Enhancements at International Friendship Park

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Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park continues to get better, with recent improvements highlighting the park’s unique features and celebrating its mission of global connection. 

Castle of Air Area Refreshed 

The Castle of Air is a polished stainless steel pavilion gifted to Cincinnati from the German sister city of Munich as a place to reflect on our relationship with nature, our place in the world, and the connection between the two cities. The area surrounding this signature feature has been revitalized with new landscaping, an improved walking path, and a newly installed educational sign. These updates enhance the aesthetic of the park while further highlighting the artistic and cultural significance of the unique piece. 

The landscaping work was designed and preformed in-house by the talented Cincinnati Parks team.  

The new sign was made possible through a generous donation from Munich Sister Cities Association and Neil Bortz of Towne Properties. Additional project partners include the International Friendship Park Advisory Council, the Cincinnati USA Sister Cities Association, and the Cincinnati Parks Foundation.  

Flags Return to the Park 

Another major milestone is the restoration of the riverfront flag display, an original design feature of the park that has now been fully brought back to life. The display includes 18 American flags alongside the flags of all 193 United Nations members.  

Out of service for several years, the restored flag promenade once again fulfills its original design intent. The flags create a strong visual and physical connection between Sawyer Point and International Friendship Park, linking visitors through the two spaces along the iconic Cincinnati riverfront. 

Equally important, the display celebrates the diversity of nations around the world as part of a shared global community. This experience culminates at the International Friendship Park entrance with the flags of Cincinnati’s sister cities, reinforcing the park’s theme of international connection. 

The restoration work was coordinated and funded by Cincinnati Parks and completed by contractor The National Flag Company. 

IFP - A Living Celebration of Global Connection 

Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park originally opened in 2003. These latest improvements build on the significant restoration of major portions of the park completed in spring 2025, continuing a broader effort to preserve and enhance this significant riverfront destination. 

In addition to offering a place for recreation and reflection, Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park stands as a living celebration of international goodwill. The 17-acre park is named for Cincinnati’s first African American mayor and anchors the eastern end of Cincinnati’s scenic two-mile riverfront park system. 

We’re not done yet. Additional improvements are planned for the park including new and refreshed wayfinding and enhanced lighting. If you haven’t visited recently, plan a trip soon to experience the revitalized Castle of Air, explore the renewed flag promenade, and enjoy one of Cincinnati’s most meaningful parks.