Yes, the Center has been recognized and received awards for its STEP UP Program. Click on Step Up under the Center Info menu to learn more.

Prestige Audio Visual and Creative Services is the preferred audio visual provider. There are advantages and efficiencies in using Prestige.

Perimeter security, EMT, food and beverage, utilities services, housekeeping/janitorial and setup are the exclusive services to be ordered directly through your Event Manager. Smart City is the exclusive Telecommunications provider and services can be ordered through their on-site contact.

The Duke Energy Convention Center is an open shop venue. Choice labor for unloading, installing, dismantling and removal is at the discretion of the vendor/exhibitor.

For the safety and comfort of all our visitors, animals are not permitted in the Duke Energy Convention Center. However, animals that are part of an approved exhibit, display or performance, which absolutely requires the use of an animal, will be permitted on a case by case basis. The customer is responsible for obtaining all appropriate permits. Guide, signal or service dogs (as defined by Law) are allowed in the Duke Energy Convention Center. All sanitary needs for animals are the responsibility of the show or guest.

We do not provide carts or dollies; you may order them through your decorator.

We have complimentary public wireless internet located in our Espresso Café at the main entry on Level 1, and in designated areas of the second and third levels. Public wireless internet is also available in other parts of the convention center at a daily fee. In addition, Smart City provides secure wireless connections and networking options to create the telecommunications package for your event.

No outside food/beverage is allowed in the Duke Energy Convention Center. All food must be purchased on-site.

Yes, the Duke Energy Convention Center features a Grand and Junior Ballroom that serve as the perfect setting for any wedding.

Spectra, is our exclusive Food and Beverage provider.

Prestige is our preferred audio visual service provider.

You may call us at 513-419-7300 or submit an RFP through the link above.

Yes, Spectra allows for sampling during an event. However, there are restrictions as follows:

• Samples can not be greater than 2 oz.
• Samples must be manufactured, processed or distributed by the exhibiting firm.
• Samples must be related to participation in the event.
• For public health reasons, restrooms, concession stands and/or facility kitchens may not be used as exhibitor clean-up areas.
• Costs associated with the disposal of trash, waste, grease, and any other sampling-related item from the exhibitor sampling area are the responsibility of the client.
• Securing all necessary licenses and permits is the responsibility of the exhibitor.
• Exhibitors are responsible for complying with all Hamilton County Health Department regulations regarding food sampling, storage, equipment, and temperature. If they are not in compliance or do not obtain the proper permits, the Health Department can shut down their booth.
• A sample request F&B form must be completed and returned prior to the event

You may order your services online by clicking here or through completing and returning an order form.

The Duke Energy Convention Center is partnered with ESCA, Exhibitor Services & Contractors Association, which is the premier service management association in the industry. ESCA has developed the WIS program used at the Duke Energy Convention Center. We are proud to have implemented this system to create a more secure facility for both our events and the workers who make these events happen.

Yes, Cincinnati Police may be used as supplemental security. Contact your Event Manager for further information.

The Duke Energy Convention Center provides a safe and secure environment for you and your attendees. We require perimeter security guards during each event, including each main entrance as well as roving guards. More can be added, within licensed space. You may supplement with police or your own detail.

The Duke Energy Convention Center features 17 dock spaces. 3 low bays and 14 high bays. The dock is designed for loading, unloading, deliveries and emergencies. There is no long term personal vehicle parking in the loading dock, but the convention center is surrounded by adjacent surface lots and parking garages.

There are several parking lots or parking garages located around the Duke Energy Convention Center. There is also a nearby Marshalling Yard that is just a few blocks from the convention center.

There are several parking lots or parking garages located around the Duke Energy Convention Center. More information is available on our parking/directions page.

There are more than 100 restaurants nearby.  Please visit the Around Cincinnati section of our website to learn more on restaurants.

The Duke Energy Convention Center is flanked by more than 3,000 hotel rooms within 3 blocks. Please visit the Around Cincinnati section of our website to learn more on hotels.

The Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) is 13 miles away.

The Dayton International Airport (DAY) is 66 miles north of the DukeEnergyConvention Center.

For directional and mailing purposes, we are located at 525 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202.

The City of Cincinnati has a very thorough bus system. You may contact the Metro System by calling (513) 621-4455.

The Duke Energy Convention Center is managed by Spectra by Comcast-Spectacor. Please visit www.spectraexperiences.com.

Yes, we have PNC Bank ATMs in the convention center. They are located on Level 1 at the main entrance (Fifth Street and Elm Street) and in the Fifth Street Concourse near Hall B.

The Duke Energy Convention Center does not operate a shipping and receiving department. All shipping and receiving requests should be directed to your general service contractor. We do not receive shipments prior to your move-in and will not receive shipments for your event unless you or someone from your event is personally in the building to sign for the shipments.