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.
Metamora's Horse-Drawn Canal Boat
West
Metamora's Horse-Drawn Canal Boat
West
Come to Metamora, Indiana and take a half hour excursion on the Ben Franklin III. Opens in May through Oct for rides. Wednesday - Sunday, at noon, 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m. Rides... Read more
Come to Metamora, Indiana and take a half hour excursion on the Ben Franklin III. Opens in May through Oct for rides. Wednesday - Sunday, at noon, 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m. Rides are dependent on canal conditions. For pricing and more information call 765-647-6512 The Ben Franklin III, launched in 1989, was designed and constructed in... Read More
Three Springs Campground
South
Three Springs Campground
South
Three Springs Campground is a family friendly campground with an emphasis on healthy outdoor activities. The ecosystem of this valley is protected as you are invited to... Read more
Three Springs Campground is a family friendly campground with an emphasis on healthy outdoor activities. The ecosystem of this valley is protected as you are invited to appreciate and enjoy its natural beauty and diversity. A recreation hall is available for private events, and a large swimming pool, a fishing pond, and a... Read More
The Golf Courses at Kenton County
South > Southwest
The Golf Courses at Kenton County
South > Southwest
Courses: The Pioneer is the shortest of the courses playing to a par 71. The Willows, designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan, offers golfers a scenic and challenging test... Read more
Courses: The Pioneer is the shortest of the courses playing to a par 71. The Willows, designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan, offers golfers a scenic and challenging test of tree-lined fairways and undulating greens. Fox Run, designed by renowned architect Arthur Hills, is consistently rated one of the most challenging public... Read More
Rivertowne Marina
East
Rivertowne Marina
East
Located 6 miles down the Ohio River from Cincinnati with a clean and secure inlet harbor.
Located 6 miles down the Ohio River from Cincinnati with a clean and secure inlet harbor.
Circling Hills Golf Course
West
Busse's Farm
West
Busse's Farm
West
The farm offers a wide variety of bedding plants for purchase, including 19 different varieties of tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, eggplant and herbs. In the fall, choose... Read more
The farm offers a wide variety of bedding plants for purchase, including 19 different varieties of tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, eggplant and herbs. In the fall, choose from approximately 2,500 pumpkins and 500 gourds, or pick from the farm's vast selection of mums.
Magrish Preserve
East
Magrish Preserve
East
A river bottom habitat located on the Little Miami River. It is home to wildlife such as ducks, frogs, fox, deer, and beavers. Part of Cincinnati Parks
A river bottom habitat located on the Little Miami River. It is home to wildlife such as ducks, frogs, fox, deer, and beavers. Part of Cincinnati Parks
RockQuest
North
RockQuest
North
Enjoy the exhilaration of rock climbing in a sport that is getting interest worldwide. Located in the northern Cincinnati suburb of Sharonville you are just a stone’s... Read more
Enjoy the exhilaration of rock climbing in a sport that is getting interest worldwide. Located in the northern Cincinnati suburb of Sharonville you are just a stone’s throw away from seeing what indoor climbing is all about. You don't have to be an athlete, you just need a desire to try something new and different. Don't worry... 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
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
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
Aquaramp Marina
South > Southeast
Aquaramp Marina
South > Southeast
A full service marina located in Fort Thomas, Kentucky on the south shore of the Ohio River.
A full service marina located in Fort Thomas, Kentucky on the south shore of the Ohio River.
Beech Creek Golf Course
North
Beech Creek Golf Course
North
Opened in 1995, Beech Creek has become known as a local favorite for golf the whole family can enjoy. The par-70 golf course measures over 5,400 yards from the back... Read more
Opened in 1995, Beech Creek has become known as a local favorite for golf the whole family can enjoy. The par-70 golf course measures over 5,400 yards from the back tees. It was designed by Joe and Tom Macke. The shorter length of the golf course, along with affordable anytime rates, make Beech Creek Golf Course a great choice... Read More
Muddy Water Equestrian Park
North
Muddy Water Equestrian Park
North
Muddy Water offers many other types of services such as trail rides, kid's rides, riding classes/lessons, after school programs, horse care clinics, mentoring programs and... Read more
Muddy Water offers many other types of services such as trail rides, kid's rides, riding classes/lessons, after school programs, horse care clinics, mentoring programs and birthday/private parties. As well, they rent the facilities for private events, barbecues or old-fashioned western picnics. Muddy Water is just what you are... Read More
Fleischmann Gardens
Uptown
Fleischmann Gardens
Uptown
Fleischmann Gardens is an elegantly landscaped hideaway on the former site of the home of Charles Fleischmann. It offers beautiful gardens, ornamental entrance gates, and... Read more
Fleischmann Gardens is an elegantly landscaped hideaway on the former site of the home of Charles Fleischmann. It offers beautiful gardens, ornamental entrance gates, and an evergreen maze. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Inwood Park
Uptown
Inwood Park
Uptown
A small park located on Vine Street with green spaces, meadows, and a small lake. Part of Cincinnati Parks
A small park located on Vine Street with green spaces, meadows, and a small lake. Part of Cincinnati Parks
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
Indian Ridge Golf Course
North
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
Rotolo
South > Riverfront
Rotolo
South > Riverfront
Boutique bowling center with a full casual Italian-inspired restaurant, bars, patio and bocce. Rotolo Bowling Bocce Eatery is a boutique bowling alley with plenty... Read more
Boutique bowling center with a full casual Italian-inspired restaurant, bars, patio and bocce. Rotolo Bowling Bocce Eatery is a boutique bowling alley with plenty of fun to go ‘round. A license for indulgence and bowler’s paradise, Rotolo takes a modern spin on the traditional bowling alley, where it features two full-service... Read More
Holly Hills Golf Club
North
Straight Creek Marina
East
Straight Creek Marina
East
Located 55 miles from downtown Cincinnati and is convenient to Dayton residents who can reach the marina via US 68. The Marina sits on 15 acres of land, providing... Read more
Located 55 miles from downtown Cincinnati and is convenient to Dayton residents who can reach the marina via US 68. The Marina sits on 15 acres of land, providing boaters with plenty of elbow room. Hot showers, plenty of parking, a live-in care taker and launch ramp open to the public.
Geier Esplanade
Uptown
Geier Esplanade
Uptown
A small stretch of land formerly known as Oakley Square, annually decorated with beautiful flowers and greenery. Part of Cincinnati Parks
A small stretch of land formerly known as Oakley Square, annually decorated with beautiful flowers and greenery. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Cabin Run Creek Campground
South
Cabin Run Creek Campground
South
This campground features 32 campsites nestled within woodland as well as a bath house, dump station, fire pits, a playground, and fishing.
This campground features 32 campsites nestled within woodland as well as a bath house, dump station, fire pits, a playground, and fishing.
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
Chuck E. Cheese's
North
Chuck E. Cheese's
North
Family entertainment center and restaurant offering pizza, arcade games, and birthday parties.
Family entertainment center and restaurant offering pizza, arcade games, and birthday parties.
General Custer's Golf & Gulp
West
General Custer's Golf & Gulp
West
Seasonal play park with 26 holes of mini-golf and an ice cream stand selling soft serve and yogurt.
Seasonal play park with 26 holes of mini-golf and an ice cream stand selling soft serve and yogurt.
Fairview Park
Uptown
Fairview Park
Uptown
Established in 1931, Fairview Park offers a beautiful view of downtown Cincinnati, the Ohio River, and Union Terminal. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Established in 1931, Fairview Park offers a beautiful view of downtown Cincinnati, the Ohio River, and Union Terminal. Part of Cincinnati Parks
Belterra Casino Golf Course
West
Belterra Casino Golf Course
West
Designed by legend Tom Fazio, this world-class championship course was ranked in the top 20 casino golf courses in the U.S. by Golfweek. Created to highlight the natural... Read more
Designed by legend Tom Fazio, this world-class championship course was ranked in the top 20 casino golf courses in the U.S. by Golfweek. Created to highlight the natural surroundings, winding through lakes and over 2,200 trees, the par 71 course challenges players with water hazards and bunkers set amidst the beautiful rolling... Read More
Morgan's Canoe & Outdoor Adventures Ft. Ancient
North
Morgan's Canoe & Outdoor Adventures Ft. Ancient
North
Morgan’s Canoe Livery at Ft. Ancient was the first livery on the Little Miami River, built by Bob Morgan in 1969. It remains to this day the only Canoe, Kayak, and Rafting... Read more
Morgan’s Canoe Livery at Ft. Ancient was the first livery on the Little Miami River, built by Bob Morgan in 1969. It remains to this day the only Canoe, Kayak, and Rafting Outfitter located in the pristine Ft. Ancient Gorge of the Little Miami River. It was home to the ancient Hopewell Indian tribe also known as "The Mound... Read More
Salt Creek Ranch
West
Salt Creek Ranch
West
Salt Creek Ranch is located just outside of Metamora, IN on Highway 52. With over 100 horses in his stable and 600 acres of rolling hills to ride through, they offer a... Read more
Salt Creek Ranch is located just outside of Metamora, IN on Highway 52. With over 100 horses in his stable and 600 acres of rolling hills to ride through, they offer a variety of guided horseback trips ranging from one hour to overnight.
Jump Stop Safari
North
Jump Stop Safari
North
A mega indoor playground for children under age 12, Jump Stop Safari is locally owned and operated in the heart of Historic Lebanon. Featuring a custom-designed, multi-... Read more
A mega indoor playground for children under age 12, Jump Stop Safari is locally owned and operated in the heart of Historic Lebanon. Featuring a custom-designed, multi-level, padded play center with 2 enclosed slides, a glider, punching bags, a ropes course, climbing mats, and a fun hippo lookout, it's the perfect stop for... Read More
Main Event Entertainment
North
Main Event Entertainment
North
Main Event offers a unique experience, as advertised "Eat.Bowl.Play", which encapsulates state-of-the art bowling, great food and drink, and a huge game room. The bowling... Read more
Main Event offers a unique experience, as advertised "Eat.Bowl.Play", which encapsulates state-of-the art bowling, great food and drink, and a huge game room. The bowling consists of nice lanes with comfortable lounges surrounding them and lanes with bright, ever changing lights to liven up the lanes. While bowling, you can go... Read More
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.
Mt. Echo Park
West
Mt. Echo Park
West
This park's 84 acres include steep wooded hillsides, hiking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, a unique historic reservable picnic shelter and the 1928 Mt. Echo pavilion,... Read more
This park's 84 acres include steep wooded hillsides, hiking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, a unique historic reservable picnic shelter and the 1928 Mt. Echo pavilion, a popular spot for dances, community events and private functions. The park's overlook features one of the most dramatic views of any Cincinnati Park. Part... Read More
Morgan's Canoe & Outdoor Adventures Brookville
West
Morgan's Canoe & Outdoor Adventures Brookville
West
Enjoy canoeing, kayaking, rafting and camping along the fastest flowing river in Indiana, the Whitewater River which is considered a Class 1 stream and great for canoeists... Read more
Enjoy canoeing, kayaking, rafting and camping along the fastest flowing river in Indiana, the Whitewater River which is considered a Class 1 stream and great for canoeists of all skill levels.
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
Shelter Cove Marina
East
Shelter Cove Marina
East
Located on the Little Miami River with valet launch services and less than a mile trip to the Ohio River.
Located on the Little Miami River with valet launch services and less than a mile trip to the Ohio River.
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.
Giles Conrad Park
South > Riverfront
Giles Conrad Park
South > Riverfront
Giles Conrad Park is a 43-acre park situated along the Ohio River in Northern Kentucky. It provides a 1.3 mile paved, level path, a picnic shelter, a basketball... Read more
Giles Conrad Park is a 43-acre park situated along the Ohio River in Northern Kentucky. It provides a 1.3 mile paved, level path, a picnic shelter, a basketball court, fitness stations and a playground.
Frederick's Landing
South > Southeast
Frederick's Landing
South > Southeast
Park and Boat Launch located on the Licking River with a four mile trip to the Ohio River.
Park and Boat Launch located on the Licking River with a four mile trip to the Ohio River.
Ohio River Trail
Uptown
Ohio River Trail
Uptown
A series of multi-use trails (biking, running & walking) along the Ohio River including Lunken Trail and Armleder Park Trail. The current trail spans more than 10... Read more
A series of multi-use trails (biking, running & walking) along the Ohio River including Lunken Trail and Armleder Park Trail. The current trail spans more than 10 miles. Once completed, the Ohio River Trail will span 23 miles along the north bank of the river from Coney Island through Downtown to Sayler Park. It will... Read More
Flagg Springs Golf Course
South > Southeast
Hickory Sticks Golf Club
South > Southeast
Devou Golf & Event Center
South > Riverfront
Devou Golf & Event Center
South > Riverfront
Northern Kentucky's premier public golf course takes golfers through rolling hills and scenic views of downtown Covington, Kentucky and Cincinnati, Ohio. This one-of-a-... Read more
Northern Kentucky's premier public golf course takes golfers through rolling hills and scenic views of downtown Covington, Kentucky and Cincinnati, Ohio. This one-of-a-kind eighteen hole golf course presents its own set of challenges for both the expert golfer and novice beginner. Set within beautiful Devou Park in Covington,... Read More
Haspin Acres
West
Haspin Acres
West
Haspin Acres Off Road & Motocross Park in Laurel, Indiana has 750 scenic acres of wooded hills and trails, nestled in the heart of beautiful, rustic, rural Indiana!... Read more
Haspin Acres Off Road & Motocross Park in Laurel, Indiana has 750 scenic acres of wooded hills and trails, nestled in the heart of beautiful, rustic, rural Indiana! Relax and enjoy the great outdoors with us, doing the things you REALLY enjoy, like off road riding, racing, camping, fishing, and so much more!
Glenview Golf Course
North
Glenview Golf Course
North
Glenview is Cincinnati’s premier public championship golf course, offering 27 beautiful golf holes with lush landscapes, panoramic views, and demanding hazard features.... Read more
Glenview is Cincinnati’s premier public championship golf course, offering 27 beautiful golf holes with lush landscapes, panoramic views, and demanding hazard features. Once ranked among Golf Digest’s Top 75 Public Courses and site of a U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship, Glenview’s challenge and allure are both remarkable.
Riverside Boat Launch Ramp
West
Riverside Boat Launch Ramp
West
Ohio River boat ramp located just west of downtown Cincinnati with On-Site Attendant, Indoor Restroom, and Concession.
Ohio River boat ramp located just west of downtown Cincinnati with On-Site Attendant, Indoor Restroom, and Concession.
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.
Climb Time of Blue Ash
North
Climb Time of Blue Ash
North
Climb Time of Blue Ash offers over 7,000 square feet of climbing facilities. The venue specializes in bouldering but also offers a variety of top-rope climbing. No... Read more
Climb Time of Blue Ash offers over 7,000 square feet of climbing facilities. The venue specializes in bouldering but also offers a variety of top-rope climbing. No experience is required and all skill levels are welcome.