
Whether you’re a local looking for weekend plans or a visitor exploring the Queen City for the first time, Cincinnati offers a wide variety of things to see, eat, and experience. From historic landmarks to hidden gems and interactive entertainment, here are 10 fun and unique things to do in Cincinnati—including one unforgettable night of mystery you won’t want to miss.
1. 👣 Walk the Cincinnati Riverwalk (Smale Riverfront Park)
Take a scenic stroll along the Ohio River at Smale Riverfront Park. With splash pads, swings, gardens, and picturesque views of the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, it’s a perfect stop for families or a romantic evening walk.
2. 🎨 Explore the Cincinnati Art Museum
Located in scenic Eden Park, the Cincinnati Art Museum is free to the public and houses more than 67,000 pieces of art from around the world. It’s a cultural treasure and a must-see for art lovers.
3. 🦛 Tour the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Famous as one of the oldest zoos in the country and home to internet superstar Fiona the Hippo, the Cincinnati Zoo offers up-close animal encounters and lush botanical displays. Great for all ages!
4. 🥪 Sip and Snack at Findlay Market
This historic market is the perfect place to sample local fare, shop small, and immerse yourself in the vibrant Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Grab a coffee, try artisan snacks, and enjoy the energy of this community hub.
5. 🔦 Go Underground with the Queen City Underground Tour
Step beneath the streets and explore Cincinnati’s hidden history, including abandoned brewery tunnels and secret passageways. The Queen City Underground Tour blends history, mystery, and fun into one unforgettable experience.
6. ⚾ Catch a Reds Game at Great American Ball Park
Baseball fans—this one’s for you! Home to the Cincinnati Reds, the first professional baseball team in the U.S., this riverside stadium offers a great game-day experience with stunning views of the skyline.
7.
Visit the American Sign Museum
A truly one-of-a-kind experience, the American Sign Museum is a colorful walk through history, showcasing vintage neon signs, hand-painted advertisements, and rare pieces of Americana.
8. 🌇 Take in the View from Carew Tower
Ride the elevator to the top of Carew Tower for panoramic views of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. It’s one of the best places in town to snap a skyline selfie.
9. 🍝 Indulge in Local Favorites at Skyline Chili
No trip to Cincinnati is complete without trying the city’s famous Skyline Chili—served over spaghetti and topped with a mountain of shredded cheese. It’s quirky, it’s iconic, and it’s delicious.
10. 🔍 The Dinner Detective in Cincinnati – A Hilarious Murder Mystery Dinner Show
Looking for unforgettable things to do in Cincinnati? The Dinner Detective is the nation’s largest interactive murder mystery dinner show—and it’s right here in Queen City! Enjoy a delicious multi-course meal as you solve a side-splitting whodunit where the killer could be anyone in the room… even your date.
Whether you’re planning a date night, birthday party, corporate team builder, or just a night out with friends, The Dinner Detective delivers laughs, thrills, and an experience like no other in Cincinnati.
Located at McCormick and Schmick’s Seafood and Steaks, just minutes from downtown, this top-rated dinner show is one of the most fun group activities in Cincinnati.
🗺️ Final Tip: Don’t Just Visit Cincinnati—Experience It
Whether you’re uncovering history underground or solving a mystery over dinner, Cincinnati is bursting with things to see, do, eat, and Instagram. Add these 10 spots to your itinerary and prepare to fall in love with Queen City charm.