Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Cincinnati Reopens Overhauled Convention Center After 18-Month, $264 Million Upgrade

Leaders say the overhaul positions Cincinnati to compete for larger national conventions.

Overview

  • Officials held a ribbon-cutting Wednesday to reopen the downtown venue following an 18-month renovation costing $264 million.
  • Upgrades include one of the Midwest’s largest grand ballrooms, a new rooftop terrace, a 200,000-square-foot exhibition hall and state-of-the-art technology.
  • RedsFest is slated for Jan. 16 as the first event in the reimagined facility.
  • The complex no longer carries the Duke Energy name, a customizable LED “Cincinnati” sign now fronts the building, and naming-rights discussions are in progress.
  • 3CDC describes an $828 million convention district plan that adds a renovated garage and a 700-room Marriott targeted for 2028, framed as a catalyst for downtown business.