You've made it to the Cincinnati region...but you only have one day to experience everything that makes this river region unique! We'll point out some of the highlights so that you can see and do a lot in a limited amount of time. Then, you'll have to visit again when you have more time to explore because this is just the tip of the iceberg!
Newport on the Levee
Start your day at Newport on the Levee. Explore the Newport Aquarium (about two hours ought to do it), but if you’re really crunched for time, then stick to the shopping and dining options that the Levee has to offer – plus the awesome views of the river and Cincinnati skyline.
Sawyer Point & Yeatman's Cove
When you’re finished exploring the levee, hop on a Cincy Red Bike or travel on foot across the pedestrian-only Purple People Bridge to Sawyer Point & Yeatman’s Cove for amazing riverfront views at the Serpentine Wall and a sprayground for the kids.
Smale Riverfront Park & The Banks
Continue along the Ohio River on walking paths to Smale Riverfront Park. Sit and relax on the porch swings overlooking the river and let the kids play on the playground or take a spin on Carol Ann's Carousel. Before heading farther into the city, stop by the Berlin Wall memorial at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center to take a photo with a piece of history.
For an alternate route and a way to see a bit more of Northern Kentucky, pick up the Southbank Shuttle (only $1 per ride!) at The Banks and ride over to Covington, Ky. Admire the murals at the bottom of the Roebling Suspension Bridge and check out the bronze Riverside Drive Statues of local historical figures. There’s also easy access to and from each side of the river on foot or by Red Bike via any of the four pedestrian-friendly bridges.
Fountain Square
After soaking in the riverfront views, walk (or bike) to the heart of the city and experience the excitement of Fountain Square. Enjoy some Graeter’s ice cream and sit by the fountain – it’s a great spot for people watching! Next, ascend 49 stories to the top of Carew Tower for stunning 360-degree views of the region.
Over-the-Rhine
When you’ve finished taking in the sights, it’s just a short ride on the streetcar or a Red Bike to the historic neighborhood of Over-the-Rhine. Walk through beautiful Washington Park and snap a photo in front of historic Music Hall for a unique, local backdrop. The kids can play in the playground or cool off in the interactive fountains.
Findlay Market
Make your way up Elm Street to Findlay Market, Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market. Take in all of the sights, smells, and flavors that make the market one-of-a-kind. Head back towards the park to experience all of the unique shops and restaurants in Over-the-Rhine, plus an incredible nightlife scene. Wind down after a long day of sightseeing by sipping a local craft brew at Rhinegeist, and pick up fun Cincinnati apparel at Homage or handcrafted pottery from the world-renowned Rookwood Pottery.
It turns out that you can see a lot that the Cincinnati region has to offer in just one day! To arrange a guided tour of the area, consider one of these companies.
Only in town for a few hours? Put these attractions on your must-do list!
Southern Route (includes Northern Kentucky)
Start on Fountain Square in the heart of downtown Cincinnati. Take in the 360-degree views from the Carew Tower Observation Deck. Explore and play at Smale Riverfront Park. Trek across the iconic and historic Roebling Suspension Bridge to Northern Kentucky. Visit and view the Riverfront Floodwall Mural Tour and Riverside Drive Statue Tour. Need to give your feet a rest? Ride across the river for just one dollar on the Southbank Shuttle or take a Cincy Red Bike.
Northern Route (includes Over-the-Rhine)
Start on Fountain Square in the heart of downtown Cincinnati. Take in the 360-degree views from the Carew Tower Observation Deck. Ride the Cincinnati Bell Connector or a Cincy Red Bike to Washington Park to see Music Hall and play in the interactive fountains. End your time at Findlay Market for food and fun.
