Smale Riverfront Park's 45 acres is the perfect place to spend a whole day, a few hours, or just to pass through. This is one park that is sure to please the whole family – from preschoolers, grade schoolers, teens and adults! Click here for up-to-date information regarding park updates, closures and changes.
Rosenberg Swings
Our kids' favorite feature at Smale Riverfront Park is the swings. These are two- and three-person porch-like swings placed along the river.
INSIDER TIP: They are so smooth and relaxing, it’s the perfect place to take a break and watch the boats go by.
Carol Ann's Carousel
Carol Ann's Carousel is not-to-be missed! The animals you ride on range from a ladybug to a Reds horse to a Bengal tiger and so many more! The paintings on the carousel depict various historic and notable places around Cincinnati. Take a minute to slow down and investigate all the details of this work of art.
INSIDER TIP: In order to preserve the carousel, kids need to be dry when riding, so save the water features 'til after!
The Heeken Family/PNC Grow Up Great Adventure Playground
The Heeken Family/PNC Grow Up Great Adventure Playground has slides, a rope bridge, wooden climbing structures, climbing walls, hiding places and a squishy soft surface to protect little ones from falls. Nearby there are some drums and a funhouse mirror to enjoy, too.
INSIDER TIPS: The big slide tends to get hot, so you might want to bring a towel to sit on as you slide down. Climb the stairs up to the Roebling Suspension Bridge for a cool bird's-eye view of the park from up above.
P&G go Vibrantscape
The P&G go Vibrantscape playground has some interesting features, too, including a flying pig, fitness equimpent, giant foot piano, water pumps and a whisper phone. Everyone wants to climb aboard the flying pig. On busy days, the line to ride the pig can be long. Once you are tucked safely inside the pig, the people waiting in line pull on the cables to make the pig fly. You can also investigate the Archimedes' screw, water pumps and channels in the water play area.
The fitness equipment is labeled for ages 13 and up, but we noticed kids of all ages enjoying it. There are climbing poles, a balance table, and other unique equipment. Everyone wanted to try out the foot swings.
The giant foot piano and the whisper pipes are a big draw. It can be tricky to try to play a song if there are a lot of people trying to use the piano at the same time.
Fath Fountain
On a hot day, the water fountains are always a hit and there are several to choose from. Don’t forget to bring your towels!
INSIDER TIP: There is also an area by the bridge with water misters, so you can cool off without getting drenched.
Labyrinth
We walked the Labyrinth and discovered that it takes approximately 500 steps to reach the center. And another 500 steps if you walk the path back to the beginning.
Black Brigade Monument
Learn some history at the Memorial to the Black Brigade which honors the hundreds of African American volunteers who erected barricades to protect the city during the Civil War.
Duke Energy Garden
INSIDER TIP: You can even rent a Cincy Red Bike with your friends and pedal your way along the Ohio River Trail.
