They do, and it's incredible. The only downside was that its business hours are our business hours: 9-5 during the week. This meant taking a vacation day to check it out. However, we had our own personal tour guide and were able to see the entirety of the building, including the mayor's office.
I learned a lot about Cincinnati's history and politics on this tour. I was also impressed to see how much artwork was all over the building, especially in the forms of stained glass and painted frescoes. Even if you're not into the political side, I'd highly recommend taking the tour just to hear about why each stained glass scene was included, what the characters represented to the designers, why art was infused throughout a governmental building.
A few photos to pique your interest:
By the way, City Hall was built like a fortress because citizens set fire to the previous City Hall. Most of this building is marble or granite... a bit harder to burn to the ground.
Our tour was over an hour long, completely free, and all of our questions were answered. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and nice, and the building is fascinating. (If you go, see if you can request William Dreyer.)
City Hall's tour information: http://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/council/pages/-10585-/
More photos from our trip: http://www.flickr.com/photos/rrrrred/sets/72157622647357217/
6 comments:
Wow, I never knew that tours are offered, or how amazing the interior might be. And it's free! I can't wait to check this out.
I know!! I told them they should publicize it more (or at all)!
When we were there, a group of schoolkids was touring it-- I hope it was cool for them. But outside of grade school, how else could you hear about it?
Such a missed opportunity for Cincinnatians interested in politics, or architecture, or artwork, or Cinci history...
whoa, that place is schweet! you should see if Music Hall does a tour.
Great idea. What a beautiful building.
I bet you forgot to ask for the free "Don't Trash the Nati" bumber stickers, t-shirt and keychain! I picked up some for my friends going away party several years ago. He hated Cincinnati and could not wait to move after graduation. Of course now, several years later he has moved back. I believe it was due to my genius subliminal marketing campaign.
No fair! I didn't know that was something I could do!
I'll be back, City Hall...
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