One of the most wonderful things about Cincinnati is that you can experience its history, simply by walking down the street. Historic buildings, parks, and monuments, both downtown and on the outskirts of the city, have been maintained for us to enjoy and learn about Cincinnati's past. Some of these historic spots are well-known, such as Carew Tower, Fountain Square, and the Roebling Suspension Bridge, while others sit quietly, although just as remarkable. Dixie Terminal in downtown Cincinnati is one of the incredibly beautiful buildings in the city that many people don't even know exists. Yet, it towers at the corner of Fourth and Walnut, and beckons those who are curious to step inside and be amazed at what you'll discover.
If you take a look at the building below, you may recognize it as a 10-story, historic structure that stands on the corner of Fourth and Walnut downtown. But have you ever walked inside?
Because if you have, then you were likely blown away by the ornate, barrel-vaulted concourse of this vast space. To say it is eye-catching is an understatement, and it is truly one of the most stunning interiors in the city. This one-of-a-kind building was built in 1921 and served many purposes over the years, and thankfully still stands with just as much grandeur and architectural wonder.
Dixie Terminal, which was actually two buildings, served as a streetcar terminal, the Cincinnati Stock Exchange, office space, and other uses through the past century.
Streetcar service stopped in the 1950s and bus transportation took its spot.
Buses crossed the Roebling Suspension Bridge from Northern Kentucky, and then passed over ramps into the terminal. This service actually continued until 1998, when the bus lines were finally stopped. At this point, the Cincinnati Stock Exchange had also left, as well as the administrative offices for the Cincinnati Street Railway Company.
The evidence of the past lives of Dixie Terminal remains etched on its walls and in the structure of the building.
Thankfully, the architecture and details of the Terminal have been maintained and restored, as there are some businesses that continue to use the building.
And if the interior looks familiar, perhaps you remember it from a famous scene in the Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman movie, Rain Man.
The vaulted, two-story concourse of the Dixie Terminal is breathtaking and definitely unexpected.
The building was designed by Cincinnati architect Frederick W. Garber's Garber & Woodward firm, who also designed many buildings on the campus of the University of Cincinnati.
The view from the main floor is incredible, but it may be even better once you climb the stairs to the balcony.
Buildings are simply not designed or built like this anymore, so it is truly an opportunity to experience a rare piece of history firsthand.
The detail in the design of the Dixie Terminal is possibly the building's best feature.
The entrance is framed by colorful tiles, handmade at Cincinnati's very own Rookwood Pottery. The interior is filled with marble and the medallion-adorned ceiling beautifully displays the whimsical art of children riding animals.
The next time you're walking near the corner of Fourth and Walnut downtown, don't pass by this historic building without a second look.
If you never knew Dixie Terminal existed, then step under the blue arches, through the Rookwood tiles, and prepare to experience the golden-era of Cincinnati architecture.
Step inside Dixie Terminal and learn even more about its history in this video:
Dixie Terminal is a beautiful piece of Cincinnati history that will hopefully remain a city treasure for generations to come. Have you been inside this stunning space? Did you know you could find this right here in Cincinnati? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
And if you enjoy Cincinnati history, check out our previous collection of old photos of the city here.
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