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Wondering what to do in Cincinnati, Ohio? We’ve got it covered! Our list of the best things to do in Cincinnati features fun activities and sightseeing tips for visitors, locals and families.
Ranking as Ohio’s third largest city, Cincinnati boasts an eclectic art scene, exciting sporting events, and incredible eats. Steeped in history and dotted with hills, Cincinnati is nestled along the banks of the Ohio River. This location long ago earned it the nickname, The Queen City.
25 Best Things To Do in Cincinnati, Ohio
Our list of fun things to do around Cincinnati features the top attractions and prime sights. To help you plan your time, we have included a useful Cincinnati Map at the end of the article. Additionally, you will find our tips on how to get to Cincy, the great places to stay and a few packing tips.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Cincinnati Travel Guide to plan your trip to Ohio!
#1 Explore Over The Rhine
Topping our list is exploring the Over The Rhine District – or just OTR. Situated just north of downtown, the recently revitalized district is a hub of entertainment and ranks as one of the top places to go in Cincinnati, Ohio.
The neighborhood dates to the mid-19th century when German immigrants settled the area. At that time, a canal separated the district from Downtown Cincinnati. They nicknamed the canal “The Rhine” after the river in Germany. Residents working in the city would say that they lived “Over The Rhine”. Even though the canal was eventually filled in, the name stuck.
Also sticking around is the fine architecture that graces the district – including Greek Revival, Italianate and Queen Anne. Furthermore, OTR is home to numerous landmarks and a few National Historic Places. Exploring the neighborhood on foot is one of the top historical things to do in Cincinnati.
#2 Experience Findlay Market
Operating out of an iron-framed structure since the mid-1800s, Findlay Market is one of the top attractions in Cincinnati. Located in Over The Rhine, the market is an institution where locals still do their weekend grocery shopping amongst the out of town visitors.
The Findlay Marketplace features 50 local shops selling meat, produce, cheese and prepared foods. In the summertime, the area surrounding the building transforms into an outdoor festival, complete with vendors, street performers and a beer garden.
Top picks for places to eat at (or around) the market are Taste of Belgium, Eli’s Barbeque and Maverick Chocolates. Really want to get a good taste of OTR? Join the much raved about Over The Rhine Food Tour, which pairs history with fabulous eats.
#3 Visit the Cincinnati Art Museum and Eden Park
The Art Museum is a must-see in Cincinnati! Boasting a collection of more than 65,000 works, it’s housed in a stunning building on the grounds of Eden Park. Visitors could spend an entire day perusing the exhibits at the Cincinnati Art Museum.
The displays range from ancient artifacts to masterpiece paintings to modern sculptures. As a bonus, there is no entry fee – it’s one of the best free things to do in Cincinnati!
While in the vicinity, partake in a few of the top outdoor things to do in Cincinnati. This includes strolling through Eden Park to scenic Ohio River overlooks, wandering down the Presidential Memorial Groves and admiring the sculptures around Twin Lakes.
The Krohn Conservatory – an indoor botanical garden with an incredible butterfly exhibit – is also located in Eden Park. It ranks as one of the fun family things to do in Cincy!
#4 Cheer on the Hometown Team
Cincy has a long history as a sports-loving town, so it’s basically required to attend an event! The Queen City has had a professional baseball team (originally the Red Stockings) since 1869. When you watch a Cincinnati Reds baseball game at Great American Ball Park, you are participating in a tradition.
In additionally, Cincy has an NFL football team (Bengals) and a MLS soccer team (FC Cincinnati). If there are no home games during your visit, fans can still experience sports at the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum. It’s one of the interesting things to do in Cincinnati for kids and adults!
#5 Walk the Cincinnati Riverfront
Stretching your legs along the Ohio River is one of the top things to do in Downtown Cincinnati. There are miles of trails for a leisurely stroll, solid workout or anything in between!
Smale Riverfront Park
The 45-acre Smale Riverfront Park spans the waterfront between Paul Brown Stadium (where the Bengals play) and Great American Ball Park. The green space is dotted with playgrounds and gardens and is crisscrossed by walking trails.
Collectively known as the Cincinnati Riverwalk or Ohio River Trail – paths line the river. They actually cover the south bank in Northern Kentucky, as well.
Smale Park also marks the beginning of the 326-mile Ohio to Erie Trail that connects Cincy to Cleveland via Columbus. Other Cincinnati things to see at the riverfront park are fountains, a splash park and Carol Ann’s Carousel.
Sawyer Point Park and Yeatman’s Cove
Two pretty riverside spots with plenty of space, Sawyer Point Park and Yeatman’s Cove are fun places in Cincinnati to visit in the summertime. The two adjacent parks stretch for nearly 1 mile along the bank of the Ohio River.
Visitors can pose with the gigantic statue of Cincinnatus or sit on the steps of the Serpentine Wall to gaze across the river to Kentucky. The parks also hosts events (like the Labor Day Riverfest and Fourth of July Fireworks) and other fun activities in Cincinnati (like the Bunbury Music Festival).
#6 Eat at Skyline Chili
Eating a heaping plate of Cincinnati-style chili is, without a doubt, one of the top Cincy things to do. And Skyline Chili is the place to do it.
Cincinnati chili is a unique style of Mediterranean chili that was created by immigrants in the 1920s. The most popular way to serve up the dish is in a Three Way. This is a spiced meat concoction ladled over a pile of spaghetti noodles and topped with a heaping pile of shredded cheese.
A Four Way includes diced onions or beans and a Five Way includes both onions and beans. Oyster crackers are served as an additional accompaniment for diners to add on their own.
A second version of Cincy-style chili is to pour the toppings over hot dogs – rather than noodles. Although there are hundreds of chili parlors in Cincinnati, Skyline Chili is the most famous.
Founded in 1949 at a hilltop location that overlooked the city, Skyline Chili uses a secret family recipe of spices. These blend a perfect balance of savory and sweet seasonings into the meat. Plus, they are known for using a colossal amount of shredded cheese.
While the original location no longer stands, there are numerous Skyline Chili restaurants located in the area. They are still the best places to go in Cincinnati for a 3-Way!
#7 Go on the Cincinnati Underground Tour
On an Underground Tour of Cincinnati, entertaining guides lead participants through the Over The Rhine district, down to hidden tunnels and into a crypt.
During the 2.5-hour tour, guests learn about the history of Cincinnati, why the tunnels exist and how they were used. Highly rated as one of the cool things in Cincinnati to see, the tours fill up quickly – so reserve your spot in advance!
#8 Spend Time at the Taft Museum of Art
Featuring a permanent collection and special exhibits, visiting the Taft is one of the top things to do in Downtown Cincinnati, Ohio.
The artwork is housed in a National Historic Landmark mansion that once belonged to the Taft family, who were highly influential in the development of Cincinnati. The rooms are decorated with artifacts and masterpieces collected by the Tafts.
While not one of the free museums in Cincinnati, they do offer free days and special events without charge.
Interesting Fact: US President William Howard Taft was born and raised in Cincinnati. His childhood home stands on a prominent hilltop and is a National Historic Site. Touring President Taft’s home is also one of the top Cincinnati activities.
#9 Indulge in Fish and Chips at Alabama Fish Bar
Serving phenomenal fried fish for more than 30 years, Alabama Fish Bar is an institution! Whether you are fond of fish or just love local spots, this needs to be on your Cincinnati to-do list.
The family-owned corner shop keeps it simple with just three kinds of fried fish – whiting, cod and perch. The crispy fish nuggets are served with fries, an onion and pepper medley, two slices of white bread and tartar sauce…and it’s absolutely delicious!
#10 Lounge around Washington Park, Cincy
Washington Park in OTR is one of the great open spaces in Cincinnati to relax. Locals and visitors alike flock here for some fun in the sun and to attend events.
The rectangular, 8-acre green space dates to the 1800s – it even hosted the 1888 Centennial Exposition of the Ohio Valley. The park is also surrounded by some of the best architecture in Cincinnati.
Ranked as one of the best things to do in Cincinnati with kids for free, the space features a summertime splash pad, an extensive playground and large dog park.
Other fabulous features are The Porch concessions, a gazebo and interesting historical markers. Additionally, the park hosts an array of fun Cincinnati outdoor activities throughout the year.
#11 Stand in Awe of the Cincinnati Music Hall
When it comes to what to see in Cincinnati, no trip would be complete without setting your eyes on the gorgeous Cincy Music Hall.
A National Historic Landmark, it was built in 1878 as a convention center for both exhibitions and musical performances. The massive brick building was erected on the site of an old cemetery. Unsurprisingly, it is claimed to be one of the many haunted places in the city.
Go ghost hunting in Cincinnati on a Haunted City Tour!
The Victorian-Gothic structure now serves as home to the Cincinnati Opera, the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the May Festival and the Cincinnati Ballet. The venue is one of the best places to go in Cincinnati, Ohio for musical and theatrical events.
#12 Hoist a Beer in the Cincinnati Brewery District
The Brewery District was first developed in the mid-1800s by German immigrants. They brought their brew-making skills with them from Europe to Ohio and by the early 1900s, there were 17 breweries in the thriving enclave.
Although the area struggled through Prohibition and a period of economic decline, today, the Brewery District is blossoming once again.
New breweries occupy pre-Prohibition buildings. Colorful art murals decorate formerly abandoned structures. Pedal Pubs and tour groups navigate the streets along the Brewing Heritage Trail. Drinking a beer in the evolving Brewery District is one of the coolest things to do in Cincinnati.
Our favorite spot is Rhinegeist. The massive complex occupies several floors and features both a spacious indoor taproom with games and an outdoor rooftop bar. Plus, you can join an informative Rhinegeist Brewery tour to learn more!
#13 Step inside Old St. Mary’s Church
Ranking as the oldest church in the city, Old St. Mary’s is one of the most beautiful and historic Cincinnati places to visit. The richly adorned interior features paintings, sculptures and stained-glass windows.
The Greek Revival structure was built in 1840 by German immigrants and has been continuously used as a church ever since. As a traditional Roman Catholic church, daily masses are offered in Latin and English – with an additional German mass on Sundays.
#14 Imbibe at Hip Bars in OTR
In addition to the opulent architecture, the Over The Rhine District is also densely packed with fun and fashionable bars and restaurants. Having a drink at the hip watering holes is one of the top things to do in Cincinnati, OH.
From chic cocktail bars to easy going pubs to historic drinking establishments, there is something for anyone looking to imbibe in OTR.
Want a local vibe with lawn games? Head to Queen City Radio or Rosedale. Looking for a throw-back bar with an intimate atmosphere? Check out The Lackman. Interested in more craft beer? Grab a pint at Alcove by MadTree Brewing. In search of drinks with entertainment in Cincinnati? Hit up Pins Mechanical Co!
#15 Visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
This interactive museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Cincinnati, Ohio. Detailing the history of the Underground Railroad – a secret network of safe houses that allowed slaves to escape to free states in the 1800s – the space aims to educate and inspire.
Located just behind the “Sing The Queen City Sign”, the center is purposefully positioned along the bank of the Ohio River. It once separated free northern states from southern slave states.
The artifacts, stories and powerful displays make the National Underground Railroad Freedom Museum a Cincinnati must-see.
#16 Attend a Free Event at Fountain Square
Marking the center of Cincinnati since 1871, Fountain Square features an open plaza and The Genius of Water Tyler Davidson Fountain.
The bronze fountain – which stands 43 feet high – was erected in the city in 1871. It still stands today as the symbol of Cincinnati. The square is also the site of numerous gatherings and top Cincinnati events. Hosting everything from rallies to concerts and movie nights to Oktoberfest and even wintertime ice skating.
Most of the activities on Fountain Square are free. Attending an event here is one of the top downtown Cincinnati things to do.
#17 Place a Bet at Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati
Looking for indoor activities in Cincinnati? Try your luck at the city center Hard Rock Casino! With 2,000 slot machines and 85 table games, visitors could easily spend the day (and their paycheck) here.
In addition to gambling, guests can drink and dine at a handful of restaurants – including the Hard Rock Café, of course.
#18 Bar Hop at The Banks
Bar hopping around the Banks entertainment district is one of the fun things to do in Cincinnati at night!
The mixed-use development encompasses the riverfront land between the two stadiums – Paul Brown and Great American Ball Park. The prime places – like Yard House, Holy Grail and Jefferson Social – are found on East Freedom Way as it leads into the ballpark.
The Banks is also an official DORA district – Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area. Here you can order drinks to go and explore the area on foot.
#19 Look Up at the Carew Tower
Built in 1930, the 574 foot Art Deco Carew Tower was the tallest building in Cincinnati until 2010. Listed on the register of National Historic Landmarks, the interior is as impressive as the exterior.
Housing a Hilton hotel and a shopping arcade, visitors can easily get a glimpse inside. Soaring to the 49th floor observation deck long ranked as one of the top things to do Downtown Cincinnati, but the space has permanently closed.
#20 Interact with Modern Art at the Contemporary Arts Center
Founded in 1939, the CAC was one of the first of its kind in the United States – and visiting today is still one of the cool things to do in Cincinnati.
The museum, housed in a modern structure in the city center – features rotating exhibits of fascinating modern art. The art works encourage experience and interaction.
One of the top features is UnMuseum, which is geared toward children and is perfect for a day of family fun. There’s no admission fee – making it one of the best downtown Cincinnati free things to do!
#21 Indulge in BBQ at Montgomery Inn Boathouse
The Montgomery Inn opened in a Cincinnati suburb in 1951 and quickly became known for their fall-off-the-bone loin back ribs and homemade BBQ sauce.
Frequented by actors, athletes and US Presidents, the Montgomery was immediately one of the top places to visit in Cincinnati, Ohio. The restaurant gained so much popularity that in 1989, they opened a second location.
The Montgomery Inn Boathouse offers spectacular river views – and award-winning BBQ ribs. For dessert, don’t miss locally made Grater’s Ice Cream.
Dining at the legendary establishment can be one of the romantic things to do in Cincinnati for couples. Just be sure to make a reservation!
#22 Discover the Cincinnati Museum Center
Located on the west side of the city in the Art Deco Cincinnati Union Terminal train station, the Museum Center is a hub of entertainment.
The space houses the Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History and Science and the Children’s Museum. Additionally, there is an Omnimax Theater and a beautiful library.
It’s mission is to inspire through science, history, education and experience. Fun for visitors of all ages, going to the Cincinnati Museum Center is one of the fun things to do with kids or on a date!
#23 Join the Best Cincinnati Tour
Rather than trying to figure out the cool places to go in Cincinnati on your own, join a local guide for a fabulous tour of the city!
On the Cincinnati Morning Tour, participants are led to 10 top sights – plus get a taste of 5 great Cincy eats along the way. The 3.5-hour tour is highly recommended by fellow travelers.
#24 Cross Roebling Bridge to Covington, Kentucky
Several bridges span the Ohio River, connecting southern Ohio with northern Kentucky. However, none are as impressive as the Roebling Bridge.
The iconic cable suspension structure is a regional landmark. A prototype for the famous Brooklyn Bridge in NYC, Roebling Bridge was completed in 1867. It ranked as the longest bridge in the world at that time.
The Roebling Suspension Bridge connects Cincy with downtown Covington, KY. Crossing over is one of the historical things to do in Cincinnati.
However, that isn’t the only reason to make the walk! Covington has become a foodie haven – and is a super city to explore as well. Just be sure to read our guide to the Best Things To Do!
#25 Take the Purple People Bridge to Newport, KY
The Newport Southbank Bridge is better known by its moniker, The Purple People Bridge. The now pedestrian-only overpass dates to 1872 when it opened for train traffic. It’s also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The bridge is easily accessible from the Cincinnati riverfront and leads walkers right to the heart of Newport, Kentucky.
Another fun city with an intriguing past, it’s a great place to spend an afternoon or evening. Read our article for all the great Things To Do in Newport.
More Things To Do in the Cincinnati Vicinity
We have highlighted some of the absolute best things to see in Cincy. However, there are a handful of things to do near Cincinnati that are fun for visitors, too!
Kings Island
If you are looking for more things to do with kids in Cincinnati, consider making the short drive north to the famed Kings Island amusement park. With 14 roller coasters, a gigantic water park and more than a hundred other attractions, Kings Island is a fun way to spend a day near Cincy.
Coney Island Park
A summertime water park and wintertime festival of lights, Coney Island Ohio is a hub entertainment year round.
While a top attraction for kids, it’s one of the fun things to do in Cincinnati for adults, too. Located south of the city along the Ohio River and is easy to get to by Uber/Lyft or with a car.
Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden
Okay, it’s only a few miles north of downtown, but you will need a ride to get there. The Cincinnati Zoo is one of the oldest in the United States – it first opened in 1873 – and still ranks as one of the best in the country.
Home to more than 500 animals and 3,000 plants species – there’s also several activities and a theater. Top animal attractions are Fiona the Hippo, Gorilla World, Roo Valley and the Elephant Reserve.
Mt. Airy Forest
Boasting 1,500 acres and miles of trails, Mt. Airy Forest is a top destination for people searching for things to do outside in Cincinnati. In addition to hiking, visitors can play disc golf, set off on two wheels or visit the Mt. Airy Arboretum.
American Sign Museum
A fascinating peek into the past, the space displays an incredible number of historic and legendry signs. The museum is housed in an old factory and has the largest sign collection in the US. Visiting is one of the unique things to do in Cincinnati.
Spring Grove Cemetery
Some travelers might think it is odd to visit a burial ground on their trip, but the Spring Grove Cemetery is one of the best Cincinnati attractions.
Many of the city’s prominent residents are buried at Spring Grove. However, the real draw of the area is the beautiful monuments, scenic nature and miles of walking paths.
Cincinnati Observatory
Anyone who enjoys admiring the night sky should have this observatory on their Things To Do Cincinnati list!
The 19th century Cincy Observatory is a great place to learn about and look at the stars. Visitors can take tours (day and night), use a historic telescope and gain a better understanding of astronomy.
University Campuses
The city is home to two universities – University of Cincinnati and Xavier University – both of which are cool places to visit in Cincinnati.
The University of Cincinnati campus features modern and historic architecture and an array of artworks. Xavier University, a Catholic Jesuit school, is best known for their Men’s Basketball program – so if you are visiting in winter, see if you can score tickets!
Map of Cincinnati, Ohio Attractions
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Cincinnati Map below.
Planning Your Trip to Cincinnati
As you make your list of must see Cincinnati sights and reservations for accommodations, you will need to keep track of the details. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner so that nothing falls through the cracks!
How To Get to Cincinnati, Ohio
We drove to Cincinnati from Dublin, Ohio (a suburb of Columbus) and continued on to Louisville, KY. Most out-of-area visitors will fly to Cincinnati.
The Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) is actually located in Hebron, KY. Search for low fares on SkyScanner – but read our tips to getting the Cheap Flights first!
Getting around Cincinnati
Once in the city, it’s easy to get around on foot, with Uber/Lyft or by public transport. The Cincinnati Bell Connector Streetcar is an excellent way to explore north of downtown and into OTR – and it’s free!
Where To Stay in Cincinnati, OH
We believe the best place to stay in Cincinnati, Ohio is right in the heart of the city. There are numerous Airbnb apartments available, but for a short 1 or 2 days in Cincinnati, it’s likely more convenient to book a centrally located Hotel.
Hilton Netherland Plaza
The Hilton is located just steps from Carew Tower, Fountain Square and a short walk to the Ohio Riverside and Cincy stadiums. The rooms are well-appointed, beds are comfortable and there is an indoor pool and gym.
What we love best about the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza is the stylishly decorated interior. The Art Deco décor makes it feel like you are stepping back in time. Check rates!
21c Museum
The hip and chic 21c Museum Hotel in Cincinnati offers a contemporary and stylish place to stay in the heart of the city. The unique concept combines art with accommodations – making your stay an experience to remember!
In addition to the clean and comfortable rooms, the property features an art gallery, an on-site restaurant and a rooftop bar. Check availability!
What You Will Need for Sightseeing Cincinnati
Now that you know all of the fun things to do in downtown Cincinnati, let’s chat about packing! You can find all of our packing hacks and tips on our Packing Page. For now, grab your FREE Packing Checklist!
Walking Shoes
Our list of the top things to do in Cincinnati, Ohio includes attractions all over the city. Make sure to pack a durable pair of shoes to comfortably make the trek around town.
For most urban exploration, I like wearing casual, all-purpose sneakers, like these. You can find all our advice and reviews in our guide to The Best Travel Shoes.
Travel Camera
With beautiful architecture and gorgeous outdoor spaces, Cincinnati is incredibly photogenic! Rather than relying on your phone, we highly recommend using a real camera to capture the scene. We travel with an affordable Canon Rebel and use an 18-135mm lens.
Day Pack
Whether you travel with a suitcase or a backpack, you will definitely want a day bag for everyday essentials on your sightseeing adventures in Cincinnati.
We prefer this Osprey Day Pack for its multiple compartments and lightweight material. That said, there are many different styles, which we feature in our Best Day Bags for Travel article.
Start planning your USA Trip! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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