Things every first-time traveler to Cincinnati needs to do

Cincinnati is a city that offers plenty of fun and excitement for visitors. With a rich history and plenty of cultural attractions, there's something for everyone in this vibrant Midwestern city. You can explore the city's many neighborhoods, enjoy its world-class restaurants, or take in a sporting event or concert. There are also plenty of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to fishing and boating. So if you're looking for a great city getaway, Cincinnati should be at the top of your list!

1. Plan your trip

Before you visit Cincinnati, it's a good idea to plan your trip. You'll want to decide what attractions you want to see and what neighborhoods you want to explore. There are also plenty of great restaurants and nightlife options in Cincinnati, so you'll want to make sure you have time to check them out. And if you're coming during the summer months, be sure to pack your sunscreen and sunglasses!

2. Visit the Cincinnati Zoo

The Cincinnati Zoo is one of the city's top tourist attractions, and for a good reason. It's home to over 500 animals, including elephants, lions, tigers, and gorillas. There's also a children's zoo where kids can pet and feed goats, sheep, and llamas.

3. Explore downtown Cincinnati

Downtown Cincinnati is a great place to explore on foot. It's home to several historic buildings, including the Carew Tower and the Roebling Suspension Bridge. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars in the area and museums and theaters.

4. Take a riverboat cruise

The Ohio River flows through downtown Cincinnati, and several companies offer riverboat cruises on it. You'll see the city from a different perspective and learn about its history and architecture.

5. Visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is a must-see for anyone interested in American history. It's located on the banks of the Ohio River and tells the story of the Underground Railroad, which helped enslaved people escape to freedom.

6. Catch a Reds game at Great American Ball Park

Baseball fans will want to catch a game at Great American Ball Park, home of the Cincinnati Reds. Even if you're not a big baseball fan, it's still fun to experience America's pastime in such a historic ballpark.

7. See a show at Music Hall

Music Hall is a historic theater in Cincinnati that hosts a variety of performances, from ballet to Broadway shows. It's also home to the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, so it's a great place to see a classical concert.

8. Shop at Findlay Market

Findlay Market is an indoor/outdoor market located in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. It's been around since 1855 and is one of the country's oldest continuously operated public markets. You'll find fresh produce, meat, cheese, and more here.

9. Visit Eden Park

Eden Park is a huge park located on the east side of Cincinnati. It's home to several museums, including the Cincinnati Art Museum and the Krohn Conservatory. There are also plenty of hiking trails, gardens, and a playground.

10. Go to Kings Island

Kings Island is an amusement park located just outside Cincinnati. It's one of the country's biggest and most popular amusement parks and home to some of the best roller coasters. So if you're looking for thrills, this is the place to go!

11. Visit the Cincinnati Observatory

The Cincinnati Observatory is one of the best places in the city to stargaze. It's located on top of a hill in Mt. Lookout, and on clear nights, you can see up to 3,000 stars. The Observatory also offers public astronomy classes and telescope viewing sessions.

12. Ride the streetcars

Cincinnati's streetcars are a great way to get around downtown and Over-the-Rhine. They're free to ride and offer a unique way to see the city.

13. Explore the food scene

Cincinnati has a thriving food scene, with plenty of great restaurants to try. From BBQ to Italian, you'll find whatever you're craving in this city. Make sure you save room for dessert, too! There are several ice cream and candy shops that are worth checking out.

14. Visit the Cincinnati Art Museum

The Cincinnati Art Museum is one of the country's oldest and largest art museums. It's located in Eden Park and houses over 60,000 works of art, from paintings to sculptures.

15. Visit the Taft Museum of Art

The Taft Museum of Art is one of the best art museums in the country. It's located in a historic mansion and has a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art.

16. Walk through Fountain Square

Fountain Square is one of the most popular places in Cincinnati, and it's easy to see why. It's home to the iconic Tyler Davidson Fountain and several restaurants, bars, and shops. There's also a stage where you can catch live music or other performances.

17. Take a tour of the Cincinnati Brewery District

Cincinnati was once known as the "Beer Capital of America," You can learn about its brewing history at the time of the Brewery District. You'll visit several breweries, including Christian Moerlein and Rhinegeist, and sample some of their best beers.

18. Visit Washington Park

Washington Park is a large park located in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. It's home to a playground, dog park, basketball courts, and more. You can catch free concerts at the park's bandstand in the summer.

19. Visit Newport on the Levee

Newport on the Levee is an entertainment complex located in Newport, Kentucky (across the river from Cincinnati). It's home to several restaurants, shops, a movie theater, and an aquarium. You can also walk across the Purple People Bridge to get a great view of the city.

20. Go on a shopping spree

Cincinnati has plenty of great places to go shopping. From malls to boutiques, you'll find whatever you're looking for in this city. And if you're a bargain hunter, don't forget to check out the thrift stores! You never know what treasures you'll find.

These are just a few great things to do in Cincinnati. So whether you're visiting for a weekend or staying for a week, you'll be sure to find plenty of ways to keep yourself entertained.