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| City Population: | 308,335 (2021) |
| Metro Population: | 1,764,000 |
| Elevation: | 482' |
| Time Zone: | Eastern |
| Average Temp: | 78°/58° (Sept) |
The best time to visit Cincinnati is in September or May when the weather is pristine... lower temperatures, lower humidity and lower rainfall. Cincy, here we come! But before you pack, you may want to check out the Cincy 10-day weather forecast here.
Other Interesting Cincinnati Facts:
- The Cincinnati Reds (initially Cincinnati Red Stockings) was the first Major League Baseball team in the country. The team was founded in 1890.
- Four presidents are connected to Cincinnati. Ulysses S. Grant was born in Point Pleasant in 1822. Benjamin Harrison was born in North Bend in 1833, William Howard Taft was born in Cincinnati in 1857, and William Henry Harrison lived in the Cincinnati area after his presidency.
- Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the moon, was born in Cincinnati in August 1930.
- Steven Spielberg was born in Cincinnati. Other famous people born in Cincy include Tyrone Power, Roy Rogers, Doris Day, Ted Turner, Pete Rose. And keep an eye out for the rich and famous with roots in Ohio like John Legend, Sarah Jessica Parker, Nick Lachey, and Carmen Electra.
- The Cincinnati Observatory is the oldest professional observatory in the country, founded in 1842.
- Fleischmann Gardens has the largest Ginko Tree in Ohio standing at 93 feet with a 247-inch circumference.
- Cincinnati it’s the only city in the US that owns a long-distance railroad – Cincinnati Southern Railroad. It runs from Cincinnati to Chattanooga. It’s subleased to Norfolk Southern.
Other interesting facts about Cincinnati can be found here.
View the Cincy Region Official Visitor's (Digital) Guide for a complete guide to attractions, events, restaurants, night life, shopping and more.
Below is an aerial preview of Cincy in 4 minutes, highlighting the beautiful skyline and bridges, and the Ohio River.
DISCOVER CINCY
It's easy to get around in Cincy with world-class attractions, a major league ballpark, and four-star restaurants – all within walking distance. But when you want to explore all that Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky have to offer, convenient transportation services are available throughout the region. There are lots of options for getting around Cincinnati like The Airporter (airport shuttle service is only $1.50 each way), Taxi Service, Uber, Lyft, and eScooters, and The Connector Streetcar (operates up to 18 hours a day/365 days a year on a 3.6-mile loop from The Banks and up to the Brewery District in Over-the-Rhine, and rides are offered at no charge). Visit the Cincy Transportation Page for more details. And take a look at the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky Interactive Map for attractions, dining, shopping, and more, including neighborhood and transportation maps.
We've pulled together lots of information for getting around Cincinnati on our Hotel and Travel page.
Check out The Connector Streetcar Map. Hop on and go just about anywhere you need to in Downtown Cincy!
ATTRACTIONS
There are so many Cincy attractions to keep everyone happy and entertained. Are you a fan of sports, music, art, shopping, or history? If you answered yes to any of those, then Cincy is for you!
Below is a Best Things to Do in Cincinnati video followed by other links to help you create your bucket list for Cincinnati!
We're confident you're going to love Cincy!
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Situated atop the rolling hillsides of Mt. Lookout, the Cincinnati Observatory Center is known as ‘The Birthplace of American Astronomy.’ It houses one of the oldest working telescopes in the world and was the first public observatory in the western hemisphere. Recently restored to its original beauty, the Observatory is a fully functioning 19th-century observatory used daily by the public and amateur astronomers. The historic buildings are designated as a National Historic Landmark, and the grounds provide a serene, park-like setting while still being centrally located in the city of Cincinnati. Located 6.9 mi. from the Cincinnati Hilton Netherland Plaza hotel. |
 Cincinnati Art Museum |
Love Van Gogh? Monet? O'Keeffe? Located in scenic Eden Park, the Cincinnati Art Museum features a diverse collection of more than 67,000 artworks spanning 6,000 years, including paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, fashion, photography and prints. The museum also presents special exhibitions each year. General admission is always free to 73 permanent collection galleries and the Rosenthal Education Center (REC) with interactive activities for families. Exhibition pricing varies. Parking is free. Open Tuesday–Sunday, 11 am–5 pm and Thursdays, 11 am–8 pm. Located 2 mi. from the Cincinnati Hilton Netherland Plaza hotel. |
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The Cincinnati Museum Center is a one-of-a-kind, multi-museum complex housed in Union Terminal, a historic Art Deco train station and National Historic Landmark. Museum Center's major offerings at Union Terminal include the Cincinnati History Museum, the Cincinnati History Library and Archives, The Children's Museum, the Museum of Natural History & Science and the Robert D. Lindner Family OMNIMAX® Theater. Open Thursday – Monday, 10 am to 5 pm. Located 1.8 mi. from the Cincinnati Hilton Netherland Plaza hotel. Ask about the behind-the-scenes tour that you can take for free at least once each day. It's highly recommended by Sid Raisch. |
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The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, voted #1 in the country by USA Today, opened its doors in 1875 making it the the second oldest Zoo in the United States. Starting out with a humble collection of creatures, the zoo has grown to include over 400 different species of animals and 3,000 plant species - sitting on an 80-acre campus. Zoo favorites include a collection of exotic felines (from tigers and snow leopards to sand cats and lions), to manatees, penguins and even kangaroos! Explore over 21 different habitats, hop on the train and enjoy a peaceful ride, get your face painted and try out a local brew. There's something for everyone! Located 5 mi. from the Cincinnati Hilton Netherland Plaza hotel. Note: The zoo and botanical garden is the last stop on our tour route on Wednesday. |
 Krohn Conservatory |
Krohn Conservatory opened in 1933 and is located at 1501 Eden Park Dr. Cincinnati, OH 45202 in Eden Park. The land in the park used to belong to Nicholas Longworth and he called it his Garden of Eden. It is an incredible botanical garden filled with over 3,500 plant species from around the world. It’s widely recognized as one of the country’s largest public greenhouses. It also draws architecture buffs, as the 1933 building is a classic example of the Art Deco style. You can explore seven distinct collections, including the tropical Palm House, Orchid House, and Bonsai Gallery, plus six seasonal exhibits. In springtime, the Butterfly Show is a can’t-miss. No matter when you visit, you can choose to wander on your own or join a guided tour to learn more about this unique collection of plants. Admission is $10. Open 10:00 am to 8:00 pm every day. Located 2.5 mi. from the Cincinnati Hilton Netherland Plaza hotel. |
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Fountain Square has been the symbolic center of Cincinnati since 1871. The centerpiece of the square is the stunning Genius of Water fountain, commissioned by Henry Probasco. In recent years, the square has gone through a transformation, and is now the focal point of a thriving entertainment district extending roughly three blocks each way from Fifth and Vine. It includes signature restaurants and bars like Graeter’s Ice Cream, Via Vite, Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse, Royce, and March First Brewing on all four sides of the square. If you’re looking for things to do in Fountain Square, there are hundreds of events year round. Summer time in Fountain Square means happy hour drinks at the Fountain Bar and free events like salsa dancing and trivia. Come winter, the square transforms into a holiday wonderland complete with an ice rink and warming tent. To experience the best of downtown Cincinnati, come to the heart of it all– Fountain Square! It’s the perfect starting point for your Cincy adventure. Located 1 block from the hotel. |
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Take a ride on one of 44 whimsical Cincinnati-centric characters that make up Carol Ann's Carousel at Smale Riverfront Park. The carousel is an amazing work of art featuring original artwork by Jonathan Queen with panels depicting animal characters playing in one of the numerous Cincinnati parks. Additional panels celebrate the many historic landmarks of Cincinnati. The carousel is housed inside a glass building so it can operate year-round. The carousel —a gift from the Carol Ann & Ralph V. Haile, Jr. Foundation was built by Carousel Works in Mansfield, Ohio, the world’s largest manufacturer of hand-carved wooden carousels. The Carousel is located at 8 East Mehring Way in The Banks District, just across the street from the new P&G GoVibrant Playscape next to the Roebling Bridge and immediately west of the Pichler Fountain off of Rosa Parks Drive. Located 2 blocks from the Cincinnati Connector Streetcar Stop 1. |
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The Taft Museum of Art was built around 1820 as a private home for several of Cincinnati’s most prominent citizens is now one of the finest small art museums in America and holds National Historic Landmark status for its historic house and Duncanson murals. This 200-year-old house holds a remarkable collection that spans the Middle Ages through the 19th century with European and American paintings, and 18th-century watches, Chinese porcelains, and French Renaissance enamels. The collection features iconic artists including Rembrandt, Goya, Gainsborough, Turner, Ingres, Whistler, and Sargent, as well as Federal-period American furniture and the most significant pre-Civil War domestic murals in the United States. Located 4 blocks from the Cincinnati Connector Streetcar Stop 2. |
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Smale Riverfront Park sits along the Ohio River near the base of the Roebling Suspension Bridge. This 45-acre park spans the riverfront area between Paul Brown Stadium and Great American Ballpark and includes a carousel, multiple playground areas, water features, giant swings, walking paths, monuments, and more. Located in The Banks District just a few blocks from the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza hotel, be sure to get your nature fix while taking in scenes of the Ohio River and Roebling Bridge. The park is open from 6 am to 11 pm daily. Located 2 blocks from the Cincinnati Connector Streetcar Stop 1. |
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A visit to Cincinnati wouldn't be complete without a visit to one of two Jungle Jim's International Market in Cincinnati and Fairfield! James O. Bonaminio has quite a back story that begins with humble beginnings but with a lot of hard work and determination found his niche. From the beginning, Jungle Jim’s was an idea bigger than the sum of its parts. Starting out as a roadside produce stand and slowly growing into what they are today has given them a unique perspective – not just on groceries and how to sell them, but what kind of experience that should be. With more than 200,000 products from over 70 countries in two 6-acre stores Jungle Jim's has become a destination for foodies, tourists, and weekly shoppers alike; from just around the corner to across the pond and beyond. You're sure to find more than you're looking for - including some great ideas! Check out Jungle Jim's "Evolution of the Jungle" video on this page. |
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The John A. Roebling Bridge has been an iconic landmark over the Ohio River for more than 150 years. Designed by civil engineer John Roebling, the bridge officially opened to traffic on January 1, 1867. Its 1,075-foot span made it the longest bridge in the world. Although the Roebling shares the riverfront with several bridges today, it remains a major thoroughfare for pedestrians and vehicles. Many residents use it to get to work each day, access the riverfront sports venues, and reach the bars and restaurants in Covington and Cincinnati. Read more history about the bridge here. Located .5 mi. from the hotel (then .5 mi. across the bridge) if you wish to walk it). |
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The National Underground Railway Freedom Center through permanent and traveling exhibits shares the stories of freedom’s heroes, from the era of the Underground Railroad to contemporary times, challenging and inspiring us all. The Center offers insight into the struggle for freedom in the past, in the present, and for the future, as it attempts to challenge visitors to contemplate the meaning of freedom in their own lives. Its location recognizes the significant role of Cincinnati in the history of the Underground Railroad, as thousands of slaves escaped to freedom by crossing the Ohio River from the southern slave states. Located in The Banks District, the Center is open Wednesday - Sunday 10 am - 5 pm. Last entry at 4:30 pm. General Admission $16.50. Located 1 block from the Cincinnati Connector Streetcar Stop 1. |
Visit Cincy Things to Do in Cincinnati
Tripadvisor's Best Things to Do in Cincinnati
CINCINNATI RESTAURANTS, SHOPPING, TOURS AND MORE
The Over-the-Rhine District is your go-to shopping destination in Downtown Cincinnati, with a wide variety of boutiques and specialty stores, from home décor to high-end fashion, and more. Stroll along Vine Street’s historic buildings or explore the eclectic selection of merchants located on Main Street. Take a break with a cocktail or meal along the outdoor dining areas, or “streateries”. The easiest way to get there is take the Cincy Streetcar (Stop 18 located 1 1/2 blocks from hotel and get off at Stop 12.)
Restaurants in Cincinnati
From favorite local delicacies to trendy farm-to-table restaurants, the Cincy Region is making a name for itself as a foodie destination. USA Today even named the region one of the country's top small cities with a big food scene. Cincy’s food scene isn’t one thing…in fact, it’s sort of ALL the things. With cuisine from all over the world and restaurant concepts from buzzworthy chefs, you’ll want to arrive hungry. Pull up a chair, grab a fork, and dig in. And don’t forget to pack your stretchy pants.
Here's a list of recommended Cincy restaurants from Group Client and local foodie Kyle Natorp (Thanks Kyle!) and a Google Map below. If you click on the View Larger Map icon in the upper right, you can see the Map Legend with a full list and links to each restaurant.
Natorp's Recommended Cincinnati Restaurants (WORD DOC)
Natorp's Recommended Cincinnati Restaurants (PDF)
Discover Cincy Bars and Night Life
Enjoy a night out on the town in the Cincy Region. With beer and bourbon always flowing and live music around every corner, there are countless places to grab a drink in Cincy. Watch the game at a sports bar downtown, experience Japanese-style karaoke, socialize at the swankiest speakeasy, or try happy hour with a local craft brew on tap in Over-the-Rhine–when the sun goes down, the fun ramps up. Whether it's beer, bourbon, or wine, you'll find it here. Cheers!
Shopping in Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky
Whether you’re looking for bargain deals on designer clothes or antiques with a history, this a curated list the best shopping in the Cincy Region so you can shop ‘til you drop. Head out for the day and explore locally owned boutiques in Montgomery or Mariemont, outlet stores like Cincinnati Premium Outlets, Kenwood Mall or Florence Mall – and even some fun foodie finds at local markets like Findlay Market and Jungle Jim’s. You won’t go home empty-handed!
Cincinnati Tours & Excursions
Take in the sights, sounds, and history of Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky, and the Ohio River valley on one of several tour options. Get your steps in and enjoy Cincy’s beautiful architecture with walking tours or take to the sky in a helicopter. Sip your way through Cincy’s rich bourbon and beer heritage and even tour your way around town on a Segway or pedal along the riverfront. You might even be tempted to cruise the Ohio River on a riverboat tour.
Take a Look at Cincy Events
There's always a lot happening in Cincy... during the week of The Fall Event (9/25-9/29) the Cincinnati Bengals are playing the Los Angeles Rams, there's Jazz at Fountain Square, special exhibitions at local museums, Wine and Dine Over the Rhine - and much more!
If any of this is on your "bucket list" now is the time to make it happen! Plan to come early or stay over after The Fall Event.
The Fall Event 2023 QuickLinks: 
The Fall Event 2023 - REGISTER
The Fall Event 2023 - MAIN PAGE
The Fall Event 2023 - SCHEDULE
The Fall Event 2023 - SPEAKERS & SESSIONS
The Fall Event 2023 - TOUR
The Fall Event 2023 - HOTEL & TRAVEL
The Fall Event 2023 - PAINT YOUR PET'S PORTRAIT EVENT
The Fall Event 2023 - SPONSORS