Art Climb at the Cincinnati Art Museum was part of a multi-phased site master plan focused on activating the museum grounds and connecting to the surrounding historic and vibrant neighborhoods. The steps and landings of Art Climb originate on an active corner of the business district and rise 450 feet to the museum’s parking lot and main entry, providing a path for physical activity and a unique recreational experience. The form of the grand staircase was born out of the need to protect the existing horticulture and topography, and to provide drainage that works with the natural watershed. The city-scaled staircase is a work of art that incorporates lighting, wayfinding, and landscape/hardscape features, including intermittent platforms to display sculptures and other works of art. Themed and choreographed lighting guides visitors to the top where there are two pavilions, one overlooking a popular neighborhood park and one with a panoramic view of downtown Cincinnati.