things to do in downtown cincinnati
Downtown Cincinnati is a vibrant and historic area with a wide range of activities and attractions to suit all interests. Here are some things to do in downtown Cincinnati:
- Visit the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden: Home to more than 500 animal species, including the famous hippo Fiona, the Cincinnati Zoo is a must-visit attraction in the city.
- Explore the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center: This museum showcases the history of the Underground Railroad and the struggle for freedom and equality in America.
- Take a stroll along the Ohio River: The riverfront offers beautiful views of the city and the river, as well as several parks and public art installations.
- Visit the Cincinnati Art Museum: With a collection of over 67,000 works of art, the Cincinnati Art Museum is one of the top art museums in the country.
- Walk through Fountain Square: This vibrant public square is home to several restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as the famous Music Hall, which hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.
- Visit the American Sign Museum: This unique museum showcases a collection of vintage and retro signs from across the country.
- Take a tour of the Findlay Market: Ohio’s oldest public market has been in operation since 1852 and offers a wide range of fresh produce, meats, and specialty foods.
- Visit the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal: This historic train station has been converted into a museum complex, featuring several attractions, including the Cincinnati History Museum and the Museum of Natural History & Science.
- Go shopping at the 21c Museum Hotel: This boutique hotel features a unique art museum on site, as well as a restaurant and bar.
- Attend a Reds game at Great American Ball Park: Catch a Cincinnati Reds baseball game at this state-of-the-art stadium, which offers stunning views of the city skyline.
- Visit the Contemporary Arts Center: This modern art museum features a diverse collection of contemporary art, as well as rotating exhibitions and installations.
- Take a brewery tour: Cincinnati is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with several breweries offering tours and tastings, including Rhinegeist, Madtree, and Taft’s Ale House.
- Visit the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra: This world-renowned orchestra performs at Music Hall, which also hosts a variety of other performances, including ballet and opera.
- Explore the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood: This historic neighborhood is home to several trendy bars, restaurants, and shops, as well as the famous Music Hall.
- Visit the Cincinnati History Museum: This museum tells the story of Cincinnati’s history, from its founding to the present day.
- Go hiking at Eden Park: This scenic park offers stunning views of the city and the Ohio River, as well as several hiking trails and picnic areas.
- Visit the Newport Aquarium: Located just across the river in Kentucky, this aquarium features a wide range of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
- Take a food tour: Cincinnati is known for its unique culinary scene, which includes a mix of traditional Midwestern comfort food and international cuisine. Take a guided food tour to sample the best of the city’s eats.
- Visit the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum: This museum honors the history of the Cincinnati Reds baseball team, with exhibits on the team’s history, players, and memorabilia.
- Attend a festival or event: Downtown Cincinnati hosts a wide range of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Cincinnati Music Festival, the Cincinnati Fringe Festival, and the Oktoberfest celebration.
These are just a few of the many things to do in downtown Cincinnati. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or sports, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and historic city.