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, situated at 720 Plum St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, United States, is a renowned architectural gem and a significant historical landmark. Named after the founder of Reform Judaism in America, Rabbi Isaac M. Wise, this temple is not just a place of worship but also a tourist attraction that showcases the city's rich cultural heritage.

Main Services

  • Religious Services: The temple offers a variety of religious services, including Shabbat services, High Holy Day services, and lifecycle events such as weddings, baby namings, and funerals. These services are conducted in a progressive, egalitarian atmosphere, reflecting the Reform Jewish tradition.
  • Education: The temple provides religious education for children and adults through its Samuel and Minnie Hoxie Religious School and adult education classes. These programs aim to foster Jewish learning and understanding.
  • Community Events: The Isaac M. Wise Temple hosts various community events throughout the year, including social gatherings, cultural programs, and community service initiatives. These events encourage engagement and connection among the temple's members and the broader community.
  • Tourism: The temple's stunning architecture and historical significance make it a popular stop for visitors to Cincinnati. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the temple's history and its role in the development of Reform Judaism.

Location and Access

The temple is located in the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood of Cincinnati, near the intersection of Plum Street and 8th Street. It is conveniently located near several major roads, including I-71 and I-75, making it easily accessible by car. Public transportation is also an option, with the 17 and 21 bus routes stopping nearby.

Parking is available on-site in a wheelchair-accessible lot. The temple also has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and toilet facilities to ensure that the building is accessible to all visitors.

Featured Characteristics

The Isaac M. Wise Temple is renowned for its stunning architecture, a blend of Moorish and Romanesque styles that create a unique and striking exterior. The interior is equally impressive, with intricate details, beautiful stained glass windows, and a historic organ that was once played by the famous organist Alexander Guide.

The temple's historical significance cannot be overstated. It was the first Reform synagogue in the United States and played a critical role in the development of Reform Judaism. Today, it remains an important part of the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, the oldest rabbinical seminary in the United States.

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
  • Other Points of Interest: Wheelchair-accessible car park, Wheelchair-accessible entrance, Wheelchair-accessible toilet, Toilet

Positive Aspects Mentioned in Reviews

Many reviewers have praised the temple's architectural beauty, with comments such as "a beautiful architectural masterpiece" and "a stunning example of Moorish style architecture." The temple's historical significance has also been noted, with reviewers appreciating its role in Reform Jewish history. The organ, in particular, has been highlighted as a unique and noteworthy feature. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff have also been consistently praised, with one reviewer noting, "The staff were very welcoming and accommodating, making our visit very enjoyable."

👍 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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