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.
Featured
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
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
Full Throttle Indoor Karting
North
Full Throttle Indoor Karting
North
Full Throttle Indoor Karting 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 Indoor Karting 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
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
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
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.
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.
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
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.
Cycling Backroads: Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum Tour
Uptown
Cycling Backroads: Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum Tour
Uptown
The leisurely ride features multiple lakes, state champion trees, hundreds of plant species and panoramic views within the park-like setting of this National Historic... Read more
The leisurely ride features multiple lakes, state champion trees, hundreds of plant species and panoramic views within the park-like setting of this National Historic Landmark. From the mid-1840s this site, with its uniquely crafted mausoleums and art inspired monuments, has been the resting place for military personnel,... Read More
Totter's Otterville
South > Southeast
Totter's Otterville
South > Southeast
Totter's Otterville is an educational entertainment center geared towards children ages 10 and under. Otterville is a secure environment with fascinating "play to learn"... Read more
Totter's Otterville is an educational entertainment center geared towards children ages 10 and under. Otterville is a secure environment with fascinating "play to learn" activities that will provide hours of fun for the entire family. Totter's Otterville is located inside Johnny's Toy Store in Covington, Kentucky and includes... 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
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
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!
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.
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
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
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.
Full Throttle Indoor Karting
South > Southwest
Full Throttle Indoor Karting
South > Southwest
Full Throttle Indoor Karting 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 Indoor Karting 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 challenging... Read More
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.
Sparta Campground
South
Sparta Campground
South
Located 3.5 miles from the Kentucky Speedway, Sparta Campground has flat level shady sites, a bath house with hot showers, and horseshoes. Drinking water and firewood... Read more
Located 3.5 miles from the Kentucky Speedway, Sparta Campground has flat level shady sites, a bath house with hot showers, and horseshoes. Drinking water and firewood delivery are available.
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.
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
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.
Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad
North
Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad
North
The LM&M takes you back in time on its 1930s train. Ride in closed cars or the open gondola car through scenic Warren County, as the conductor shares railway history... Read more
The LM&M takes you back in time on its 1930s train. Ride in closed cars or the open gondola car through scenic Warren County, as the conductor shares railway history and lore. The LM&M's specialty rides are a treat for all ages. Kids love the Magic Train, Clifford's Big Red Train Ride, A Day Out with Thomas and others.... Read More
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
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
Lazer Kraze Erlanger
South > Southwest
Lazer Kraze Erlanger
South > Southwest
Lazer Kraze Erlanger, The Ultimate Family Fun Center, is conveniently located in Northern Kentucky just minutes from the Cincinnati airport. This location has a 3DX... Read more
Lazer Kraze Erlanger, The Ultimate Family Fun Center, is conveniently located in Northern Kentucky just minutes from the Cincinnati airport. This location has a 3DX multi-level laser tag arena with awesome laser tag for the ultimate in family fun. Plus, it's home to the area’s first Indoor Trampoline Park - your whole group... 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
Carol Ann's Carousel
Downtown
Carol Ann's Carousel
Downtown
Take a ride on one of 44 whimsical Cincinnati-centric characters that make up Carol Ann’s Carousel. The carousel is an amazing work of art featuring original artwork by... Read more
Take a ride on one of 44 whimsical Cincinnati-centric characters that make up Carol Ann’s Carousel. The carousel is an amazing work of art featuring original artwork by Jonathan Queen with panels depicting whimsical animal characters playing in one of the numerous Cincinnati parks. Additional panels celebrate the many historic... Read More
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
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
Best Case Farm
South > Southeast
Best Case Farm
South > Southeast
1500 acres for hunting and fishing
1500 acres for hunting and fishing
Holiday Auto Theatre Drive-In
North
Holiday Auto Theatre Drive-In
North
Enjoy a classic twist on seeing all the most recent movie releases at this drive-in movie theater in Hamilton. Holiday Auto Theatre is one of the last remaining drive-in... Read more
Enjoy a classic twist on seeing all the most recent movie releases at this drive-in movie theater in Hamilton. Holiday Auto Theatre is one of the last remaining drive-in theatre's in Ohio.
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.
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
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
Black Ops Global
North
Black Ops Global
North
Cincinnati's only airsoft indoor play field. The terrain can be altered to give each patron a unique experience. Popular for birthday parties and events.
Cincinnati's only airsoft indoor play field. The terrain can be altered to give each patron a unique experience. Popular for birthday parties and events.
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
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.
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
Summit Park Ice Rink
North
Summit Park Ice Rink
North
Take an icy stroll on Summit Park's very own ice skating rink!
Take an icy stroll on Summit Park's very own ice skating rink!
Urban Axes
Downtown
Urban Axes
Downtown
OTR has their very own axe throwing with full bar! Get help on your axe honing skills by a local in-house "axepert".
OTR has their very own axe throwing with full bar! Get help on your axe honing skills by a local in-house "axepert".
Archery Arena
North
Archery Arena
North
The first and only dedicated combat archery facility in Cincinnati. Think dodgeball with specially made bows and arrows.
The first and only dedicated combat archery facility in Cincinnati. Think dodgeball with specially made bows and arrows.
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
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
Mitchell Memorial Forest
West
Mitchell Memorial Forest
West
This park offers over eight miles of challenging mountain bike trail, a 1.0-mile Wood Duck nature trail, the River Hill “catch and release” fishing pond, playground,... Read more
This park offers over eight miles of challenging mountain bike trail, a 1.0-mile Wood Duck nature trail, the River Hill “catch and release” fishing pond, playground, picnic areas and the reservable Pine Meadow Youth Camp. Part of Great Parks of Hamilton County
Sky Zone Springdale
North
Sky Zone Springdale
North
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
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.
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
