As one of the most populated, lively, and exciting cities in Ohio, it is no surprise there is so much to do in Cincinnati. This Buckeye State treasure is chock full of fun for the whole family from every corner of the city. The city loves its fun, its food, and its world-class parks. It even has a former Union Station with three separate amazing museums.
Many things to do in Cincinnati are intended for the entire family, such as the Zoo, Coney Island Park, and a ballpark. Adults can happily explore the Findlay Market, the Cincinnati Music Hall, and the Museum of Art. Cincinnati attractions even include one of the most exotic cemeteries anywhere. There are so many attractions in Cincinnati that a list just might help narrow down the essentials.
Here are the top Cincinnati attractions you must add to your itinerary.
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Come and see all the best in botany at the same place where you will see lions, tigers and oh so much more.
The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens is one of the most popular attractions in Cincinnati because of all that you can see, do, and explore here.
It is the second oldest zoo in the US and is dedicated to species preservation. A million people visit here annually to enjoy the 500 animals and 3,000 plant species in the botanical garden.
Some animals to see are lowland gorillas, Asian elephants, Bengal tigers, rhinoceroses, and many more.
The Botanical Garden is a sheer beauty of trees and seasonal floral collections. The tulips in April are incredibly vibrant and colorful.
Of special interest are the many behind-the-scenes experiences allowing visitors to get close to their favorite animal and perhaps help with feeding. Some experiences include the elephant bath (who hasn't dreamed of bathing an elephant?), which is $250 for two people.
There are opportunities to hang with hippos (Hippo Fiona has earned worldwide fame), kangaroos, and play with pandas. Click above for more details, such as feeding the penguins. For those who love surprises, there is even a mystery animal tour.
For youngsters, there is a train and carousel.
Basic admission to the zoo is $27 for adults and $21 for children under the age of $21.
Address: 3400 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45220
Also Read: 30 Best Zoos in the USA
One of the top-rated places in Cincinnati is the Cincinnati Museum Center, which receives over a million visitors annually.
This marvelous cultural venue is the recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the highest honor that can be bestowed on a cultural institution.
The complex itself is the renovated Art Deco Union Station terminal.
This giant complex includes the Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History & Science, the Duke Energy Children’s Museum, and more.
The Duke Energy Children’s Museum is one of the top museums for children worldwide. Here, children can explore the world hands-on by crawling, touching, and climbing while learning about science, art, and other topics. Several areas are specially designated for preschoolers.
The Museum of Natural History & Science links the present back 19,000 years to the Ice Age. Many of the exhibits are interactive with demonstrations from fossil cleaning to gardening.
The Cincinnati History Museum includes and displays anything relevant to Cincinnati’s history, such as a steamboat and a genuine 1940s street trolley.
The Center’s total collection exceeds 1.8 million different artifacts and works of art and would certainly merit more than one visit.
It is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Entrance fee for adults is $22 and $15 for children under 12.
Address: 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45203
One of the top Cincinnati attractions that is a National Historic Landmark and immediately recognizable is the Cincinnati Music Hall.
This large art complex includes the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the Pop Orchestra, the Ballet, and the Opera.
Both inside and outside tours of this notable landmark are highly recommended. The inside tour includes private spaces rarely seen by the public.
Visitors will discover why this 19th-century structure was a renaissance for the Midwest. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children under the age of 12. Tours last for over an hour, and meet at 1241 Elm Street.
For an hour-and-a-half outdoor tour (and why not do both tours?), learn about the fantastic and innovative 19th-century architecture and those who created it. This tour is where history meets Cincinnati culture.
The cost of the outdoor tour is $15 for adults and $5 for children under the age of 12.
Address: 1241 Elm St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Sports fans already know that one of the places to go in Cincinnati is the home of the Cincinnati Reds, the Great American Ball Park.
Adult visitors can bet on and watch their team in the BetMGM Sportsbook with betting windows, televisions, and self-service kiosks. There is also a full-service bar.
Baseball is America’s family game. Sports fans can introduce their children to the sport by bringing them the TriHealth Family Zone located in the right field.
The Zone offers a nursing suite, slides, a clubhouse and reading room for children, batting cages for toddlers, and a lounge overlooking the Ohio River.
The best way to enjoy game day in the Great American Ball Park is with an hour-and-a-half tour of the Scoreboard Operations Room and creating your own message. Then, move on to the Right Field Wall for a selfie of making a catch.
The hour pregame tour guides guests through the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum and provides early viewing access to batting practice, as well as field-level box seats – all for $150.
Address: 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
The Cincinnati Art Museum has 73,000 works of art covering 6,000 years. It has a huge permanent exhibit of paintings, fashion, photography, sculptures, and decorative items, as well as several temporary exhibitions annually.
On display are excellent art pieces by legendary artists like O'Keefe, Van Gogh, Monet, and many others.
Visitors can participate in the museum's art-related programs and enjoy lunch at the café. Admission is always free, although access to special exhibits will vary. The gift shop has an abundance of art-related gifts.
This is one of Cincinnati’s attractions that uses the power of art to connect people.
The museum is closed on Monday. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, it is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and remains open until 8 p.m. on Thursday.
Address: 953 Eden Park Dr, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Also Read: 20 Best Art Museums in the USA
Entertaining things to do in Cincinnati with the kids is to spend time at the Krohn Conservatory.
This fabulous botanical garden is visited by 300,000 people each year to view the 3,500 different plant species from all over the world. Some plants are unique to the Conservatory.
The Conservatory consists of several buildings. The Palm House has been turned into a tropical rainforest, complete with a stream and waterfall. The Desert Garden contains cacti, aloes, succulent, and dry-climate plants.
The John Carroll Bonsai Gallery is a collection of Japanese bonsai, while the Orchid Room exhibits 75 exquisite types of orchards.
The Tropical House is filled with tropical plants such as cacao trees, dwarf bananas, begonias, and others.
The Butterfly Room is everyone’s favorite, with 16,000 butterflies flying throughout the room every spring. Kids can’t tear themselves away from here.
The Seasonal Floral Room rotates its floral exhibits each season.
Another favorite is the Holiday Display with its miniature Cincinnati buildings, a train, and a tree with ornament.
The Conservatory is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The admission for adults is $7, and for children under 17, it is $5. The Butterfly Room and Holiday Display are $10 for adults and $7 for children.
Address: 1501 Eden Park Dr, Cincinnati, OH 45202
One of the unique Cincinnati attractions is the famed bronze and granite Fountain dedicated to the people in 1872.
The bronze female has her arms spread as if welcoming all that come to her. But the fountain is just a part of the square.
This is where Cincinnati comes for concerts, dancing, and special events when food and drink are available. It is the city’s central meeting point.
Fans gather here to watch the Bengal games on the large-screen television. When the weather gets cold, an ice rink is installed. Many shops and restaurants surround the square.
Address: 520 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Don’t just look to the skies; explore them! One of the best things to do in Cincinnati is the tours given by the Cincinnati Observatory.
This important observatory is called the “Birthplace of American Astronomy” and has one of the oldest functional telescopes dating back to 1845.
The observatory rests atop Mount Lookout and consists of two buildings, each with its own telescope. On a clear night, visitors become one with the universe.
Half-hour history tours take place in both buildings and the gift shop. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children, with tours on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday beginning at noon, 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. Views through the telescopes may be possible but are not guaranteed.
The Fourth Sunday History Tours take place from noon to 3 p.m. and involve greater details about the Conservatory’s history and behind-the-scenes peeks. This is an excellent opportunity for astronomy fans 12 years of age and older.
Address: 3489 Observatory Pl, Cincinnati, OH 45208
Just when you think you’ve seen it all comes one of the most unique art experiences in Cincinnati.
The American Sign Museum is an establishment dedicated to the preservation and collection of signs. Old, new, electric, restaurants, shopping, hotels, big, small, and everything in between can be found here.
This is a visual feast of different shapes, colors, and flashing neon lights that are guaranteed to bring back memories. How about a Big Boy sign? It makes a person crave a burger.
The museum has a self-guided tour to show how American signs evolved, from pieces of wood and metal to huge neon moving characters. There are guided tours on weekends.
The Signs on Main Street exhibit is meant to recreate a “typical” American Main Street with its stores and signs.
The museum also has a neon-repair section. Visitors can watch the repair people at work Wednesday through Friday.
The American Sign Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with an entrance fee of $15 for adults and $10 for children between 13 and 18. Younger ones get in for free.
Address: 1330 Monmouth Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45225
If you’re the kind of traveler who wants to ‘see it all’, then the Carew Tower Observation Deck is for you! Get a state of the art bird’s eye view from one of the most prominent buildings in all of Cincinnati.
The 49th floor of the Carew Tower is a great place to visit and look out upon all that you will or have adventure.
The skyline is absolutely breathtaking and being able to see life flow from so high up is an experience you won’t soon forget. High on the list of top Cincinnati attractions, the Carew Tower Observation Deck is not to be missed.
Address: 441 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Also Read: Best Observation Decks in the USA
Findlay Market grew out of the efforts of the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood and its predominantly German immigrants who built and developed the area, which has now turned into one of the most worthwhile spots in Cincinnati.
Findlay Market is the center and heartbeat of the area and it takes pride in the fresh produce it has for sale.
It has existed for nearly 175 years at the same location. The neighborhood and its shops bloomed around it, and the market is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and believed to be the most complete and genuine 19the neighborhood district in the country.
The market accepts up to $10 SNAP payments a day to make fresh food available to all. For shoppers without a car, the Findlay Market has easy bus access.
The main building is filled with stalls with sellers preparing meals in front of buyers with convenient seats to take the food and eat.
The market also has brewery kiosks and several cafes. There are tours and cooking demonstrations with live music each week at this Cincinnati attraction.
As an acknowledgment of its Germanic history, Findlay’s Market Over-the-Rhine Biergarten is open from May through September on weekdays and in April and October on weekends.
The Findlay Market is closed on Monday. It is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and Saturday at 8 a.m. Sunday hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Address: 1801 Race St, Cincinnati
Also Read: Best Farmers' Markets in the USA
One of the significant historic places in Cincinnati is the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center by the Ohio River.
The river was a crossing point for escaping slaves from Kentucky to Ohio through the Underground Railroad.
The museum examines the history of three centuries of slavery, the Civil War, the routes used by slaves to get to the free states, and where they could hope for food and shelter. Lots of history here! The
museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The entrance fee for adults is $16.50 and $11.50 for children under the age of 12.
Visitors can expect free admission on the 5the and 3rd Sunday of the month, Martin Luther King’s Day, and Juneteenth.
Address: 50 East Freedom Way, Cincinnati
Also Read: 30 Best Railway Museums in the US
The Downtown district is one of Cincinnati’s attractions that never disappoints. No car is necessary – a convenient free trolley runs between important landmarks such as the Great American Ball Park and the Music Hall.
The trolley operates Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. with slightly shorter hours on weekends. In addition, Downtown has several “red bike” locations. Just pick up a bike and begin to peddle.
Regardless of the convenient and available transportation, a nice walk to see the sights is recommended, from strolling along the riverfront and discovering Fountain Square and Riverfront Park while enjoying Downtown’s many restaurants.
Or visit the vibrant Over-the-Rhine district with its Ziegler Park and its pool. There are many things to do in Cincinnati when visiting Downtown.
For inspirational art, the Taft Museum is known for its collection spanning from the Middle Ages to the 19the century.
Also Read: Best Downtowns in the USA
Eden Park has so much to offer everyone, but it is one of the unique Cincinnati tourist attractions for those wishing to learn more about the city.
These 186 acres overlooking the Ohio River provide a vibrant view of Cincinnati and the river. In addition, it contains major Cincinnati landmarks, such as the Krohn Conservatory and the Cincinnati Art Museum.
There are three lakes as well, with Mirror Lake displaying a massive fountain with its geyser that shoots water 60 feet into the air.
Visitors can stroll the paths, primarily through the striking Hinkle Magnolia Garden. There are many spots perfect for a picnic along the way. The park’s Seasongood Pavilion frequently hosts events such as concerts.
The park is open 24/7 and free.
Address: 950 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati
One of the places to go in Cincinnati to simply relax is the 45-acre Smale Riverfront Park by the Ohio River and the Roebling Suspension Bridge.
There is a playground with slides and a rope bridge, as well as fountains, monuments, and paths to explore, including a flying pig for climbing and a foot piano and a huge chess board for playing.
The splash fountain is a seasonal favorite during hot weather. It’s a great place for a family picnic.
The park was created in honor of the African-American Black Brigade Civil War volunteers. The names of the 700 members are inscribed on the walls that line the path.
Red Bike rentals are available here, as are scooter rentals.
Address: 66 W Mehring Way
Cruises are always exciting, and one of the Cincinnati attractions with an abundance of specialty cruises is the BB Riverboats.
The unique aspect of these cruises is the many options, from a family outing, a pirate cruise, a princess cruise, or a romantic sunset dinner cruise.
It is the optimal way of enjoying friends, a great meal, and live music. Why not try a Girl’s Night Out cruise? Everyone can enjoy the fun and full bar.
The Holiday Cruise along the Ohio River is always a special event.
The Belle of Cincinnati is the flagship boat with luxury and Victorian-era comfort. All three decks are climate-controlled. Count on open viewing decks, a full far, a buffet, and dancing.
The River Queen is the more romantic boat in the fleet and is frequently used for wedding events and private parties.
Address: 101 Riverboat Row, Newport, KY
Everyone knows about Coney Island in New York. This possibly superior Coney Island Park is one of the places to visit in Cincinnati for some genuine wet fun.
The park has a huge Sunlite pool containing 3 million gallons of water, along with a few terrifying rides and the largest waterpark obstacle course in the US. Both the Twister and the Cyclone shoot and twist their way into the Sunlite pool.
Less heart-pounding and more family-friendly are the paddle boats and mini golf courses.
The park has classic eateries that are very geared toward children, although the Island Oasis Tiki Bar has beer and cocktails for the over-21 set.
For added comfort, Cabanas can be rented by the day. A single cabana can hold six guests and has two loungers, four armchairs, and a table. Six soft drinks are included.
The Double Cabana can accommodate 12 guests and has twice the number of loungers, armchairs, and available soft drinks. The rental for a single cabana ranges from $100 to $160 and $120 to $210 for a double.
For various entrance fees, click here.
Address: 6201 Kellogg Ave, Cincinnati
A must-see in Cincinnati is the riverfront Sawyer Point Park and Yeatman's Cove, which has something for everyone, from 8 tennis courts, a performance pavilion, 3 volleyball courts, a sprayground, and pickleball spanning 1 mile.
Many well-known performers have entertained here, such as Clint Black, Duran Duran, the Temptations, the Village People, and others. There is an event here most weekends during the summer.
The park has stunning landscaping, paths to wander, several playgrounds, and art exhibits.
Sawyer Point Park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Address: 705 E Pete Rose Way, Cincinnati
One of the special things to do in Cincinnati is to visit the Taft Museum of Art. Although it is small and was once a private home, it is one of the US’s outstanding museums dating back 200 years.
Its art collection includes European masters like Rembrandt and American masters such as Whistler and Sargent. It also contains the country’s largest Gothic ivory sculpture.
Unique items such as 18the-century watches and 19the-century furniture are also on display. A stroll through the historic gardens and its exhibits is recommended.
Visitors can take a break from viewing the masterpieces for a scrumptious meal and a glass of wine at the Lindner Family Café. Weather permitting, dining on the patio is a treat.
Admission to the Taft Museum is $12 for adults and free to children under 18. Sunday is a free day for everyone.
Address: 316 Pike St, Cincinnati
Also Read: 20 Best Art Museums in the USA
One of the Cincinnati attractions landscaped into an outdoor museum is the Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum. It is indeed a cemetery, but one that is filled with art, creative planting, and statues.
Almost 1,000 Civil War soldiers have found their final resting place, including 40 generals. The cemetery’s lawn plan with its colorful flowers was once considered radical but has become an accepted standard.
The cemetery and arboretum have offered solace in grief for 200 years with iconic touches such as a reception in the garden or arranging a softball game – anything to celebrate life instead of surrendering to death.
The Spring Grove's Arboretum has been accredited Level III by the Morton Arboretum Register for its high standards.
Address: 4521 Spring Grove Ave, Cincinnati
Everyone in Cincinnati knows that Cincinnati chili is special. It’s like no other chili anywhere. That makes Skyline Chili one of the perfect Cincinnati tourist attractions for visitors who need to experience this specialty firsthand.
While other chili makers proudly turn their beans into a three-alarm fire, Cincinnati chili is seasoned with cinnamon, nutmeg, and … the secret ingredient … chocolate. And Skylike has the best Cincinnati chili in the city. Of course, it does get its sass from chili powder. It is simply different.
At Skyline Chili, there are unique ways of enjoying one’s chili. There is Chili Spaghetti for those who want something stronger than ordinary tomato sauce. Or the chili hot dog for anyone who laughs in the face of mere ketchup or mustard on a dog.
The first Skyline Chili was opened in 1949 by a Greek immigrant (Nicholas Lambrinides) who spent a few years perfecting the famed Cincinnati chili before creating his own and opening his own restaurant.
Here, he served spaghetti with his special chili. Sometimes, he topped the spaghetti/chili with cheese. For an all-bets-are-off chili, anything goes. Toss in onions and more beans. Anything. That is what people come to Skyline Chili for.
There are several Skyline Chilis in Cincinnati, so click below.
Mount Airy Forest, the country's largest urban woodland area, has a lake and approximately 5 biking and hiking trails for the entire family.
Some are more strenuous than others, with an elevation of 1,873 feet. Click above to find the perfect trail for you. It is 1,470 acres and 16 miles of joy for all natural lovers, with 23 picnic areas.
Tucked into the park's arboretum is a fantastic treehouse with ramps to make it wheelchair accessible. It measures 100 square feet and spans over 12 trees.
There are benches for viewing from a height and listening to the sounds of the forest while you are in the middle of the city. Adults can just ponder life; kids can dance above the ground to the sound of birds singing.
Address: 5083 Colerain Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45223
American Legacy Tours offers some of the best walking and busing excursions. Whether it’s a food tour or an underground haunted tour, they are fun, and there is always something to learn about the city. Their Civil War Tour is incredibly educational, and their Gangster Tour is fun.
The most popular tour is the Ultimate Queen City Underground Tour, which takes visitors through the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood with its abundance of 19th-century architecture.
Then, the tour gets fascinating as it moves below ground to explore a hidden crypt and tunnels that are an essential part of the area's German brewing history.
Click below for specific tours, times, and fees.
Address: 1332 Vine Street, Cincinnati
For those longing for the romance of train rides, one of the unbeatable Cincinnati attractions is the Cincinnati Dinner Train, which features rides every Saturday within its four authentic 1949 dining cars. Dinner is followed by live entertainment.
The three-hour dinner train is $105 for anyone over 12. No one younger is allowed. Departures take place at 2172 East Seymour Avenue at 6 p.m. to cruise downtown and the riverfront.
Diners can enjoy a four-course meal, and guests have two bars from which to choose. Servers, porters, and engineers are dressed in 1940s style to replicate a simpler time.
For an ultimate thrill, dinner can be followed by a ride in the locomotive with a front-row seat for a 12-mile, hour-and-a-half ride. The locomotive ride is an additional $150.
Address: 2172 E Seymour Ave, Cincinnati
For anyone looking for some delicious barbeque, Ely’s is one of the major Cincinnati attractions. Ely began his pork empire by selling smoked pork sandwiches in Fountain Square.
After a successful season, he and a partner opened a real shop in Findlay Market, encompassing their dream of a restaurant for everyone.
Here, only the food matters, which is always served with some music in the background. It’s a carnivore’s paradise.
Ely's selection includes famous barbeque pork sandwiches, turkey sandwiches, smoked ribs, and appropriate sides such as mac and cheese and baked beans.
Ely’s is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day of the week.
Address: 3313 Riverside Drive, Cincinnati
Cincinnati is best known for its architecture. In addition, the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, which was settled by German immigrants, has the biggest Oktoberfest in Cincinnati, with food, music, and dances reflecting the German heritage. With half a million people in attendance, it is one of the biggest fests in America.
Fall and spring are the best times to visit Cincinnati – before the summers get too hot and the winters too cold. By coincidence, those are also the best times for foodies, with Taste of Cincinnati happening in May and the Octoberfest in October.
For a large city, Cincinnati is a veritable green Garden of Eden, with Eden Park and its lovely views of the city and the Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum, which has turned a cemetery into a celebration of life. Then, there is the Mount Airy Forest, with hiking and biking trails leading to the city's only public treehouse.
This is not an easy choice. The Cincinnati Art Museum is unique in that it outranks museums around the world two or three times its size with its magnificent collection. It is truly one of the city's gems. Another undeniable unique Cincinnati experience is its chili. When exploring art and relaxing in a park, finish your day with some out-of-the-world chili at Skyline Chili.
Due to its grand architecture, Cincinnati used to be called the "Paris of America," and it easily lived up to its nickname. Things to do in Cincinnati include great museums, theaters, and parks.
From the neon American Sign Museum to lazing in a public tree house, you will never get bored with all the Cincinnati attractions. In addition, visitors quickly learn about Cincinnati's unique eateries, such as Ely's BBQ and Skyline Chili. Amazing sights and great food – the Paris of America does not disappoint.