American Sign Museum

"The American Sign Museum in Cincinnati brings the colorful legacy of American signage to life. With vintage neon, gold leaf glass, and iconic advertising displays, this vibrant museum celebrates the design, technology, and cultural history of commercial signage in America."

Recommended for

Design enthusiasts
Explore typography, graphic design, and visual storytelling through vintage and modern signs

History buffs
Discover the evolution of American commerce and culture through signage from 1900 to the 1970s

Families & casual visitors
Enjoy quirky Americana, nostalgic displays, and fun photo ops throughout the museum

Event planners
Host a private party or meeting in a truly one-of-a-kind setting filled with glowing retro charm

Things to See & Do

Sign Galleries: Walk through decades of signage history, from gold leaf and porcelain enamel to neon and plastic
Working Neon Shop: Watch skilled craftsmen create glowing neon signs in real time
Signville Streetscape: Explore a recreated American main street lined with historic business signs
Iconic Highlights: See the 1963 McDonald's Speedee sign, Frisch’s Big Boy, rotating neon windmill, and more
Archival Collection: Browse historical photos, documents, and sign-making tools in the museum archive

Educational Programs

Docent-led Tours: Learn about sign history, techniques, and restoration from knowledgeable guides
Workshops & Talks: Participate in public programming focused on design, neon, and sign preservation
School Group Visits: Custom tours and learning experiences available for all grade levels

Good to Know

Style: Retro Americana meets industrial warehouse in a dazzling and colorful environment
Extras: Museum store, rental space for events, and frequent restoration demos
Founded: Established in 1999 and opened to the public in 2005

Map & Location