This German-influenced city is known for its charming old neighborhoods, baseball, “five-way” chili and beer festivals.
Cincinnati gets its charm from old, hilly neighborhoods, cheering sports fans and a German heritage. This is where brother-in-laws Procter and Gamble started making soap over 175 years ago, and where America’s first professional baseball team was formed. TV personality Jerry Springer was once the mayor of Cincinnati.
The city celebrates its German roots with beer festivals and sausage-inspired cuisine. Order a locally brewed beer with Goetta sausage, or try the signature “five-way” chili. This dish usually consists of layers of chili, kidney beans, onions, spaghetti and cheese, and can be seasoned with chocolate and cinnamon.
Cincinnati was founded in 1788 and now has about 300,000 residents. More than two million people live in the wider metropolitan area. Navigate downtown as part of a guided walking tour or take a horse-drawn carriage. Rent a Segway or pedal wagon for a fun afternoon. Exploring Cincinnati is also easy by car and public transport.
Seven hills make up the city’s historical neighborhoods. Orient yourself from the observation deck of downtown Carew Tower. From there, you can see the city skyline or gaze across the Ohio River to Kentucky on the other side.
Over-the-Rhine is a charming and culture-filled neighborhood just north of downtown. Wander through its streets featuring beautiful 19th-century architecture to find attractions like the majestic Music Hall and lively Findlay Market.
Head northeast to Eden Park for the Cincinnati Art Museum and Krohn Conservatory.
West of downtown, the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal is a popular entertainment complex with five museums and a cinema. See a moon rock collected by Neil Armstrong at the Natural History and Science Museum. The Duke Energy Children’s Museum caters to families with young children.
The landscapes of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden and Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum reflect the seasons with ever-changing gardens.
At night head to Mount Adams, a hillside neighborhood packed with bars and clubs. Many of these venues offer impressive views of the city skyline. Find a seat, order a local brew and toast to your Cincinnati experience.