Credit: Cincy Red Bikes
Looking for an exciting and different way to explore the Cincy Region? Enter: Cincy Red Bike. These rentable bike and e-bikes are a fun and cheap way to see both sides of the Ohio River, while getting some exercise at the same time!
One of the most unique aspects of the Cincy Region is the combined culture of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Separated by the Ohio River but connected by multiple bridges - you can easily and quickly hop back and forth between states on a bike. On a nice day, this is a fantastic way to experience all that Cincy has to offer.
How it works
Credit: Cincy Red BikesUsing a Red Bike is easy! You simply rent - ride - return. Pricing is simple; $12 will get you a two-hour pass, with each additional hour costing $5. Credit card is required, and to make the process even easier we recommend downloading the app. There are plenty of docking stations all across Cincy and over into Northern Kentucky.
Along with traditional bicycles, you can also rent an e-bike. These electric bicycles feature a motor located between pedals and mounted to the rear wheel. To get a boost of power/speed, you simply start pedaling. E-bikes can travel up to 17 mph and can make our notoriously hilly region feel a little less daunting on two wheels!
Take note that e-bikes are not guaranteed to be available at every station; use your app to see what each station currently has available.
Try these routes
Don't know where to start? These routes are a great way to see some of our region's biggest attractions on a bike. Combine several of them for a full day of exploration!
Fountain Square - Public Library - Findlay Market
Estimated total biking time: 11 minutes
Start your trip at Fountain Square, the epicenter and heart of downtown Cincinnati. Fuel up for your ride by grabbing a donut and coffee from local staple Graeter's, located on the corner of the square. Fun fact: the water spewing from Fountain Square is 100% potable and safe to drink!
Departing from Fountain Square, stop by the main branch of the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County. This branch has been undergoing extensive renovations, adding onto what was already a five-star experience.
From there, it's almost a straight shot to Findlay Market - one of the crown jewels of Cincy! Findlay is the oldest operating public market in the state of Ohio, and here you'll find a plethora of local vendors and restaurants. Peruse at your own pace, or ditch the bike and take a guided tour. Finish your day with a refreshing beer on the rooftop at Rhinegeist, complete with beautiful views of Over-the-Rhine.
University of Cincinnati - Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Estimated total biking time: 6 minutes
Explore the vibrant Clifton neighborhood, home to the University of Cincinnati Bearcats - then bike over to Cincy's world-famous zoo to see an actual bearcat! Start at U-Square on Calhoun Street for some great shopping (including an Urban Outfitters located in an old church building close by!). Grab a pizza and beer at Adriatico's, or crush some wings at Mac's Pizza Pub. Grab your bike from the docking station on the corner of Calhoun and Dennis, then it's a quick 6-minute pedal down Vine Street to the zoo. Take pictures with beloved Fiona the hippo, walk among free-roaming kangaroos, and visit the elephant house (one of the oldest structures in Cincinnati). Allow yourself several hours - it is worth it!
Roebling Point Books - Newport on the Levee
Estimated total biking time: 10 minutes
Start by grabbing a coffee and new book at this quaint and inclusive café in Covington, Ky., located at the base of the iconic Roebling Suspension Bridge. Be sure to walk out to the bridge for some of the best photos of our region, then check out the historic Riverfront Floodwall Mural Tour to learn more about the history of Covington. After you’ve soaked in the view, hop on your bike and head over to Newport on the Levee. There you can grab a snack from Bridgeview Box Park, do some shopping, or explore the Newport Aquarium. If you’re up for exploring another Northern Kentucky city, Bellevue is just a 7-minute ride away. Park your bike in the station at Port Bellevue, and walk across the street for a stop on The B-Line at New Riff Distilling, or it’s just a short 10-minute walk to explore the unique shopping and dining that Bellevue has to offer.
Family-friendly routes
Washington Park/Music Hall
Washington Park - Findlay Market
Estimated total biking time: 2 minutes
Start by hanging out at Washington Park, a communal and multi-purpose green space nestled in the middle of Over-the-Rhine. Featuring a playground, dog park, full-service bar and giant lawn (overlooked by the absolutely beautiful Music Hall), Washington Park is one of the most beloved gathering spaces in Cincy. From here, it's a short ride up to Findlay Market. Enjoy brunch at the French Crust Bistro & Cafe, opened by the late Chef Jean-Robert de Cavel. Top off the afternoon with a sweet treat at Dojo Gelato.
The Banks - Sawyer Point - Newport on the Levee
Estimated total biking time: 9 minutes
The Banks, located across from Great American Ball Park, features a variety of sports bars, restaurants and even an Escape Game. Even if the Cincinnati Reds aren't in season, definitely check out the museum located just inside the ballpark. Visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, walk through the interactive Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame, or take a spin on Carol Ann's Carousel. Down by the river you'll find a string of parks and green spaces, all with beautiful views, playgrounds, water fountains, swings and park benches. When you're ready to move on, cross the Ohio River via the pedestrian-only Purple People Bridge (don't miss the new state line mural!) and finish the day with dinner at Newport on the Levee. Parents: enjoy a stein in the biergarten at Hofbrauhaus, located just across the street from the levee.
Looking for even more route ideas? Check out Red Bike's neighborhood suggestions.
