Cincinnati
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Cincinnati's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Begin your journey at the Cincinnati Museum Center, housed in the stunning Art Deco Union Terminal. Enjoy a guided tour through the Cincinnati History Museum to learn about the city's fascinating past. Don't miss the interactive exhibits that engage both kids and adults alike.
After lunch at the nearby Moerlein Lager House, stroll through the historic Over-the-Rhine district. This area is filled with beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture, boutique shops, and artisanal eateries. Be sure to stop by Findlay Market, Ohio's oldest continuously operated public market, to sample local delicacies.
As the sun sets, head to the Cincinnati Observatory for an evening of stargazing and astronomy education. Enjoy a captivating presentation about the cosmos before observing celestial objects through historic telescopes. Cap off your night with a dinner at The Precinct, renowned for its upscale steak and seafood offerings.
Begin your day at the Cincinnati Art Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of over 67,000 artworks spanning 6,000 years. Spend your morning exploring the galleries and participating in any scheduled art workshops. The museum's beautiful Eden Park location also offers stunning views of the Ohio River.
After a light lunch at the museum café, make your way to the Krohn Conservatory, a stunning glass greenhouse filled with exotic plants and seasonal floral displays. Wander through the various themed gardens, including a tropical rainforest and a desert room, while soaking in the fragrant atmosphere. Take a moment to relax by the pond before heading to your next adventure.
Enjoy dinner at the nearby Boca, a fine dining restaurant known for its innovative Italian cuisine. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the park, enjoying the evening ambiance and the skyline views. If time allows, catch a performance at the Cincinnati Ballet or Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra for an exquisite cultural experience.
Start your day early at Kings Island, one of the largest amusement parks in the Midwest. Grab a map and head straight to popular attractions like The Beast and Diamondback, which promise exhilarating rides. Make sure to fuel up with breakfast at the park’s various eateries before diving into fun.
Continue your adventure by exploring themed areas of the park, enjoying live entertainment, and trying out the water rides to cool off. Grab lunch at the park's food stands, where you'll find everything from funnel cakes to hearty burgers. Don't forget to take plenty of photos with the park's iconic characters to capture the memories.
As evening approaches, catch the dazzling fireworks show that lights up the night sky above Kings Island. Enjoy a final ride on your favorite roller coaster under the stars before the park closes. Wind down with dinner at a local diner nearby, reminiscing about your adventure-filled day.
Kick off your day at the Cincinnati Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the United States, known for its conservation efforts. Arrive early to see the animal feedings and talks, which provide unique insights into the lives of the animals. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Fiona the hippo exhibit, as she is a beloved resident of the zoo.
After a morning filled with wildlife encounters, enjoy lunch at the zoo’s café, which offers a variety of kid-friendly options. Spend the afternoon wandering through the beautiful botanical gardens, taking in the vibrant flora and peaceful surroundings. Engage with the interactive exhibits that educate visitors about conservation and wildlife protection.
As the day winds down, attend one of the zoo's evening events if available, such as a guided night safari. Enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby restaurant, reflecting on the day's highlights while enjoying the local cuisine. Take a relaxing stroll along the Ohio River afterward to cap off your day.
Start your day with a breakfast at a local favorite, like the Blue Jay Restaurant, known for its hearty portions and friendly atmosphere. After breakfast, set out on a food tour that showcases Cincinnati's unique culinary offerings, including its famous chili. Sample various dishes and learn about the city's rich gastronomic culture from knowledgeable guides.
Continue your culinary exploration with a visit to local breweries, such as Rhinegeist Brewery, where you can join a guided tour and sample a variety of craft beers. Discover the brewing process and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of their rooftop beer garden. Take a break in between tastings at a nearby food truck for a delicious bite.
For dinner, visit the iconic Skyline Chili to taste the city's signature dish, a must-try for any visitor. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk along the banks of the Ohio River, soaking in the city lights reflecting off the water. If you're up for it, visit a local speakeasy or cocktail bar for a nightcap to celebrate your culinary journey.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the iconic Taste of Belgium, famous for its waffles and brunch offerings. After breakfast, head to Great American Ball Park for a guided tour of the Cincinnati Reds' home field, learning about the history of baseball in the city. Enjoy the views from the stands and the memorabilia displayed throughout the park.
If there's a game scheduled, grab lunch in the stadium, indulging in ballpark classics like hot dogs and nachos. Experience the thrill of cheering on the Reds as they take on their opponents, immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of the game. Engage with local fans to learn more about the team's storied history and its place in Cincinnati culture.
After the game, enjoy a post-game dinner at a nearby sports bar, where you can discuss the highlights of the match with fellow fans. If you're still energized, consider taking a walk along the riverfront, enjoying the cool evening breeze and vibrant nightlife. Cap off your day with a visit to a local pub for some live music or trivia night.
Start your day with a peaceful morning hike at the Cincinnati Nature Center, one of the largest nature centers in the region. With over 1,600 acres of scenic trails, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while spotting local wildlife. Be sure to stop by the visitor center for maps and information about the various trails available.
After your hike, enjoy a packed picnic lunch surrounded by nature, taking in the sights and sounds of the outdoors. Spend the afternoon participating in programs offered by the center, such as nature walks or workshops that delve into local flora and fauna. The tranquility of the surroundings will rejuvenate your spirit.
As evening approaches, head back to downtown Cincinnati and enjoy a casual dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant like Farmstand. Savor dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, reflecting the region's agricultural bounty. Finish your day with a scenic drive or stroll through the historic neighborhoods, admiring the charming architecture.
Begin your exploration of Cincinnati's unique underground history with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Afterward, join a guided tour of the Cincinnati Underground, where you'll learn about the city's intriguing past, including its role in Prohibition and the Underground Railroad. Discover hidden tunnels and speakeasies that are tucked away beneath the streets.
Post-tour, grab lunch at a nearby bistro before heading to the Cincinnati Public Library, known for its impressive architecture and extensive collection. Spend some time exploring the library’s beautiful reading rooms and unique spaces. You can also join a workshop or lecture if there are any scheduled during your visit.
For dinner, enjoy a meal at a nearby restaurant, savoring local dishes inspired by Cincinnati's diverse culinary heritage. After dinner, consider visiting the historic Taft Theatre for a live performance or show, immersing yourself in the local arts scene. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, reflecting on the day’s discoveries.
Start your final day in Cincinnati with breakfast at a charming café near Fountain Square, enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around Fountain Square, where you can soak in the sights and sounds of the area, including the famous Tyler Davidson Fountain. If you’re lucky, you might catch a local musician or performer entertaining the crowd.
Spend your afternoon shopping at the nearby Carew Tower and the surrounding shops, where you can find unique gifts and local artisan products. Enjoy lunch at a trendy eatery, sampling seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Afterward, consider visiting the nearby Contemporary Arts Center for a dose of modern art.
As your visit comes to an end, enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Cincinnati’s top-rated restaurants, such as Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse. Relish in the fine dining experience while reminiscing about your adventure-filled trip. Conclude your visit with a leisurely walk along the riverfront, taking in the beautiful city skyline one last time.