Cincinnati, Ohio Travel Guide

Discover Cincinnati, Ohio's Queen City: A blend of history, culture, and vibrant attractions nestled along the Ohio River, offering unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

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Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, Cincinnati is a city rich in history, culture, and charm. Known as the Queen City, it boasts a unique blend of architectural marvels, green spaces, and a thriving arts scene. The city’s historic Over-the-Rhine district is a must-see, with its beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings and vibrant nightlife. Whether you're strolling through the lively downtown area or exploring the scenic parks, Cincinnati offers something for every traveler. Cincinnati is also home to an array of world-class attractions. The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is one of the oldest and most acclaimed zoos in the country. The Cincinnati Art Museum, with its vast collection spanning 6,000 years, is a treasure trove for art lovers. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy catching a game at the Great American Ball Park, home of the Cincinnati Reds, or visiting the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, which provides an in-depth look at the history of the Underground Railroad. Foodies will delight in the city's diverse culinary scene. From classic Cincinnati chili to gourmet farm-to-table dining, the options are endless. Don't miss a visit to Findlay Market, Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market, where you can sample local delicacies and pick up unique souvenirs. With its friendly locals, rich history, and myriad attractions, Cincinnati is a hidden gem in the Midwest that promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cincinnati.

Visit Over-the-Rhine for its historic architecture and lively nightlife.
Spend a day at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, one of the oldest zoos in the United States.
Explore the Cincinnati Art Museum, which houses a collection spanning over 6,000 years.
Catch a game at the Great American Ball Park, home to the Cincinnati Reds.
Learn about the history of the Underground Railroad at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.
Sample local cuisine at Findlay Market, Ohio's oldest continuously operated public market.
Take a walk along the Ohio Riverfront and enjoy the scenic views.
Check out the vibrant arts scene with a visit to the Contemporary Arts Center.

Neighbourhoods in Cincinnati

Downtown Cincinnati

Covington

Newport

Over-the-Rhine

Mount Adams

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Cincinnati

Explore Cincinnati: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Cincinnati

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Explore the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, a captivating blend of wildlife and botanical beauty perfect for family fun and educational adventures.

4.6

Newport Aquarium

Explore the mesmerizing marine life at Newport Aquarium, a top tourist attraction in Kentucky offering unforgettable underwater experiences and educational programs.

4.5

Great American Ball Park

Discover the excitement of Major League Baseball at Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati's iconic stadium with stunning river views and a lively atmosphere.

4.7

Findlay Market

Discover the heart of Cincinnati at Findlay Market, where fresh produce and local flavors come together in a lively, historic setting.

4.7

Best landmarks in Cincinnati

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Newport Aquarium

Explore the enchanting underwater world at Newport Aquarium, where interactive exhibits bring marine life to life for visitors of all ages.

4.5

Great American Ball Park

Discover the excitement of baseball at Great American Ball Park, a landmark venue in Cincinnati offering stunning views and unforgettable experiences.

4.7

Cincinnati Museum Center

Explore an iconic cultural hub at the Cincinnati Museum Center, offering diverse exhibits in history, science, and art for all ages.

4.7

Krohn Conservatory

Discover the enchanting Krohn Conservatory in Cincinnati, a botanical garden showcasing diverse plant species and seasonal floral displays in a serene setting.

4.7

Best restaurants in Cincinnati

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The Eagle OTR

Experience the vibrant flavors of Cincinnati at The Eagle OTR – where Southern comfort meets local charm.

4.6

Montgomery Inn The Boathouse

Experience the best of Cincinnati's barbecue scene at Montgomery Inn The Boathouse with stunning riverside views and mouthwatering dishes.

4.4

Incline Public House

Experience delectable American cuisine with stunning views at Incline Public House in Cincinnati's East Price Hill neighborhood.

4.5

Hofbräuhaus - Newport

Experience authentic German cuisine and craft beer in a lively atmosphere at Hofbräuhaus Newport - perfect for families and festivities!

4.5

Best bars in Cincinnati

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Hofbräuhaus - Newport

Discover the heart of Bavarian culture at Hofbräuhaus Newport, featuring authentic cuisine, craft beers, and a festive atmosphere.

4.5

Knockback Nats

Experience the thrill of game day at Knockback Nats, Cincinnati's favorite sports bar known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill fare.

4.5

Nicholson's Fine Food & Whiskey

Discover the flavors of Cincinnati at Nicholson's Fine Food & Whiskey, a top-rated gastropub offering gourmet cuisine and an extensive whiskey selection.

4.4

Arnold's Bar & Grill

Discover Arnold's Bar & Grill, a lively American grill in Cincinnati's Central Business District, offering delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Cincinnati

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Ghost Baby

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Ghost Baby, Cincinnati's premier lounge and cocktail bar known for its creative drinks and electric atmosphere.

4.4

Mr Pitiful's OTR

Discover the lively atmosphere of Mr. Pitiful's OTR, a premier night club and bar in Cincinnati's Over-The-Rhine, featuring live music and craft cocktails.

4.1

The Lackman

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails at The Lackman, Cincinnati's premier lounge in the Over-The-Rhine district.

4.5

Legends Bar & Venue

Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Legends Bar & Venue, where live music and vibrant energy come together for unforgettable evenings in Cincinnati.

4.6

Best shops in Cincinnati

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Newport on the Levee

Discover the endless entertainment and dining options at Newport on the Levee, a vibrant shopping mall along the Ohio River in Newport, Kentucky.

4.5

Cincinnati Premium Outlets

Discover unbeatable deals at Cincinnati Premium Outlets in Monroe, Ohio – your ultimate shopping destination for brand-name styles.

4.4

Riverside Centre Antique Mall

Explore Riverside Centre Antique Mall, where vintage treasures and unique collectibles await in the heart of Cincinnati.

4.5

Indigo Hippo

Explore Indigo Hippo in Cincinnati for a unique non-profit art supply experience that inspires creativity and supports local artists.

4.8

Explore Cincinnati on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Cincinnati, mapped for you.

Cincinnati Essentials

Cincinnati, Ohio, is well-connected by air, road, and rail. The primary airport serving the city is the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), located about 13 miles south of downtown. Major airlines offer flights to and from various domestic and international destinations. For those traveling by car, Cincinnati is accessible via Interstates 71, 74, and 75. Amtrak offers train services to Cincinnati through the Cardinal route, which connects Chicago and New York City. Additionally, Greyhound and Megabus provide bus services to and from several cities.
Cincinnati offers various transportation options for getting around the city. The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA) operates the Metro bus service, covering most areas of the city and suburbs. The Cincinnati Bell Connector is a convenient streetcar system that loops through downtown and the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Taxis, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, and bike rentals are also available. For those wishing to explore further afield, renting a car can be a practical option.
The official currency in Cincinnati, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, making it easy to withdraw cash as needed. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in local markets or smaller establishments that may not accept cards.
Cincinnati is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's important to stay vigilant. Neighborhoods like Over-the-Rhine have seen revitalization and are popular with tourists, but it's best to stick to well-lit and busy areas, especially at night. Avoid areas with higher crime rates such as parts of Avondale, West End, and Lower Price Hill. Always be aware of your surroundings, keep personal belongings secure, and avoid displaying valuables in public places.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Cincinnati has several hospitals and medical facilities, including the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies throughout the city. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and to carry identification and health insurance information with you at all times.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably for the weather, but avoid overly casual attire in upscale restaurants and events. Religion: Do respect religious customs and places of worship; dress modestly when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly handshake; smiling and making eye contact is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Cincinnati chili. Don’t tip less than 15-20% in restaurants, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Cincinnati like a local, visit Findlay Market in Over-the-Rhine, one of the oldest continuously operated public markets in Ohio. Take a stroll along the Ohio River at Smale Riverfront Park, and catch a Reds game at the Great American Ball Park. Engage with locals, who are known for their Midwestern friendliness, and explore the city's rich history at the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal. Don’t miss trying Graeter’s Ice Cream, a local favorite since 1870.

When is the best time to visit Cincinnati?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Cincinnati

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Cincinnati. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yah]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNah
  [naw]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pl-eez/no prah-bluhm]
- Thank youThanks
  [th-anks]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [ex-kyooz mee/sor-ee]
- How are you?How's it goin'?
  [hows it go-in]
- Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [fine. and yoo?]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [eye don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [can eye chek out the men-yoo]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [eye don't eat meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'd like to settle up, please
  [eye'd like to set-ul up, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [call a doc]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [eye'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [eye'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [eye wanna buy]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just braow-zing]
- How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [how much duz it cost]
- That's too expensiveThat's pricey
  [thats prahy-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can you knock the price down?
  [can yoo nok the prahys down]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [its one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [morn-ing]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [ee-ven-ing]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [ate]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [can yoo show me]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next bus]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket to]

History of Cincinnati

Cincinnati was founded in 1788 by Mathias Denman, Colonel Robert Patterson, and Israel Ludlow. Originally named Losantiville, the settlement was strategically located at the confluence of the Licking River and the Ohio River. In 1790, Arthur St. Clair, the governor of the Northwest Territory, renamed the town Cincinnati in honor of the Society of the Cincinnati, a group of Revolutionary War officers.
The advent of the steamboat in the early 19th century transformed Cincinnati into a major trading and transportation hub. By the 1830s, it was one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, earning the nickname 'The Queen City of the West.' The city became a crucial port for the transport of goods and people, linking the interior of the country to the East Coast and beyond.
The mid-19th century saw a significant influx of German immigrants to Cincinnati, profoundly shaping its cultural and social landscape. Over 60% of the city’s population by the 1850s was of German descent. They brought with them traditions such as beer brewing, which led to the establishment of numerous breweries and beer gardens, many of which still influence the city's cultural fabric today.
Cincinnati played a vital role in the Underground Railroad during the 19th century, serving as a gateway to freedom for many enslaved people escaping from the South. The city’s location along the Ohio River made it a critical point of crossing. Notable abolitionists, such as Levi Coffin and John Rankin, provided safe houses and assistance, further cementing Cincinnati’s place in the history of the fight for freedom.
In 1869, the Cincinnati Red Stockings became the first professional baseball team in the United States. This innovation marked the beginning of professional baseball as we know it today. The Red Stockings' success and popularity helped solidify Cincinnati’s reputation as a sports-loving city and contributed to the broader development of professional sports in America.
Founded in Cincinnati in 1837 by William Procter and James Gamble, Procter & Gamble grew from a small soap and candle company into a global consumer goods giant. The company’s rise mirrored the city’s own industrial growth, contributing significantly to the local economy and employment landscape. Today, Procter & Gamble remains a cornerstone of Cincinnati’s corporate community.
Opened in 1878, the Cincinnati Music Hall is a National Historic Landmark and an architectural gem. It has been the heart of the city's vibrant arts scene, hosting performances by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the Cincinnati Opera, and the May Festival Chorus. The hall reflects the city’s long-standing commitment to the arts and its role as a cultural hub in the Midwest.
The Cincinnati Riots of 1884 were a series of violent disturbances that erupted following the controversial trial and sentencing of a convicted murderer. Public outrage over perceived judicial corruption led to days of rioting, resulting in significant damage to the city and loss of life. These events highlighted issues of law enforcement, justice, and public order that were prevalent during that period.
Over-the-Rhine, a historic neighborhood in Cincinnati, developed in the 19th century and became known for its dense concentration of German immigrants and unique architectural style. The area has undergone significant revitalization in recent years, transforming into a vibrant community with a rich blend of historic charm and modern amenities, making it a focal point for visitors interested in Cincinnati’s cultural evolution.