Covington, Cincinnati Travel Guide

Discover Covington, a vibrant neighborhood in Cincinnati, Ohio, where historic charm meets modern allure. Enjoy unique shops, diverse dining, and a rich cultural scene.

Located just across the Ohio River from downtown Cincinnati, Covington is a neighborhood that effortlessly blends historical charm with modern vibrancy. Its streets are lined with beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture, offering visitors a picturesque glimpse into the past. Whether you're a history buff or simply enjoy strolling through quaint, atmospheric streets, Covington will not disappoint. The neighborhood is home to a variety of attractions that cater to all interests. Art enthusiasts will find joy in the numerous galleries and public art installations, while foodies can indulge in a diverse culinary scene that ranges from gourmet restaurants to cozy cafes. The MainStrasse Village, a charming area within Covington, is particularly popular for its unique shops and delightful eateries. Covington also serves as a cultural hub with a calendar full of events and festivals that celebrate everything from local history to contemporary arts. The nearby Devou Park offers expansive green spaces and stunning views of the Cincinnati skyline, making it an ideal spot for picnics or leisurely walks. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and welcoming community, Covington is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring Cincinnati.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit MainStrasse Village for unique boutiques and delicious dining options.
Devou Park offers great views of the Cincinnati skyline—perfect for a picnic.
Check the local event calendar for festivals and cultural events during your visit.
Parking can be tricky on weekends; consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services.

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

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

Best attractions in Covington

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Newport Aquarium

Immerse yourself in the aquatic wonders of Newport Aquarium, where education meets adventure in a stunning marine environment.

4.5

John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge

Discover the breathtaking John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, a historic marvel connecting Covington and Cincinnati with stunning views and rich history.

4.7

George Rogers Clark Park

Experience the tranquility of George Rogers Clark Park in Covington, KY, where lush landscapes meet serene riverfront views for a perfect outdoor escape.

4.7

Goebel Park

Explore Goebel Park in Covington, KY – a serene haven featuring lush landscapes, sports facilities, and vibrant community events for all ages.

4.3

Best landmarks in Covington

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William Howard Taft National Historic Site

Discover the legacy of William Howard Taft at this historic site, where history and heritage come alive in Cincinnati, Ohio.

4.6

Behringer-Crawford Museum

Explore the Behringer-Crawford Museum in Covington, KY, where history, art, and culture converge to tell the story of Northern Kentucky's rich heritage.

4.6

Historic Riverside Distrct

Discover the Historic Riverside District in Covington, KY – a captivating blend of Victorian architecture and riverside charm awaits you.

4.9

Historic Site Of Fort Washington

Uncover the rich history of Cincinnati at the Historic Site of Fort Washington, a pivotal landmark showcasing the city's early military significance.

4.7

Best restaurants in Covington

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Mazunte Taqueria

Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at Mazunte Taqueria in Cincinnati - where every taco tells a story.

4.7

The National Exemplar

Experience the best of American cuisine at The National Exemplar in Cincinnati – where every meal is crafted with care and served with warmth.

4.6

Red Feather Kitchen

Experience innovative New American cuisine at Red Feather Kitchen in Cincinnati—where seasonal ingredients meet creative culinary artistry.

4.5

Millie's Place

Experience authentic soul food at Millie's Place in Cincinnati; where every meal feels like home.

4.4

Best bars in Covington

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Oak Tavern

Discover Oak Tavern in Cincinnati: where delicious grill fare meets a vibrant sports bar atmosphere for a memorable dining experience.

4.4

Oakley Pub & Grill

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Oakley Pub & Grill, where delicious grilled favorites and craft beers await in the heart of Cincinnati's Oakley neighborhood.

4.4

Rosie's Tavern

Discover the charm of Rosie's Tavern in Covington, a cozy bar and pub serving delightful drinks and delicious food in a friendly atmosphere.

4.5

The Overlook Lodge

Discover the charm of The Overlook Lodge, a cozy bar offering craft beers and signature cocktails in Cincinnati's Pleasant Ridge.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Covington

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Energy Nightclub

Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Energy Nightclub in Cincinnati, where music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences await every night.

3.5

Scene Ultra Lounge

Discover Cincinnati's nightlife at Scene Ultra Lounge, where modern design meets vibrant energy and expertly crafted cocktails.

4.1

Main Event Cincinnati

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cincinnati at Main Event, where music, friends, and fun come together in a lively atmosphere.

3.9

Placebo

Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Placebo, a stylish bar and lounge in Cincinnati's Madisonville, perfect for an unforgettable night out.

4.5

Best shops in Covington

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HAIL - RECORDS & ODDITIES

Explore a unique blend of vintage clothing, rare records, and quirky collectibles at HAIL - Records & Oddities in Covington, KY.

4.9

I Love Cincinnati Shop

Explore the heart of Cincinnati with unique souvenirs and gifts at the I Love Cincinnati Shop, showcasing the city's vibrant culture and creativity.

4.4

Handzy Shop + Studio

Explore Handzy Shop + Studio in Covington, KY for unique gifts, local art, and stylish women's clothing that embody the charm of local craftsmanship.

4.9

Ten Thousand Villages

Explore unique handcrafted gifts at Ten Thousand Villages, a fair trade shop supporting artisans worldwide in a cozy Cincinnati setting.

4.7

Explore Covington on the Map

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

Covington Essentials

Covington is conveniently located just across the Ohio River from Cincinnati. You can reach Covington by car via I-75 or I-71, with ample parking available in various lots and garages. Public transit options include the Cincinnati Metro bus service, which connects various neighborhoods in Cincinnati to Covington. The nearest train station is the Cincinnati Union Terminal, from which you can take a taxi or rideshare service to Covington.
Covington is a walkable neighborhood, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The TANK bus service operates routes throughout Covington and connects to surrounding areas. Biking is popular as well, with several bike rental stations available. For those preferring to drive, street parking is available, but be mindful of parking regulations.
Covington is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to take precautions. Areas near the riverfront and downtown are typically well-patrolled and busy, while some neighborhoods further from the center may have higher crime rates. Visitors should avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas and remain vigilant in crowded spaces.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Covington has local hospitals and urgent care facilities. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress casually but neatly; avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local religious sites; when entering churches, be mindful of dress codes. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers; don’t eat or drink on buses. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly smile and nod; avoid being overly loud. Eating & Drinking: Do explore local eateries and try regional specialties; don’t waste food or be overly critical of local cuisine.
To experience Covington like a local, visit the Covington Farmers Market for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with residents at local coffee shops and breweries, as they are often eager to share insights about the area. Take a stroll along the riverfront and enjoy the views of the Cincinnati skyline. Consider attending a local event or festival, which can provide a deeper understanding of the community's culture.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Covington

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 Covington. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no problem]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [pahr-dn me/my bad]
- How are you?How ya doin'?
  [how yuh doin']
- Fine. And you?Just fine. You?
  [just fine. yuh?]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak english?]
- I don't understandI ain't gettin' it
  [I aint get-tin it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLemme see the menu, please
  [lem-me see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'd like to pay, please
  [I'd like to pay, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Git!
  [git!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [call a doc!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust lookin'
  [just lookin']
- How much is it?How much?
  [how much?]
- That's too expensiveThat's pricey
  [that's pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya bring it down?
  [can ya bring it down?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin']
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of Covington

Covington, Kentucky, situated just across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, was founded in 1815. Originally part of a larger land grant, the area quickly developed due to its strategic location as a transportation hub. The establishment of the ferry service across the Ohio River in the early 19th century fostered the growth of Covington, linking it directly to Cincinnati and facilitating trade and migration.
The mid-19th century marked a significant period of industrial growth in Covington. The arrival of the railroad in the 1850s transformed the local economy, attracting factories, breweries, and other manufacturing businesses. Covington became known for its vibrant industrial base, contributing to the overall economic development of the Greater Cincinnati area.
Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Covington emerged as a cultural melting pot, with a diverse population of European immigrants, including Germans, Irish, and Italians. This diversity enriched the local culture, evident in the establishment of various cultural institutions, festivals, and religious communities that still impact Covington's social fabric today.
Covington boasts a rich architectural heritage, with many buildings dating back to the 19th century. The city is home to the historic Covington City Hall and the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, which features stunning stained glass windows and intricate designs. These structures reflect the city's historical significance and its connection to the broader architectural trends seen in Cincinnati.
In recent years, Covington has undergone a revitalization, with efforts focused on enhancing its downtown area and fostering community engagement. Initiatives such as the Devou Park improvements and the annual Covington Latin Festival celebrate the city’s heritage while promoting local businesses and attractions. This revitalization has strengthened Covington's ties to Cincinnati and made it a vibrant place to live and visit.