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I never thought much of the city of Cincinnati before I met one of my best friends, who was born and raised in the area (and still lives there). I visited for the first time in January of 2020 on a long weekend just before the pandemic began for most and it turned out to be my last trip for a while (until I returned to Cincinnati late summer 2021). It's an unassuming city with unique charm, and plenty to do.
This is a list of the top nine things to do in Cincinnati.
Walk Along The Cincinnati Riverfront
Because of its location in the southwestern corner of Ohio, those who walk along the Cincinnati Riverfront get a glimpse of northern Kentucky. See the fountains, walk the promenade, dine out, and more. It's one of the nicest riverwalks in America. Don't believe me? Readers who voted in USA Today's 10Best Awards recently named Smale Riverfront Park their number one riverwalk in the country.
Get Ice Cream at Graeter's
Established in 1870, Graeter's is the quintessential Queen City small business. They're a family-owned and operated ice cream shop and brand, and you can taste the difference. Graeter’s is the last small batch ice cream producer still using the French Pot Process to make their dessert, making their ice cream two and a half gallons at a time. The last time I visited, the only vegan or non-dairy option available was strawberry sorbet (which was still delicious) but they may have additional flavors now.
Explore The Cincinnati Art Museum
The Cincinnati Art Museum is one of my favorite museums that I've visited and I live 45 minutes away from New York City. We went in the late afternoon and it was less crowded than I'd expected. We were able to peruse the exhibits at our leisure and there were so many cool things to see and explore. They also did a great job of highlighting local artists. As a bonus, parking and general admission are free so definitely leave a donation if you're able.
Visit Jungle Jim's International Market
Jungle Jim's is a massive supermarket unique to Cincinnati and you'll find much more than just your every day groceries. It feels like a theme park within a grocery store; you could spend an hour here or a day. They also host events, classes, tastings, etc. and it is, by far, the most unique shopping experience you'll ever have. Visit on one of your first days in the city and pick up snacks!
Visit Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
The Cincinnati Museum Center is a one-of-a-kind museum experience. Hosted inside a train station, it's actually comprised of a few different museums and hosts an OMNIMAX theater. They have a room with trains that lays out all of Cincinnati and have had some incredible exhibits over the years. When I visited late summer 2021, they happened to be hosting an exhibit on the Apollo 11 space mission courtesy of the Smithsonian in celebration of the moon landing's anniversary. And if you know me, you know I love all things space.
See Hippos and More at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
As a vegan, this recommendation is a bit controversial. You might be wondering, Namrita, aren't all zoos and aquariums inhumane? Many of them are but I'd like to defer you to the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. According to their website, "The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation...AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums meet the highest standards in animal care and welfare and provide a fun, safe, and educational family experience. In addition, they dedicate millions of dollars annually to support scientific research, conservation, and education programs." As of March 2024, there are 236 accredited institutions on their list. One of them is the aforementioned Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, which has been accredited since 1978. You can find out more about the accreditation process and the organization here. It's a fantastic zoo with a lot to see, including some celebrity animals.
Catch A Reds Game
If you like hockey, watch the ECHL's Cyclones. Or if you're up for the drive, head to Columbus to watch the Blue Jackets play at Nationwide Arena. However, I don't think there's anything quite like watching baseball on a cool, balmy summer night. Where better to catch a game than Great American Ball Park, home of baseball's first professional franchise the Cincinnati Reds? Located on the winding banks of the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati, you'll enjoy the atmosphere more than anything. If you walk in on E Freedom Way, there are a ton of restaurants and bars to dine at before the game. We stopped at Condado Tacos, where I believe I go the power plant tacos (but modified).
Watch Tennis at the (Newly Renamed) Cincinnati Open
Formerly known as the Western & Southern Open, this tournament is part of the hard-court swing leading up to the US Open in Queens. Because of its proximity to the final major tournament of the season, you'll have the chance to see many of the sport's biggest names and top stars as they prepare to compete for a major title. I'm a big tennis fan and this is the first tournament outside of the US Open that I went to. The grounds are beautiful and because it's a part of the American swing leading up to the final major of the year, you'll get the chance to see many of the sport's top stars up close.
Explore Findlay Market
If you've read my blog in any capacity, you'll know I love exploring my markets. I truly believe that the best way to get to know a new location is by diving into its food culture. What better way to immerse yourself than in a market? Cincinnati's Findlay Market is a GEM. Try food from local chefs, visit the farmers' market, shop small businesses and boutique shops, and more. I found so many vegan goodies here, including baked goods and mac n' cheese (!), that I recommend visiting at least once.
Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments below!
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