nod to the city’s rich toy history, thanks to Cincinnati-based Kenner Toys. It features iconic toys from various eras, including Star Wars action figures, Strawberry Shortcake, Mr. Potato Head, and Spirograph. As you admire this elaborate public art piece, look for:

Fun Fact: Kenner Toys ended up with the licensing rights to create Star Wars action figures after Mego Corporation, the leading action figure manufacturer of the time, initially turned down the offer. This fortuitous deal created 100 unique Star Wars action figures, with over 300 million units sold in the first seven years following the release of Star Wars: A New Hope.

Riverside Vineyard​ mural

20. Riverside Vineyard

ArtWorks Map #29
Location:  908 Race
Artist:  Tim Parsley
Completed:  2008

Completed in 2008, this piece was ArtWorks’s first landscape mural. It features a river valley landscape not unlike the Ohio River banks a few blocks away.

Martha, the Last Passenger Pigeon

21. Martha, the Last Passenger Pigeon

ArtWorks Map #31
Location:  15 E 8th
Artist:  John A. Ruthven
Completed:  2013

Part of Cincinnati’s rich history is Martha, the last known passenger pigeon. Despite being one of the most populated bird species, passenger pigeons became extinct when Martha died at the Cincinnati Zoo in 1914. Renowned wildlife artist and conservationist John A. Ruthven created this stunning mural depicting Martha and her flock soaring above Bird Run at the Cincinnati Zoo. The piece serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of conservation and the impact of human actions on wildlife populations.

The Cincinnati’s Table​ mural features flying pigs, a symbol of Cincinnati

22. Cincinnati’s Table

ArtWorks Map #30
Location:  713 Vine
Artist:  Scott Donaldson
Completed:  2011

This lively mural pairs food and fantasy, embodying the city’s vibrant culture and culinary scene. From the city’s famous chili to its German-inspired sausages, these delicious dishes are brought to life by Scott Donaldson’s imaginative artistry. Cincinnati’s iconic flying pigs, frolicking above the feast, add a whimsical touch to the mural.

Have You Toured Cincinnati’s Murals?

Which Cincinnati mural was your favorite? Is there an impressive mural in the downtown or Over-the-Rhine neighborhood missing from this list? Any tips or tricks to pass along? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!

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27 thoughts on “Colorful Cincinnati: A Walking Tour of Cincinnati Murals”

  1. It’s incredible that all this art can be found in Cincinnati! I particularly like the portraits like the faces of art and the homeless portraits – very touching.

  2. I cannot even begin to tell you how much I loved this post! I feel like I got to experience a walking tour from the comfort of my couch. I’ve had a wanderlust itch something awful (as we all have in these times.) Being able to go on this tour through your article has made me so happy. I keep seeing more and more about Cincinnati being an up and coming destination, especially for the arts. I can’t wait to check it out. These murals are amazing!

  3. I had no idea that Cincinnati had so many murals. It is difficult to choose one favourite as they are all spectacular. I love the sentiment behind the Dawn is Coming. It is so touching that this was done in tribute to the inmates new life. I also love the What’s Happening Downtown. It looks so real!

  4. That’s a lot of murals for one city! What I really like about them is that they are so diverse. Artworks’ mission has helped revitalize the downtown mission and paid tribute to all the special things from Cincinnati. My favorite is What’s Happening. I also really like the Google maps. Very useful while actually exploring the murals!

  5. These are fabulous, especially Homecoming, What’s Happening Downtown and Martha, The Last Homecoming Pigeon. I really like the ArtWorks mission statement to transform both people and places through creativity!

  6. I moved to Cincinnati not quite a year ago and am constantly shocked and still discovering new murals every time I walk the neighborhoods. You are so right about not even scratching the surface. It’s insane how under appreciated this city is.

  7. Miranda Knudtson

    OMG #19 Cincinnati Toy Heritage is INCREDIBLE. Of course, these were all stunning, but that one really made my mouth drop open. I think C-3PO might be my favorite. He doesn’t even look painted—like I could actually touch him!

  8. The murals in Cincy are incredible. Thank you for this great tour! I love that you included the background info for the murals. I believe the Know Theater murals were created in conjunction with the Cincinnati Fringe Festival. It’s a performing arts festival that runs about two weeks beginning after Memorial Day. It’s a great kick-off to summer and a wonderful way to celebrate the arts! Happy Holidays!

    1. I know, right? And this one-hour, self-guided walking tour only starts to scratch the surface of 130+ amazing murals. I’m already hard at work to get back to Cincy after winter and explore another neighborhood’s building art! 🙂

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