Visiting Cincinnati? These 10 Activities Make It a Trip to Remember

Cincinnati offers amazing experiences that will create lasting memories for every visitor. From world-class museums to delicious local treats, this vibrant city has something special for everyone. Whether you love history, art, sports, or outdoor adventures, you’ll find plenty of exciting things to do. Get ready to explore one of America’s most welcoming cities!

1. Walk Across the Historic Newport Southbank Bridge

Purple towers rise majestically above the Ohio River, creating one of the most photographed views in the region. This stunning pedestrian bridge connects Cincinnati to Newport, Kentucky, offering breathtaking panoramas of both city skylines.

Families love strolling across the 2,670-foot span, especially during sunset when the entire structure lights up in brilliant colors. Street musicians often perform near the entrances, adding a festive atmosphere to your walk.

Professional photographers frequently choose this location for wedding shoots and family portraits because of the incredible backdrop it provides.

2. Explore Modern Art at the Contemporary Arts Center

Architect Zaha Hadid designed this incredible building that looks like a work of art itself, with flowing curves and dramatic angles that catch your eye from blocks away. Inside, rotating exhibitions showcase cutting-edge artwork from artists around the world.

Interactive displays and hands-on activities make this museum perfect for curious minds of all ages. Many visitors spend hours discovering new perspectives on creativity and expression.

Free admission days occur monthly, making world-class art accessible to everyone in the community regardless of budget constraints.

3. Cheer for the Bengals at Paycor Stadium

Game day energy fills the air as thousands of orange and black-clad fans gather to support their beloved Cincinnati Bengals. The stadium’s modern design provides excellent views from every seat, ensuring you won’t miss any exciting plays.

Tailgating parties begin hours before kickoff, creating a festival-like atmosphere in the parking lots. Local food vendors serve Cincinnati specialties like chili dogs and Skyline Chili throughout the concourse areas.

Even non-football fans enjoy stadium tours that reveal behind-the-scenes areas like locker rooms and the field level.

4. Discover Treasures at the Cincinnati Art Museum

Over 67,000 artworks span 6,000 years of human creativity in this magnificent hilltop museum that never charges admission fees. Ancient Egyptian artifacts sit near contemporary sculptures, creating fascinating conversations between different time periods and cultures.

Children’s programs include art-making workshops and scavenger hunts that turn learning into exciting adventures. The museum’s beautiful architecture and peaceful gardens provide perfect spots for reflection and inspiration.

Special exhibitions regularly feature famous artists and rare collections that travel from major museums worldwide.

5. Meet Amazing Animals at Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden

Home to over 500 animal species and 3,000 plant varieties, this award-winning zoo creates unforgettable encounters with wildlife from around the globe. The famous hippo Fiona became an international sensation, drawing visitors from every continent to witness her playful personality.

Conservation efforts here help protect endangered species while educating guests about environmental stewardship. Beautiful botanical gardens bloom year-round, providing stunning backdrops for animal habitats.

Night events and behind-the-scenes tours offer unique perspectives that regular daytime visits cannot provide.

6. Taste Local Flavors at Historic Findlay Market

Since 1852, this bustling marketplace has served as Cincinnati’s culinary heart, where local farmers, bakers, and artisans gather to share their finest creations. Colorful vendor stalls overflow with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and international cuisines that reflect the city’s diverse heritage.

Saturday mornings bring the biggest crowds and the most exciting atmosphere, with live music and special events happening regularly. Food enthusiasts can sample everything from German bratwurst to Ethiopian spices.

Cooking classes and food tours help visitors learn about Cincinnati’s unique culinary traditions and techniques.

7. Indulge in Famous Ice Cream at Graeter’s

Fourth-generation family recipes create the creamiest, most indulgent ice cream you’ll ever taste, using a special French pot process that produces incredibly rich textures. Massive chocolate chunks scattered throughout each scoop make every bite a delightful surprise.

Black raspberry chip remains the signature flavor that locals and visitors crave, though seasonal options like pumpkin and eggnog create excitement throughout the year. Multiple locations across the city make it easy to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Celebrity endorsements from Oprah Winfrey helped introduce this Cincinnati treasure to ice cream lovers nationwide.

8. Glide Through the City on a Segway Tour

Effortlessly cruise through Cincinnati’s most interesting neighborhoods while learning fascinating stories about the city’s rich history and culture. Professional guides share entertaining anecdotes and point out hidden gems that most tourists never discover on their own.

Brief training sessions ensure everyone feels comfortable and confident before beginning the adventure, making this activity accessible to people of all skill levels. Routes typically cover multiple districts, from the historic riverfront to trendy urban areas.

Small group sizes allow for personalized attention and plenty of opportunities to ask questions about local attractions and recommendations.

9. Learn History at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

Powerful exhibits tell the inspiring stories of courage and determination that shaped America’s journey toward freedom and equality. Interactive displays and multimedia presentations bring historical events to life in ways that textbooks simply cannot match.

Personal artifacts and first-hand accounts create emotional connections to the brave individuals who risked everything for liberty. Educational programs serve visitors of all ages, making complex historical concepts understandable and relevant.

The museum’s location along the Ohio River holds special significance, as this waterway represented the boundary between slavery and freedom for countless seekers.

10. Wander Through Tropical Paradise at Krohn Conservatory

Step into different climate zones without leaving Cincinnati, as this stunning glass conservatory houses thousands of exotic plants from tropical rainforests to arid deserts. Art Deco architecture from the 1930s creates an elegant setting for these living collections.

Seasonal flower shows transform the space into magical wonderlands, with spring’s butterfly exhibition being especially popular among families with young children. Educational programs teach visitors about plant conservation and sustainable gardening practices.

Photography enthusiasts find endless inspiration among the orchids, cacti, and rare specimens that bloom year-round in this climate-controlled environment.