Outdoors & Recreation
Find Outdoor & Recreation Activities in Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky
Don’t just sit there, get out and explore our vast river region! From the peace and quiet of the back roads of Kentucky to the urban oasis of downtown Cincinnati to water adventures both on the river and off, outdoor fun is all around. And when you want to escape indoors, there are plenty of indoor activity options for both kids and kids at heart.
Archery Arena
North
Archery Arena
North
The first and only dedicated archery dodgeball facility in the midwest. Battle your friends and family with bows and specially engineered foam-tipped arrows.
The first and only dedicated archery dodgeball facility in the midwest. Battle your friends and family with bows and specially engineered foam-tipped arrows.
The Escape Game
Downtown
The Escape Game
Downtown
[Located downtown in The Banks] From uncovering lost treasure to breaking out of prison – The Escape Game offers a uniquely premium experience. Team up, follow clues, and... Read more
[Located downtown in The Banks] From uncovering lost treasure to breaking out of prison – The Escape Game offers a uniquely premium experience. Team up, follow clues, and solve puzzles to complete your mission and become the hero of these immersive 60-minute adventures. You might escape…you WILL have fun! Book your experience... Read More
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
Daniel Drake Park
North
Daniel Drake Park
North
A 66 acre park named for the founder of Cincinnati's first medical college. The park offers beautiful views, trails, and play areas for children. Part of ... Read more
A 66 acre park named for the founder of Cincinnati's first medical college. The park offers beautiful views, trails, and play areas for children. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Omni Funplex
North
Omni Funplex
North
A state of the art, 35,000 sq.ft. large sports themed Family Entertainment Center.
A state of the art, 35,000 sq.ft. large sports themed Family Entertainment Center.
Shaker Run Golf Club
North
Ride Horses at First Farm Inn
South > Southwest
Ride Horses at First Farm Inn
South > Southwest
Learn about horses and have a great ride! First Farm Inn offers a unique two-hour horsemanship lesson/trail ride that includes grooming and tacking up, then starting in... Read more
Learn about horses and have a great ride! First Farm Inn offers a unique two-hour horsemanship lesson/trail ride that includes grooming and tacking up, then starting in the riding arena working on control and steering. After you’re comfortable with your horse, we tour the farm on horseback. Rides are available year-round to... Read More
Sunset Bay Marina and Campground
West
Sunset Bay Marina and Campground
West
Located on South Hogan Creek in Aurora Indiana and only ¼ mile away from the Ohio River. Offering in-water boat slips, boat ramp, dry storage, and water front camp sites.... Read more
Located on South Hogan Creek in Aurora Indiana and only ¼ mile away from the Ohio River. Offering in-water boat slips, boat ramp, dry storage, and water front camp sites.
Lebanon Cincinnati Northeast KOA
North
Lebanon Cincinnati Northeast KOA
North
Camping options include both RV and tent campsites as well as cabins for rent. Amenities include a swimming pool, dog park, 24 laundry facilities, and a general store.... Read more
Camping options include both RV and tent campsites as well as cabins for rent. Amenities include a swimming pool, dog park, 24 laundry facilities, and a general store. Located just 8 miles from Kings Island.
Screaming Raptor Zip Line and Canopy Adventure Tours
South > Southwest
Screaming Raptor Zip Line and Canopy Adventure Tours
South > Southwest
Located at the Creation Museum featuring over two and a half miles of zip lines and sky bridges. Soar over a three-acre lake with the Ptero-Soar option, or go for a more... Read more
Located at the Creation Museum featuring over two and a half miles of zip lines and sky bridges. Soar over a three-acre lake with the Ptero-Soar option, or go for a more rigorous course involving 2½ to 3 hours of airtime with the Adventure Tour Plus. Add to your day of adventure with an 800-foot line and 1,700-foot racing lines... Read More
Cincinnati Scavenger Hunt: True America
Downtown
Cincinnati Scavenger Hunt: True America
Downtown
After the American Revolution, one of Ohio's greatest cities was born. On this fun-filled Cincinnati scavenger hunt, we make a loop around the Central Business District in... Read more
After the American Revolution, one of Ohio's greatest cities was born. On this fun-filled Cincinnati scavenger hunt, we make a loop around the Central Business District in search of storied buildings, epic sculptures and great green spaces. How do you make a fountain square? Which U.S. president hangs out in Lytle Park? Find... Read More
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
Gorman Heritage Farm
North
Gorman Heritage Farm
North
Gorman Heritage Farm is a nonprofit 122-acre educational farm teaching kids (and adults!) about the sources of our food, healthy food choices and why farming is... Read more
Gorman Heritage Farm is a nonprofit 122-acre educational farm teaching kids (and adults!) about the sources of our food, healthy food choices and why farming is important. Visit the Farm to explore the many gardens, meet the farm animals, walk over. 5 miles of trails, discover the flavor of local foods in our Farm Shop, play... Read More
Veterans Memorial of Boone County
South > Southwest
Veterans Memorial of Boone County
South > Southwest
The Veterans Memorial of Boone County was conceived in 1995 when H.B. Deatherage, a Viet Nam veteran, was deeply moved by the fact that veterans in Boone County had no... Read more
The Veterans Memorial of Boone County was conceived in 1995 when H.B. Deatherage, a Viet Nam veteran, was deeply moved by the fact that veterans in Boone County had no place to heal wounds and memories of war. The names and etchings were brought to the forefront with beautiful black granite, making up the memorial honoring WWI... Read More
iFly Cincinnati
North
iFly Cincinnati
North
Indoor skydiving where instructors are there to help you take flight!
Indoor skydiving where instructors are there to help you take flight!
Dig 'N Play
North
Dig 'N Play
North
Dig 'N Play is a chic and modern indoor playland with a visually open play area! Parents can finally relax and still ensure the safety of their children! Children will be... Read more
Dig 'N Play is a chic and modern indoor playland with a visually open play area! Parents can finally relax and still ensure the safety of their children! Children will be challenged to think, interact, explore and have fun! From a HUGE custom sand table, to dramatic play, to inflatables, and even a 3 story play structure, we... 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
Wasson Way Bike Trail
Uptown
Wasson Way Bike Trail
Uptown
Newly completed, phase 1 of the Wasson Bike Trail begins from Madison Road, near La Rosa's and Busken Bakery, to Tamarack Avenue near Dana Avenue and I-71. While a short... Read more
Newly completed, phase 1 of the Wasson Bike Trail begins from Madison Road, near La Rosa's and Busken Bakery, to Tamarack Avenue near Dana Avenue and I-71. While a short section, it connects to Withrow High School, Rookwood Commons and Rookwood Pavilion shopping areas, and many streets in the west Hyde Park area such as... Read More
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.
Thaxton's Canoe & Paddlers Inn
South > Southeast
Thaxton's Canoe & Paddlers Inn
South > Southeast
Camp in a cabin or rent a canoe and paddle along the Licking River.
Camp in a cabin or rent a canoe and paddle along the Licking River.
Fernbank Golf and Tennis Club
West
Eagles Nest Golf Course
East
Eagles Nest Golf Course
East
Eagles Nest Golf Course is an exciting 18 hole regulation course. From the longest tees it offers 6,145 yards of golf for par of 71. The course was designed by Taylor Boyd... Read more
Eagles Nest Golf Course is an exciting 18 hole regulation course. From the longest tees it offers 6,145 yards of golf for par of 71. The course was designed by Taylor Boyd and opened in 1962. The course rating is 69.4 with a slope rating of 122. Eagles Nest is a daily fee golf course with an " Open to the Public" guest policy.
Sharon Woods
North
Sharon Woods
North
Sharon Woods is a popular 730-acre park that features a visitor center with exhibits, gift shop and an accessible two-story indoor play area for children ages 2-12. The... Read more
Sharon Woods is a popular 730-acre park that features a visitor center with exhibits, gift shop and an accessible two-story indoor play area for children ages 2-12. The park is a popular spot to exercise outdoors with a 2.6-mile paved trail around the lake, a 1.0-mile fitness trail and the 0.7-mile Gorge nature trail. The... Read More
Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum
North
Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum
North
Pyramid Hill is one of few sculpture parks in the United States. Upon opening in 1996, it was touted as the "most beautiful natural setting of any art park in the country... Read more
Pyramid Hill is one of few sculpture parks in the United States. Upon opening in 1996, it was touted as the "most beautiful natural setting of any art park in the country" by Atlantic Monthly. This 335-acre park features more than 60 monumental contemporary sculptures. The park’s Ancient Sculpture Museum displays antiquities... Read More
Scene75
East
Scene75
East
Scene75 Entertainment Center is 90,000 square foot indoor entertainment venue featureing a full-service restaurant, two bars, an indoor electric go-kart track, a two-story... Read more
Scene75 Entertainment Center is 90,000 square foot indoor entertainment venue featureing a full-service restaurant, two bars, an indoor electric go-kart track, a two-story laser tag arena, 18 holes of black-light miniature golf, more than 110 video and prize redemption arcade games, a video game theater, six mini-bowling lanes... Read More
Voice of America MetroPark
North
Voice of America MetroPark
North
This 435-acre park is conveniently located in the suburban area of West Chester. Voice of America (aka VOA) Park features a 35-acre stocked lake and 1.4 mile scenic paved... Read more
This 435-acre park is conveniently located in the suburban area of West Chester. Voice of America (aka VOA) Park features a 35-acre stocked lake and 1.4 mile scenic paved trail around the water. Visitors can fish, walk, jog or just sit and enjoy the view from the patio at the new Ronald Reagan Lodge. Available WiFi allows... Read More
Hueston Woods State Park
North
Hueston Woods State Park
North
Nearly 3,000 acres of natural resources for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, fishing, canoeing, and unique to this region -- fossil hunting. The park surrounds 625-acre... Read more
Nearly 3,000 acres of natural resources for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, fishing, canoeing, and unique to this region -- fossil hunting. The park surrounds 625-acre Acton Lake, with campsites, Hueston Woods boat ramp, cabins, and a resort lodge to entice the overnight visitor. Plus a 1500 foot swimming beach. Hueston... Read More
Cincinnati Railway
North
Cincinnati Railway
North
If you like trains, Cincinnati Railway has a ride for you. Whether you’re seeking fun family entertainment on the LM&M Railroad, a unique... Read more
If you like trains, Cincinnati Railway has a ride for you. Whether you’re seeking fun family entertainment on the LM&M Railroad, a unique evening on the town on the Cincinnati Dinner Train or luxury travel aboard a private railcar, the railway has your speed!
The Mill Course
North
The Mill Course
North
The Mill Course is a par 71 layout with five sets of tees that range from 3,470 yards to 6,376 yards, providing a round of enjoyment for every player. The Mill Course has... Read more
The Mill Course is a par 71 layout with five sets of tees that range from 3,470 yards to 6,376 yards, providing a round of enjoyment for every player. The Mill Course has five lakes that add an extra challenge and beauty to the course.
Boone's Landing
South > Southwest
Boone's Landing
South > Southwest
Located near Big Bone Creek with access to the Ohio River, Boone's Landing offers boat storage, launching, mooring, and rentals of pontoons and canoes.
Located near Big Bone Creek with access to the Ohio River, Boone's Landing offers boat storage, launching, mooring, and rentals of pontoons and canoes.
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.
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
J.D. Legends Entertainment Complex
North
J.D. Legends Entertainment Complex
North
Fabulous food and drinks, bowling, beach volleyball, a great tiki bar, the best live music and events you'll find anywhere, a huge arcade and accommodating staff, make J.D... Read more
Fabulous food and drinks, bowling, beach volleyball, a great tiki bar, the best live music and events you'll find anywhere, a huge arcade and accommodating staff, make J.D. Legends absolutely one of a kind.
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
River Ridge Park
South
River Ridge Park
South
Located 2 miles from the Rabbit Hash General Store, River Ridge Park offers camping for RVs and trailers. Amenities include a grocery store, swimming pool, laundry... Read more
Located 2 miles from the Rabbit Hash General Store, River Ridge Park offers camping for RVs and trailers. Amenities include a grocery store, swimming pool, laundry facilities, a playground, and fishing.
Friendly Meadows Golf Course
East
Orleans Park
South
Orleans Park
South
Acquired in 2002, Fischer Development donated 9.5 acres and the City purchased an adjoining 1.5 acres to make this active 11 acre park. The park is located in the Orleans... Read more
Acquired in 2002, Fischer Development donated 9.5 acres and the City purchased an adjoining 1.5 acres to make this active 11 acre park. The park is located in the Orleans North subdivision on the west side of the city. The Park Master Plan recommends development of a gazebo and fishing pier. Facilities include the following:... Read More
Lytle Park
Downtown
Lytle Park
Downtown
A park nestled in the middle of Downtown Cincinnati as an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. PARTS OF THE PARK MAY BE CLOSED FOR CONSTRUCTION UNTIL LATE... Read more
A park nestled in the middle of Downtown Cincinnati as an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. PARTS OF THE PARK MAY BE CLOSED FOR CONSTRUCTION UNTIL LATE 2018 Part of Cincinnati Parks
California Golf Course
East
California Golf Course
East
Situated on gently sloping terrain overlooking the Ohio River, California’s beauty is only outdone by a spectacular layout. Both challenging for advanced players and... Read more
Situated on gently sloping terrain overlooking the Ohio River, California’s beauty is only outdone by a spectacular layout. Both challenging for advanced players and welcoming of beginners, the course is known for its friendly atmosphere and towering old growth trees. 18 Holes, Par 70 – 6,245 yards Course Rating: 69.3 Slope:... Read More
Circling Hills Golf Course
West
Embshoff Woods
West
Embshoff Woods
West
This 333 acre park features a 1.0-mile Parcours fitness trail, 9-hole disc golf course, playground and reservable picnic shelters. Part of Great Parks of Hamilton County
This 333 acre park features a 1.0-mile Parcours fitness trail, 9-hole disc golf course, playground and reservable picnic shelters. Part of Great Parks of Hamilton County
SS Tiki Tours
South
SS Tiki Tours
South
Private boat rides on the majestic Ohio River in Cincinnati. Cruise aboard a Hawaiian style party boat, a unique and memorable experience! Fantastic sightseeing tours.... Read more
Private boat rides on the majestic Ohio River in Cincinnati. Cruise aboard a Hawaiian style party boat, a unique and memorable experience! Fantastic sightseeing tours. Bring your own food & drinks (BYOB). Bluetooth sound system. Bathroom on board. USCG captain provided. Fireworks & concerts cruises available. Optional... Read More
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
Cincinnati Nature Center
East
Cincinnati Nature Center
East
Cincinnati Nature Center is a non-profit, nature education organization and community of people who enjoy and care about nature. CNC is among the top ten nature centers... Read more
Cincinnati Nature Center is a non-profit, nature education organization and community of people who enjoy and care about nature. CNC is among the top ten nature centers in the country and offers something for people of all ages, in all seasons. The award-winning trails wind through the region’s natural habitats of eastern... Read More
Golf Club at Stonelick Hills
East
Fairfield Aquatic Center
North
Fairfield Aquatic Center
North
Offers water-based activities for everyone including an eight lane lap pool, diving board, climbing wall, large swirling water slide, interactive water play structure and... Read more
Offers water-based activities for everyone including an eight lane lap pool, diving board, climbing wall, large swirling water slide, interactive water play structure and sprayground.
Mosaic Climbing
North
Mosaic Climbing
North
Experience climbing at any level. Whether you're a new or seasoned climber, Mosaic offers a diverse range of climbing, classes, and fitness for you to explore.... Read more
Experience climbing at any level. Whether you're a new or seasoned climber, Mosaic offers a diverse range of climbing, classes, and fitness for you to explore.
Scallywag Tag
West
Scallywag Tag
West
Families can enjoy a two-story story laser tag arena, 18 hole black light mini golf, arcade games, Top Sail Tavern (a sports bar for adults) and a snack bar with pizza,... Read more
Families can enjoy a two-story story laser tag arena, 18 hole black light mini golf, arcade games, Top Sail Tavern (a sports bar for adults) and a snack bar with pizza, sandwiches and wings.
Cheers to Art!
Downtown
Cheers to Art!
Downtown
It’s the perfect place to get together with friends and family to relax, unwind and enjoy time together painting while sipping your favorite beverage. Whether you consider... Read more
It’s the perfect place to get together with friends and family to relax, unwind and enjoy time together painting while sipping your favorite beverage. Whether you consider yourself artistic or have never painted before, the instructor will guide you through the featured painting of the evening… and at the end of the night, you’... Read More
Governor Bebb Metropark
North
Governor Bebb Metropark
North
The smell of fresh air and a bit of historical flavor are just a few of the ingredients that bring a touch of nostalgia to this preserve. The Governor Bebb Preserve... Read more
The smell of fresh air and a bit of historical flavor are just a few of the ingredients that bring a touch of nostalgia to this preserve. The Governor Bebb Preserve features a historical pioneer village, which includes the log house birthplace of William Bebb, Butler County native and Ohio's nineteenth governor; a general store... Read More