Portsmouth's Art Museum Undergoes Major Renovation

The Southern Ohio Museum is adding new wings and updating its facilities after a year and a half of work.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 12:51am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Southern Ohio Museum in downtown Portsmouth is nearing the completion of a major renovation project that has added a new wing, updated the interior of the original building, and expanded the museum's offerings to include more children's activities and a 100-seat theater. The $X million project is part of a broader revitalization effort in the city and is expected to reopen in early summer.

Why it matters

The renovation of the Southern Ohio Museum is a significant investment in the city's cultural infrastructure and is expected to draw more visitors to Portsmouth, boosting the local economy. As one of the few museums in the region, the upgraded facility will provide greater access to art and cultural programming for residents of the Ohio River Valley.

The details

The renovation project has included a complete overhaul of the museum's interior, the addition of a spacious second wing with outdoor stages for live performances, and the creation of new rooms for children's activities. The museum's collection of over 25,000 pieces of art has continued to grow during the closure, and the 100-seat theater has also been updated.

  • The museum closed for the renovation project a year and a half ago.
  • The project is expected to be completed and the museum will reopen in early summer.

The players

Charlotte Gordon

The mayor of Portsmouth, Ohio, who has said the museum renovation is part of the city's overall renaissance.

Southern Ohio Museum

The art museum in downtown Portsmouth that is undergoing the extensive renovation project.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This is part of the overall renaissance happening in Portsmouth right now. We do realize that there aren't a lot of museums in this region, and we can really address a lot of needs.”

— Charlotte Gordon, Mayor of Portsmouth

“We're at the point where all the loose ends are tying together. We're getting close.”

— Charlotte Gordon, Mayor of Portsmouth

What’s next

The museum is expected to reopen in early summer, coinciding with the opening of other development projects around Portsmouth, like the new city building and riverfront.

The takeaway

The renovation of the Southern Ohio Museum is a significant investment in Portsmouth's cultural infrastructure, providing greater access to art and cultural programming for residents of the Ohio River Valley. As one of the few museums in the region, the upgraded facility is expected to draw more visitors to the city, boosting the local economy.