Cincinnati Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and local culture and customs of Cincinnati in this comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Cincinnati

Located in Hamilton County, Ohio, Greater Cincinnati is a city that is rich in history, culture, and vibrant attractions. Known for its beautiful architecture, friendly people, and sports heritage, Cincinnati is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to experience the Midwest region of the United States. Cincinnati is situated at the convergence of Ohio and Miami Rivers, making it a perfect spot for water-based activities.

List of Places to Visit in Cincinnati

Cincinnati has many tourist attractions and fun activities to offer to visitors. From historical places to natural attractions and cultural hotspots, Cincinnati has something for everyone.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal: An exemplary Art Deco-style former railway station turned iconic museum complex housing several museums, including the Cincinnati Natural History Museum, the History Museum, and a Children’s Museum.
  • National Underground Railroad Freedom Center: An educational museum dedicated to the history of slavery and the Underground Railroad in the United States.
  • Taft Museum of Art: A historic house museum and art museum featuring a collection of European and American art, including works by Rembrandt, Goya, and Whistler.

Natural Attractions of Cincinnati: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Eden Park: A gorgeous public park located on top of Mt. Adams, it offers scenic views of the Ohio River and downtown Cincinnati.
  • Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden: A large and attractive zoo featuring a wide variety of exotic animals, including some endangered species like the Sumatran rhino.
  • Cincinnati Nature Center: A relaxing place where visitors can enjoy nature trails, gardens, and bird-watching while appreciating the beauty of the Midwest countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cincinnati

  • Loveland Trail: A 70-mile trail that offers various recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, and picnicking.
  • Little Miami Scenic Trail: A 50-mile path along the Little Miami River that is used for activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and camping.
  • Winton Woods: A suburban park that offers several trails and picnic areas for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in Cincinnati: Activities and Tours

  • Cincinnati Food Tours: An opportunity to try Cincinnati’s famous chili, goetta, and craft beer while touring the historic Over-the-Rhine district.
  • Cincinnati Reds Baseball Game: Watch a game in the picturesque Great American Ballpark, which offers magnificent views of the Ohio River.
  • Fountain Square: A popular public space for pedestrians that hosts various events and markets throughout the year.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cincinnati

Day 1: Arrival Day, check into the hotel, take a walk around the downtown area to try some local food and drinks.

Day 2: Visit the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, one of the city’s most beloved attractions. Later, head to Over-the-Rhine, a historic neighborhood, and take a food tour and explore the local breweries.

Day 3: Explore Cincinnati’s culture by visiting the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal along with the Taft Museum of Art, and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.

Day 4: Spend the day at Kings Island, Cincinnati’s sprawling amusement park offering rides for all ages.

Day 5: Take a trip to the Newport Aquarium, a family-friendly attraction with the world’s most massive shark ray exhibit.

Day 6: Explore the outdoors by biking or hiking along the Loveland Trail, the Little Miami Scenic Trail, or at Winton Woods.

Day 7: Visit Mt. Adams and enjoy the stunning views of Cincinnati from the park.

Food and Drink Scene of Cincinnati

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cincinnati-style chili: A meaty chili served on top of spaghetti and usually topped with cheese or onions.
  • Goetta: A German-American breakfast meat made from pork, beef, oats, and spices served hot with eggs.
  • Graeter’s Ice Cream: A local ice cream chain known for its French pot ice cream that comes in flavors like black raspberry chocolate chip and bourbon pecan chocolate chip.

Local Beverages

  • Rhinegeist Brewery: Known for taking on traditional brewing methods with a modern twist that appeals to almost any palate.
  • MadTree Brewing: A craft brewery dedicated to environmentally friendly practices and using locally sourced ingredients to create an excellent fusion of tastes.
  • Findlay Market Biergarten: A popular outdoor seating destination that serves up limited selection of local beers and seasonal favorites.

Where to Stay in Cincinnati: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • 21c Museum Hotel: A luxurious boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown with a contemporary art museum on the ground floor.
  • Renaissance Cincinnati Downtown Hotel: A stylish hotel featuring a rooftop bar and stunning views of the city.
  • Budget Host Town Center: A simple but comfortable budget option with easy access to the airport.

What to Buy in Cincinnati: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Carew Tower Observation Deck: This iconic tower offers a unique perspective of the city from atop.
  • Cincy Shirts: Locally-themed T-shirts designed exclusively for Cincinnati and its sports teams.
  • Jungle Jim’s International Market: The international supermarket chain has plenty of unique flavors to bring home like Jim’s own salsa, condiments and eclectic sauces, gourmet items, and exotic snacks that would surely quench your cravings.

Local Culture and Customs of Cincinnati

Cincinnati has deeply rooted ties to its German and Irish heritage dating back to the 19th century. Locals take pride in their sports, beer, and unique food. They are also known to celebrate various festivals that include the Cincinnati Bell/WEBN Firework show on Labor Day weekend and the Ohio Renaissance Festival from late August to late October.

Best Time to Visit Cincinnati

The best time to visit Cincinnati is from April to May and from September to November when the weather is mild, and the city’s outdoor activities and markets are bustling. Summers tend to get hot and humid, while winters can be cold with occasional snowfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cincinnati

Do:

  • Do visit the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood for its historic charm and vibrant food scene.
  • Do try Cincinnati-style chili when in town.
  • Do support local arts and crafts at Findlay Market.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to sample the international cuisine in Cincinnati.
  • Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with locals, as they are known for being friendly and welcoming.
  • Don’t miss out on a visit to the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cincinnati

As with any big city, it is wise to be cautious of your surroundings, particularly at night, and avoid unfamiliar or dimly lit areas.

Health in Cincinnati

Visitors are advised to take precautions against tick-borne disease like Lyme disease. Other common problems can be respiratory allergies due to high pollen count in the air.

Getting to Cincinnati: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cincinnati

  • Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG): Located in Northern Kentucky, just across the river from Cincinnati and offers easy access to the city with free parking.

Bus Stations Near Cincinnati

  • Greyhound Cincinnati Station: Located in the heart of downtown Cincinnati, it provides affordable bus transport services to nearby attractions.

Other Options

  • Cincinnati Streetcar: Operated by the city, this streetcar offers great views of downtown Cincinnati and its historic neighborhoods.
  • Cincinnati Metro: A bus rapid transit system that connects to the city’s main attractions and destinations.

How to Get Around in Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a walkable city, and visitors can comfortably explore most neighborhoods on foot. However, if your destination is farther away or you have limited mobility, there are several options to choose from, including ride-share services, taxis, public transportation, and bike rentals.

Where to Go Next from Cincinnati: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Louisville, Kentucky: Home to the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail and Churchill Downs, where the Kentucky Derby takes place every year.
  • Indianapolis, Indiana: The largest city in Indiana and home of the Indy 500.
  • Dayton, Ohio: A city where the Wright Brothers invented the airplane, and you can visit the National Museum of the United States Airforce.

Conclusion

Cincinnati provides an excellent blend of history, culture, and adventure tourism, making it a top travel destination for both domestic and international tourists. With so much to do and see, this city promises an unforgettable experience for its visitors. Whether you are a sports fanatic, enjoy the great outdoors, or want to take in some of America’s cultural heritage, Cincinnati has something for everyone.

Cincinnati's neighborhoods Cincinnati's neighborhoods The historic Duncanson Lofts in Over-the-Rhine The historic Duncanson Lofts in Over-the-Rhine A simple map of Cincinnati's major thoroughfares A simple map of Cincinnati's major thoroughfares The Race St. Station The Race St. Station Government Square is located centrally next to Fountain Square Government Square is located centrally next to Fountain Square The Cincinnati Bell Connector The Cincinnati Bell Connector Some of the lovely historic architecture one could miss without walking! Some of the lovely historic architecture one could miss without walking! The P&G Twin Towers (headquarters) are Downtown. P&G's influence and history with the region can be seen throughout downtown. The P&G Twin Towers (headquarters) are Downtown. P&G's influence and history with the region can be seen throughout downtown.


    Clifton and Northside
    Downtown
    Over-the-Rhine
    Western