Prospect Hill Historic District

Prospect Hill Historic District is a residential neighborhood in Cincinnati's Mount Auburn area with numerous 19th-century buildings in various architectural styles. The structures sit along steeply sloped streets lined with stone walls that step down the hillside.

The neighborhood began as a settlement founded by American Revolutionary War veterans, with Dr. Daniel Drake establishing early presence in the area. It later developed into a wealthy residential district as Cincinnati expanded during the 19th century.

The neighborhood attracted prominent Cincinnati families who shaped its character through their residences and lifestyle choices. This concentration of influential residents left a lasting mark on how the district developed and what it represents today.

The neighborhood is best explored on foot with sturdy shoes recommended due to the steep hills and terrain. The public stairways provide clear routes through the district, but visitors should be ready for uneven ground and elevation changes.

The neighborhood features an extensive network of public stairways that replace traditional streets up the hillside. This unusual layout developed out of practical necessity to make the steep terrain accessible for residents.