Plan a Night Out at the Aronoff in Downtown Cincy

Cincinnati's Aronoff Center for the Arts is a vibrant cultural hub that draws theatergoers from around the region. You'll find a diverse range of live shows to pick from, including Off-Broadway productions, ballets, concerts, stand-up comedy and more. Whether you’re a local or visiting the Queen City for the first time, planning a night out around a show at the Aronoff promises to be a memorable experience. Here’s your guide to making the most it, including where to dine, drink, stay, and park, as well as nearby attractions to explore before or after the show.

Off-Broadway shows coming to Cincy in 2025

The Aronoff Center has been one of the premier venues in the Cincy Region since opening in 1995. Their calendar events has something to interest everyone, including, most notably, Off-Broadway tours.

In 2025 you can look forward to:

• Les Miserables: January 7 – 19
• Life of Pi: February 4 – 9
• Kimberly Akimbo: February 18 – March 2       
• Come From Away: March 18 – 23
• & Juliet: April 8 – 20
• A Beautiful Noise (The Neil Diamond Musical): May 6 – 18

You can  buy tickets to these productions and check out The Aronoff’s full event calendar on their website.

Where to eat

The Cincy Region is a true foodie haven, boasting tons of fantastic places to wine and dine before your show. Whether you’re looking for a gourmet dinner or a casual bite, there are many options within walking distance of the theater. Here are just a few that are very close to the theater:

Sotto: If you're in the mood for Italian, Sotto is a must-visit. Located just a few blocks from the Aronoff (and below street level!) this local favorite serves up delicious handmade pasta in a cozy, rustic atmosphere.

Baru: Head a few blocks in the opposite direction to Baru for hip cocktails and sushi. Enjoy a special “Chef’s Choice” menu, full of surprises and variety.

Nada: Indulge in some classic, elevated tex mex – just steps from the front door of the Aronoff! During spring and summer you can enjoy their large outdoor patio, perfect for people watching and enjoying the vibes of downtown Cincinnati.

Graeter’s Ice Cream: For something sweet before or after the show, don’t miss Graeter’s Ice Cream, a Cincy Region institution. Located on Fountain Square, Graeter’s offers decadent hand-crafted ice cream in flavors like black raspberry chocolate chip (a must-try) and Buckeye blitz - perfect for a quick dessert.

Where to grab a drink pre or post-show

Whether you want a classic cocktail, a craft beer, or a casual atmosphere in a classic dive, you’ll find plenty of places to enjoy a drink.

Willow Run Custom Bourbon Experience: Located right across from the Aronoff indulge in a craft bourbon cocktail, or even the unique opportunity to blend your own special bottle of bourbon to take with you as a souvenir.

March First Brewing: Looking for some of Ohio’s finest beer? Head to Fountain Square for March First and choose from a massive list of draft offerings. Even if you DON’T like beer, their Astra hard seltzer line includes interesting flavors – from Peach Ring to Bomb Pop.

Tokyo Kitty: This hip spot is perfect to visit for pre or post-show cocktails – plus it offers karaoke! Belt your favorites from the main stage or rent a private room with friends.

Where to stay nearby

The 21c Museum Hotel: Located directly across from the Aronoff Center, this boutique hotel combines art, luxury, and history, making it a standout choice for theatergoers that is also home to contemporary art exhibits and installations that you can explore during your stay. The hotel’s art gallery is open to the public, and guests can enjoy rotating exhibits of works by both established and emerging artists. Additionally, the hotel’s Metropole restaurant serves upscale American cuisine and is a great choice for a post-show meal or drink. During the summer – head straight to the rooftop for drinks with a view.

The Kinley Hotel: Located just a few blocks away, The Kinley offers hip and contemporary lodging - including bunkbeds! Enjoy cocktails and elevated bar food at Unexpected, the hotel's restaurant and bar.

The Lytle Park Hotel: This luxurious boutique hotel combines historic elegance with modern sophistication. Housed in a beautifully restored 1909 building, the hotel offers stylish accommodations, refined amenities, and stunning views of Lytle Park - plus a rooftop bar with stunning views. 

The Cincinnatian Hotel: Originally opened in 1882, this beautifully restored hotel offers a timeless atmosphere with sophisticated rooms, attentive service, and some rich local history to boot.

Where to park

Parking in downtown Cincy is easy! You’ll find several convenient options for attending a show at the Aronoff Center.

On-Site Parking

Looking for the easiest option? Independently operated valet parking is available for most evening performances at establishments (like the 21C Hotel) adjacent to the Aronoff Center on Sixth Street and Walnut Street. 

Nearby Parking Lots

Fountain Square Garage

520 Vine Street

LAZ Parking Garage

36 E 7th St .

ABM Parking Lot (non-covered)

800 Walnut

Other, nearby options.

Public Transit

If you’re staying outside of downtown, the Metro bus system offers routes that stop near the Aronoff Center at 7^th and Walnut. You can also hop on the free Connector streetcar, with the nearest stop being #17, Aronoff Center.

 Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available in the area.

Nearby attractions

While you're in downtown Cincinnati, take advantage of the nearby attractions that are perfect for exploring before your show.

Fountain Square: Located just a short walk from the Aronoff, Fountain Square is a central gathering spot in downtown Cincinnati. You can enjoy the fountain, outdoor seating, and various seasonal events, such as ice skating in the winter or free concerts in the summer.

The Banks: Take a short walk down to The Banks for tons of options! Visit the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum, the Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame or the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.

Smale Riverfront Park: If the weather is nice, take a stroll along the Smale Riverfront Park. Located along the Ohio River, the park offers stunning views of the riverfront, as well as gardens, playgrounds, walking paths, and interactive fountains.

Over-the-Rhine: For a taste of Cincinnati's vibrant culture, head to Over-the-Rhine. This historic neighborhood is known for its artsy vibe, charming boutiques, foodie scene and local landmarks like Washington Park and Cincinnati Music Hall. It’s a great place to walk around before or after the show, with plenty of places to explore and discover.

For more ideas on what to do during a trip to the Cincy Region, you can always look at our calendar of events, order an Official Visitors Guide, and subscribe to our email, The Current.