Cincinnati has no shortage of attractions to visit. From Kings Island and the Great Wolf Lodge, to IKEA, to catching a Reds game at the Great American Ballpark, there is something for everyone. Today I’d like to share some of the attractions that my family has enjoyed over the years while visiting Cincinnati.
1. Jungle Jim’s International Market
Jungle Jim’s International Market
5440 Dixie Highway
Fairfield, OH 45014-4108
(513) 674-6000
If you think grocery stores are a place you visit only to stock your frig, you haven’t been to Jungle Jim’s! It’s apparent from the Outdoor Jungle scene that you are not entering an ordinary grocery store. Inside you’ll find a Singing Elvis Lion, the Big Cheese, a Live Fish Harvest, and foods from over 70 different countries. What began as a small roadside stand has grown into the largest grocery store in the Cincinnati area!
Food sampling is offered everyday before 4:30 p.m., but I’ve been told that the best time to sample the offerings is on the weekend. Tours of the store are available Monday thru Friday, if you make your reservation prior to your arrival.
Make sure you stop by the award winning restrooms on your visit; all things are not as they appear!
FREE to visit & shop; small fee charged for tour.
2. William Howard Taft Birthplace National Historic Site
William Howard Taft National Historic Site
2038 Auburn Ave.
Cincinnati, Ohio 45219
A visit to the boyhood home of William Howard Taft, the Ohio born, 27th President and 10th Chief Justice of the United States includes the Taft Education Center and a guided tour of the home.
The Taft Education Center offers brochures, interactive displays and a small gift shop. The home is adjacent to the center and houses memorabilia from President Taft’s boyhood as well as highlighting his accomplishments in his political career.
A Jr. Ranger program for children between the ages of 6-12 is also available.
Free.
Krohn Conservatory
1501 Eden Park Dr. Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
(513) 421-4086
Located minutes from the Taft National Historic Site, Krohn Conservatory is a great place to relax! This attraction is beautiful inside and out. If you have an eye for architectural structures, you’ll appreciate that the building was built during the Art Deco era.
Inside you can step into the desert and rainforest- complete with a chocolate tree. Don’t leave without posing for a photo in front of the 20 foot waterfall.
Free, although there is a charge for special exhibits.
Newport Aquarium One Newport Way Newport, Kentucky 41071 859-261-7444
This award winning, million gallon tank aquarium is home to thousands of animals from around the world. It is also the only facility to breed shark rays in the world. Fish feedings, touch tanks, sharks, otters, penguins, and live shows are just some of the things you’ll see and experience at Newport Aquarium- all on the banks of the Ohio River.
Cost: $22 for adults, $15 for children ages 2 through 12. Children under the age of 2 are free.
5. Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal 1301 Western Avenue
Cincinnati, OH 45203 513-287-7000 800-733-2077
Although Union Terminal no longer bustles with railway passengers, this landmark still serves the city of Cincinnati as home to the Cincinnati History Museum, Duke Energy Children’s Museum, Museum of Natural History and Science and the Omnimax Theater.
Even if you decide not to go to any of the museums, I would still recommend that you step into the Union Terminal just to view the unique architecture and stunning murals that make this building one of a kind.
The individual museums charge various admission prices.
You may also consider visiting The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Loveland Castle, and The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.
Have you spent time in Cincinnati? What attractions would you suggest adding to this list?
I've been to all of those places. They are so totally cool. :) That is where I am originally from. :)
ReplyDeleteWe haven't spent as much time in Cincinnati as I'd like, but since we've returned to Ohio I think we'll remedy that. Do you have any suggestions to add to my list?
ReplyDeleteWhen we lived out of state, our hearts would flutter each time we'd approach the bridge over the Ohio River- especially at night, the Cincinnati skyline is so beautiful!