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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!
Licking River Greenway and Trails
South > Riverfront
Licking River Greenway and Trails
South > Riverfront
Gravel and paved trails (biking, walking, running) along the Licking River in Covington spanning approximately two miles from the corner of Levassor and Eastern Ave. (... Read more
Gravel and paved trails (biking, walking, running) along the Licking River in Covington spanning approximately two miles from the corner of Levassor and Eastern Ave. (behind Holmes High School – 2500 Madison Ave.) to Randolph Park. The paved portion can be accessed at Clayton Meyer Park at the corner of Glenway and Thomas St.... 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
Campbell County Log Cabin Museum
South > Southeast
Campbell County Log Cabin Museum
South > Southeast
This museum is a privately built and owned non-profit museum. The mission of this museum is "to educate today's generation about yesterday's rural Campbell County; 1845... Read more
This museum is a privately built and owned non-profit museum. The mission of this museum is "to educate today's generation about yesterday's rural Campbell County; 1845 through about 1965." The museum consists of two re-constructed log cabins, which were built before the Civil War. From 1982 to 1996, both cabins were rebuilt by... Read More
Kenton County Public Library – William E. Durr
South > Southeast
Kenton County Public Library – William E. Durr
South > Southeast
The William E. Durr location of the Kenton County Public Library opened in January 2007. It is a 39,000 square-foot library, with 25,283 sq. ft. of public space. Features... Read more
The William E. Durr location of the Kenton County Public Library opened in January 2007. It is a 39,000 square-foot library, with 25,283 sq. ft. of public space. Features include a drive-through window, 2,000 sq. ft. meeting room, two study rooms, 15 station computer lab, 32 public access computers and a reading garden. The... Read More
German Heritage Museum
North
German Heritage Museum
North
The German Heritage Museum serves as the focal point in presenting and displaying German-American culture. This museum is the first of its kind in the region, and a... Read more
The German Heritage Museum serves as the focal point in presenting and displaying German-American culture. This museum is the first of its kind in the region, and a testament to the many contributions German immigrants and their descendants have made toward the building of the Ohio Valley and America. The museum focuses... Read More
The Mini Microcinema
Downtown
The Mini Microcinema
Downtown
The Mini Microcinema is dedicated to showing film/video/media that breaks from standard cinematic convention. It is part of a community that celebrates the art of the... Read more
The Mini Microcinema is dedicated to showing film/video/media that breaks from standard cinematic convention. It is part of a community that celebrates the art of the moving image, both contemporary and historical, from both near and far. Programming consists of work created outside of mainstream production and distribution... Read More
William Howard Taft National Historic Site
Uptown
William Howard Taft National Historic Site
Uptown
The William Howard Taft National Historic Site commemorates the only man to serve as President and Chief Justice of the United States. The house that Taft was born in has... Read more
The William Howard Taft National Historic Site commemorates the only man to serve as President and Chief Justice of the United States. The house that Taft was born in has been restored to its original appearance. A visit to the site includes a tour of the restored birthplace and four period rooms that reflect the family life... Read More
NKU Art Galleries
South > Southeast
NKU Art Galleries
South > Southeast
It is the mission of the NKU Gallery to be a premiere venue for the exhibition of high quality art works from regional, national, and international artists. The gallery... Read more
It is the mission of the NKU Gallery to be a premiere venue for the exhibition of high quality art works from regional, national, and international artists. The gallery will serve as an exhibition forum for the community and region to view the work of traditionally under represented groups and individuals who have contributed... Read More
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
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
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.
Triple Creek
North
Triple Creek
North
This 177 acre park offers four manicured softball fields, a fishing pond, fitness trail, playground and snack bar. Part of Great Parks of Hamilton County
This 177 acre park offers four manicured softball fields, a fishing pond, fitness trail, playground and snack bar. Part of Great Parks of Hamilton County
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
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
Burnet Woods
Uptown
Burnet Woods
Uptown
Located near the University of Cincinnati, Burnet Woods has everything you could want from hiking trails to a historic bandstand to picnic areas to playgrounds and more.... Read more
Located near the University of Cincinnati, Burnet Woods has everything you could want from hiking trails to a historic bandstand to picnic areas to playgrounds and more. They also have a full disc golf course for your enjoyment. 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
Tower Park
South > Southeast
Tower Park
South > Southeast
86.6 acres of hilly trails and picnic areas for families and kids to enjoy. Located close to the Ohio River and given its name from the 102 foot stone tower at the park... Read more
86.6 acres of hilly trails and picnic areas for families and kids to enjoy. Located close to the Ohio River and given its name from the 102 foot stone tower at the park entrance. The park is also home to a 4-mile mountain bike trail.
Annwood Park
Uptown
Annwood Park
Uptown
A small, well kept park located in the East Walnut Hills area. It was donated to Cincinnati in 1966 and expanded in 1969. It was created as an effort to preserve greenery... Read more
A small, well kept park located in the East Walnut Hills area. It was donated to Cincinnati in 1966 and expanded in 1969. It was created as an effort to preserve greenery and wildlife in the area. 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
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.
England Idlewild Park
South
England Idlewild Park
South
This 290 acre park offers three fishing ponds that are regularly stocked with bluegill and catfish. It features wooded and open areas as well as wetlands, and a 6... Read more
This 290 acre park offers three fishing ponds that are regularly stocked with bluegill and catfish. It features wooded and open areas as well as wetlands, and a 6 miles of unpaved mountain bike trails.
Stanbery Park
East
Stanbery Park
East
This park features some of the longest and best hiking trails in the area. Because of its extensive space and large hills, it is also a favorite sledding hill for locals.... Read more
This park features some of the longest and best hiking trails in the area. Because of its extensive space and large hills, it is also a favorite sledding hill for locals. Its green spaces are also ideal for picnics, meetings, gatherings, and more. Part of Cincinnati Parks
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
Terrell Park
East
Terrell Park
East
Jim Terrell Park is located near Longworth Street and Ferry Street on 27.3 acres. The amenities include, grills, picnic tables, trash receptacles, canoe access, small... Read more
Jim Terrell Park is located near Longworth Street and Ferry Street on 27.3 acres. The amenities include, grills, picnic tables, trash receptacles, canoe access, small sleeping shelter, multi-use trail and access to th Milford Urban Trail System. Camping is permitted at Terrell Park, with a $5 permit fee per night.
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
Blue Ash/Montgomery Symphony Orchestra
North
Blue Ash/Montgomery Symphony Orchestra
North
Founded in 1987, the Blue Ash/Montgomery Symphony Orchestra (BAMSO) is the only professional orchestra in greater Cincinnati offering a complete season of concerts, free... Read more
Founded in 1987, the Blue Ash/Montgomery Symphony Orchestra (BAMSO) is the only professional orchestra in greater Cincinnati offering a complete season of concerts, free to the general public. BAMSO works to promote the next generation of musicians through its Young Artist Competition concert, Young Artist recital, and our... 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
Mt. Storm Park
Uptown
Mt. Storm Park
Uptown
Located in Clifton, this park has picnic areas, green spaces, and a beautiful gazebo. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Located in Clifton, this park has picnic areas, green spaces, and a beautiful gazebo. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Great Miami Riverway
North
Great Miami Riverway
North
The Great Miami Riverway is 99 miles of river, paved trails, and connected communities. Find your way to Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park or try an art class at the Fitton... Read more
The Great Miami Riverway is 99 miles of river, paved trails, and connected communities. Find your way to Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park or try an art class at the Fitton Center in Hamilton. Whether you stay in the “City of Sculpture” or drive to Franklin to take the Great Miami River Recreation Trail all the way up to Sidney, you’... Read More
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
Miller-Leuser Log House
East
Miller-Leuser Log House
East
Tour this 1796 historic log house furnished with 18th and 19th century antiques, the barn, outhouse and corn crib. Oldest log cabin in Hamilton County remaining on its... Read more
Tour this 1796 historic log house furnished with 18th and 19th century antiques, the barn, outhouse and corn crib. Oldest log cabin in Hamilton County remaining on its original site. Members of historical society will answer any questions. Appointments available. Closed November-May.
Boone County Arboretum at Central Park
South > Southwest
Boone County Arboretum at Central Park
South > Southwest
Boone County Arboretum at Central Park is the nation's first arboretum within an active recreation park setting. It is located just outside Union, Ky. A short, 25-minute... Read more
Boone County Arboretum at Central Park is the nation's first arboretum within an active recreation park setting. It is located just outside Union, Ky. A short, 25-minute drive southwest from downtown Cincinnati, Ohio, will put you in Northern Kentucky's only arboretum. There is no charge for admission or parking. The arboretum... Read More
Hopkins Park
Uptown
Hopkins Park
Uptown
A small neighborhood park with beautiful green areas, basketball courts, and a playground. Part of Cincinnati Parks
A small neighborhood park with beautiful green areas, basketball courts, and a playground. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Buttercup Valley
Uptown
Buttercup Valley
Uptown
Located in Northside, this park is a favorite of locals due to its many hiking trails and beautiful scenery. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Located in Northside, this park is a favorite of locals due to its many hiking trails and beautiful scenery. 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
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
Contemporary Arts Center
Downtown
Contemporary Arts Center
Downtown
Founded in Cincinnati in 1939 as the Modern Art Society by three visionary local women, the Contemporary Arts Center was one of the first institutions in the United States... Read more
Founded in Cincinnati in 1939 as the Modern Art Society by three visionary local women, the Contemporary Arts Center was one of the first institutions in the United States dedicated to exhibiting contemporary art. The CAC provides the opportunity for all people to discover the dynamic relationship between art and life by... Read More
Lloyd Library and Museum
Downtown
Lloyd Library and Museum
Downtown
A collection covering medical botany, pharmacy, eclectic medicine, and horticulture.
A collection covering medical botany, pharmacy, eclectic medicine, and horticulture.
Bettman Nature Preserve
Uptown
Bettman Nature Preserve
Uptown
A collection of wooded acres donated in 1977 by Mrs. Arthur M. Bettman to preserve nature and provide a place for wildlife to flourish. The park is home to walking and... Read more
A collection of wooded acres donated in 1977 by Mrs. Arthur M. Bettman to preserve nature and provide a place for wildlife to flourish. The park is home to walking and biking trails as well as a wheelchair accessible nature center. 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
Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum
Uptown
Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum
Uptown
Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum, a National Historic Landmark, was chartered in 1845 and is the second largest cemetery in the United States, and the most beautiful... Read more
Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum, a National Historic Landmark, was chartered in 1845 and is the second largest cemetery in the United States, and the most beautiful according to thousands of visitors every year. Its 733 acres offer the public a magnificent arboretum, open air museum and tranquil sanctuary just minutes away... Read More
World Peace Bell
South > Riverfront
World Peace Bell
South > Riverfront
You'll want to swing by Newport to visit the World Peace Bell: the largest, free-swinging bell in the world. Weighing in at 66,000 pounds and measuring 12 feet high and 12... Read more
You'll want to swing by Newport to visit the World Peace Bell: the largest, free-swinging bell in the world. Weighing in at 66,000 pounds and measuring 12 feet high and 12 feet wide, the bell was designed and cast by Cincinnati's own Verdin Bell Company, one of the largest bell-making companies in the world. Installed in 1999,... Read More
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 Rosenthal Education Center offers an... 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
Cincinnati Heritage Programs Tours
Downtown
Cincinnati Heritage Programs Tours
Downtown
Cincinnati Museum Center Heritage Programs presents historical, cultural and architectural tours both inside Cincinnati Museum Center and seasonally outdoors in the... Read more
Cincinnati Museum Center Heritage Programs presents historical, cultural and architectural tours both inside Cincinnati Museum Center and seasonally outdoors in the surrounding communities. Rotunda Tours are FREE and are offered Saturdays at noon, 1, 2 and 3 p.m. and Sundays at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. Celebrate Union Terminal’s... Read More
Withrow Nature Preserve
East
Withrow Nature Preserve
East
The preserve includes 270 acres and features the Trout Lily Trail, mature hardwood forests, a variety of native wildflowers, and is a popular outdoor wedding venue.... Read more
The preserve includes 270 acres and features the Trout Lily Trail, mature hardwood forests, a variety of native wildflowers, and is a popular outdoor wedding venue. Part of Great Parks of Hamilton County
City of Sculpture
North
City of Sculpture
North
The mission of Hamilton, Ohio City of Sculpture is to promote the recognition of Hamilton as a cultural community through obtaining sculptures to be placed in public... Read more
The mission of Hamilton, Ohio City of Sculpture is to promote the recognition of Hamilton as a cultural community through obtaining sculptures to be placed in public spaces for the enjoyment of citizens and visitors. Embark on a self-guided tour to locate all of the unique sculptures.Downtown Sculpture Map Citywide Sculpture... Read More
Rawson Woods Nature Preserve
Uptown
Rawson Woods Nature Preserve
Uptown
A nature preserve that was founded in 1923 by the Rawson family in order to preserve the nature and beautiful trees in this area. Part of Cincinnati Parks
A nature preserve that was founded in 1923 by the Rawson family in order to preserve the nature and beautiful trees in this area. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Newport on the Levee
South > Riverfront
Newport on the Levee
South > Riverfront
Opened in 2001, Newport on the Levee is a multi-level retail entertainment center, located across from downtown Cincinnati on the south bank of the Ohio River in Newport,... Read more
Opened in 2001, Newport on the Levee is a multi-level retail entertainment center, located across from downtown Cincinnati on the south bank of the Ohio River in Newport, Kentucky. Hosting nearly 4.5 million guests each year upon 380,000 square feet of unique retail and restaurant space, Newport on the Levee features a variety... Read More
Bellevue Beach Park
South > Riverfront
Bellevue Beach Park
South > Riverfront
The Thomas J. Wiethorn Memorial Beach Park is located down the street from Newport Aquarium and Newport on the Levee on the banks of the Ohio River. The park is the home... Read more
The Thomas J. Wiethorn Memorial Beach Park is located down the street from Newport Aquarium and Newport on the Levee on the banks of the Ohio River. The park is the home of Bellevue, Kentucky’s summer concert series and also includes a walking track, gazebo, picnic tables, playground, basketball hoops and benches for gazing out... Read More
