When people hear "Cincinnati," they often think of baseball, chili, and its location on the Ohio River. While those are important parts of the town and its history, there is so much more to see and do. The truth of the matter is, Cincinnati is a midwestern city that’s evolving to become a compelling U.S. destination for foodies and a family-friendly place for kids. See all that Cincinnati has to offer to visitors and locals in the guide below.
Cincinnati has plenty of places to visit that offer excitement or a great photo op. Start at one of the following locations before taking a trip to other parts of the Queen City.
The best things to do in Cincinnati include:
See nature in action at Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden
Play at the Coney Island amusement park
Take a tour of the Cincinnati Reds Great American Ball Park
Hear the sounds at Cincinnati Music Hall
Go on a brewery tour with Brewing Heritage Trail Tours
A few Cincinnati landmarks make or break a trip to the Queen City. Bellevue Park is a must-see, and every visitor has to make their way to a view of the Ohio River.
Popular attractions near Cincinnati include:
Taking a stroll across the historic John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge
View the stars at the Cincinnati Observatory, located in Hyde Park
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, bringing to life the importance of freedom
Witness the views of downtown Cincinnati from Bellevue Park
Museum of Natural History and Science, a place where science, history, and nature come together
The best part about visiting Cincinnati is the abundance of things to do. Whether you’re in town for a layover, a weekend, or even a work week, there’s plenty of Cincy activities to keep you occupied.
Exciting activities near Cincinnati include:
Carew Tower Observation Deck, the second tallest building in Cincinnati
Smale Riverfront Park, a scenic riverside venue with fountains, gardens, walkways, and more
Enjoying a scenic ride on the Anderson Ferry
Visiting the Fire Museum of Greater Cincinnati
Northland Ice Center, Cincinnati’s first indoor skate rink
Cincinnati is up as long as the moon is. Whether you want to see a ballet, grab a drink, or see if Lady Luck is smilin’, there are plenty of things to do in Cincinnati at night.
Nighttime entertainment and activities in Cincinnati include:
See a show at the Cincinnati Ballet
Grab a round at the Rhinegeist Brewery
Make a bet at Horseshoe Casino Cincinnati
Listen to live music at Mount Adams Pavilion
Grab a pint at Cincinnati's oldest bar, Arnold’s Bar and Grill
Not only is downtown Cincinnati a great place to visit and play, but the surrounding suburbs are great places to take the kids. This city has plenty of entertainment options to keep the entire family busy during your stay.
Family-friendly things to do near Cincinnati include:
See the sealife at Newport Aquarium
Visit indoor botanical garden at Krohn Conservatory
Go on a self-guided tour through American Sign Museum
Whirl around on Carol Ann’s Carousel
See the world’s largest indoor model railroad at EnterTRAINment Junction
Exploration continues under Cincinnati roofs. Whether you want to take a trip to the past, see modern art, or see how things are made, there’s something to do indoors in Cincinnati to match your speed.
Things to do indoors near Cincinnati include:
Exploring the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
Being stunned by fine art at Taft Museum of Art
Seeing how modern artists express themselves at Cincinnati Contemporary Arts Center
Learning about flight Cincinnati Aviation Heritage Society and Museum
Seeing the creations at Brazee Street Studios
Sports and outdoor activities in CincinnatiView All
There’s plenty of outdoor activities in Cincinnati if you know where to look. Let out your inner explorer and adventure through the woods, parks, and grasslands only available in Cincy.
Things to see in Cincinnati include:
Explore all there is to see at Eden Park
Finding your happy place in Winton Woods
Explore the 50 acres of Lytle Park Historic District
