Residents of Cincinnati know there's no better place to call home. From the friendly people and great food to the deep-seated character that unveils itself in our historic neighborhoods, there is just so much to love about this town.
There are a number of things every Queen City resident should try at least once in his or her lifetime. We rounded up the ultimate bucket list for you, which includes activities for foodies, art lovers and adventurers alike. How many can you check off?
Jump Ahead:
For the Explorer | For the Foodie | For the Adventurer | For the Thrill Seeker | For the Sports Enthusiast | For Those Hungry for Knowledge | For the Child at Heart | For the Lover of the Arts

Photo courtesy of Loveland Castle
Conquer a Nearby Castle Interestingly enough, Ohio is home to a large number of castles. Some are haunted and some are just enchanting! Read up on our state's coolest castles and the fascinating stories behind them. Ride the Elevator Up 49 Floors to the Carew Tower Observation Deck Completed in 1930, Carew Tower stands tall in the heart of downtown Cincinnati. Head up to the top to witness one of the city's best views! Visit the Cincinnati Union Terminal Undoubtedly, the architecture of the Union Terminal is a sight in itself — you might have to pick your jaw up off of the floor after witnessing the largest half-dome structure in the western hemisphere — but don't miss out on the special exhibits and the OMNIMAX Theater held within. Stay a Night at The Golden Lamb in Lebanon Located in the heart of downtown Lebanon, The Golden Lamb has stood as a community gathering place since 1803, making it the oldest continuously operating business in Ohio. Dine like royalty at the restaurant, and stay a night in the historic rooms.
Go Camping
S'mores and a night under the stars — it doesn't get better than that! There are plenty of incredible camping destinations within easy reach of Cincinnati.
Explore all of Cincinnati's Coolest Neighborhoods
From Over the Rhine to the Incline District, our town is filled to the brim with up-and-coming neighborhoods — all of which are perfect for spending the afternoon. Challenge yourself to visit them all!
See the Butterfly Show at the Krohn Conservatory
Open year round, the Krohn Conservatory is a nationally recognized collection of more than 3,500 plant species from all over the world, but it also boasts a vibrant butterfly show every year!
Drive Across the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge
This iconic bridge spans the Ohio River between Cincinnati and Covington, and was the longest in the world when it opened in 1867.
Party on the Purple People Bridge
Don't worry — the bridge is not guarded by a purple people eater. This stunning piece of architecture is actually named for its unique hue. Every Wednesday night during the summer, enjoy a weekly "Party on the Purple" with the residents of the Queen City, which will feature live music and refreshments.

Photos courtesy of Urbana Cafe
Find the World's Best Cup of Coffee Cincinnati is home to some of the best coffee shops in the Midwest! Start your day off right and grab a cup of java from one of these nine hot spots. They are all worth a visit. Soak in the Atmosphere at Sotto The atmosphere, just as much as the food, has made Sotto a Cincinnati staple. Stop in to witness the understated romance, rustic charm and unparalleled authentic Italian cuisine. Taste the Difference at Graeter's Ice Cream With more than 145 years of experience under its belt, we believe Graeter's Ice Cream is the ultimate authority on handcrafted French pot ice cream. Enjoy a Pint at Mt. Carmel Brewing Company Set in the cellar of a 1924 farmhouse, Mt. Carmel Brewing Company pioneered the craft beer scene in Cincinnati. Stop by for a pint or growler fill with loved ones, and be sure to ask about the history! Indulge in an Authentic German Brew from the Hofbrauhaus in Newport This spectacular beer hall is modeled to be almost identical to its sister location in Munich! A beer here is about as close to the authentic German experience as you can get. Split a Bottle at Moyer's Winery Stop in at this local favorite beside the Ohio River for upscale American fare and locally produced wines. Grab a Bite at the Findlay Market This market, which has graced Cincinnati since the mid-1800s, is filled to the brim with energetic merchants, artisanal cheeses, fresh produce, warm baked goods and more!
Photo courtesy of Queen City Radio
Sit on the Patio at Queen City Radio Located in the historic Over The Rhine neighborhood, Queen City Radio offers up craft cocktails, beer on draft and tasty burgers — all served with a side of Cincinnati culture. Take a Riverside Food Tour Taste the city's best bites (including some hidden gems) and learn all about the history of Cincinnati! That's what we call food for thought.
Kayak on the Little Miami River
In Cincinnati, we are lucky to have access to the Little Miami River, which provides a haven for river rats and adventure seekers. There are a plethora of local rental companies that can outfit you with gear and point you in the right direction if you're looking to test your skills on the river, or simply enjoy a leisurely excursion. Our favorites include Little Miami Canoe, Scenic River Canoe Excursions, Morgan's Outdoor Adventures and Whitewater Canoe Rental.
Go Swimming at Caesar Creek State Park
Caesar Creek is one of Cincinnati's most beloved hidden gems! Hike, bike, boat or ride around the park before hitting the beach — such an oasis so close to home.
Go Fishing
There's nothing quite as satisfying as a calm morning on the water. The Great Miami River offers so many awesome fishing holes perfect for catching bluegills, bass, carp and channel catfish via fly fishing or lures, and the Mad River is one of the best trout streams in the state. Gear up at On the Way Bait & Tackle.
Photo courtesy of Alex Perfect via Perfect North Slopes
Ski at Perfect North Slopes We aren't known for our powder days here in Ohio, but you can catch a little bit of wintery paradise at the nearby Perfect North Slopes, just half an hour away. And Complete the Mud Stash When Perfect North isn't covered in snow, it's the perfect destination for summer activities! Each year in early September, the venue hosts a muddy, obstacle-filled race to the finish called the Mud Stash. It's known to be one of the most entertaining competitions in the region! Compete in the Flying Pig Marathon The Flying Pig Marathon celebrated its 20th anniversary in May 2017, and remains one of the biggest party weekends in the city! Register for next year's race here.
Photo courtesy of SkyDive Cincinnati
Leap from the Skies at SkyDive Cincinnati Skydiving is perhaps the ultimate bucket list item, so you might as well check it off now. SkyDive Cincinnati offers tandem jumps with an instructor, as well as full courses to help you earn your skydiving certification. Sure, you think you're tough now. Just wait until the plane door opens at 16,000 feet! Take a Dip at Sunlite Pool in Coney Island Sunlite Pool is the largest, flat-surface swimming pool in North America — perfect for cooling off after exploring the park's many attractions! Tour the Spring Grove Cemetery Craving a spooky encounter? The Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum is the fourth largest cemetery in the United States, and boasts gorgeous scenery, iconic Gothic-style architecture, and lots of history.
Photo courtesy of the The Cincinnati Reds
See the Reds Win at the Great American Ball Park The Great American Ball Park is a sight at any time of day, but when the stadium is filled from end to end with that signature scarlet hue and thousands of cheering fans, there is no place we would rather be. Root, root, root for the home team — and make sure you enjoy a coney in the stands! Engage in a Years-Long Rivalry in the Crosstown Shootout When the Cincinnati Bearcats and the Xavier Musketeers face off in their annual showdown, which side will you be on? Camp on the Infield at the Kentucky Speedway Yes, there is a way to be closer to the action! Get into the thick of it by camping on the infield at the Kentucky Speedway. Witness a Cincinnati Cyclones Victory at the Kelly Cup This could be their year! Whether you're a hockey fan or not, you had best be cheering for the correct team when the season starts.
Photo courtesy of 16-Bit
Play at 16-Bit This arcade-style bar redefined the Cincinnati nightlife experience! Enjoy more than 50 classic arcade games alongside bar bites and adult bevvies.
Photo courtesy of Brian Douglas via Oktoberfest Zinzinnati
Join in the Giant Chicken Dance at Oktoberfest Zinzinnati You don't want to be a chicken, you don't want to be a duck, but you definitely want to be at this fun-filled event, which is the second largest Oktoberfest celebration worldwide (upstaged only by the original in Munich). Visit Washington Park in Over the Rhine Let your children splash through the fountains, or bring a picnic and simply soak in the beautiful Ohio sunshine. A visit to Washington Park is the perfect way to spend any leisurely afternoon.
Photo courtesy of Funky Sunshine
Take a Turn Around Funky Sunshine This quirky shop has a serious passion for color, good vibes and laughter. Poke around the shop, and maybe take a piece of tie-dye artwork or apparel home with you! Peruse the Cincinnati Art Museum The Cincinnati Art Museum houses a collection of more than 65,000 works spanning six centuries. Come marvel at the works of Picasso, Botticelli, Monet and more. Shop Around at Black Plastic Records Black Plastic Records houses one of the most impressive music collections in the state! Even if you don't have a record player, you will enjoy perusing the shelves.This post was updated September 19, 2019 to include current information and recommendations.
It's hard to believe that fall is already upon us. Though we had a tough time bidding summer farewell, we are thrilled at the prospect of a new season filled with vibrant colors, warm apple cider and plenty of pumpkins. Visiting the pumpkin patch is a beloved tradition here in Ohio, as it allows families to spend time together soaking up the autumn sunshine. Whether you plan to carve your selection into a jack-o'-lantern, paint it with fun colors, or bake it into a pie, choosing your own pumpkin at a local farm is so much more fun than picking one up from the store. Most even offer hayrides, corn mazes and games for the little ones, so you can make a full day out of it! We rounded up our favorites below, all within easy reach of Columbus. Enjoy! The Best Pumpkin Patches Near Columbus Include:Pigeon Roost Farm | Lehner's Pumpkin Farm | Leeds Farm | Hidden Creek Farms | Lynd Fruit Farm | Lohstroh Family Farms | Jacquemin Farms | Schacht Farm Market | Branstool Orchards
Photo courtesy of Pigeon Roost Farm
2018 will mark 38 years of family fun at Pigeon Roost Farm, and it's no surprise this local pumpkin haven has been successful since the very beginning. The farm is open Tuesday through Sunday from September 15 through Halloween and boasts tractor-pulled wagon rides out to the pumpkin patch, flavorful refreshments, face painting, multiple mazes, farm animals, a fort, giant slides, impressive pumpkin displays and much more.
Photo courtesy of Lehner's Pumpkin Farm
Lehner's Pumpkin Farm is one of the most popular destinations for pumpkin picking in the state, boasting more than 50 acres of pumpkin patch and a full gauntlet of activities to keep the little ones entertained. Get lost in the eight-acre maze, cuddle a baby bunny, and challenge yourself to hit a new record with the giant slingshot (which flings little pumpkins across the field).
Photo courtesy of Leeds Farm
Leeds Farm is the epitome of autumn family fun. Spend the day soaking up the Ohio sunshine with your loved ones as you marvel over pumpkins big and small. Don't miss out on the family-friendly activities, which include paintball, zip lining, hayrides and animal feeding.
Photo courtesy of Lynd Fruit Farm
Lynd Fruit Farm is a local favorite—not just because of the bountiful and fresh produce, but also because of the warm and welcoming staff that treats customers like family. Enjoy hayrides, a giant corn maze and an unbeatable selection of giant pumpkins. This is one pumpkin patch you will return to year after year.
Photo courtesy of Jacquemin Farms
Jacquemin Farms is open on weekdays if you're just stopping by to pick something up, but the real fun happens on Saturdays and Sundays. During the weekend, you have the option to hop on a hayride to pick your own pumpkin from more than 15 acres of fields. After you've chosen the best one, come back to the farm to enjoy family-friendly activities, including a straw maze, giant air toys and grain boxes for the little ones. And don't forget to pick up a seasonal donut, too!
Photo courtesy of Branstool Orchards
Located just 45 minutes outside of Columbus, Branstool Orchards sits on a gorgeous piece of countryside in Utica, Ohio. The farm is best known for its peaches, but don't miss out on the pumpkins during autumn. Rumor has it that since the fields are slightly less crowded than those near Columbus, you will have your pick of the biggest and best varieties. The farm is open seven days a week for pumpkin picking, so stop by whenever you like—and make sure to grab some fresh apples while you're here!This post was updated on August 28, 2019, to reflect current information
The leaves are starting to change, pumpkin is taking over every menu in town, and that familiar chill has returned to the air. Fall is upon us again! We look forward to this season every year for the fun traditions it provides, such as picking your own apples. A day in the orchards gathering a fresh harvest with loved ones is the perfect way to ring in the new season — and there's no denying that apples straight from the tree just taste better. Thankfully, the gorgeous Ohio countryside is filled with orchards and farms filled to the brim with juicy, crisp apples ripe for picking. Below, we rounded up some of our absolute favorites. Enjoy!
At Patterson Fruit Farm, producing fresh fruit is a way of life. The team here enjoys providing food for their local community and sharing the farming experience with families who stop by for a day of adventuring. During apple season (August through early winter), the farm invites you to take a wagon ride and pick your own apples from more than 30 varieties grown on-site. Fun Fest runs from September 14th through October 27th, and boasts a full gauntlet of family-friendly activities, including horse-drawn wagon rides, giant haystacks, a corn maze, pumpkin painting and more!
Photo courtesy of Bauman Orchards
If you make the hour-long journey to Bauman Orchards in Rittman, you will be treated to more than 40,000 apple trees and 18 different varieties (10 available to pick yourself). Guests are invited to pick their own apples from September 2 through October 14. After a long day in the orchard, reward yourself with some fresh-pressed apple cider (and maybe a few baked goods) in the market. Looking for a pumpkin, gourd or squash for eating or decorating? You can find those in the market as well.
This family-owned market is a favorite year-round, but especially during the fall months. Starting in September, bring the family and pick your own apples in the scenic orchards. After your arms are full, peruse the market for fresh pastries, baking supplies and more! You're going to need some apple pie materials, after all.
Photo courtesy of Monroe's Orchard
Monroe's Orchard is a must-visit location for families looking for a fun day out in the sun. You'll find fresh fruits year-round, but it would be a shame to miss the sight of the bountiful apple orchards during the fall months. Stop in for a pick-your-own experience you won't soon forget.
Photo courtesy of Rittman Orchards
Rittman Orchards is known far and wide as one of the most gorgeous settings to spend an afternoon with loved ones. The market is open year-round and offers a wide variety of baked goods and fresh produce, but fruit-picking is the real draw of this location. Strawberries, peaches, apples and more are all available for you to grab straight from the source!
Photo courtesy of Sage's Apples
This local favorite is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, and it's no wonder it has been so successful for so long! The farm grows more than 50 varieties of apples and sells a wide range of fresh produce in its market year-round. While you aren't actually able to pick your own apples at this location, the market offers several delicious varieties that you won't be able to find anywhere else. It's certainly worth a visit.
Photo courtesy of the Varsity Club
Snagging an invite to a friend's tent or tailgating party is one of the most common ways to celebrate, but if you aren't sure where to start, here are some of our favorite venues in the stadium vicinity.
Photo courtesy of Buckeye Corner
Supporters of the opposing team are bound to get a little bit of flack — so you best be wearing gray and scarlet to avoid any confusion. Here are the best shops to stock up on your apparel for game day (and every day).
If you're partying at a friend's house or hosting a tailgating extravaganza by the stadium, you will definitely need some grilling supplies, some seven-layer dip, some peanut butter and chocolate buckeyes, and plenty of beverages. Here are some nearby shops to keep in mind.