Built for What's Next

First Financial Center reopened in January 2026 following an 18-month, $264 million transformation that reimagined Cincinnati’s downtown convention center from the inside out.

The result is a brighter, more modern and more connected venue designed for the next generation of meetings, conventions and events.

The renovation consisted of:

  • New modernized exterior with expanded glass and natural light
  • Wider concourses and improved guest circulation
  • Completely redesigned Queen City Ballroom and pre-function space
  • New Queen City Terrace with outdoor event space and skyline views
  • Renovated meeting rooms with upgraded technology and finishes
  • New digital signage and enhanced event branding capabilities
  • Modernized technology, mechanical, electrical and building systems
  • Major sustainability upgrades, including LED lighting, efficient HVAC controls and new windows
  • Expanded interior and exterior public art collection
  • Updated programmable LED CINCINNATI letters sign
  • Stronger connection to outdoor gathering space and the new Elm Street Plaza

New Spaces & Features

Transformation at a Glance

Elm Street Plaza & First Financial Center

$264M 

Renovation investment

 

~750,000 SF 

Total reimagined facility space

 

195,000 SF 

Contiguous exhibit space upgraded

 

4 New Flex Rooms

Added in Exhibit Hall A

 

39 

Renovated breakout meeting rooms

 

Queen City Ballroom 

completely redesigned 17,000 SF

 

90%+ 

of building lighting now uses energy-efficient LED technology

 

10 New LED Walls 

installed throughout the building

 

New Queen City Terrace 

6,000 SF rooftop event space added

 

New Elm Street Plaza 

adjacent outdoor event space added

 

Wider Concourses & Natural Light

 

5th St Concourse Before & After5th St. Concourse Before & After

 

Main Lobby Before & AfterMain Lobby Before & After

 

Elm Concourse Before & AfterPlaza Lobby Before & After

 

5th & Elm Exterior Before & After5th & Elm Exterior Before & After

 

Watch the Transformation

See the evolution of First Financial Center from construction through completion. The $264 million renovation reshaped the building’s exterior, modernized the interior and created a more welcoming connection between the convention center and downtown Cincinnati.