Whether it’s a Staycation or a Long Weekend, Let Us Be Your Guide
Summer in Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati is a season full of vibrant activities, cultural events and natural beauty. Whether you’re doing a staycation or hosting friends from out of town, there are countless ways to enjoy the best of what the area has to offer without breaking the bank. Here’s a guide to making the most of your summer without emptying your wallet.
Explore the Parks
1. Wherever you live in the region, nature is nearby. Start with the renowned Eden Park, which provides stunning views of the Ohio River, beautiful gardens, and walking trails.
2. Sawyer Point and Smale Riverfront Park are excellent for family outings, with interactive water fountains, playgrounds, and picnic spots.
3. Devou Park in Covington provides stunning views of the Cincinnati skyline, hiking trails, and a serene lake for fishing.
4. Big Bone Lick State Park is another can’t miss spot, offering hiking, picnicking, and even a glimpse into prehistoric times with its bison herd.
5. Further north, the Voice of America MetroPark is nestled in the heart of West Chester Township. This 435-acre park features a 35-acre stocked lake, nine miles of combined paved and natural trails, the Lodge, the Voice of America Athletic Complex, a Cricket Field, a large natural meadow area, and Wiggly Field Dog Park. Much of the park's acreage remains grassland and was designated as an "Important Birding Area" by Audubon Ohio.
6. For a bit more adventure, head to Winton Woods on the west side of Cincinnati. This large park has hiking trails, boating, fishing, and even a campground if you’re up for a night under the stars.
7. Residents of east neighborhoods treasure the Cincinnati Nature Preserve.
8. For a more urban feel, Washington Park in Over-the-Rhine (OTR) is another hotspot for free summer fun. The park hosts weekly events such as free yoga classes, family-friendly activities, and live music.
At most public parks, you can rent bicycles, kayaks and other equipment to make the most of your outdoor adventure.
Take Advantage of Festivals, Fairs & Other Events
Cincinnati’s summer calendar is brimming with free and low-cost events. Some are in your own backyard. County fairs and church festivals offer family and budget friendly entertainment. The following are some of our favorite repeating events:
Art enthusiasts should not miss Covington’s First Friday Gallery Hop. On the first Friday of each month, local galleries and businesses open their doors for a night of art, music, and refreshments. Stroll through Covington’s charming streets and meet artists. If you like the vibe, the MainStrasse Village hosts festivals and events throughout the summer, many of which are free to attend.
Second Sunday on Main is a monthly street festival in Over-the-Rhine that takes place on the second Sunday of each month from June to October. This free event features live music, local vendors, food trucks, and interactive street performances. It’s a fantastic way to experience the local culture and community spirit.
Located along the riverfront, Sawyer Point hosts a free summer concert series that attracts music lovers from across the region. The park’s amphitheater provides a beautiful backdrop for enjoying live music ranging from blues and rock to classical and jazz.
The Fort Thomas Summer Concert Series offers free concerts at the city’s Tower Park. This family-friendly event features local bands, food trucks, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a summer evening out.
Fountain Square, located in the heart of downtown Cincinnati, transforms into a lively hub during the summer with its free music festival series. From local bands to national acts, the square hosts a variety of genres including jazz, rock and indie.
Watch for Discounts to Local Museums and Attractions
Cincinnati is rich in history and culture, and many museums offer free or discounted admission. The Cincinnati Art Museum offers free general admission daily, showcasing an extensive collection of art from around the world. The Taft Museum of Art is free on Sundays and provides a glimpse into the historic home of Charles Phelps Taft.
For families, the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal offers discounted admission on certain days and access to the Duke Energy Children's Museum, Museum of Natural History & Science, and Cincinnati History Museum. Check out or show off the Cincinnati Zoo to out-of-towners. Go to their website to learn about discounts. Additionally, the Krohn Conservatory in Eden Park is a beautiful and affordable spot to explore exotic plants.
The Newport Aquarium is another popular spot for local families and fans of the creatures in our oceans, rivers and swamps. Check out the website for news about special exhibits. And while you’re in Northern Kentucky, check out the Vent Haven Museum in Fort Mitchell, the world's only museum dedicated to ventriloquism, offers a unique and inexpensive outing.
North of Cincinnati, Hamilton is home to an outdoor museum called Pyramid Hill, a three-hundred-acre nonprofit sculpture park founded in 1997. It is home to over 70 monumental outdoor sculptures nestled into a landscape of rolling hills, meadows, lakes and hiking trails. The Park also features rotating contemporary art exhibitions, and ancient Greek, Roman, Etruscan, Syrian and Egyptian antiquities dating to 1550 BCE displayed inside the iconic Pyramid House.
Enjoy the Waterfront
The Ohio River plays a central role in the region’s landscape and offers various budget-friendly activities. Throughout the summer and into early fall, the Cincinnati Reds often have affordable ticket nights, allowing you to enjoy a professional baseball game on a budget. You can stroll along the Riverfront Commons Trail for scenic views and fresh air. The bike trail network includes long stretches along the Ohio River and the Little Miami River. Eat lunch or dinner along the riverfront or enjoy the many concerts and fairs focused on waterfront entertainment.
Indulge in Local Flavors
Greater Cincinnati has a unique palette. Whatever you’re craving, you can likely find it done well in the region. We have our share of James Beard winners and other award-winning establishments as well as food trucks and what we affectionately call “holes in the wall.” And even if you think you know what Cincinnati-style spaghetti is your fav, try one of the many local chili parlors you haven’t visited before, sample a local pizza, weigh in on your favorite ribs, grab a Rueben and potato pancake or skip straight to dessert with a visit to one of our vaunted local ice cream parlors.
Another can’t miss spot for foodies is Findlay Market, Ohio's oldest continuously operated public market. Sample local produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. The market also hosts free events, live music, and cooking demonstrations.
