Duke Energy Center
A major convention and event venue undergoing a significant $200 million renovation, with bookings extending years in advance.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
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Best Time
Only open for scheduled events
Duke Energy Center
Best Time
Only open for scheduled events

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A major convention and event venue undergoing a significant $200 million renovation, with bookings extending years in advance.
"Bookings are already as far out as 2030 due to a $200 million renovation."
📅 Check the Schedule First
This is a convention center, so it's only open for specific events. Always check their calendar before planning a visit.
🚗 Parking Information
Parking decks are available, but rates can be high. Consider ride-sharing or public transport if possible.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Major Conventions
Main Exhibition Halls
Host to large-scale trade shows and industry events, drawing professionals and enthusiasts from across the region.

Special Exhibitions
Various Halls
From custom cars to unique markets, these events offer a glimpse into diverse interests and hobbies.

Community Gatherings
Event Spaces
The center hosts forums and gatherings focused on local development and real estate.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Renovation Underway
Event Focus
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📅 Check the Schedule First
This is a convention center, so it's only open for specific events. Always check their calendar before planning a visit.
🚗 Parking Information
Parking decks are available, but rates can be high. Consider ride-sharing or public transport if possible.
🚧 Renovation Awareness
The center is undergoing a major renovation, which may affect access and ambiance.
Tips
from all over the internet
📅 Check the Schedule First
This is a convention center, so it's only open for specific events. Always check their calendar before planning a visit.
🚗 Parking Information
Parking decks are available, but rates can be high. Consider ride-sharing or public transport if possible.
🚧 Renovation Awareness
The center is undergoing a major renovation, which may affect access and ambiance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for Duke Energy as a utility company are overwhelmingly negative, citing extreme inefficiency, long wait times for service, high rates, and poor business practices. Customers express frustration with billing discrepancies, unexpected charges, and a perceived lack of care for individual needs. The company is criticized for being slow to adopt new standards and for practices that benefit shareholders over customers.
"This is the most inefficient company I have ever dealt with which is why your utility rates are so high. I called September 4 for a temporary disconnect to tie in backup generator before the 2025 hurricane season picked up. Their website says "please provide 72 hours notice" for a temporary service disconnect. I was informed that the next available "appointment" to do the disconnection would be NOVEMBER 6th! 2 months later. Now my job is delayed for TWO MONTHS which will be AFTER hurricane season is over. This is absolutely unacceptable. If anyone needs to do any type of work, they will have to wait for 2 months while Duke gets their act together. The scheduler told me they only do 2 appointments per day and none on Monday or Friday. How long does a simple temporary service drop take? 10 minutes to pull the meter? Worse, they have TWO DIFFERENT calendars with conflicting information and they have to check both of them one day at a time so it took the tech 45 minutes to even find something out that far. At a minimum, Duke should put a notice on their information page that shows they are delayed by 2 months. In addition, Duke is the least progressive power company, has failed to adopt new standards and practices, and has kicked the can down the road on undergrounding in coastal areas which has cost them (and by extension their customers Billions) so now they're just going around a cutting down all the big nice boulevard trees in the Southeast so they don't have to trim them. This only benefits their shareholders as it certainly doesn't lower my utility bill to have all my neighborhood trees cut down. So they're wrecking our beautiful communities while providing crappier service and higher rates every year. This state-sanctioned monopoly needs to stop."
Lucas Altic
"I live in Williamston Sc and have seen Duke trucks and 3rd party contractors standing around for hours waiting for ticket orders and Duke says they are responding to the needs of the people during Helene power restoration. Duke let us all know when the transformers and other equipment arrives."
Gregory McCraney
"By far the worst utility company ever. After 5 years of on time payments, I’ve assessed a $300.00 deposit (never had to pay one initially) I called the company and requested the added deposit be removed…long story short, they denied my request. This company is money hungry and does not care for the small people whatsoever."
Kirstine Woods
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Duke Energy Convention Center is located in Cincinnati, Ohio. It's accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby. Public transportation options may also be available.
The Duke Energy Convention Center address is 525 Elm St, Cincinnati, OH 45202.
Yes, there are parking garages connected to or near the Duke Energy Center. However, parking can be expensive, with monthly rates potentially exceeding $150.
Information on specific public transport routes is best found through local transit authorities in Cincinnati. It's a good option to consider due to parking costs.
As a major convention center, it is generally equipped with accessibility features. It's advisable to contact the venue directly for specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You only need tickets if there is a specific public event, such as a car show or market, happening at the center. It's not a general admission attraction.
Ticket purchasing information will be specific to each event. Check the event's official website or the Duke Energy Convention Center's event calendar for links.
The center's operating hours are determined by the events scheduled. It is not open to the public outside of these scheduled times.
Yes, the Duke Energy Convention Center hosts various events and bookings are already being made for years in advance due to renovations.
Yes, the center is undergoing a significant $200 million renovation, which is halfway complete. This may impact some areas or access.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The center hosts a variety of events including conventions, trade shows, exhibitions like the Cavalcade of Customs, and community forums.
It's primarily a venue for events and conventions, not a typical tourist attraction for sightseeing. Your visit would depend on attending a specific public event.
The center is undergoing a $200 million renovation to reimagine its facilities and enhance its capabilities for future events.
While the renovations are ongoing, the center is still operational for scheduled events. You might see construction elements depending on the event's location.
Food and beverage options are typically available during events, often provided by catering services for conventions or concessions for public shows.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies usually depend on the specific event. For public shows like car exhibitions, personal photography is generally allowed, but professional shoots may require permission.
This depends heavily on the event. For car shows, the vehicles themselves are the main subjects. For conventions, common areas and event setups offer photo opportunities.
During renovations, access to certain areas might be restricted, which could impact photography. Always be mindful of safety signage and event staff instructions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Event Organizers & Exhibitors
Consider the center's capacity and the types of events it typically hosts when planning. Its location in downtown Cincinnati also offers convenience for attendees.
Trade Show & Convention Attendees
Parking can be a significant cost, so research parking options or consider alternative transportation like ride-sharing or public transit to manage expenses.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grand Renovation
While the renovations are a sign of progress and future potential, visitors should be aware that construction may be ongoing. This could mean temporary changes to access, aesthetics, or available spaces within the center. However, the center remains operational for scheduled events, showcasing its resilience and commitment to hosting important gatherings.
This extensive upgrade signifies a major investment in Cincinnati's convention and event infrastructure, promising a revitalized experience for attendees and organizers alike once completed. The long lead times for bookings reflect the high demand and anticipated appeal of the upgraded venue.
Event-Driven Destination
Visitors typically come to the center to attend specific events, such as the O'Reilly Auto Parts Cavalcade of Customs, which draws enthusiasts for its custom vehicles and celebrity meet-and-greets. Other events might include real estate conferences or specialized markets, catering to niche interests. Therefore, the 'experience' of the Duke Energy Center is directly tied to the nature and success of the event being held there.
To make the most of a visit, it's crucial to consult the center's official event calendar. This will provide details on what's happening, ticket information, and operating hours for any public-facing events. Without a specific event to attend, the center itself does not offer attractions for casual tourism.
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