Recreational Activities
Find Recreational 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.
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
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
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
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
Grailville
East
Grailville
East
Grailville—a tangible expression of The Grail’s mission and values—is a rural oasis just a short drive from Cincinnati. A center of education, leadership, peace and... Read more
Grailville—a tangible expression of The Grail’s mission and values—is a rural oasis just a short drive from Cincinnati. A center of education, leadership, peace and care of the earth since 1944, Grailville continues to be a sacred space for women and men of all ages seeking a community of shared values. Grailville offers... Read More
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
Sports Plus
North
Sports Plus
North
The largest sports facility in Greater Cincinnati with over 250,000 square feet of fun including basketball/volleyball courts, ice rinks, an inline hockey rink, a pro shop... Read more
The largest sports facility in Greater Cincinnati with over 250,000 square feet of fun including basketball/volleyball courts, ice rinks, an inline hockey rink, a pro shop, a restaurant, zip lines, trampolines, a rock wall, games, and more family entertainment attractions.
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
The Beach Waterpark
North
The Beach Waterpark
North
White sand, cool water, wild waves, and real palm trees... no, this isn’t Florida, this is Ohio, and it’s a blast! Go airborne on the five-story drop of “The Cliff”, lazy... Read more
White sand, cool water, wild waves, and real palm trees... no, this isn’t Florida, this is Ohio, and it’s a blast! Go airborne on the five-story drop of “The Cliff”, lazy the day away in the “Kokomo” river, or propel your body at 65-miles per hour on “The Banzai”. Mom and Dad can relax, toes in the sand, under the shade of a... 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.
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.
Sky Zone Cincinnati
East
Sky Zone Cincinnati
East
Sky Zone is the world’s first indoor trampoline park. We’re the inventors of “fun fitness” and the makers of trampolines as far as the eye can see. We give you one of the... Read more
Sky Zone is the world’s first indoor trampoline park. We’re the inventors of “fun fitness” and the makers of trampolines as far as the eye can see. We give you one of the greatest workouts ever combined with awesome, healthy fun. We’ve been voted the number one out of the box workout, the best birthday party ever and best... Read More
Summit Park Ice Rink
North
Summit Park Ice Rink
North
Take an icy stroll on Summit Park's very own ice skating rink. Pre-registration required.
Take an icy stroll on Summit Park's very own ice skating rink. Pre-registration required.
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.
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
Kincaid Lake State Park
South > Southeast
Kincaid Lake State Park
South > Southeast
Wide variety of outdoor activities make it a favorite retreat for campers and fishermen. Park features boat dock, junior Olympic-size swimming pool, 9-hole golf course,... Read more
Wide variety of outdoor activities make it a favorite retreat for campers and fishermen. Park features boat dock, junior Olympic-size swimming pool, 9-hole golf course, miniature golf, hiking trails, athletic courts, picnic area and playground. The Campground offers 84 water and electric sites, open April–Oct.
Fountain Square Ice Rink
Downtown
Fountain Square Ice Rink
Downtown
Skate the day (or evening) away on Fountain Square amidst downtown’s tallest buildings. At 7,000 square feet, it is about the size of the rink at New York's... Read more
Skate the day (or evening) away on Fountain Square amidst downtown’s tallest buildings. At 7,000 square feet, it is about the size of the rink at New York's Rockefeller Center. Amenities include skate rental, lockers, benches, and concessions options. Warm up with hot drinks and sweets at Graeter's on the Square or Ingredients... 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
Lazer Kraze Mason
North
Lazer Kraze Mason
North
Lazer Kraze, The Ultimate Family Fun Center, is conveniently located on the north side of Cincinnati in Mason, OH on the south end of Kings Island. The Mason ... Read more
Lazer Kraze, The Ultimate Family Fun Center, is conveniently located on the north side of Cincinnati in Mason, OH on the south end of Kings Island. The Mason location is home to a Multi-level laser tag arena and Indoor Trampoline Park. State-of-the-art laser tag gear with integrated sound and scoring make for high tech fun for... Read More
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.
Skyward Adventures Zipline Tours
West
Skyward Adventures Zipline Tours
West
Enjoy ziplining at this locally owned and operated company offering two different tours. Beginner zipliners will enjoy the Defy Gravity tour, while adrenaline junkies will... Read more
Enjoy ziplining at this locally owned and operated company offering two different tours. Beginner zipliners will enjoy the Defy Gravity tour, while adrenaline junkies will have a blast on the Skyline Tour.
Jane's Saddlebag
South > Southwest
Jane's Saddlebag
South > Southwest
Jane's Saddlebag is a hands-on historic educational experience, complete with the old restored "Saddlebag" home, original stone smokehouse, life-size replica of a 1700s... Read more
Jane's Saddlebag is a hands-on historic educational experience, complete with the old restored "Saddlebag" home, original stone smokehouse, life-size replica of a 1700s Flatboat, 100-year-old mortise and tenon barn, kids village, wine shop, restaurant, general store and petting zoo. Plus, free parking and cornhole.
YMCA Camp Kern
North
YMCA Camp Kern
North
Camp Kern is a community-focused nonprofit established in 1844 with recreational programs and services for all ages. Activities include summer camps, outdoor education,... Read more
Camp Kern is a community-focused nonprofit established in 1844 with recreational programs and services for all ages. Activities include summer camps, outdoor education, leadership & conferencing, family programs, ranch camp, and Ozone Zipline Adventures.
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
Lawrenceburg Ice Skating Rink
West
Lawrenceburg Ice Skating Rink
West
Lawrenceburg’s Winter Wonderland Ice Rink offers a pavilion with a protective roof over the rink, a fire pit for warming cold hands, indoor restrooms and skate rental... Read more
Lawrenceburg’s Winter Wonderland Ice Rink offers a pavilion with a protective roof over the rink, a fire pit for warming cold hands, indoor restrooms and skate rental included with admission.
Campbell Lakes Preserve
West
Campbell Lakes Preserve
West
With four lakes and 183 acres, this is a fisherman's dream. An Ohio fishing license is not required to fish at these four lakes. Bank fishing and licensed car top... Read more
With four lakes and 183 acres, this is a fisherman's dream. An Ohio fishing license is not required to fish at these four lakes. Bank fishing and licensed car top boats such as canoes, kayaks and jon boats are permitted; motors are not allowed. Bass and northern pike are catch and release only; bluegill and crappie are limited... Read More
Cincinnati Parks
Downtown
Cincinnati Parks
Downtown
Cincinnati Parks manages five regional parks, 70 neighborhood parks, 34 natural areas, five nature centers, an arboretum, a plant conservatory, nine scenic overlooks, 50... Read more
Cincinnati Parks manages five regional parks, 70 neighborhood parks, 34 natural areas, five nature centers, an arboretum, a plant conservatory, nine scenic overlooks, 50 miles of hiking and bridle trails and 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.
Escape Room Family
North
Escape Room Family
North
Ohio’s only escape room geared towards…you guessed it, families. The rooms are designed a little differently than traditional escape game experiences. In a normal... Read more
Ohio’s only escape room geared towards…you guessed it, families. The rooms are designed a little differently than traditional escape game experiences. In a normal escape room you must solve one puzzle in order to access another puzzle. In Escape Room Family all the puzzles are out from the start of the timer. Instead of ‘... Read More
Full Throttle Adrenaline Park
North
Full Throttle Adrenaline Park
North
Full Throttle Adrenaline Park is Cincinnati’s premier high-speed indoor go-kart track. Everyone from the novice to the professional racer will enjoy their state-of-the-art... Read more
Full Throttle Adrenaline Park is Cincinnati’s premier high-speed indoor go-kart track. Everyone from the novice to the professional racer will enjoy their state-of-the-art karts and racing at speeds up to 40mph. Featuring 2 High Speed tracks, racers can choose which track to tackle – or better yet, why choose? Drive them both!... Read More
DevouCycle
South
DevouCycle
South
Bike rental service offering a variety of bikes for adults and children including road bikes and mountain bikes. Located at Devou Park
Bike rental service offering a variety of bikes for adults and children including road bikes and mountain bikes. Located at Devou Park
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
EarthJoy Tree Adventures
South > Southeast
EarthJoy Tree Adventures
South > Southeast
Northern Kentucky's First Professional Tree-Climbing Company offers classes and experiences. Tree Climbers takes you step by step through the fun and safety in the trees... Read more
Northern Kentucky's First Professional Tree-Climbing Company offers classes and experiences. Tree Climbers takes you step by step through the fun and safety in the trees. All lines are set, the knots are tied and ready to climb when you arrive. Try Tree Climbing first through one of our facilitation classes. Once you feel the... Read More
Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures
Southwest
Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures
Southwest
Make a day of it and experience the free fall jumps and adventure course! Take home proof you conquered the zip lines with the free photography package of action shots.... Read more
Make a day of it and experience the free fall jumps and adventure course! Take home proof you conquered the zip lines with the free photography package of action shots. Available seven days a week during normal Ark Encounter hours. Closed January to mid-March. Not included in Ark Encounter admission.
Game On! Sports Complex
North
Game On! Sports Complex
North
Cincinnati's most comfortable, versatile, and central indoor sports facility. Enjoy basketball, volleyball, soccer and more! Take a break at the Lodge Bar featuring a wide... Read more
Cincinnati's most comfortable, versatile, and central indoor sports facility. Enjoy basketball, volleyball, soccer and more! Take a break at the Lodge Bar featuring a wide selection of beverages and a comfortable lounge with a fireplace, TVs, and free Wifi.
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
Cincinnati Circus Company
North
Cincinnati Circus Company
North
The Cincinnati Circus Company is an entertainment and event provider that offers more than 100 different forms of entertainment; from jugglers to fire performers and... Read more
The Cincinnati Circus Company is an entertainment and event provider that offers more than 100 different forms of entertainment; from jugglers to fire performers and aerialists, to setting up large events complete with disc jockeys and green screen photographers. Did we mention that they also have the only flying trapeze rig in... Read More
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
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
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
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.
Francis RecreAcres
North
Francis RecreAcres
North
Park offers soccer fields that are available for lease, volleyball courts (with spring and summer leagues), snack bar and a 1.0-mile paved trail. A universally accessible... Read more
Park offers soccer fields that are available for lease, volleyball courts (with spring and summer leagues), snack bar and a 1.0-mile paved trail. A universally accessible playground features wide ramps, rubber safety surface and physical fitness elements. Part of Great Parks of Hamilton County
Full Throttle Adrenaline Park
South > Southwest
Full Throttle Adrenaline Park
South > Southwest
Full Throttle Adrenaline Park is Northern Kentucky’s premier high-speed indoor go-kart track. Everyone from the novice to the professional racer will enjoy their state-... Read more
Full Throttle Adrenaline Park is Northern Kentucky’s premier high-speed indoor go-kart track. Everyone from the novice to the professional racer will enjoy their state-of-the-art karts and racing at speeds up to 40mph. When you roll out onto the professionally-designed race track, you’ll be met with 13 exciting and... Read More
Burton's Bamboo Garden
North
Burton's Bamboo Garden
North
Stop in and marvel at the largest collection of bamboo species in the Northeastern United States. Located 30 miles north of Cincinnati Ohio, Burton's Bamboo... Read more
Stop in and marvel at the largest collection of bamboo species in the Northeastern United States. Located 30 miles north of Cincinnati Ohio, Burton's Bamboo Garden was established over 30 years ago and is tucked away along a seven-acre lake in a peaceful and tranquil environment featuring exotic birds and granite statuary from... Read More
Fernbank Park
West
Fernbank Park
West
The 58-acre park located right along the Ohio River offers a 1.2-mile paved trail, the 1.0-mile Sycamore nature trail, a playground and access to bank fishing on the Ohio... Read more
The 58-acre park located right along the Ohio River offers a 1.2-mile paved trail, the 1.0-mile Sycamore nature trail, a playground and access to bank fishing on the Ohio River. Two shelters and Fernbank Lodge are reservable. Part of Cincinnati Parks and Great Parks of Hamilton County
Topgolf West Chester
North
Topgolf West Chester
North
Topgolf is the premier golf entertainment complex where the competition of sport meets your favorite local hangout. Players hit golf balls containing computer microchips... Read more
Topgolf is the premier golf entertainment complex where the competition of sport meets your favorite local hangout. Players hit golf balls containing computer microchips that track each shot’s accuracy and distance while also awarding points for hitting targets on the outfield. The upscale, laid-back experience features more... Read More
Whitewater Memorial State Park
West
Whitewater Memorial State Park
West
A part of the Brookville Lake-Whitewater Memorial State Park Complex, Whitewater Memorial State Park is a great family getaway because of its 200-acre Whitewater Lake,... Read more
A part of the Brookville Lake-Whitewater Memorial State Park Complex, Whitewater Memorial State Park is a great family getaway because of its 200-acre Whitewater Lake, access to Brookville Reservoir, and other recreational facilities. Shoreline hiking, flat-water boating, swimming, fishing and camping opportunities are abundant... Read More
Northern Kentucky Ice Center
South > Southeast
Northern Kentucky Ice Center
South > Southeast
Enjoy some time on the ice. The Northern Kentucky Ice Center has afternoon sessions on the weekends and a special Friday night skate. Great for the family, a date or just... Read more
Enjoy some time on the ice. The Northern Kentucky Ice Center has afternoon sessions on the weekends and a special Friday night skate. Great for the family, a date or just on your own.
