There’s nothing like summer in Cincinnati. Across the city, neighbors walk dogs through local parks, kids race down sidewalks on bikes and the smell of backyard cookouts drifts through the warm air. From the season’s unofficial kickoff with the Taste of Cincinnati food festival to the Labor Day Fireworks, there is no shortage of ways for families to stay entertained.
Make memories from our end of summer bucket list. Cincinnati offers plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories close to home. Families can cool off at city pools and splash pads, spend afternoons exploring the Cincinnati Zoo or cheer on the Reds during a summer night game downtown. Outdoor lovers can take advantage of hundreds of miles of multi-purpose trails, scenic parks and riverfront attractions that make the city feel alive during the warmer months. Throw in a day at an amusement park or the zoo and there are plenty of activities that will give the kids something to talk about when the school year starts.
Here’s our list of just a few ways to round out summer for your crew.
Fun in the Sun
Fifty West Brewing Co.
There are plenty of places to eat outside in Cincinnati, but Fifty West Brewing Co. adds sand volleyball, pickleball and the nearby Little Miami Bike trail, making the experience more than a meal. Its menu, inspired by the great American road trip along U.S. Route 50 offers something for everyone and a true chance for the kids to have fun while the grown-ups enjoy some of the brewery’s great beers and tasty burgers.
Take a Ride
Bike Trails
With hundreds of miles of multi-use, paved and off-road trails, summer in Cincinnati is made for two-wheeled fun. The Wasson Way, Lunken and Little Miami trails are easy to access and offer flat, paved routes for adventure rides. Nearby Mt. Airy Forest offers a bike skills course with hills and ramps to prepare you for its 6-mile mountain bike trail. Check out the CORA or Cincitucky Trails for other great biking in the region.
Take a Hike
Cincinnati Nature Center
CincyNature.org/visit/visit-us
There are plenty of great hiking trails in the region, and one of the best is the Cincinnati Nature Center. An easy (and scenic) drive takes you to its 1,800 acres, including trails through old-growth forests, prairies, across streams and around ponds. If you visit with kids 12 and under, be sure to check out the PlayScape–this area allows unstructured play in a resilient version of local natural habitats for children to explore.
Row a Boat
Canoe or Kayak the Little Miami
Yes, Cincinnati is on a river. But the smaller Little Miami River offers fun, family-friendly adventure close to home. Canoe and kayak rental companies dot the river, but planning a trip that floats by Milford gives you a chance to pull off at the Little Miami Brewing Company to visit the open taproom and covered patio. Refuel with some pizza and a beer before continuing your paddle down the river.
Grab a Bite
Dine Outdoors
Many of Cincinnati’s neighborhoods feature quaint business districts, often anchored by a restaurant or two. In many cases, these eateries have a patio or deck to dine outside and enjoy the warm weather. Some popular spots with kid-friendly menus to try include Delwood and Parkside (sister restaurants in Hyde Park and Mt. Lookout), Café Alma in Pleasant Ridge and Ripple or O’Bryons in O’Bryonville.
Take a Swim
Visit a Pool
Cincinnati pools are a favorite destination for families looking to cool off and have fun. Many pools have been upgraded to include splash pads or other features. At the Oakley Recreation Center, children run through spraying fountains and colorful water features while parents relax nearby. Affordable admission and the lively atmosphere at your neighborhood pool make a day at the pool the perfect summer outing.
Be Amused
Kings Island
A Cincinnati summer isn’t complete without a trip to Kings Island. With thrilling roller coasters, a massive water park and rides for younger kids, the park remains a traditional favorite. Beyond Kings Island, other summer favorites include the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, watching a baseball game at Great American Ball Park or visiting the Newport Aquarium. A summer with any combination of these attractions will be a memorable one for the entire family.