Cincinnati is a city that has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, sports fan, or just looking for a great place to eat, Cincinnati has you covered. Here are the best things to do when visiting Cincinnati.
1. Visit the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is one of the top zoos in the country, and admission is only $15 for adults and $10 for children ages 2-12. The zoo is home to over 500 animals and 3,000 plant species, making it a great place to learn about wildlife and plant life worldwide.
2. Take a walk or bike ride through Eden Park
Eden Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Cincinnati, and it’s free to visit! Take a stroll through the rose garden, have a picnic by the lake, or go for a hike in the woods. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the park from the water.
3. Visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is a must-visit for anyone interested in American history. The museum tells the story of the Underground Railroad, a network of safe houses and routes enslaved people used to escape to freedom. Admission to the museum is free for all visitors.
4. Catch a Reds game at Great American Ball Park
If you’re a baseball fan, you’ll want to catch a game at Great American Ball Park, home of the Cincinnati Reds. Tickets start as low as $10, making them an affordable night out option. You can also tour the stadium for $5-$7.
5. Explore the Taft Museum of Art
The Taft Museum of Art is one of the best art museums in the country, and it’s ultimately free to visit! The museum houses a collection of European and American paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the 15th to 19th centuries. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, take advantage of the free docent-led tours.
6. Visit the Cincinnati Observatory Center
The Cincinnati Observatory Center is great for learning about astronomy and stargazing. Admission to the observatory is free, but a suggested donation of $5. The center also offers astronomy classes for all ages.
7. Go on a brewery tour
Cincinnati is home to many local breweries, and most offer tours of their facilities. Tours are typically free or very cheap, and you’ll get to sample some delicious beer! Some of our favorite breweries include Rhinegeist, MadTree, and Fifty West.
8. Catch a show at the Aronoff Center for the Arts
The Aronoff Center for the Arts is one of the best places to see a live performance in Cincinnati. The center hosts a variety of shows, including Broadway musicals, ballets, and concerts. Ticket prices vary depending on the show, but discounts are often available.
9. Have dinner at one of Cincinnati’s many excellent restaurants
Cincinnati is known for its diverse food scene, and there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from, no matter what you’re in the mood for. For a budget-friendly option, try one of the city’s many food trucks or grab a slice at one of the local pizza places. Or treat yourself to a more excellent dinner at one of Cincinnati’s acclaimed restaurants, like Boca or Sotto.
10. Explore Over-the-Rhine
Over-the-Rhine is one of Cincinnati’s most vibrant neighborhoods, filled with great shops, restaurants, and bars. Take a walking tour of the neighborhood to learn about its history and architecture, or explore on your own. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on a visit to Findlay Market, the city’s historic public market.
Whether you’re visiting Cincinnati for a weekend or a lifetime, there’s plenty to see and do. Use this guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in the Queen City!
