Written by Mackenzie Manley, Content Specialist, Downtown Main Library
The Library’s Discovery Pass is expanding — and it’ll transport you to dreamy, enriching, and inspiring arts, cultural, and recreational spots across Cincinnati and Hamilton County.
The best part? It’s free with a Library card.
Discovery Pass unlocks boundless adventures: Stroll through an urban oasis; bask in the glow of neon signage; enjoy celestial views; be awed by artwork, both classic and contemporary; absorb history; and take a dip in a pool (the water’s fine).
Since launching Discovery Pass, the Library has doubled its partnerships. Discovery Pass locations added this year are Contemporary Arts Center, where you can explore rotating exhibits, performances, art classes, and experiences; the Norwood Recreation Center, which offers full weight workout rooms, a sauna, indoor pool, gym, and organized programs; and Whitewater Shaker Village, home to the only brick Shaker Meeting House in the United States and is the only intact Shaker village in Ohio.
Hanging Out – On a Budget!
If you're looking to be a tourist in your own city, Discovery Pass is perfect for staycation getaways, weekend fun, or family outings.
Head to chpl.org/discovery-pass to reserve a spot and get free admission to museums, parks, and more. After you log in with your library card credentials, you can browse passes by date or venue. Make your reservation and print or download your pass ahead of the visit.
Along with 2025’s new additions, other partners include: The Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center, Cincinnati Observatory, Heritage Village Museum, Taft Museum of Art, Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum, The Harriet Beecher Stowe House, Great Parks, Cincinnati Museum Center, and American Sign Museum.
Discovery Pass Locations🤝Library Branches
Discovery Pass locations and the Library go hand in hand. Why not swing by one of our 41 locations before or after your visit? Explore the map to see Discovery Pass spots and nearby branches.
Here are a few pairings that we give two thumbs up.
- Cincinnati Observatory 🤝Library Telescopes: Yes, you can check out a telescope at CHPL! Super cool, we agree. Visit the observatory and then take your star-gazing aspirations home. See a full list of branches where you can check out and return telescopes!
- Contemporary Arts Center 🤝Downtown Main Library’s Phronesis: Contemporary Art Center is home to mind-opening architecture, artwork, and performances. If you still have an appetite for contemporary art after visiting CAC, head to the Downtown Main Library’s Vine Street entrance to behold Phronesis, a large-scale light sculpture by Jen Lewin. Taft Museum of Art is also a brisk walk away from both CAC and the Downtown Main Library, so you can really enjoy a whole day of art! And if you’re in the mood for a trek, head to Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park to explore over 70 outdoor sculptures.
- Great Parks 🤝 Seed Libraries: You can reserve a Discovery Pass for entry into any of Great Parks’ 20-plus locations. Breathe in fresh air and take in idyllic views. Afterward, exercise your own green thumb! The Clifton, Wyoming, Walnut Hills, Harrison, and Westwood branches all have seed libraries. Bonus: If you’re into all-things avian, the Harrison Branch also has check out-able Birding Backpacks!
Outdoor Storytime at Cincinnati Observatory
Hosted by the Hyde Park Branch, you can enjoy an Outdoor Storytime @ The Observatory every Thursday at 11 a.m. Bring the entire family to enjoy books, songs, and activities while building literacy skills.
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