Isaac M. Wise Temple - Cincinnati, Ohio

Address: 720 Plum St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, United States.
Phone: 5137932556.
Website: wisetemple.org
Specialties: Reform synagogue, Historical landmark, Tourist attraction.
Other points of interest: Wheelchair-accessible car park, Wheelchair-accessible entrance, Wheelchair-accessible toilet, Toilet.
Opinions: This company has 59 reviews on Google My Business.
Average opinion: 4.7/5.

📌 Location of Isaac M. Wise Temple

Introduction

The Isaac M. Wise Temple, located at 720 Plum St in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a historic and iconic Reform synagogue that has been serving the Jewish community and beyond since its establishment in 1866. Named after its founder, Isaac Mayer Wise, the temple is not only a place of worship but also a significant historical landmark and tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world with its stunning architecture and rich history.

Main Services

  • Religious Services: The temple offers a range of religious services, including Shabbat services, holiday celebrations, and life cycle events, all led by its spiritual leaders, Rabbi Dena Sharnov and Cantor Tamsen Fink.
  • Education: The Wise Temple Religious School provides religious education for children from kindergarten through confirmation, fostering a love for Jewish learning and tradition. Adult education classes and workshops are also offered throughout the year.
  • Community Building: The temple plays host to numerous community events, social action initiatives, and cultural programs, fostering a sense of community and connection among its members and the wider Jewish community.
  • Tourism and Events: The temple's beautiful and historic sanctuary is available for rent for weddings, concerts, and other events, providing a stunning backdrop for special occasions.

Location and Access

The Isaac M. Wise Temple is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Cincinnati, in the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Surrounded by vibrant restaurants, shops, and cultural institutions, the temple is easily accessible by public transportation, with the Government Square bus terminal and the Central Parkway station of the Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar both within walking distance. For those traveling by car, there is a wheelchair-accessible parking lot located adjacent to the temple.

Featured Characteristics

  • Architecture: The temple's distinctive Moorish-style architecture is one of its most striking features, with twin minarets, colorful stained glass windows, and intricate tile work throughout the building. The sanctuary's soaring arches and ornate decorations create a breathtaking atmosphere for worship and events.
  • Historic Organ: The temple is home to a magnificent Aeolian-Skinner organ, installed in 1968, which is considered one of the finest organs in the United States. The organ's 89 ranks and 5,072 pipes produce a rich and powerful sound that enhances the temple's musical traditions.
  • Art Collection: The temple boasts an impressive collection of Jewish art, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles, which reflect the diversity of Jewish culture and history. Many of these pieces were acquired during Rabbi Wise's travels around the world.

Practical Information

  • Address: 720 Plum St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, United States
  • Phone: 513-793-2556
  • Website: wisetemple.org
  • Specialties: Reform synagogue, Historical landmark, Tourist attraction
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible parking, entrance, and toilet facilities are available.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

Visitors to the Isaac M. Wise Temple consistently praise its stunning architecture and historic significance. The temple's beauty and grandeur are frequently mentioned, with reviewers admiring its unique Moorish style, intricate details, and stunning sanctuary. The temple's role in Reform Jewish history is also highlighted, with many visitors appreciating the opportunity to learn about Rabbi Wise and his contributions to Jewish life. The temple's organ and art collection are also praised for enhancing the worship experience and providing insights into Jewish culture.

Furthermore, reviewers commend the temple's welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, with many mentioning the friendliness of its members and the sense of community that it fosters. The temple's location in the heart of downtown Cincinnati is also seen as a significant advantage, with many visitors appreciating its proximity to other cultural institutions and attractions.

In conclusion, the Isaac M. Wise Temple is more than just a place of worship; it is a historic landmark, a tourist attraction, and a vibrant center of Jewish life and culture. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and commitment to community, the temple continues to inspire and captivate visitors from around the world.

👍 Reviews of Isaac M. Wise Temple

Isaac M. Wise Temple - Cincinnati, Ohio
Frederick B. V.
5/5

What a beautiful architectural masterpiece. If you are able to tour or visit this site, I highly recommend it.

Isaac M. Wise Temple - Cincinnati, Ohio
David S.
5/5

This is a beautiful historic Moorish style Synagogue that is an important part of Reform Jewish History. There are strong connections to Hebrew Union College. The historic organ is one of the best preserved from it's time period. Special events are held in this building, and it is always worth going.

Isaac M. Wise Temple - Cincinnati, Ohio
Randal M.
5/5

An absolute gem of a building and a true national treasure. If you have the opportunity to take a tour you will learn about the history and significance of the facility to the city and American Jewish community.

Isaac M. Wise Temple - Cincinnati, Ohio
Nikell M.
5/5

Beautiful, majestic, and rich in heritage and splendor! Could have stayed for hours! What a jewel we have in our city!

Isaac M. Wise Temple - Cincinnati, Ohio
Doug S.
5/5

Julie and I attended a Shabbat service at the Plum Street Temple for the first time Saturday. It was a moving experience. She and I felt welcomed, blessed, honored and much, much more. We'll be back. Shalom.

Isaac M. Wise Temple - Cincinnati, Ohio
Best B.
5/5

Wow, every facet of this architecture is a pleasure. The upper dental work alone is worth coming to see. Check out the woodwork of the front doors!

Isaac M. Wise Temple - Cincinnati, Ohio
Mark L.
3/5

I am new in the area and was very disappointed with my Friday night visit to the Wise temple. As a former office of a reform congregation I found the people very cold and uninviting. I was surprised there were no greaters and there was no effort by any of the congregants to approach or engage a stranger in their midst.

Isaac M. Wise Temple - Cincinnati, Ohio
Arden S.
5/5

This is one of the most beautiful places in Cincinnati! Don't miss seeing this national gem... you won't regret it.

Isaac M. Wise Temple - Cincinnati, Ohio
Frederick B. V.
5/5

What a beautiful architectural masterpiece. If you are able to tour or visit this site, I highly recommend it.

Isaac M. Wise Temple - Cincinnati, Ohio
David S.
5/5

This is a beautiful historic Moorish style Synagogue that is an important part of Reform Jewish History. There are strong connections to Hebrew Union College. The historic organ is one of the best preserved from it's time period. Special events are held in this building, and it is always worth going.

Isaac M. Wise Temple - Cincinnati, Ohio
Randal M.
5/5

An absolute gem of a building and a true national treasure. If you have the opportunity to take a tour you will learn about the history and significance of the facility to the city and American Jewish community.

Isaac M. Wise Temple - Cincinnati, Ohio
Nikell M.
5/5

Beautiful, majestic, and rich in heritage and splendor! Could have stayed for hours! What a jewel we have in our city!

Isaac M. Wise Temple - Cincinnati, Ohio
Doug S.
5/5

Julie and I attended a Shabbat service at the Plum Street Temple for the first time Saturday. It was a moving experience. She and I felt welcomed, blessed, honored and much, much more. We'll be back. Shalom.

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