Cincinnati, Ohio: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know Cincinnati is home to the largest collection of Italianate architecture in the United States? With over 900 historic buildings in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood alone, this Ohio gem offers a surprising blend of European charm and Midwestern hospitality. Once nicknamed “The Queen City” during its 19th-century boom years, Cincinnati has transformed from an industrial powerhouse to a vibrant cultural destination that deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.

Getting to Cincinnati

Cincinnati is easily accessible by air through Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), which offers direct flights from many major U.S. cities. The airport is located about 13 miles from downtown, making for a convenient arrival point for visitors.

If you prefer traveling by land, Cincinnati is conveniently located at the intersection of several major highways, including I-71, I-74, and I-75, making it easily reachable from cities like Columbus, Indianapolis, Louisville, and Nashville—all within a 2-4 hour drive.

When to Visit Cincinnati

Cincinnati experiences all four seasons distinctly, each offering a different perspective on the city. Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather, with temperatures typically ranging from 65-80°F (18-27°C) and colorful landscapes. Summer (July-August) can be hot and humid with temperatures often exceeding 85°F (29°C), but it’s also when the city hosts many outdoor festivals and events.

Winter (December-February) brings cold temperatures and occasional snow, but the city looks magical during the holiday season with festive decorations throughout downtown and special events like the PNC Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo. Spring brings beautiful blooms to the city’s many parks and gardens.

Getting Around Cincinnati

Cincinnati’s downtown area is quite walkable, with many attractions within a reasonable distance of each other. The Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar runs on a 3.6-mile loop connecting key neighborhoods including Downtown, Over-the-Rhine, and The Banks. A day pass costs just $2, making it an affordable way to explore the city.

For venturing beyond the central areas, the Metro bus system provides extensive coverage throughout the city. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. If you plan to explore the greater Cincinnati area including attractions in Northern Kentucky, renting a car is your best option.

Where to Stay in Cincinnati

Cincinnati offers accommodations for every budget and preference, from luxury hotels to charming boutique properties. Downtown is ideal for first-time visitors, putting you within walking distance of major attractions like Fountain Square, the riverfront, and numerous restaurants. The historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood offers a more bohemian atmosphere with trendy restaurants, breweries, and shops.

Top Things to Do in Cincinnati

1. Explore Findlay Market

Dating back to 1852, Findlay Market is Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market and a must-visit destination in Cincinnati. Located in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, this vibrant market offers fresh produce, meats, pastries, and specialty foods from over 50 vendors. Don’t miss trying a Belgian waffle from Taste of Belgium or the famous barbecue from Eli’s BBQ. The market is particularly lively on weekends when additional outdoor vendors and street performers add to the festive atmosphere.

2. Visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

Located on the banks of the Ohio River, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center tells the powerful story of slavery and the quest for freedom in America. The museum features compelling exhibits including an actual slave pen from Kentucky, interactive displays, and stories of courage and resistance. The center doesn’t just focus on historical slavery but connects to contemporary human rights issues worldwide, making it a profound and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

3. Stroll Through Eden Park

Eden Park is a 186-acre urban oasis offering spectacular views of the Ohio River and Kentucky shoreline. The park houses several cultural attractions including the Cincinnati Art Museum, which features an impressive collection spanning 6,000 years of art history with free admission. Don’t miss the Krohn Conservatory with its stunning collection of tropical plants, desert specimens, and seasonal floral shows. The park’s Mirror Lake with its fountain and the historic Water Tower add to its picturesque charm.

4. Experience Cincinnati’s Brewing Heritage

Cincinnati’s German heritage is best experienced through its rich brewing tradition. The Over-the-Rhine neighborhood was once home to dozens of breweries, and today’s craft beer renaissance has revitalized this legacy. Visit Rhinegeist Brewery, housed in a former bottling plant, for excellent craft beers and rooftop views of the city. Take the Brewing Heritage Trail tour to explore historic brewing sites, underground tunnels, and learn about Cincinnati’s beer-making history while sampling local brews.

5. Admire the Roebling Suspension Bridge

The John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, completed in 1867, was the prototype for New York’s famous Brooklyn Bridge and was once the longest suspension bridge in the world. Take a walk across this historic span connecting Cincinnati to Covington, Kentucky for spectacular views of the Cincinnati skyline and Ohio River. The bridge is particularly beautiful when illuminated at night, making it a favorite spot for photographers.

6. Visit the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

As the second-oldest zoo in the United States (established in 1875), the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is home to more than 500 animal species and 3,000 plant varieties. The zoo is renowned for its conservation efforts and successful breeding programs for endangered species. Don’t miss the Cat Canyon, Manatee Springs, and the award-winning Elephant Reserve. The zoo is also famous as the birthplace of Fiona, a hippo who became an internet sensation after her premature birth and successful rearing in 2017.

7. Explore the American Sign Museum

For something truly unique, visit the American Sign Museum, which celebrates the art and history of commercial signs and sign-making. This colorful museum features more than 100 years of American sign heritage, from gold leaf lettering of the early 1900s to the neon signs of the mid-20th century. The museum’s main gallery is designed to look like a small-town American streetscape from the mid-20th century, complete with glowing, blinking, and spinning signs.

Cincinnati Dining and Culture

Try Cincinnati Chili

No visit to Cincinnati would be complete without trying the city’s signature dish: Cincinnati chili. Unlike traditional chili, this Mediterranean-spiced meat sauce is served over spaghetti and topped with a mountain of finely shredded cheddar cheese (three-way), plus onions (four-way) or beans (four-way bean) or both (five-way). The two main chili parlor chains are Skyline and Gold Star, though locals often prefer smaller establishments like Camp Washington Chili, which has been serving its secret recipe since 1940.

Arts and Culture

Cincinnati boasts a thriving arts scene anchored by the Cincinnati Arts Association, which operates the Aronoff Center for the Arts and Music Hall. The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, one of America’s finest and oldest orchestras, performs regularly at Music Hall, a stunning 19th-century building in Over-the-Rhine. Contemporary art enthusiasts should visit the Contemporary Arts Center, housed in a striking building designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid—the first major American museum designed by a woman.

Sports

Cincinnati is home to two major professional sports teams: the Cincinnati Reds (MLB) and the Cincinnati Bengals (NFL). The Reds, established in 1881, are the oldest professional baseball team in America and play at the Great American Ball Park along the riverfront. Catching a game here is a quintessential Cincinnati experience, especially on summer evenings when you can enjoy the game with a view of the river and Roebling Bridge.

Practical Tips for Visiting Cincinnati

Ready to Experience Cincinnati?

From its rich German heritage and stunning architecture to its vibrant arts scene and unique culinary traditions, Cincinnati offers visitors a perfect blend of Midwestern charm and cosmopolitan experiences. Whether you’re admiring the city from atop Mount Adams, sampling local brews in Over-the-Rhine, or cheering on the Reds at Great American Ball Park, the Queen City welcomes you with open arms and countless memories waiting to be made.

Cincinnati’s renaissance over the past decade has transformed it from an overlooked Midwestern city to a destination worthy of your travel bucket list. With its walkable neighborhoods, world-class museums, and flourishing food scene, there’s never been a better time to discover all that Cincinnati has to offer. Pack your bags, bring your appetite for adventure (and Cincinnati chili!), and prepare to be surprised by this gem on the Ohio River.