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Find Free Things To Do in Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky
You'll never be able to say there's nothing to do in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky! Even if you’re on a budget, with these free activities there's always more to explore, new adventures to be had and memories to be made in Cincinnati USA!
Featured
Cincinnati Art Museum
Uptown
Cincinnati Art Museum
Uptown
Located in scenic Eden Park, the Cincinnati Art Museum features an unparalleled art collection of more than 67,000 works spanning 6,000 years. In addition to displaying... Read more
Located in scenic Eden Park, the Cincinnati Art Museum features an unparalleled art collection of more than 67,000 works spanning 6,000 years. In addition to displaying its own broad collection, the Art Museum also hosts several national and international traveling exhibitions each year. The recently opened Rosenthal Education... Read More
New Riff Distilling
South > Riverfront
New Riff Distilling
South > Riverfront
Kentucky Bourbon and whiskey drinkers - rejoice! The northernmost stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is now located in Newport, Kentucky! Free tours offer a firsthand look... Read more
Kentucky Bourbon and whiskey drinkers - rejoice! The northernmost stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is now located in Newport, Kentucky! Free tours offer a firsthand look at the distillery as a guide leads you on an in-depth journey through the nooks and crannies of the distilling process, from grain to barrel. After each tour... Read More
Boone Cliffs Nature Preserve
South > Southwest
Boone Cliffs Nature Preserve
South > Southwest
Boone Cliffs contains 74 acres of old growth forest and unique cliff formations. There are 2.4 miles of unpaved trails that are rated moderate to difficult for hiking.
Boone Cliffs contains 74 acres of old growth forest and unique cliff formations. There are 2.4 miles of unpaved trails that are rated moderate to difficult for hiking.
Fort Thomas Landmark Tree Trail
South > Riverfront
Fort Thomas Landmark Tree Trail
South > Riverfront
This relatively short 1.1 mile trail features 14 landmark trees and various plant life. A great trail for kids although some of the hills are a bit steep and might be... Read more
This relatively short 1.1 mile trail features 14 landmark trees and various plant life. A great trail for kids although some of the hills are a bit steep and might be mildly challenging.
21c Museum Hotel
Downtown
21c Museum Hotel
Downtown
Located in the center of the action in downtown Cincinnati - adjacent to the Contemporary Arts Center and across the street from the Aronoff Center for the Arts – 21c... Read more
Located in the center of the action in downtown Cincinnati - adjacent to the Contemporary Arts Center and across the street from the Aronoff Center for the Arts – 21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati is a 156-room boutique hotel, contemporary art museum and cultural civic center. The museum and hotel is located in the 100-year-old... Read More
Rapid Run Park
West
Rapid Run Park
West
A 50 acre park with paved sidewalks, a shelter for picnics, and a view of a shallow lake. Also includes kid's play areas. Part of Cincinnati Parks
A 50 acre park with paved sidewalks, a shelter for picnics, and a view of a shallow lake. Also includes kid's play areas. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Willamstown Lake
South
Willamstown Lake
South
In 1957, Williamstown Lake became accessible for all to enjoy fishing. Today, it's still a popular place to cast a line. At 300 acres, the city's reservoir produces a... Read more
In 1957, Williamstown Lake became accessible for all to enjoy fishing. Today, it's still a popular place to cast a line. At 300 acres, the city's reservoir produces a variety of fish. The lake also offers several launch ramps in addition to the dock which stocks bait, tackle and other supplies.
French Park
North
French Park
North
French Park is home of the beautiful French House which can be rented out for private parties and events. The house is surrounded by beautiful greenery and floral scenes... Read more
French Park is home of the beautiful French House which can be rented out for private parties and events. The house is surrounded by beautiful greenery and floral scenes along with multiple walking and hiking paths, creeks, and a beautiful view of Cincinnati. Part of Cincinnati Parks
George Rogers Clark Park
South > Riverfront
George Rogers Clark Park
South > Riverfront
This charming urban park in Northern Kentucky is a favorite spot for photographers and riverwalkers. Situated on Riverside Drive and on the Covington Riverfront, the park... Read more
This charming urban park in Northern Kentucky is a favorite spot for photographers and riverwalkers. Situated on Riverside Drive and on the Covington Riverfront, the park provides a shaded respite to read a book, eat lunch on a bench or watch barges travel down the Ohio River.
Covington Historic Walking Tour
South > Riverfront
Covington Historic Walking Tour
South > Riverfront
Join Kenton County Public Library's Local History staff for the FREE Covington in 1915 historical walking tour to learn about Covington, Ky, 100 years ago. Walk is roughly... Read more
Join Kenton County Public Library's Local History staff for the FREE Covington in 1915 historical walking tour to learn about Covington, Ky, 100 years ago. Walk is roughly one mile in length and travels through neighborhoods surrounding Covington Library. Program is weather dependent.
Cincinnati History Library and Archives
Downtown
Cincinnati History Library and Archives
Downtown
Since its founding in 1831 as the library of the Historical and Philosophical Society of Ohio, the library has been collecting and preserving materials relating to the... Read more
Since its founding in 1831 as the library of the Historical and Philosophical Society of Ohio, the library has been collecting and preserving materials relating to the greater Cincinnati area, the state of Ohio and the Old Northwest Territory. Today, it houses one of the most significant regional history collections in the... Read More
Kennedy Heights Park
North
Kennedy Heights Park
North
Kennedy Heights Park provides a pleasant neighborhood retreat. The park has picnic tables, play equipment, and a soccer field, as well as walking trails. Part of... Read more
Kennedy Heights Park provides a pleasant neighborhood retreat. The park has picnic tables, play equipment, and a soccer field, as well as walking trails. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Smale Riverfront Park
Downtown
Smale Riverfront Park
Downtown
Located on 45-acres along Cincinnati's downtown riverfront, park features include splash grounds and water play areas, playground, picnic area, Carol Ann's Carousel,... Read more
Located on 45-acres along Cincinnati's downtown riverfront, park features include splash grounds and water play areas, playground, picnic area, Carol Ann's Carousel, Moerlein Lager House and more. See this map for all the features. Part of Cincinnati Parks
California Woods
East
California Woods
East
With its 113 acres of forest, California Woods Nature Preserve offers something for all nature lovers. The park features 53 species of trees, more than 200 species of... Read more
With its 113 acres of forest, California Woods Nature Preserve offers something for all nature lovers. The park features 53 species of trees, more than 200 species of herbaceous plants, and Lick Run Creek, home to kingfishers, snapping turtles, small fish, myriad invertebrates and the occasional visit from grebes, mallards,... Read More
Highland Cemetery Hiking Trails
South > Southwest
Highland Cemetery Hiking Trails
South > Southwest
Explore 6 color-coded trails covering 4 miles on 150 acres of undeveloped cemetery property. Witness something unique with each season. Spring and summer are ideal for... Read more
Explore 6 color-coded trails covering 4 miles on 150 acres of undeveloped cemetery property. Witness something unique with each season. Spring and summer are ideal for bird watching and getting to see both native species and neotropical migrants. Fall boasts gorgeous colors from the maple trees, and winter is great for... Read More
Art Beyond Boundaries
Downtown
Art Beyond Boundaries
Downtown
The Art Beyond Boundaries Gallery is a professional, main-stream fine art gallery where local and regional artists with disabilities display, market, and sell their... Read more
The Art Beyond Boundaries Gallery is a professional, main-stream fine art gallery where local and regional artists with disabilities display, market, and sell their artwork. The mission of the gallery is to promote awareness and understanding of artists with disabilities. The gallery strives to demonstrate to both the artists... Read More
Sawyer Point & Yeatman's Cove
Downtown
Sawyer Point & Yeatman's Cove
Downtown
Sawyer Point & Yeatman’s Cove make up a mile long stretch of park along Cincinnati's riverfront between Smale Riverfront Park and Berry International Friendship Park.... Read more
Sawyer Point & Yeatman’s Cove make up a mile long stretch of park along Cincinnati's riverfront between Smale Riverfront Park and Berry International Friendship Park. Featuring award winning landscaping, a performance pavilion, concessions, 8 outdoor tennis courts, 3 sand volleyball courts, a world class playground, the... Read More
Miami Whitewater Forest
West
Miami Whitewater Forest
West
The sprawling 4,438 acre park includes wetlands with a wildlife viewing shelter located along the Shaker Trace Trail, disc golf course, three nature trails, two fitness... Read more
The sprawling 4,438 acre park includes wetlands with a wildlife viewing shelter located along the Shaker Trace Trail, disc golf course, three nature trails, two fitness Trails, 18-hole golf facility with driving range, campground, soccer complex, 85-acre lake with fishing, bike, boat rental, and snack bar. Parky's Pirate Cove... Read More
Shawnee Lookout
West
Shawnee Lookout
West
Shawnee Lookout is well known for its historical Springhouse School and Log Cabin and Native American archaeological earthworks. The park's nature trails, including the 1.... Read more
Shawnee Lookout is well known for its historical Springhouse School and Log Cabin and Native American archaeological earthworks. The park's nature trails, including the 1.3-mile Blue Jacket, 2.0-mile Little Turtle and the 1.4-mile Miami Fort trail, offer spectacular views of the Ohio River and Great Miami River valleys. The... Read More
Bellevue Hill Park
Uptown
Bellevue Hill Park
Uptown
This park used to be the end point for the Cincinnati incline. Today, the beautiful view remains and, as an example of organic architecture, the park’s pavilion was... Read more
This park used to be the end point for the Cincinnati incline. Today, the beautiful view remains and, as an example of organic architecture, the park’s pavilion was designed by architect R. Carl Freund in 1955 to serve as an outdoor dancing venue. It features a cantilever roof, bandstand and three pergolas that form the... Read More
Turfway Park
South > Southwest
Turfway Park
South > Southwest
Catch the fun and excitement of Thoroughbred racing all year long at Turfway Park. Live racing held each winter. You can experience simulcast action the rest of the year... Read more
Catch the fun and excitement of Thoroughbred racing all year long at Turfway Park. Live racing held each winter. You can experience simulcast action the rest of the year Wednesday thru Sunday. The vintage charm of historical Turfway Park will be sure to create a memorable experience for the young and old alike. Check out the... Read More
National Steamboat Monument
Downtown
National Steamboat Monument
Downtown
Rising above the concrete slopes of Cincinnati’s Public Landing at Sawyer Point is a three-story, 60 ton, exact replica of the original red paddle wheel from the American... Read more
Rising above the concrete slopes of Cincinnati’s Public Landing at Sawyer Point is a three-story, 60 ton, exact replica of the original red paddle wheel from the American Queen riverboat. It is positioned about 40 feet off the ground, above a series of 24 metal smokestacks in what is known as the Dan and Susan Pfau Whistle... Read More
Winton Woods
North
Winton Woods
North
Winton Centre is headquarters to Great Parks of Hamilton County guest services, administrative offices, rangers and naturalists. The auditorium features nature-related... Read more
Winton Centre is headquarters to Great Parks of Hamilton County guest services, administrative offices, rangers and naturalists. The auditorium features nature-related educational exhibits. The park has reservable picnic areas and shelters with Great Parks Catering available. Winton Woods also offers an 18-hole disc golf course... Read More
Mitchell Memorial Forest
West
Mitchell Memorial Forest
West
This park offers over eight miles of challenging mountain bike trail, a 1.0-mile Wood Duck nature trail, the River Hill “catch and release” fishing pond, playground,... Read more
This park offers over eight miles of challenging mountain bike trail, a 1.0-mile Wood Duck nature trail, the River Hill “catch and release” fishing pond, playground, picnic areas and the reservable Pine Meadow Youth Camp. Part of Great Parks of Hamilton County
Otto Armleder Memorial Park & Recreation Complex
East
Otto Armleder Memorial Park & Recreation Complex
East
This park features a 10-acre dog park with areas for large and small breeds, a canine shower and drinking fountains. It also features a new 1.0-mile paved trail that... Read more
This park features a 10-acre dog park with areas for large and small breeds, a canine shower and drinking fountains. It also features a new 1.0-mile paved trail that connects the park's existing 1.9-mile trail to the 5-mile Lunken Airfield loop, as well as a playground, reservable soccer fields, river outlook and access to the... Read More
Fitton Center for Creative Arts
North
Fitton Center for Creative Arts
North
Expect the unexpected at the Fitton Center - Experience artistic, musical, educational and social opportunities designed with the community in mind. With rotating... Read more
Expect the unexpected at the Fitton Center - Experience artistic, musical, educational and social opportunities designed with the community in mind. With rotating galleries, a variety of class offerings, performances and other special events, there truly is something for everyone at the Fitton Center.
Pioneer Cemetery
East
Pioneer Cemetery
East
A memorial cemetery of the pioneer settlement of Columbia. The 2.2 acre park is the resting place of veterans and pioneers dating all the way back to 1797. Part... Read more
A memorial cemetery of the pioneer settlement of Columbia. The 2.2 acre park is the resting place of veterans and pioneers dating all the way back to 1797. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Florence/Boone County Skate Park
South > Southwest
Florence/Boone County Skate Park
South > Southwest
This 20,000 sq. ft. park is designed for in-line skates, roller blades and skateboards and has beginner, intermediate and advanced areas with various challenging elements... Read more
This 20,000 sq. ft. park is designed for in-line skates, roller blades and skateboards and has beginner, intermediate and advanced areas with various challenging elements. Included are a shelter, spectator area, emergency telephone and parking lot. There is no fee to enter. Park hours are from dawn to dusk. Safety equipment... Read More
Eden Park
Uptown
Eden Park
Uptown
Home to the Cincinnati Art Museum, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park and the Krohn Conservatory, Eden Park is one of the most popular of the Cincinnati Parks. Landmarks... Read more
Home to the Cincinnati Art Museum, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park and the Krohn Conservatory, Eden Park is one of the most popular of the Cincinnati Parks. Landmarks within the park include Hinkle Magnolia Garden, which features a picturesque gazebo, memorial tree groves and paths, Mirror Lake, and the Bettman Fountain. Twin... Read More
Ault Park
Uptown
Ault Park
Uptown
Ault Park is one of Cincinnati's largest and most scenic parks, with a variety of gardens, benches and plenty of playground equipment. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Ault Park is one of Cincinnati's largest and most scenic parks, with a variety of gardens, benches and plenty of playground equipment. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Kenton County Public Library – Erlanger
South > Southwest
Kenton County Public Library – Erlanger
South > Southwest
The Erlanger location opened in October 2002. It has 34,300 square feet, features 15 station computer lab, meeting room to accommodate 200, children’s area, reading... Read more
The Erlanger location opened in October 2002. It has 34,300 square feet, features 15 station computer lab, meeting room to accommodate 200, children’s area, reading garden, outdoor council ring, and drive-through window. It is the busiest library in Kentucky. Library computers include Microsoft Office, Internet access and... Read More
La Boiteaux Woods
North
La Boiteaux Woods
North
A nature preserve with a nature center and plenty of diverse wildlife. Part of Cincinnati Parks
A nature preserve with a nature center and plenty of diverse wildlife. Part of Cincinnati Parks
The Carnegie
South > Riverfront
The Carnegie
South > Riverfront
The Carnegie is Northern Kentucky’s largest multidisciplinary arts venue hosting theater and concert events, children’s arts programs and art exhibitions. With five art... Read more
The Carnegie is Northern Kentucky’s largest multidisciplinary arts venue hosting theater and concert events, children’s arts programs and art exhibitions. With five art galleries, a magnificent turn-of-the-century theater, and a brand new education center, the Carnegie is one of the most prominent arts institutions in Northern... Read More
Second Sight Spirits
South > Riverfront
Second Sight Spirits
South > Riverfront
An artisan distillery located in Ludlow KY, focused on bringing the art of hand crafted distilling back to Northern Kentucky. Free tours and tastings.
An artisan distillery located in Ludlow KY, focused on bringing the art of hand crafted distilling back to Northern Kentucky. Free tours and tastings.
ArtWorks Public Art and Murals
Downtown
![ArtWorks Mural "Mr. Dynamite"](https://cincinnatiusa.com/sites/default/files/styles/grid_photo/public/artworks_jamesbrown_jmwolf-6325.jpg?itok=wjHplClf "ArtWorks Mural "Mr. Dynamite"")
ArtWorks Public Art and Murals
Downtown
ArtWorks' Public Art program creates innovative works that enrich Greater Cincinnati while providing job opportunities to youth Apprentices and professional artists. To... Read more
ArtWorks' Public Art program creates innovative works that enrich Greater Cincinnati while providing job opportunities to youth Apprentices and professional artists. To date, ArtWorks has created over 120 murals, more than a dozen artist-designed public bike racks, and more. Explore all of ArtWorks public art with this map or... Read More
Sayler Park
West
Sayler Park
West
Known as Cincinnati's western gateway, this park spans much of the area below the Delhi area of Cincinnati. It offers play spaces and relaxing picnic areas. ... Read more
Known as Cincinnati's western gateway, this park spans much of the area below the Delhi area of Cincinnati. It offers play spaces and relaxing picnic areas. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Middle Creek Park
South > Southwest
Middle Creek Park
South > Southwest
The park contains 230 acres of forest full of wildflowers, wildlife and 8.5 miles of unpaved trails that range from moderate to difficult for hiking and horseback riding.
The park contains 230 acres of forest full of wildflowers, wildlife and 8.5 miles of unpaved trails that range from moderate to difficult for hiking and horseback riding.
Parkers Woods
Uptown
Parkers Woods
Uptown
Located in Northside, this park offers plenty of green spaces and picnic areas as well as a playground for children. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Located in Northside, this park offers plenty of green spaces and picnic areas as well as a playground for children. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Wilson Commons
West
Wilson Commons
West
Wilson Commons is known for it's beautiful view of downtown Cincinnati and the Kentucky hills. It has a small pond area (no swimming) and paved pathways. Part... Read more
Wilson Commons is known for it's beautiful view of downtown Cincinnati and the Kentucky hills. It has a small pond area (no swimming) and paved pathways. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site
South > Southwest
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site
South > Southwest
Big Bone Lick is a unique state park where the prehistoric past is enshrined, containing the remains of some of America’s early animal inhabitants. Once covered with... Read more
Big Bone Lick is a unique state park where the prehistoric past is enshrined, containing the remains of some of America’s early animal inhabitants. Once covered with swamps, the land that makes up Big Bone Lick had a combination of minerals and water that animals found difficult to resist. For centuries great beasts of the... Read More
Glenwood Gardens
North
Glenwood Gardens
North
This beautifully landscaped 335-acre park includes a 1.0-mile paved trail and the 1.6-mile Wetland Loop nature trail (skates, scooters and bikes prohibited) and formal... Read more
This beautifully landscaped 335-acre park includes a 1.0-mile paved trail and the 1.6-mile Wetland Loop nature trail (skates, scooters and bikes prohibited) and formal gardens, prairies, forests and wetlands plus Highfield Discovery Garden for children (fee applies). The gift shop offers a variety of nature-related merchandise... Read More
Mt. Airy Forest
West
Mt. Airy Forest
West
Accessible from Mt. Airy and Westwood, Mt. Airy Forest's 1,459 acres includes miles of hiking trails and bridle trails (located off Diehl Road) for horseback riders. Mt.... Read more
Accessible from Mt. Airy and Westwood, Mt. Airy Forest's 1,459 acres includes miles of hiking trails and bridle trails (located off Diehl Road) for horseback riders. Mt. Airy has Ohio's only wheelchair accessible public treehouse, an enclosed dog park, and disc golf. Mt. Airy Arboretum's specialty gardens, gazebos and... Read More
Laurel Park
Downtown
Laurel Park
Downtown
A park created as a result of the construction on Union Terminal. It has multiple picnic tables and towering trees. Part of Cincinnati Parks
A park created as a result of the construction on Union Terminal. It has multiple picnic tables and towering trees. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Roebling Suspension Bridge
South
Roebling Suspension Bridge
South
When the Roebling Suspension Bridge opened to traffic in 1867 connecting Covington, Kentucky and Cincinnati, Ohio, its span of 1057 feet was the longest in the world. John... Read more
When the Roebling Suspension Bridge opened to traffic in 1867 connecting Covington, Kentucky and Cincinnati, Ohio, its span of 1057 feet was the longest in the world. John A. Roebling, whose next project was the Brooklyn Bridge, is the engineer responsible for creating this iconic feature of our region's skyline which is now a... Read More
Loveland Bike Trail
East
Loveland Bike Trail
East
The Loveland Bike Trail is a section of the over 70 flat paved miles of the Little Miami Scenic Bike Trail. Loveland and other towns offer charming places to stop and... Read more
The Loveland Bike Trail is a section of the over 70 flat paved miles of the Little Miami Scenic Bike Trail. Loveland and other towns offer charming places to stop and relax, get a bite to eat or explore. The trail in the vicinity of Loveland is particularly popular because of its easy access, historic downtown, ice cream,... Read More
Gunpowder Creek Nature Park
South > Southwest
Gunpowder Creek Nature Park
South > Southwest
Explore 1.25 miles of unpaved walking and hiking trains, let the kids burn off steam on the playground, or reserve the shelter for a private event. The park has 122 wooded... Read more
Explore 1.25 miles of unpaved walking and hiking trains, let the kids burn off steam on the playground, or reserve the shelter for a private event. The park has 122 wooded acres complete with an 1800s logging trail that ends near the creek.
Findlay Market
Downtown
Findlay Market
Downtown
Findlay Market is Ohio's oldest continuously operated public market and one of Cincinnati's most cherished institutions. The Market is located just blocks from downtown in... Read more
Findlay Market is Ohio's oldest continuously operated public market and one of Cincinnati's most cherished institutions. The Market is located just blocks from downtown in Over-the-Rhine, a dense historic neighborhood rich in 19th century architecture. Open Tuesday through Sunday, Findlay Market is open year-around with three... Read More
Owl's Nest Park
North
Owl's Nest Park
North
Donated in memory of a homestead known as "Owl's Nest". The park boasts of beautiful entryway columns, wrought iron fences and a beautiful pavilion. Part of... Read more
Donated in memory of a homestead known as "Owl's Nest". The park boasts of beautiful entryway columns, wrought iron fences and a beautiful pavilion. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Manifest Gallery
Uptown
Manifest Gallery
Uptown
Manifest stands for the quality presentation, experience, and documentation of the visual arts, engaging students, professionals, and the public from around the world... Read more
Manifest stands for the quality presentation, experience, and documentation of the visual arts, engaging students, professionals, and the public from around the world through accessible world-class exhibits, studio programs, and publications. Manifest Gallery serves as a venue for the display and experience of insightful,... Read More
Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park
Uptown
Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park
Uptown
Located along the Ohio River just east of downtown, is a sumptuous and award-winning display of sculpture and flora representing five continents and also featuring a... Read more
Located along the Ohio River just east of downtown, is a sumptuous and award-winning display of sculpture and flora representing five continents and also featuring a riverside bike trail and walking paths. Named for Cincinnati’s first African-American mayor, it serves as a lasting tribute to world unity and global understanding... Read More
