Covington Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do and see in Covington, including its cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Covington

Welcome to Covington! Located in Northern Ohio River Region, Kentucky, in the southern part of the United States of America, Covington is a city known for its rich history and natural beauty. Home to a variety of cultural and natural attractions, this city offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, sightseeing, and relaxation. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adrenaline junkie, Covington has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Covington

Here is a list of the top places to visit in Covington:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center: This museum is dedicated to the history of the Underground Railroad and is a must-visit for anyone interested in African American history.
  • The Northern Kentucky Convention Center: This convention center is the gateway to the city and hosts a variety of events throughout the year.
  • The Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal: Located just across the river in Cincinnati, Ohio, this museum features interactive exhibits covering science, history, and art.

Natural Attractions of Covington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Devou Park: This park spans over 700 acres and offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. It’s a popular spot for hiking, biking, and picnicking.
  • Licking River Greenway and Trails: This network of trails spans over 12 miles and is a great place for bird-watching and outdoor recreation.
  • Hocking Hills State Park: Located about an hour’s drive from Covington, this park features stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and other outdoor activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Covington

Covington has several hiking and biking routes that offer stunning views of the city and its natural surroundings. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Big Bone Lick State Park: This park is a great place for hiking and biking and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Riverfront Commons: This trail stretches for over 12 miles along the Ohio River and offers breathtaking views of the river and the city skyline.
  • Rabbit Hash Loop: This loop is a popular mountain biking and hiking trail that offers challenging terrain and scenic views.

Best Things to Do in Covington: Activities and Tours

Covington offers a variety of activities and tours that cater to all interests. Here are some of the best things to do in the city:

  • Take a food tour: Covington is known for its food scene, and there are several food tours that allow you to sample the best local cuisine.
  • Visit the Newport Aquarium: Located just across the river in Newport, Kentucky, this aquarium features over 14 exhibits and thousands of marine animals.
  • Take a bourbon distillery tour: Covington is located in the heart of bourbon country, and there are several distilleries in the area that offer tours and tastings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Covington

If you’re planning to spend a week in Covington, here’s an itinerary that will allow you to experience the best of the city:

Day Activity
1 Explore Devou Park and enjoy the scenic views of the city.
2 Visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and learn about the history of the Underground Railroad.
3 Take a food tour and sample the best local cuisine.
4 Visit the Newport Aquarium and see thousands of marine animals from around the world.
5 Take a bourbon distillery tour and learn about the history of Kentucky’s signature drink.
6 Hike or bike the Licking River Greenway and Trails.
7 Relax and unwind at a local spa or winery.

Food and Drink Scene of Covington

Covington has a vibrant food and drink scene that combines traditional Southern and Midwestern cuisine with modern twists. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried chicken: A Southern classic, fried chicken is a must-try when visiting Covington.
  • Goetta: A local specialty made from pork and oats, goetta is a breakfast staple in the area.
  • Hot browns: This Kentucky classic is made with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce and is a must-try when visiting the state.

Local Beverages

  • Bourbon: As the birthplace of bourbon, Kentucky is known for producing some of the world’s best whiskey.
  • Ale-8-one: This carbonated soft drink is a local favorite and has been produced in Kentucky since the 1930s.
  • Mint julep: A classic Southern cocktail made with bourbon, mint, and sugar, the mint julep is a must-try when visiting Kentucky.

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

Covington offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in the city:

  • Hotel Covington: This boutique hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers luxurious accommodations and top-notch service.
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton: This hotel is located just across the river in Cincinnati and offers spacious suites and great views of the Ohio River.
  • The Wildflower Bed and Breakfast on the Square: This quaint bed and breakfast is located in the historic district of Covington and offers cozy rooms and a homely atmosphere.

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

Covington is known for its local crafts and products, and there are several souvenirs that you can bring home to remember your trip. Here are some of the best things to buy in Covington:

  • Bourbon: Kentucky bourbon makes for a great souvenir or gift.
  • Local artwork: Covington is home to several artists, and there are several local galleries where you can purchase unique artwork.
  • Kentucky-made crafts: From pottery to handmade jewelry, there are several crafts made in Kentucky that make for great souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Covington

Covington is known for its friendly locals and relaxed way of life. Some customs to keep in mind when visiting the city include:

  • Always say “please” and “thank you”: Politeness is highly valued in Southern culture, and it’s important to always be polite when interacting with locals.
  • Dress for the occasion: Casual attire is common in Covington, but it’s always a good idea to dress up for special events or occasions.
  • Respect the history: Covington has a rich history, and it’s important to respect historical landmarks and cultural traditions when visiting the area.

Best Time to Visit Covington

The best time to visit Covington is in the spring and autumn when temperatures are mild and the foliage is at its peak. Summers in Covington can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Covington

When visiting Covington, there are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Do respect local customs and traditions.
  • Do be polite and friendly to locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage historical landmarks.
  • Don’t be disrespectful to locals or other visitors.
  • Don’t engage in illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Covington is generally a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions and practice common sense when traveling. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy while in Covington:

Safety in Covington

  • Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large sums of money with you.
  • Stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

Health in Covington

  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
  • Wear sunscreen and protect yourself from the sun.
  • Be aware of local wildlife and take precautions when hiking or camping.

Getting to Covington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Covington is easily accessible by car, plane, and bus. Here are some transportation options and logistics for getting to the city:

Airports Near Covington

  • Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG): Located just 12 miles from Covington, CVG is the closest airport to the city.

Bus Stations Near Covington

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in downtown Cincinnati, this bus station offers regular service to and from Covington.

Other Options

  • Rental car: Rental cars are available at all major airports and in downtown Cincinnati.

How to Get Around in Covington

Covington is a walkable city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance of each other. Other transportation options include buses, taxis, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft.

Where to Go Next from Covington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Covington is located in the heart of the Ohio River Region, and there are several nearby destinations and excursions that are worth a visit. Some of the best places to go next include:

  • Louisville, Kentucky: Located about 100 miles from Covington, Louisville is known for its bourbon distilleries, horse races, and Southern charm.
  • Cincinnati, Ohio: Located just across the river, Cincinnati is a vibrant city known for its museums, sports teams, and food scene.
  • The Mammoth Cave National Park: Located about 100 miles south of Covington, this park features the world’s longest cave system and is a must-visit for nature lovers.

Conclusion

Covington is a city that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or just a relaxing getaway, Covington has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags and come explore all that this charming city has to offer!

Covington's modern skyline with the Historic Roebling Bridge and the Ohio River Covington's modern skyline with the Historic Roebling Bridge and the Ohio River Some of Covington's many well preserved late 1800s Italianate townhouses Some of Covington's many well preserved late 1800s Italianate townhouses