Just because it's chilly outside doesn't mean you can't have a blast in the Cincy Region! From hands-on museums to exciting sporting events, there's plenty of indoor fun to be had in Cincy. 

Museums

Model train exhibit at Behringer-Crawford Museum (photo: Behringer-Crawford Museum)
Model train exhibit at Behringer-Crawford Museum (photo: Behringer-Crawford Museum)

 

Cincy has no shortage of awesome museums, and any of them are a perfect place to spend a cold winter’s day. On the Kentucky side of the river is the Behringer-Crawford Museum in Devou Park where you can learn all about the history of Northern Kentucky and life on the Ohio River. It’s a great hands-on place for kids to explore.

 

Duke Energy Children's Museum (photo: Cincinnati Museum Center)
Duke Energy Children's Museum (photo: Cincinnati Museum Center)

 

On the Cincinnati side of the river, the most popular museum destination for families seems to be the Cincinnati Museum Center, where you can visit the Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History & Science, or the Children’s Museum. All three offer great hands-on and interactive fun for the entire family. You can see why spending the entire day at the CMC is easy!

 

Contemporary Arts Center
 

If you are looking for something that is both fun and educational, visit the Taft Museum of Art, Cincinnati Art Museum, or Contemporary Arts Center. If you’d like to learn more about our region’s important role in the Underground Railroad, be sure to visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Or if you're ready to inspire the next generation of Reds fans, visit the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum.

 

Newport Aquarium

Newport Aquarium (photo: Katie Scheper)
Newport Aquarium (photo: Katie Scheper)

 

Winter is a great time to visit the Newport Aquarium because it’s cozy and warm, and many things to see and do when you visit. Dare to walk under swimming sharks in the shark tunnel; touch a turtle, anemone, sea star, crab, stingray or shark; play in the children’s area, and much more! 

 

Sports

Cincinnati Cyclones (photo: Cincinnati Cyclones)
Cincinnati Cyclones (photo: Cincinnati Cyclones)

 

Got a sports-lovin' family? Cincinnati's winter sports scene is top-notch. We boast a hockey team, the Cincinnati Cyclones, who take to the ice every fall and winter. These matches are always a blast because there is action on the ice and interactive entertainment throughout the evening. Pro-tip: check the Cyclones website for information on games with giveaways and discounts (dollar beer night is always a hit with parents!). 

If college hoops are your thing - then you are not alone. College basketball is a way of life around these parts. Our area is home to Northern Kentucky University, Xavier University, University of Cincinnati, Thomas More University, and Mount St. Joseph University. Check out their websites for schedules and ticket information.

 

Cincinnati Rollergirls (photo: Katie Scheper)
Cincinnati Rollergirls (photo: Katie Scheper)

 

Let's not forget the Roller Derby! We are lucky to have two great Roller Derby teams in our area, and these unique bouts are always exciting for the whole family! There’s the Cincinnati Rollergirls in Cincinnati, and on the Kentucky side of the river, the Black-n-Bluegrass Roller Girls bring the thrills. These activities should keep your sports enthusiasts happy during the winter months!

 

Fun and Games

 

Toy Library
Games and toys are available for rental at The Cincinnati Toy Library (photo: Toy Library)

 

When was your last family game night? Check out the Play Library, a unique concept located in Over-the-Rhine. Browse through thousands of games and toys - and even check them out to play with at home! While you're at the library, you can also peruse the only toy museum in the city.