30 Fun & Free Things to Do in Cincinnati
Explore 30 top free attractions in Cincinnati! From historic sites to parks & food markets, find fun activities for families, couples & solo travelers.
The populous town of Cincinnati rests alongside the Ohio River as a long-standing American cultural hotspot. Home to America’s first baseball stadium, this town has neat spots to explore American midwest culture. There is a little something for everyone to enjoy with plentiful parks, historic sites, and delicious food spots!
It does not matter if you are planning a vacation, passing through, or just moving to Cincinnati. It is always good to know what is around for you to enjoy! Budget travelers, solo travelers, families, and couples will find fun activities and excellent restaurants here. There is much to love both in the city and the surrounding towns.
Having a small list of activities is great to have if you ever find yourself bored in a new area. Whether you are looking for affordable activities or popular bars, this list is has the best recommendations in the city. Follow along to learn about the hottest spots in Cincinnati for visitors looking for all kinds of new experiences.
Activities for Kids
1. Try Archery Dodgeball
Map It: 4950 Provident Dr, West Chester Township, OH, 45246
Phone: 513-860-0874
Hours:
Entrance: $22-28/person During Public Hours
Yes, you heard that right. Take the entire family to a unique event, archery dodgeball at Archery Arena. Whether you'd like to go for a birthday, for team building, or just for fun, this action packed experience is something most haven't tried before.
How does it work? Well, two teams battle each other, elimination style, from opposite sides of the arena. Using bows and foam-tipped arrows, you'll try to knock your opponent out. Kids (ages 7 and up) and adults can enjoy together. It is a safe and fun experience.
The facility is climate controlled and quite big. With more than 3,500 square foot of playing field, you're sure to have lots of fun. There are even trained instructors to teach you how to aim. There's a trained referee that oversees all games, so rest assured that safety is top of mind for the team at Archery Arena.
Things To Do In Cincinnati for Free
Credit: Shutterstock
No matter if they are big or small, trips can get a bit expensive. It is nice to know which places are budget-friendly in Cincinnati before visiting. Just in case your wallet needs a little break! Here are a handful of sites that are affordable, fun, and for everyone!
1. Explore Findlay Market
Credit: Shutterstock
Map It: 1801 Race Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone:
Hours: Tuesday-Friday: 9am - 6pm, Saturday: 8am - 6pm, Sunday: 10am - 4pm
Entrance: Free
The Findlay Market is a perfect place to explore the heart of Cincinnati with food, activities, and products for everyone! Its central location links the uptown and downtown of the city, making it ideal for those in the city for a short time.
The market is much larger than you would expect. Local vendors selling artisanal products, locally grown foods, and providingcommunal spaces for everyone to enjoy. It's intended to support the community by encouraging entrepreneurs to create sustainable businesses that enrich the bustling city.
Open year-round and most weekdays, it is a perfect place to enjoy the unique culture of the area. You can purchase fresh produce or gifts for those back home, or simply enjoy the atmosphere. The entrance is free, but there is no promise you won't buy a delicious snack as you walk!
2. Visit The Taft Museum of Art
Credit: Wikipedia
Map It: 316 Pike St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-352-6180
Hours: Wednesday - Sunday: 11 am - 4 pm
Entrance: Kids are free
A museum can be a great way to spend some time in any city. The Taft Museum of Art is a unique historical spot to enjoy in Cincinnati! Originally built as a home for prominent residents, this historic building is now intended for art lovers and those looking to learn about the area.
This museum host several permanent and traveling art exhibits throughout the year. Be sure to check the website to see what they have available for your visit. They also have various activities and events that often coincide with the current exhibits to offer a more immersive experience.
You may be able to visit the museum on a free admission day, but children are always free! Making this a great spot for families. The museum is centrally located, so it is very convenient to visit!
Related Read: 17 Best Romantic Getaways in Northeast Ohio
3. Visit Eden Park
Credit: Wikipedia
Map It: 950 Eden Park Dr, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-352-4080
Hours: Daily: 6 am - 10 pm
Entrance: Free
Eden Park is many tourists’ and locals’ favorite outdoor space in Cincinnati! This large park has a variety of activities to enjoy as you look over the Ohio River. The wide open space is perfect for taking a minute to enjoy some peace during your travels.
There are several activities built within the park, such as an observatory and a butterfly pavilion. With large flat spaces, you can easily soak up the sun or enjoy a simple picnic by the water. There are also rolling hills which are great for those looking for a bit of exercise or a moderate walk!
The park is free to traverse, but the special attractions inside are not. The park is open during daylight hours throughout the year. It is also very central to other popular attractions so it is easily accessible.
4. Enjoy The Riverwalk
Credit: Shutterstock
Map It: Ohio River
Hours: 24/7
Entrance: Free
The Riverwalk is a beautiful 5-mile trail that goes from Cincinnati to Newport, Kentucky! The moderate path meanders along the Ohio River and is a perfect place to enjoy skyline views. This long walk has many entry points so there is no specific location to drive to.
Many people note that the trail has lots of small playgrounds, making it perfect for families to get outside. The gentle path is accessible to people of all athletic abilities. It can be a great way to take some time outside without going too far from the city center!
The path is always available to the public with no cost besides parking depending on where you begin. You can enjoy the path in a small section or its entirety. It is a favorite spot for tourists and locals and worth checking out!
Related Read: Top 10 BEST Indoor Water Parks in Ohio
5. Walk Around Smale Riverfront Park
Credit: Shutterstock
Map It: 166 W Mehring Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-352-6180
Hours: Daily: 6 am - 11 pm
Entrance: Free
As another hotspot, Smale Riverfront Park is a great place to walk around the open space and enjoy the sunlight. It has art installations, playgrounds, and a water exhibit that is free to the public. It may get a bit crowded in the summer, but is a great place to entertain yourself outdoors.
The park sits alongside the Ohio River, so you can enjoy this famous landmark alongside a view of the cityscape. The park often holds concerts while the weather is warm. So it is nice to check the website to see if one interests you during your trip.
Opening around sunrise and closing before midnight, there is plenty of time to stop by Smale Riverfront Park for exercise or to let the kids run around. With flower gardens and a unique ‘Flying Pig’ playground piece, it is worth a visit if you are downtown!
Things To Do In Cincinnati for Couples
Nothing makes a romantic vacation like fun activities around every corner. Cincinnati has a lot to offer couples looking for some time away from the hustle and bustle of life. Therefor giving you time to focus on yourselves. Here are some of the top-rated activities and locations for couples in Cincinnati!
1. See a Performance at Cincinnati Music Hall
Credit: Shutterstock
Map It: 1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
Phone: (513) 621-2787
Hours: Dependent on show
Entrance: Dependent on show
Dressing up and going to an evening theater performance is a classical romantic treat. It is perfect for couples looking to spend some time together and see something new. The Cincinnati Musical Hall was built in 1878 and holds all the grandeur of a performing arts hall. And positioned in the heart of the city!
This theater hosts a large variety of performances including the Cincinnati Ballet, Cincinnati Opera, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, and Cincinnati Symphony. The building is a historical landmark, so your visit will awe all your senses!
If you and your partner prefer history to theatrical performances, you can take tours inside the hall and the grounds. The tours last roughly 80 minutes and you will be able to see all aspects of this impressive site. The beautiful architecture and fascinating history can also be a fun little adventure during your time in Cincinnati!
Related Read: 60 BEST Things to Do in Columbus, OH
3. Enjoy the View at Top of the Park Bar
Credit: Top of the Park
Map It: 506 East 4th Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-651-1234
Hours: Tuesday - Thursday: 5 pm - 10 pm, Friday - Saturday: 4 pm - 12 am
Entrance: Free
Sometimes the perfect finale to a romantic evening is to sip cocktails on a rooftop bar overlooking a sparkling city. The Top of the Park Bar is in the center of the downtown business district of Cincinnati, making it accessible and enchanting.
The Top of the Park bar sits in the Phelps Building set above Lytle Park. This placement allows you to watch the sunset over the beautiful park and between the high rises. Eating dessert and sipping on a top-shelf cocktail is a great way to connect with your partner!
This bar is only open in the evenings and stays open late on weekends. You will find plenty of drink options, snacky foods, and desserts to enjoy. As one of the more prestigious bars in the area, you are sure to have a fancy time enjoying the city views!
4. Eat Fresh Pasta at Sotto
Credit: Sotto
Map It: 118 East Sixth Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: (513) 977-6886
Hours: Monday - Thursday: 5 pm - 10 pm, Friday & Saturday: 5 pm - 11 pm, Sunday: 4 pm - 9 pm
Entrance: Free
Italian cuisine has become the front runner of romantic dining experiences. One of the best restaurants to indulge in this romantic practice is Sotto, where they make homemade pasta daily to serve! The authentic Italian menu has traditional recipes, wines, and desserts to give the full experience of Italian dining.
Reservations for Sotto are a must as the restaurant is quite popular and always packed! If you are lucky, you might get seated at the chef’s table where you can have a conversation with the chef about how they made the food right in front of you. They also have bar seating if you are simply looking to share a glass of wine with your partner.
Sotto is only open around dinner time, and be sure to make a reservation or you might spend a lot of time waiting. This spot is a favorite of tourists and locals alike, and certainly worth a stop on your romantic itinerary!
Related Read: 20 Best State Parks in Ohio
5. Take a Tour of the Rhinegeist Brewery
Credit: Shutterstock
Map It: 1910 Elm St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-381-1367
Hours: Monday - Thursday: 3 pm - 10 pm, Friday & Saturday: 12 pm - 1 am, Sunday: 12 pm - 9 pm
Entrance: $10, includes a pint
A quick brewery tour is perfect for couples with a little extra time during the day to enjoy a short activity. And what is more fun than learning about and tasting crafted beers? The Rhinegeist Brewery in Cincinnati is a staple of the area with its home-crafted brews and fun-filled events year round.
The tour for this brewery is only $10 per person, but it includes a free pint to try your favorite brew! Public tour hours are posted on their website, but if you would like a private one you can send them an email. They are usually open from midday to the evening and can get pretty packed on the weekends.
6. Visit the Krohn Conservatory
Credit: Shutterstock
Map It: 1501 Eden Park Dr, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-421-4086
Hours: Daily: 10 am - 8 pm
Entrance: $7 per person
Taking a walk through the park can be a cute and simple date activity. While visiting Eden Park in Cincinnati you can stop by the Krohn Conservatory, which showcases over 3,500 plants from around the world!
The highlight of the conservatory is the Butterfly Pavillion, where you and your partner can walk through the greenhouse and enjoy the vibrant colors of these enchanting little bugs. There is an admission fee but many tourists say that it is a reasonable price for all you get to see.
Since summers can be quite warm in Cincinnati, the greenhouses get even warmer when the sun is out. For those sensitive to heat, it might be better to plan for this spot in the spring and fall! The Krohn’sConservatoryy is nearby to many other attractions, so it is quite easy to visit.
7. Enjoy the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption
Credit: Shutterstock
Map It: 1140 Madison Ave, Covington, KY 41011
Phone: 859-431-2060
Hours: Monday - Friday: 9 am - 3 pm, Saturday: 10 am - 4:30 pm, Sunday: 11:30 am - 5:30 pm
Entrance: Free
Regardless of religious affiliation, one can not deny the impressive architecture and fascinating history of the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Cincinnati. This historical building, completed in 1915, is made in gothic fashion and has over a century’s worth of significance to the community.
You can easily schedule a guided tour of the cathedral to explore the halls and learn about the mission and past of this enchanting place. For couples who love history and architecture, this spot can be a quick activity as you enjoy your time in the city.
The cathedral is open for most of the day during the week but has special hours surrounding mass and confessions during the weekend. And best of all the tours are free!
8. Catch a Comedy Show at Go Bananas Comedy Club
Map It: 8410 Market Pl Ln, Cincinnati, OH 45242
Phone: 513-873-7233
Hours: Monday & Tuesday: Closed, Wednesday & Thursday: 6:30 pm - 10 pm, Friday & Saturday: 6:30 pm - 12 am, Sunday: 6:30 pm - 10 pm
Entrance: $15 per person
Comedy shows are a great date night idea as you and your partner enjoy the unique art form of modern comedy! The Go Bananas Comedy Clud is a widely popular comedy club bursting with up-and-coming comedians. You can eat some snacks and enjoy some cocktails while you get a good ab workout!
Go Bananas Comedy Club in Cincinnati is a very affordable spot as well, with entrance to the club being only $15 for a show. Spending the evening laughing with your significant other is a great date night and an easy way to spend some time in the city.
Shows usually begin around 7:30 pm, and you will find tickets and the comedians on the Go Bananas website. It is definitely worth checking out as you plan your trip to Cincinnati, but the location is not downtown.
9. Explore Over The Rhine
Credit: Shutterstock
Map It: Downtown Cincinnati
Hours: 24/7
Entrance: Free
Your research of Cincinnati will inevitably lead you to Over The Rhine. This neighborhood district in the main Cincinnati area is where the entertainment life is in the city. With restaurants, bars, shopping, and theaters you will find a lot to do here.
This neighborhood is located in downtown Cincinnati, this cultural hotspot is great for walking around and enjoying the area. You and your partner can hop through some bars, shop for clothes, and explore the Findlay Market for artisanal products.
Since this is a district, there are no set hours of operation. The weekends are usually bustling with nightlife and people going to the various theaters in the area. With a park and pool nearby, the summers are full of people enjoying the warm weather as well.
10. Take a Painting Class Together
Credit: Painting with a Twist
Map It: 6196 Tylersville Rd, Mason, OH 45040
Phone: 513-229-7700
Hours: Monday - Thursday: 12 pm - 10 pm, Friday & Saturday: 12 pm - 10:30 pm, Sunday:12 pm - 8 pm
Price: ~$40 per person
Many of us lose the artist within as we age into adulthood, and Painting with a Twist is a great way to tap into the artist’s spirit with your partner! The outer towns of Cincinnati have these shops where you can take a group class and get instructions while you paint.
There are several painting options for you two to take. You can follow a public class, choose your image with written instructions, or take a private guided class. You can purchase, wines, beers, and snacks as you work on your masterpieces!
This Painting with a Twist location is a bit outside of the central part of Cincinnati, so you will either need a car or a driver to get you there. But you will walk away with your own pieces of art and the memories of creating them together!
11. Visit the Cincinnati Observatory
Credit: Wikimedia
Map It: 3489 Observatory Pl, Cincinnati, OH 45208
Phone: 513-321-5186
Hours: Tuesday, Thursday, & Sunday in the daytime
Entrance: $12 per person during evening events, $10 per person during the day
Looking up at the stars and observing the universe above us is the focus of countless romantic songs, and you can enjoy the activity with your partner at the Cincinnati Observatory! With regular special events, you will have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the universe with your partner.
You can visit the observatory during the day while the sun is up, but they have special evening events to look at the stars. These require tickets, so check up on the website to see the events during your stay.
Prices vary slightly if you visit during the day or the night, but it is a very affordable date regardless. It is located nearby Riverside Park, so you may be able to combine several attractions into one evening!
And, if you're from out of town and don't want to drive back home the same day, you can check out a vacation rental with cozycozy.
Things To Do In Cincinnati for Singles
A large city like Cincinnati has lots of opportunities for all kinds of visitors. But with so many options, how will you know which spots are best for you? These locations and activities are great for those looking for some time with themselves and to meet other singles in the area.
1. Take a Cooking Class
Credit: The Learning Kitchen
Map It:7659 Cox Lane, West Chester, OH 45069
Phone: 513-847-4474
Hours: Dependent on class
Price: $85 per person
Sometimes you simply need to take yourself out on a date, and learning a new recipe can be just the way to do that! Whether you are new to the city or just visiting for the weekend, you can easily take yourself out to a cooking class while in Cincinnati.
The Learning Kitchen is a great opportunity for singles to enjoy an enriching activity and possibly meet new friends. The class generally includes 11 others as you all have your own stovetops, and the instructor teaches you every technique used in the recipe. Reviews say it is an informative, engaging, and delicious activity!
The types of dishes taught here range across a large spectrum, so you are sure to find a dish you would love to learn about. From kinds of pasta to wontons, to chocolate desserts, the Learning Kitchen is a great opportunity to expand your cooking horizons while meeting new people!
2. Visit the Carew Tower Observation Deck
Credit: Shutterstock
Map It: 441 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: (513) 579-9735
Hours: Daily: 9 am - 7 pm
Entrance: $6 per person
There is no need for a group when you want to sightsee Cincinnati. The Carew Tower Observation Deck is a classic stop on your Cincinnati tour. You get great views of the city and the ability to buy some souvenirs as well!
The observation deck is on the 49th floor and offers views of the Ohio River, city skyline, Kentucky, and wide-reaching midwest plains. The building has restaurants and other amenities and is located on very central Vine street, so it is easy to access if you are downtown.
To reach the desk you often have to pay a $6 fee, but it allows you to see the city from up high and even get your Instagram-worthy photos! It is a great quick stop if you are walking around downtown or looking for a quick sightseeing moment.
3. Enjoy Queen City Radio
Credit: cincinnatiusa.com
Map It: 222 W 12th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202|
Phone: (513) 381-0918
Hours: Monday: 4 pm - 10 pm, Tuesday: Closed, Wednesday: 4 pm - 12 am, Thursday & Friday: 4 pm - 2 am, Saturday: 12 pm - 2 am, Sunday: 12 pm - 12 am Entrance: Free
Although the title may be misleading, this spot is not Cincinnati’s version of Radio City Music Hall in New York. It is actually a homey bar built into a 1920’s classic gas and car service station, specializing in beers and a welcoming atmosphere.
This beautiful sheer bar is a mix of class and cozy, with modern decorations and a spacious outdoor garden. Located in the popular Over The Rhine district, this bar is easy to access for visitors and a great spot to wind down (or up) with your partner.
This bar holds regular events, so you may be able to play some competitive drinking games with your significant other if you stop by! They are closed Monday and Tuesday but open late for the rest of the week. For couples looking for casual fun, this is a great bar spot for you.
4. Take in Japp’s Bar Since 1879
Credit: City Beat
Map It: 1134 Main St (at E 12th St) Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: (513) 381-1524
Hours: Tuesday - Thursday: 4 pm - 1 am, Friday: 4 pm - 2 am, Saturday: 5 pm - 2 am
Entrance: Free
History, booze, and classic pubs come together at Japp’s. Japp’s Bar is an establishment in Cincinnati located in the Over The Rhine district downtown. This regal bar only serves alcohol with a focus on prohibition cocktails!
The bar has existed since the late 1800s and you can feel this deep history as you walk into the building, taking in your first sip of their specialty cocktails. The old-fashioned nature of the bar is refreshing for both young and classic individuals. Japp’s is a beautiful bar that often has musicians and events to enjoy.
This classy bar can be a neat way to enjoy the city and holds great possibilities for meeting others! They are closed Sundays and Mondays, and their cocktails can be quite pricey. Yet the unique history, rustic decorations, and memorable atmosphere are not one to miss.
5. Eat Some Boozy Ice Cream at Sundry and Vice
Credit: City Beat
Map It: 18 W 13th St. (Republic St.), Cincinnati, OH
Phone: (513) 721-8423
Hours: Tuesday - Friday: 4 pm - 2 am, Saturday: 12 pm - 2 am, Sunday: 12 pm - 12 am
Entrance: Free
Need we say more than the fact you can enjoy boozy ice cream at this spot Sundry and Vice? During the summertime, you may stumble upon this 1920s apothecary bar when they have a beautiful fusion of sweet ice cream and delicious liquors!
As another unique bar in the Over The Rhine district, this is a great place to add to your bar hop through Cincinnati. The bar has a unique pharmacy design and reasonably priced specialty cocktails. Its neat design makes it a great place to visit if you simply want an evening drink or looking to explore the culture of the town!
Sundry and Vice is closed on Monday and usually open from the afternoons to early morning. This bar is a bit of a hidden gem of the city, but you will not struggle to meet other people to enjoy the evening with!
6. Enjoy the Nostalgia Wine and Jazz Lounge
Credit: bizjournal.com
Map It: 1432 Vine St Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: (513) 381-1300
Hours: Wednesday & Thursday: 4 pm - 11 pm, Friday: 4 pm - 1 am, Saturday: 2 pm - 1 am, Sunday: 2 pm - 9 pm
Entrance: Free
For those who appreciate the classical ways of evening entertainment, the Nostalgia Wine and Jazz Lounge is a great spot for you! Located on Vine Street, it is another spot to add to a bar crawl, or spend the evening if you fall in love with the classic aesthetic!
They have live music three times a week, featuring both traditional and contemporary jazz. With incredible wines, specialty cocktails, and canned beers you can enjoy the skilled musicians and spend the evening a bit nostalgic for the old days.
The lounge is closed Mondays and Tuesdays and only opens in the afternoons Wednesday through Sunday. The drinks are a bit expensive, with a standard glass of wine costing $12. There are not other bars quite like the Nostalgia Lounge, so if you are a fan of this particular ambiance you should check it out during your visit!
7. Take a Cincinnati Food Tour
Credit: Cincinnati Food Tours
Map It: Smoothie King, 155 E 2nd St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Hours: Dependent on tour
Entrance: $70 per person
Cincinnati is a bustling city full of incredible restaurants. A simple way to see them all is to go on a food tour of the city! This tour company will take you to six different restaurants around the city as well as the famous Findlay Market. You will get a full experience of the culinary landscape of Cincinnati!
For $70, you will be guided with a street car to the restaurants to sample their best dishes as well as their specialty cocktails! The guesswork of finding the best restaurants is lifted off your shoulders as each spot is carefully selected by the guides.
This is also a great way to meet new people. On the public tour, you will meet other tourists and enjoy an interesting dining experience together. After the tour, you will surely feel full of delicious food and a better understanding of Cincinnati!
8. Tour the Great American Ball Park
Credit: Shutterstock
Map It: 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-381-7337
Hours: Dependent on the season and game days
Entrance: $20 per adult
Baseball lovers and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a tour of the Great American Ball Park. As the first baseball stadium in America, the tour takes you through the origins of the sport. You will also learn the significance the stadium has had on American culture.
The tours are pretty cheap and last about 90 minutes to go through the whole place! It is very easy to do it independently and spend some time while you visit Cincinnati. The tour times depend on the current season of baseball and when games are held, so it is important to check the website to make your reservation there!
9. Explore Underground Tunnels
Credit: Cincinnati Refined
Map It: 1332 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Tour Length: 2.5 hours
Price: $45 per person
If you are a visitor not interested in cocktails or ballparks, this spooky tour might be for you! The tour allows you to explore the tunnels constructed underneath Cincinnati as well as a crypt. And you will learn about the history of the places that many native Cincinnatians do not even know!
The tour is about 2 and a half hours, and you will have plenty to see on this walking tour. Above ground, you also get to see Washington Park and the historical buildings of Over the Rhine. It is a great way to see the lively and spooky parts of the city.
Best of all, you will not be alone! The public tour is a perfect opportunity to enjoy the city with others even if it is just for a bit. This tour is about $45 and you must reserve the tour ahead of time.
10. Enjoy the Cincinnati Zoo
Credit: Shutterstock
Map It: 3400 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45220
Phone: 513-281-4700
Hours: Daily: 10 am - 5 pm
Price: Adults ~ $16 per person, Children ~ $10 per person, Seniors ~ $10 per person
A zoo is a great self-date activity if you find yourself with a few free hours in Cincinnati! The Cincinnati Zoo is quite famous for its wild animals as well as its botanical garden. There is plenty to see at the zoo and you would not want to miss it if you have the chance!
Any zoo is fun to visit, but the Cincinnati Zoo has a celebrity in its midst! You may remember Fiona the Hippo, who was bored premature and took the internet by storm with her adorable nature. She now has a little brother who was born in August of 2022!
Admission for adults is relatively cheap, with a general ticket costing just $16! You can also pay for special shows and tours if you are interested. It is best to check out their website before you visit in case they have any special events to see.
Things To Do In Cincinnati On A Rainy Day
Often the weather chooses not to agree with your plans for a park day. Finding a good activity last minute can be extra stressful, so it is good to have a few backups. These places are a great way to keep yourself entertained if you visit Cincinnati on a rainy day!
1. Visit Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
Credit: Wikipedia
Map It: 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45203
Phone: 513-287-7000
Hours: Thursday - Monday: 10 am - 5 pm
Entrance: $16.50 per person
Rainy days mean you can not walk around the historical area of Cincinnati without catching a cold. But the Cincinnati Museum Center is both a historical landmark and a fascinating museum! It has plenty of rotating and permanent exhibits, with an additional IMAX theater with special viewing to enjoy.
What is special about this museum is that it is in the old train terminal for the city! Now it’s not Grand Central Station, but the history of this landmark and what it meant for the town remains. It is a neat little addition to your theater experience.
The cost for admission is pretty low, with an adult ticket just under $17 a person. Children and seniors are even cheaper which makes this spot perfect for families.
2. Enjoy The Rook
Credit: Cincinnati Business Courier
Map It: 1151 Stone Dr d4, Harrison, OH 45030
Phone: 513-322-5570
Hours: Tuesday - Thursday: 2 pm - 9 pm, Friday- Saturday: 12 pm - 10 pm
Entrance: Free
What is the best way to spend a rainy day? Board games are the perfect way to pass the time if the weather interrupts your Cincinnati plans. The Rook is a board game parlor that has been joined with a classic arcade for plenty of fun for everyone!
Although this spot is a bit outside of Cincinnati, it is still a great spot for board game lovers to explore the archives of The Rook. You could pass the rainy day away as a family or couple playing board games in a round of friendly competition!
The Rook is closed Sundays and Mondays and usually opens in the afternoon. You can find great snacks and drinks here as well, making it the best spot to be on a rainy day.
3. Explore Jungle Jims International Market
Credit: cincinnatiusa.com
Map It: 5440 Dixie Highway, Fairfield
Phone: 513-674-6000
Website
Hours: Daily: 8 am - 10 pm
Entrance: Free
This is the spot for foodies looking to indulge in their hobby! Jungle Jims International Market is a specialty grocery store with unique products from all over the world. Its giant building is packed with food, attractions, and tastings that will tickle even the pickiest of tastebuds!
This diverse market regularly holds special events and JungleFests, where you can walk through and enjoy Cheese, Whiskey, and Wines from every corner of the world. To see if you are in town during these events, it is best to check out their website.
The market is open daily at 8 in the morning, and you can easily spend hours walking around! It is a bit outside of downtown Cincinnati, but if food and cooking are your things it is worth a little drive.
4. Visit RockQuest Climbing Center
Credit: Cincinnati Refined
Map It: 3475 E Kemper Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45241
Phone: 513-733-0123
Hours: Monday - Friday: 11 am - 10 pm, Saturday: 10 am - 8 pm, Sunday: 12 pm - 8 pm
Entrance: $17 per person plus gear rental
A rock climbing center is a classic rainy day activity, and it is still fun even if you have tried it before! The RockQuest Climbing Center is the best rock climbing spot in town. With courses for beginners, experts, and kids, this place has something for everyone.
You can take a class if you are a bit nervous about climbing. This site has a lot of class options to choose from so you feel as comfortable as possible with your climbing. You can also check online to see how many climbers there currently are so you do not have to wait to get on the floor.
This center is open every day of the week but has slightly varying hours. To get in, there is a $17 fee per person, plus the rental of the gear you need. It may not be the best option for budget travelers, but it is certainly a fun time to spend the day indoors.
5. Enjoy Arcade Legacy
Credit: City Beat
Map It: 662 Cincinnati Mills Dr, Cincinnati, OH 45240
Phone: 513-874-8766
Hours: Wednesday: 2 pm- 12 am, Thursday: 5 pm- 12 am, Friday: 3 pm- 12 am, Saturday: 12 pm- 12 am, Sunday: 12 pm- 8 pm
Entrance: $10 for the day
The arcade is the perfect place to spend a rainy day indoors no matter as a family or by yourself. The Arcade Legacy is a huge arcade with over 700 classic machines, as well as several stations to play on modern devices such as the PS5 or the Nintendo Switch.
Arcade Legacy is located within the Cincinnati Mall and is only closed on Mondays. This makes it relatively easy to access and great for visiting if your plans quickly change. If it is the weekend, it might be a bit full of others looking for a fun way to spend their time.
This is a great evening activity, as the arcade is open late into the night. The $10 entry fee is all you have to pay at this arcade as all the games are unlocked and free! So no need to bring all your quarters to this arcade and spend your rainy day with games from across the eras.
Tobi Miles is a University of Florida graduate turned globe-trotting culinary explorer and digital nomad expert. As the founder of "Bytes & Bites," he combines his passion for international cuisine with practical advice on remote work, inspiring others to experience the world through food and cultural immersion. With 32 countries under his belt and a knack for uncovering hidden culinary gems, Tobi is redefining the intersection of work, travel, and gastronomy for a new generation of adventurers.
