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*Last updated July 13, 2024
1. Start and consider the streetcar – 8:30am
You can start anywhere that you like for your day. However, I am assuming that you are staying downtown or driving and there is a lot of parking downtown. Additionally, “The Banks” is the term for the commercial space on the river between the two stadiums (Bengals/football and Reds/baseball). However, if your hotel doesn’t have breakfast, you could try Sleepy Bee downtown.
Also, be sure to consider the Cincinnati Connector Streetcar, which makes a figure “8” around downtown.
2. Pick a museum or the zoo – 9:00am
Cincinnati has a lot of great museums, so start your morning by picking one of the many great options. Additionally, I’ve listed some of my favorites below.
2a. The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens
The Cincinnati Zoo is a great zoo! However, it is the second oldest zoo in the country. Also, it has the oldest zoological building on site (the reptile house).
2B. The Newport Aquarium
The Newport Aquarium is not technically in Cincinnati, but it is right across the river in Newport. Also, the aquarium includes the “shark bridge”. Additionally, the aquarium is surrounded by shops and restaurants.
2c. The Museum Center & Children’s Museum
The Cincinnati Museum Center houses the Children’s museum and an IMAX theater. Additionally, they have a great Christmas exhibit featuring numerous model trains.
2D. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center details the local history of the Underground Railroad. Additionally, it is one of the more unique museums in Cincinnati. Also, it offers both a history of slavery and details of the underground railroad.
2e. The Cincinnati art museum
The Cincinnati Art Museum is located near Eden Park. Additionally, this makes it an easy stop to see both, as well as the nearby Krohn Conservatory.
2F. The Krohn Conservatory
The Krohn Conservatory features numerous botanical exhibits. Also, in the spring they host a popular butterfly exhibit.
2G. The Taft Museum of Art
The Taft Museum of Art has some great special exhibits and children’s activities. Additionally, be sure to check their website to see what is currently going on.
2H. The contemporary Arts Center
The Contemporary Arts Center offers a permanent modern art collection as well as rotating exhibits.
3. Lunch – 12:00pm
Additionally, if you are looking for lunch that is authentic to Cincinnati, why not try one of the local chains? Also, most people are familiar with “Cincinnati Chili”, which is a meat sauce served over spaghetti (a 3-way) or as a cheese coney / hot dog.
- Skyline Chili – the biggest Cincinnati chili chain
- LaRosa’s – the biggest Cincinnati pizza chain
- Izzy’s – reubens, sandwiches and potato pancakes
4. afternoon at the park – 1:30pm
If you wanted to pick another museum in the afternoon, that would be a good option as well. However, there are a few great parks in or around Cincinnati. Additionally, I’m partial to Eden Park as that is where my wife said “yes” when I asked her to marry me! However, all the parks listed are great and offer a little something different.
- Eden Park (located just northeast of downtown)
- Washington Park (north downtown, by Music Hall)
- Smale Park (downtown by the river)
- Devou Park (northern Kentucky with great views of downtown)
5. Dinner – 5:00pm
Also, Cincinnati has some great culinary food options! Also, the timing will depend on what you are doing for the evening. However, it can pay to go early to beat the long wait, especially in Over the Rhine (OTR).
6. Pick an Evening Tour, show or Game – 7:00pm
Cincinnati has 3 professional sports teams, minor league and collegiate sports and fun underground tours. Additionally, I’ve listed some of the options below.
6a. Cincinnati Underground Tour
Cincinnati has a German heritage and an unique beer history. Also, I’ve done two “Underground Tours”. However, they are good as both a fun adventure and historical view of Cincinnati’s past history.
6B. Consider a Sporting event
Also, Cincinnati has some a lot of sporting events year round.
6C. Consider a Show
Also, Cincinnati has some a lot of theater and show options. Additionally, check the links below to see what shows are coming soon!
7. Head back (or make another Stop) – 10:00pm
So that is the end of a long day! However, if are looking for nightlife, there are a lot of great places downtown. One spot is local microbrewery Rhinegeist, which has an outdoor loft with views of the city. I finally made it to Ghost Baby in Over the Rhine, which is a old beer cellar turned bar with live music.
