Located along the Ohio River in southwestern Ohio, Cincinnati is a big city that is perfect for a fun family getaway. Explore the beautiful parks, walk along the bridges over the Ohio River, visit historic Union Terminal and the museums inside, see animals at the Cincinnati zoo and Newport Aquarium, and so much more! Between the restaurants, attractions and events, there are so many great things to do in Cincinnati that your family will love.
Carew Tower Observation Deck
While it’s technically the second tallest building in the city, it feels like the tallest because it’s the highest elevated building in Cincinnati. And the views are breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction!
Fun Fact: The tower was used as the model for NY City's Empire State Building.
When you arrive at Carew Tower, look for the information desk on the main floor. Then take the nearby elevators up to the 45th floor. From there you can either take another small elevator or walk the stairs up to the 49th floor. That's where you will purchase your tickets to the Observation Deck. Be prepared, because they only accept cash.
While you're on the Observation Deck, see if you can spot Union Terminal, Roebling Suspension Bridge, Fountain Square and the hotel you are staying in.
Carew Tower Observation Deck
41 W. 5th Street Cincinnati, OH 45202
Website
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
Simply put, the historic Union Terminal is stunning. The history and Art Deco architecture are reason enough to visit, but the recent renovation and additional attractions make it one of the top places to visit in Cincinnati. Built in 1933, it was once a bustling train station, now guests who visit will enjoy the Cincinnati Museum Center (3 different museums), an OMNIMAX Theater and the Cincinnati History Library and Archives.
We chose the Discovery Pass which granted us entry into all three museums, the Cincinnati History Center, Museum of Natural History and Science and the Children’s Museum. All three of the museums were excellent. Each offered a unique experience with interactive and hands-on exhibits. Perfect to keep the attention of kids and adults.
The Cincinnati History Center gave us a fun peek into the fascinating history of the city. The Museum of Natural History and Science has dinosaur fossils, caves to explore and so many different hand-on STEM activities. While the Children's Museum had many different exhibits designed especially for kids. Encouraging them to learn through exploration and play.
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
1301 Western Ave Cincinnati, OH 45203
Website
Cincinnati Zoo
There are so many unique animals at the Cincinnati Zoo, including gorillas, manatees, ostriches, giraffes, lions, elephants, rhinoceroses, polar bears and hippopotamuses. We were very impressed with how active the animals were and how close we were able to get to them. In addition to the animals, you can also ride around the zoo on the Safari Train, enjoy the beautiful Conservation Carousel, watch a show on the 4-D Theater or play on the playground near the petting zoo.
Insider Tip: When you arrive, make note of the times and locations of the special keeper chats and demonstrations. Then plan your route around the zoo accordingly. While the demonstrations are free, you can also sign up for special behind the scene animal encounters.
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
3400 Vine Street Cincinnati, OH 45220
Website
Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame Museum
Did you know that the Cincinnati Reds are the oldest professional baseball team? They also had many other firsts, including the first no-hitter of the 20th century, the first to host a night game in Major League history, and the first to participate in a televised baseball game in Major League history.
Learn all about these first and more at the Museum. The history of the team was fascinating, and the museum layout was great. We especially liked the section where we could make our own baseball cards and try out being a professional sports announcer and television reporter.
Insider Tip: Located a short walk from Smale park. Plan your trip so you can explore the park before or after visiting the museum.
Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame Museum
100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Website
Cincinnati Art Museum
Located in the beautiful Eden Park, the Cincinnati Art Museum has a large collection of artworks and several kid friendly touches. Make the experience even more fun by creating your own art scavenger hunt. The scavenger hunt is completely customizable and provides a fun activity to complete while walking around the museum. Just use the computer to choose the items you want to include, print out the details and create the scavenger hunt booklet to carry with you around the museum.
Families with young children will also enjoy the education center located on the first floor of the museums. There kids can take part in various hands-on art activities and crafts.
Cincinnati Art Museum
953 Eden Park Drive Cincinnati, OH 45202
Website
Newport Aquarium
Located just across the bridge in Newport, KY the award willing aquarium has a lot to offer including 60+ exhibits, multiple touch tanks, play areas and even a rope bridge that crosses over top the shark tank. We most enjoyed the various touch tanks where we got up close to starfish, stingrays, horseshoe crabs, anemones and cleaner shrimp. Another highlight was the octopus which was extremely active, moving all around the tank and treating us to quite a show.
When you arrive, make note of the times and locations of the special shows and feed schedule. That way you can enjoy some of the special animal encounters.
Insider Tip: The overlook next to the aquarium provides a great view of the downtown Cincinnati skyline. Take advantage of this fun photo opportunity.
Newport Aquarium
1 Aquarium Way Newport, KY 41071
Website
Smale Riverfront Park
This riverfront park connects downtown Cincinnati to the Ohio River and offers something for all ages. Walk the boardwalk along the river’s edge, take in the beautiful scenic views of Cincinnati and Newport, enjoy the fragrant flowers and green space, splash in the water fountains, experience the “flying” pig in the playground, try out the giant foot piano and walk across the Roebling Suspension Bridge.
Pack some snacks, a water bottle and spend a few hours enjoying all the park has to offer.
Smale Riverfront Park
166 W Mehring Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Website
Cincinnati Style Chilli
If you are visiting Cincinnati, you must try Cincinnati style chili and be sure to order it 5 way. You may be thinking “why is this different than the chili I make at home?” well, for one Cincy Chili has a soupy consistency and depending on the restaurant it includes creative add ins like spaghetti, hot dogs, tons of shredded cheese. It often flavored with cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and sometimes even chocolate! As you can expect, it will be different than any chili you've ever eaten.
Krohn Conservatory
Opened in 1933 Krohn is an Art Deco styled conservatory and is a perfect place to experience a variety of beautiful and amazing plants, butterflies, and special art exhibits when visiting Cincinnati’s Eden Park.
The land and park was originally owned by Nicholas Longworth who named the area his “Garden of Eden.” The beautiful, 20,000 square foot conservatory now features a Fern House, Palm House (rainforest), Desert House, Orchid House, Bonsai Gallery, and a seasonal Floral Showroom which offers special events and private parties.
Be sure to plan ahead to attend their annual Butterfly and Holiday Shows as well as look for the Koi Pond and children’s activity center when you visit.
Krohn Conservatory
1501 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Website
Findlay Market
With more than 1 million visitors per year, the Findlay Market is a Cincinnati favorite, open Tuesday through Sunday year round (closed on Mondays). The large market is located in an area full of culture and historic charm in Over-the-Rhine.
Visitors flock to the popular public market to shop from 50 full time merchants offering fresh, specialty, and ethic foods as well as an outdoor farmers market. You’ll find everything from artisan goods, to a pet spa, to sustainable products all in one location.
In addition to all of the delicious foods offered at the market, visitors can dine in, order carry out meals, enjoy the many street performers and special events held each year.
Findlay Market
1801 Race Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Website
Great American Ball Park
As the home of the Major League Baseball team, The Cincinnati Reds, the name of this ballpark says it all. With fun game day themed promotions, two sit down restaurants, tons of concession options (including gluten free), travel packages, shopping, a Hall of Fame museum, ballpark tours and more, you’ll always find something new to explore, experience, or try when visiting.
New in 2021, the ballpark opened the TriHealth Family Zone. Located in the right field corner of the View Level, families will find a playground, batting cages, a reading room, a sensory room, lounge area, and private nursing suite.
In addition to all things game day fun, the stadium hosts many additional non-gameday activities to enjoy while visiting the area including a Reds Team Shop open year-round and several public tour options including group and private tours as well as special educational and fun opportunities for school groups.
Great American Ball Park
100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Website
Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum
This beautiful and relaxing place is the third largest cemetery in the United States and has been recognized as a US National Historic Landmark. Walk or enjoy a drive through the cemetery and 750 acre arboretum to take in beautiful architecture, statues, landscapes, gardens, flowering plants, and more while visiting the resting place of the many historic and notable figures who are buried there.
The cemetery also hosts a variety of events each year including walking and tram tours, performances and shows, remembrance ceremonies, and garden related educational opportunities.
When visiting, be sure to stop by the Customer Service Center for a Self-Guided tour brochure and map, or download it from their free mobile tour app before you go.
Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum
4521 Spring Grove Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45232
Website
American Sign Museum
Renamed and reopened in 2005, the American Sign Museum was created to preserve and share the history and craftsmanship of signage in the United States.
Visitors will walk through collections of bright lights and bold signs of business and industry dating back to the mid-late 1800’s and see the signs change and develop through time.
The museum offers a variety of tours, events, and educational opportunities, including family events, crafts, parties, and printable scavenger hunts, virtual events, and at home activities. Be sure to visit their website for details on all of the events available before you go.
American Sign Museum
1330 Monmouth Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45225
Website
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
Opened in 2004, on the banks of the Ohio River in Cincinnati, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is both a museum that remembers and tells the stories of the Underground Railroad and those who continue to fight for freedom today.
Visitors can explore the eight permanent exhibits and special exhibitions that feature stories of freedom, those who suffered in the fight for freedom, heroes, and those who continue to seek justice and freedom in the modern world. The stories are told through an array of structural exhibits, film, theater, art, photography, sculpture, and hands-on activities.
Although guided tours are currently suspended, self-guided tours of the museum are always available. Visitors can find a special events calendar, a library of educator and educational materials, as well as additional resources on their website.
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
50 East Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Website
Cincinnati History Museum
Located inside Union Terminal, the Cincinnati History Museum is an urban history museum that allows visitors to learn about Cincinnati from the city’s earliest settlers and those who continue to shape the city today.
The exhibits at the museum are unique and allow visitors to step back in time to walk through and experience replica shops in the Public Landing exhibit, get a bird’s eye view of the 1940’s with miniatures of the public landmarks and train models in the Cincinnati in Motion exhibit, and learn about the many people and stories that helped shape the city in the Your Are Here exhibit.
You can find out more about all of the museum’s permanent exhibits on their website. And to engage the kids even more, each exhibit offers an exploration learning unit with activities to do at the museum, at school, or at home.
Cincinnati History Museum
1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 46203
Website
The Railway Museum of Greater Cincinnati
Get outside and explore the railyard at the Railway Museum of Greater Cincinnati. Located just 15 minutes south of downtown Cincinnati in Covington KY, the museum allows visitors to enjoy the collection by self-guided tour.
The museum collection is outdoors with rugged railway conditions and stairs if you want to see the trains up close. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, dress for the weather, and the museum may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges and strollers.
Operated by a staff of knowledgeable volunteers, the museum offers full-size trains and train history. Open on select Saturdays May-October, be sure to visit their Facebook page for schedule details, special events, and photos.
The Railway Museum of Greater Cincinnati
315 W. Southern Avenue, Covington KY, 41015.
Facebook Page
BB Riverboats
If you’re looking to explore the Cincinnati area from the water, BB Riverboats is for you. With two beautiful red and white paddlewheel river boats, they offer a variety of cruise options and events making it easy to find a cruise that everyone in the family will love.
Dining cruises are available for brunch, lunch, and dinner, and sightseeing cruises throughout the day and evening. Enjoy music, entertainment, food, seasonal, and themed trips at a variety of price points for every budget.
Some of the notable cruises for families include a Super Hero Cruise (with Super Hero training and dancing), Princess Cruise (with special fairy tale princess appearances), Holiday Cruises, Fireworks Cruises, and many more.
BB Riverboats
101 Riverboat Row, Newport, KY 41071
Website
Downtown Cincinnati
With so many fun things to do in downtown Cincinnati, you’ll want to stay, play, dine, and explore for days. You’ll find something for everyone as the greater downtown area hosts several unique districts offering hotels, unique restaurants, museums, art galleries, entertainment, and so much more.
Visit The Banks for riverfront views while you walk, bike, take in a game, or visit the park during the day and entertainment with a bustling nightlife after dark. Shop the huge variety of specialty shops and boutiques in Over-The-Rhine. Explore the Findlay Market and taste a variety of specialty foods while you enjoy lively entertainment. Or take in the historic charm at a slower pace in Pendleton.
Find out more about all Downtown Cincinnati has to offer and details on where to find them on their website before you visit.
Downtown Cincinnati
Website
Kings Island
Visit one of the best amusement parks in the Midwest to enjoy rides, food, entertainment, waterpark fun and more. The 364-acre activity center is one of most popular things to do in Cincinnati and has been welcoming visitors to enjoy family fun for more than 50 years.
From roller coasters and thrill rides, to the Planet Snoopy Kids area, the park will keep your family active and having fun all day. If you’re looking to soak up the sun and stay cool during the hot summer, their Soak City Water Park has 36 water slides, two wave pools, kid’s play areas, and more, all included with your park admission.
To make your visit even better, be sure to check out their Halloween Haunt and VIP Experiences. You can get the most out of your visit with special all access VIP tours, purchase a bundle with food, drinks, special experiences, Fast Lane Plus tickets, and access to special VIP only areas of the park.
Kings Island
6300 Kings Island Drive, Kings Island, OH 45034
Website
Graeter's Ice Cream
Everyone loves ice cream and when visiting the area, Graeter’s Ice Cream is the place to be. With humble beginnings on the streets of Cincinnati in 1870, the now growing regional ice cream business is still run by the Graeter family and offers guests delicious ice cream made through the french pot process.
All of 30+ flavors of their creamy treats are made with natural ingredients in small batches then frozen in 2 gallon french pots before being hand packaged. In addition to ice cream, you can also enjoy fruit smoothies, coffee chillers, specialty sundaes, banana splits, ice cream cakes and more.
With more almost 20 locations in the greater Cincinnati area, be sure to stop in to one (or two) and try them for yourself. Find details for all of their locations online.
Graeter's Ice Cream
Multiple Locations
Website
Sawyer Point Park and Yeatman’s Cove
These two beautiful connected parks along the Ohio River are favorites to the area and are a perfect place to play, exercise and enjoy sports, relax, and be entertained.
Play at one of the award winning playgrounds and spraygrounds, follow a walking path, view many intriguing public art displays, or just find a spot to enjoy a picnic while you take in the beauty of the landscapes and river views. If you are looking for activity and sports, the parks offer multiple tennis, volleyball, and pickle ball courts.
In addition to outdoor activity and recreation, visitors can join in a festival, watch a performance or concert at the Schott Amphitheater, or participate in nature programs.
Sawyer Point Park and Yeatman’s Cove
705 E. Pete Rose Way Cincinnati, OH 45202
Website
Over the Rhine District
One of the six downtown districts, the Over the Rhine district offers a large variety of things to by day and night. A popular shopping destination full of eclectic shops and boutiques combined with inviting restaurants, entertainment options, and outdoor activity, makes it a popular district for visitors.
No matter if you’re looking for art and home decor, chocolates or specialty foods, wine or high-fashion, you can find it all here among the quaint historic shops. Entertainment in the district includes several theaters and a historic music hall with a variety of performing arts, concerts, and cultural experiences.
And if you’re looking for outdoor activity and nature experiences, be sure to visit Washington Park for an outdoor movie, live music, festivals, a playground, sprayground, dog park, and more.
Over the Rhine District
Website
Mount Airy Forest
As the largest park in the Cincinnati park system just outside the city, Mt. Airy Park covers 1,459 acres and offers almost every outdoor recreation activity you could want. The man-made forest is full of fun for humans and it is also home to many species of wildlife.
Disc Golf, miles of hiking and mountain bike trails, paved walkways, picnic areas, playground, shelters, dog park, historical architecture, brindle trails, an arboretum, a lake, and more can all be found within the park’s boundaries.
The park also offers Ohio’s only wheelchair accessible treehouse which is beautifully named, “Everybody’s Treehouse.” Nestled into 12 of the park’s trees, the 100 sq. ft. treehouse seems almost like a magical place as the wheel-chair accessible ramp takes you up to explore nature from the trees.
Mount Airy Forest
5083 Colerain Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45223
Website
Cincinnati Observatory
Found on top of Mount Lookout at the end of one of the most historic streets in the city, the Cincinnati Observatory is known as ‘The Birthplace of American Astronomy.’ The 19th century observatory has been designated as a National Historic Landmark and is the perfect place to learn about the history of astronomy, stargaze, and observe the moon, planets, and stars.
The public can participate in one of their many festivals and events, take an online astronomy class or program, or plan for a daytime, nighttime, or historical program and/or tour when visiting.
Preview their full events, classes, and tour calendar then be sure to reserve and purchase your tickets in advance.
Cincinnati Observatory
3489 Observatory Place, Cincinnati, OH 45208
Website
Loveland Castle
Loveland Castle, more formally known as Château Laroche Historical Castle Museum, was created to be a reminder of a time past when Knighthood flourished. Now owned by the Knights of the Golden Trail (named after the builder’s Boy Scout Troop), the castle operates as a museum and attraction.
Visitors can explore the castle, gardens, and grounds to learn about Sir Harry, how and why he built the castle in the 1920s, identify and admire the building’s architecture, and play a game of chess all while seeing period pieces including weapons, swords, armor and more.
With towers, a dry-moat, and “murder holes,” Loveland Castle sets an atomosphere where ghosts might reside. Look for pictures of the castle’s resident ghosts and enjoy a ghost story told by the Knights while you’re there. Overnight scout programs available.
Loveland Castle
12025 Shore Dr, Loveland, OH 45140
Website
Jungle Jim's International Market
Shop while having fun at Jungle Jim’s International Market. With humble beginnings, the young James Bonaminio opened his first fruit stand in 1971 and grew it into two locations with 500,000 square feet of international foods, classes, events, and entertainment.
A truly unique shopping experience you will find everything you need at Jungle Jim’s from fresh produce, meats, and seafood, to full-service deli, cheese shop, and bakery. Plus, speciality items, natural foods and supplements, beer, wine, cigars, and so much more.
Jungle Jim’s also hosts a cooking school, several themed festivals, and a full calendar of special events, tastings, and classes. Enjoy a Scavenger Hunt and store tours with a variety of food samples from every department available.
Jungle Jim's International Market
Fairfield Location: 5440 Dixie Hwy, Fairfield, Ohio 45014
Eastgate Location: 4450 Eastgate South Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45245
Website
Trammel Fossil Park
This primitive fossil park located in nearby Sharonville Ohio, represents approximately 2 million years of time and geological treasures dating to the Ordovician period.
Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the park while exploring the four formation layers found here then are welcome to take home a small fossil if you’d like. Guests can gently dig (small hand tools only) to see ripple marks caused by moving water, holes in rocks from ancient worms, trilobites, skeletons, and more evidence left behind by what once lived there in the ancient rocks.
Visit their website for a short video tour and download the Trammel Park User Guide with details on what to expect and find at the park. The educational park signage found onsite includes detailed photographs of the types of fossils that can be found at the park and can help you on your hunt.
Trammel Fossil Park
11935 Tramway Dr, Sharonville, OH 45241
Website
Lebanon Mason and Monroe Railroad
The Lebanon Mason and Monroe Railroad is operated by the Cincinnati Scenic Railway and offers train rides for adults and families with the mission to “put history into motion.”
Guests can enjoy beautiful restored train cars as well as unique themed rides including fun characters like Nature Cat, Curious George, Super Why, and princess themed rides where kids are able to dress up as their favorite princess.
The railway also offers date night options where parents can enjoy cheese and wine, beer and pizza, as well as other themed rides including seasonal excursions. Visit their website for their full ride calendar scheduled Wednesday-Friday and most weekends, year round.
Lebanon Mason and Monroe Railroad
16 E. South St., Lebanon, OH 45036
Website
Great Wolf Lodge Cincinnati
With tons of family fun and an indoor waterpark, Great Wolf Lodge is a kid’s dream when staying in the Cincinnati area. No matter what time of year you choose to stay, the lodge is spacious, clean, and offers a variety of standard suites and themed family suites to make your stay even more fun.
The indoor waterpark includes splashy fun with a four-story water fort treehouse, a zero-to five foot depth pool, a lazy river, 12 water slides, wave pool, water basketball and more, all included with your overnight stay.
In addition to water fun, your family can enjoy the many other attractions on site at the lodge. Bowling fun, arcade activities, indoor glow mini golf, ShadowQuest, Compass Quest, MajiQuest adventures, mining, a Build-A-Bear workshop, shopping, dining, and more.
Great Wolf Lodge Cincinnati
2501 Great Wolf Dr., Mason, OH 45040
Website
Leave a Reply