Welcome to Cincinnati, Ohio—the vibrant heart of the Midwest! Known affectionately as “Cincy,” this dynamic city along the Ohio River is bursting with creativity, culture, history, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning fan, this travel guide will show you exactly what to do in Cincinnati for a memorable adventure.
Where to Eat in Cincinnati: Foodie Favorites
Cincinnati’s culinary scene is a flavorful mix of traditional and contemporary cuisine.
- Taste of Belgium: Start your day with a Belgian waffle or the Original Galette—a savory favorite topped with ham, gruyère, and a runny egg.
- Nada: Enjoy chef-driven Mexican dishes and salsas with plantain and tortilla chips. Don’t miss the spicy habanero “kreeper” salsa!
- Skyline Chili: Try this iconic Cincinnati dish in coney dog or 3-way (chili, spaghetti, cheese) form.
- Graeter’s Ice Cream: Savor the Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip, a local legend since 1870.
- The Coffee Emporium: Great coffee, teas, and fresh pastries in a cozy setting.
Discover Cincinnati’s Top Attractions
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Meet Fiona the Hippo, a beloved social media star born at the Cincinnati Zoo. Beyond charismatic Fiona (and her sweet brother Fritz), the zoo, the nation’s second oldest, offers exhibits featuring elephants, meerkats, painted dogs, World of Insects exhibit, and a renowned Turkish Reptile House.
American Sign Museum
Step into a glowing world of neon signs and nostalgia. Iconic displays at the American Sign Museum include the Speedee McDonald’s sign and the fiberglass Big Boy statue. Great for photos and families!
Findlay Market
Ohio’s oldest public market is a foodie paradise, located in the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Enjoy artisan goods, global cuisine, and vibrant local culture. Even if you don’t need groceries or food, it’s still a fun place to walk around and enjoy the sites and setting.
John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge
This engineering marvel connects Cincinnati to Covington, Kentucky. Fun fact: It was the prototype for the Brooklyn Bridge!
Riverboat Cruise on the Belle of Cincinnati
Cruise the Ohio River aboard a classic paddlewheel boat. Dine on a buffet lunch (chicken, beef tips, veggies, salad, cheesecake, drinks) while enjoying scenic views and historic stories. The Belle, a Victorian beauty, is wheelchair-accessible and runs rain or shine.
Another fun city to enjoy a riverboat cruise is Savannah, GA. Read more about it here.
Arts & Culture Hotspots
Cincinnati Art Museum
Perched elegantly on a scenic hill, the Cincinnati Art Museum, a free attraction, offers a diverse collection including Rookwood pottery, glass dresses by LaMonte, Botticelli paintings, and striking glass art by Chihuly. Plan to spend 2 to 3 hours at this gorgeous space.
If you are craving more amazing art galleries, check out Toledo, Ohio.
21c Museum Hotel
More than a hotel, this venue features free contemporary art galleries with pieces by Kehinde Wiley and other 21st-century cutting-edge artists.
Taft Museum of Art
Explore intimate exhibits at the Taft Museum of Art, featuring Rembrandt, Japanese antiques, and stunning landscape murals by Robert S. Duncanson, a groundbreaking African American artist.
Explore Street Art
Take a walking tour to admire Cincinnati’s vibrant mural scene and some of the most awe-inspiring in the country. From colorful dreams (Ice Cream Daydream) to cultural icons (Space and Ezzard Charles), the city’s walls tell powerful visual stories and it’s free of charge.
Outdoor Adventures & Nature Escapes
Enjoy the city’s parks, riverfront trails, and green spaces for biking, birdwatching, and outdoor relaxation.
Sporting Events in Cincinnati
Cheer on the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park or experience NFL action with the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. The energy and fan passion are contagious!
Cross the River to Newport, KY
Just 10 minutes from downtown, Newport on the Levee offers shopping, dining, and the top-rated Newport Aquarium. Get hands-on with marine life and enjoy dazzling exhibits in this underwater kingdom from penguins, gentoo penguins, and colorful dart frogs to pufferfish and jellyfish.
Where to Stay in Cincinnati
21c Museum MGallery Hotel
Stay in a luxury art-themed award-winning hotel featuring contemporary design, Rookwood tile bathrooms, and playful glittering golden penguins. Great for culture lovers.
Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza
Experience classic elegance in the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza, a French Art Deco landmark hotel with upscale dining at Ohio’s top-rated Orchid at Palm Court, an indoor pool, and on-site shopping.
Plan Your Cincinnati Getaway
From historic charm to cutting-edge art, iconic eats to thrilling sports, Cincinnati delivers a one-of-a-kind urban experience. Ready to explore the Queen City? Pack your bags—adventure awaits in Cincinnati, Ohio!
If you’ve ever dreamed of “townsizing”—slowing down, simplifying, and trading big city bustle for the charm of a small town—then Shipshewana, Indiana, is a perfect place to do just that. This peaceful Midwest destination is a favorite among Louisville travelers seeking a leisurely road trip filled with charm and character. With its rich Amish heritage, cozy shops, and mouthwatering homemade fare, Shipshewana offers a restful escape that’s anything but boring.
Thanks to the Cincinnati CVB for a portion of my visits. I also received complimentary tickets and reservations for a few of the museums, zoo, and attractions. As always, opinions and reviews are 100% mine and unbiased.
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Barb
Wednesday 1st of August 2018
Fascinating article, I used a credited snippet for my Amazon Alexa Skill. Please check it out.