Mt. Echo Park
Mt. Echo Park (photo: Regional Tourism Network)
For a West Side vantage point, take a 10-minute drive west of downtown to Mt. Echo Park. The overlook here offers a sweeping view of downtown, the Ohio River and Kentucky’s riverside hills. While you’re there, stop by the unique Frank Lloyd Wright–inspired shelter supported by two massive stone chimneys at its center. 202 Crestline Dr., East Price Hill
Bellevue Hill Park
Bellevue Hill Park (photo: Cincinnati Parks)
This Clifton Heights park used to be the end point for the Cincinnati incline. Alas, the incline is gone—but the scenic view remains. Other vestiges of the past worth seeing are the huge circular concrete cupolas that were installed as a festive touch for all the outdoor dance parties once held here. 2191 Ohio Ave., Clifton Heights
Eden Park
Twin Lakes at Eden Park (photo: Deborah K. Fulton)
Within its 186 acres, Eden Park houses the Cincinnati Art Museum, Playhouse in the Park, Mirror Lake and its 60-foot geyser, a gazebo dating to 1904 and, finally, the Twin Lakes. The remnants of an old quarry, these two small lakes with their footbridge and surrounding walking paths offer a picturesque view of the winding Ohio River. 950 Eden Park Dr., Mt. Adams
Alms Park
Alms Park (photo: Cincinnati Park Board)
This charming hilltop park offers a sweeping view of the very spot where the Little Miami River feeds into the Ohio River’s gigantic bend. You’ll also see the comings and goings at Lunken Airport (many small private planes take off and land from there), as well as the panoramic hills and valleys of Northern Kentucky. 711 Tusculum Ave., Columbia-Tusculum
Smale Riverfront Park
Smale Riverfront Park (photo: Regional Tourism Network)
From this lush and lovely park that follows the curves of the Ohio River on the Cincinnati side, you get an up-close-and-personal view of downtown Cincinnati as well as Newport and Covington, Kentucky, across the river. It’s a truly memorable spot that will leave you with plenty of Instagram-worthy shots (hint: snap at least a few of the Roebling Bridge, the first suspension bridge in the country). West Mehring Way, downtown Cincinnati
Devou Park
Devou Park (Photo: Katie Scheper)
Drive over the river and up a curving Covington road to glimpse Cincinnati USA at her absolute best. From this high vantage point, you get a sweeping view of the entire city skyline, end to end, with the tranquil Ohio River in the foreground and the park’s pretty greenery framing the scene. It’s a picture that practically takes itself. 790 Ark Lane, Covington, Kentucky
Written by Jessica Gordon.
