CMC's mission is to inspire people of all ages to learn more about our world through science, regional history and educational, engaging and meaningful experiences Cincinnati Museum Center's deep roots are due to its being comprised of Ohio's first historical society and the first natural history museum west of the Alleghenies. The Cincinnati History Museum and Library & Archives, began in Columbus as the Historical and Philosophical Society of Ohio founded in 1831. The Museum of Natural History & Science began as the Western Museum Society founded in 1818.

CMC includes: The Robert D. Lindner Family OMNIMAX? Theater, Cincinnati History Museum. Museum of Natural History & Science and Duke Energy Children's Museum & in West Union, OH the 14,000 acre Edge of Appalachia.