O F F I C I A L
V I S I T O R S
G U I D E
2 0 1 5
Cincinnati USA The Hot List
ti Cincintnhaern r o & N ucky Kent
WHAT’S NEW | LOCAL GOODS STANDOUT SPOTS | DIVINE BITES
LEGACY OF BASEBALL
SAVVY WAYS TO SAVE
MEET THE MAKERS
This is Reds Country
Family Fun For Less
Shop Local Wares
Hart Productions invites you to visit one of our 2015-2016 events: Cincinnati Baby & Beyond Expo
Greater Cincinnati Kitchen, Bath & Remodeling Show
August 1-2, 2015
October 9-11, 2015
Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market
Cincy Specialty Food & Treats Show
SM
SM
SM
SM
November 13-15, 2015
November 13-15, 2015
Cincinnati Travel, Sports & Boat Show®
Cincinnati Hunting & Fishing Show®
January 15-17 & 20-24, 2016
January 20-24, 2016
Cincinnati Golf Show®
Cincinnati Auto Expo
January 15-17, 2016
February 17-21, 2016
Cincinnati Home & Garden Show®
The Garden Market
February 27-28 & March 2-6, 2016
February 27-28 & March 2-6, 2016
SM
More info at
hartproductions.com
50 E. Rivercenter Blvd., Suite 1100 Covington, KY 41011 859.581.2260 • CincinnatiUSA.com President & CEO Linda Antus Director of Marketing and Communications Heather W. Kessler Marketing Manager Amber Potter Communications Manager Casey Kroger Director of Operations Marianne Yauger Visitor Operations Manager Julie Brock
Welcome to
CINCINNATI USA
Board of Directors Mike Conway, Chair Winegardner & Hammons, Inc. Michael Laatsch, Vice-Chair Western & Southern Financial Group Louise Hughes, Chair Emeritus P&G Retiree Dan Fay Commonwealth Hotels, Inc. Edgar Smith, Jr. World Pac Paper, LLC Rachel Hadaway dunnhumbyUSA
Cityscapes. River views. Rolling hills. We have all of that and more in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky! Our dynamic river region is full of endless things to do—whether you are bringing the kids or planning a romantic getaway for two. Cheer at a baseball game, cruise the Ohio River, enjoy a culinary experience at one of our award-winning restaurants or try a different taste at one of the new dining hot spots. Love the outdoors? Walk and bike our trails or stroll along the riverfront—with four pedestrian-friendly bridges, it’s easy to get back and forth from Cincinnati to Northern Kentucky! In Cincinnati USA you’ll find an affordable escape with fun for all ages and interests. Whether it’s your first time visiting, or you are returning again, we always offer more to explore and memorable moments in our unique river region. In this edition of the Cincinnati USA Official Visitors Guide, you’ll find “The Hot List,” full of new experiences, tasty dining and can’t-miss moments. And with Cincinnati (home to America’s first professional baseball team) hosting this year’s MLB All-Star Week festivities, we’re sharing our “Home Run Legacy.” We’ve also included a calendar of events with plenty of ideas for things to do in every season. With this much to experience in our region, you’ll want to stay close to CincinnatiUSA.com for endless things to do all year long!
Libby Korosec Castellini Management Company
CINCINNATI USA TOURISM PARTNERS Cincinnati USA Convention & Visitors Bureau 800-543-2613 meetNKY | Northern Kentucky CVB 877-659-8474 Cincinnati USA Visitor Center, Fountain Square 513-534-5877
OTHER RESOURCES Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber 513-579-3100 Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce 859-578-8800 Downtown Cincinnati Inc. 513-421-4440 PR O D U C E D B Y
441 Vine St., Suite 200, Cincinnati, OH 45202 513.421.4300 • 513.562.2788 fax cincinnatimagazine.com President & Publisher John Lunn Custom Publishing Editor Kara Renee Hagerman Custom Publishing Art Director Danielle Johnson Art & Production Manager Julie Whitaker Advertising Director Ivy Bayer Marketing Director Chris Ohmer Senior Account Representatives Maggie Wint Goecke, Matt Reis
Linda Antus
Digital Account Representative Lisa Lawrence
President & CEO, Cincinnati USA Regional Tourism Network
Account Representatives Christie Goetz, Jenny Swain, Tammy Vilaboy
Content is based on information provided at the time of publication. Every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. Events, amenities, locations, dates and times are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, visit CincinnatiUSA.com.
Senior Outside Account Representative Laura Bowling Contributing Writers Grace Dobush, John Erardi, Baihley Grandison, Alex Talks, Elizabeth Miller Wood Custom Publishing & Special Sections Interns Kyley Fredrick, Shelby Hyde
2 /// 2015 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE COVER PHOTOGRAPH BY BOB STEVENS
The hotel that puts you at the center of it all!
2012, 2013 & 2014
TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence
Hampton Inn & Suites Uptown/University is close to downtown and major tourist a ractions like the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati Museum Center, Great American Ball Park, Paul Brown Stadium, and the Newport Aquarium. And conveniently located near Interstates 75, 71 and 74.
132 rooms including studio suites
Free hot breakfast
Meeting space accommodates 115
Beautifully decorated, spacious lobby
24-hour fitness center
Indoor pool
All Hampton Inn & Suites rooms are equipped with HD TV, work desk and lap desk. Enjoy free high-speed internet throughout the hotel. Blocks away from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center
HAMPTON INN & SUITES UPTOWN/UNIVERSITY • 3024 VINE STREET
For Reservations or Group Information, contact 513.281.2700 or e-mail: CVGUP_suites_hampton@hilton.com
Contents TA B L E O F
Features
Plus
22 The Hot List
11 Cincinnati USA Snapshot
Whether you’re 20-something or 90-something, with kids or without, there’s plenty to explore and experience in Cincinnati USA. Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered.
30 Home Run Legacy
As the Cincinnati Reds get ready to host the 2015 MLB All-Star Game, we take a look at the first professional team in baseball, its history and its hold on our region.
36 Meet the Makers
Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky have a culture of creation, becoming a region where makers are building their own futures. It also means residents and visitors can score some unique local goods.
42
Savvy Ways to Save
Looking for the coolest kid-friendly attractions and a way to save a few bucks? You’ve come to the right place. We’re spilling the beans on the best ways to score deals—plus bonus tips for getting the most out of your visit.
4 /// 2015 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
Find out about the region’s recent accolades and learn how easy it is to explore downtown and the riverfront on foot. Plus, a calendar of events.
98 Sightseeing & Tours See the sights on one of these tours.
100 Getting Around Town Here’s a guide to making your way around Cincinnati USA.
VISITING
PLAYING
LIVING
the banks
The Banks - A World-Class Riverfront Destination. Nestled along the river with the new 40-acre Smale Riverfront Park and Cincinnati's major sport venues, The Banks offers great restaurants, live music joints, family-friendly activities, professional sports and more. Whatever your age or interest... it's happening on the river at The Banks!
within walking distance from all downtown events!
great restaurants!
WORKING
plenty of parking! (nearly 8,000 spaces!)
STAYING
AND MORE!
live! work! play!
CRAVE • HOLY GRAIL • JEFFERSON SOCIAL • JIMMY JOHN’S • JOHNNY ROCKETS MOERLEIN LAGER HOUSE • ORANGE LEAF • RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE SANTO GRAAL RISTORANTE & PIZZARIA • TIN ROOF • TOBY KEITH’S I LOVE THIS BAR TWO BITS • WELCOME CENTER • YARD HOUSE • BIKE RENTALS • AND SO MUCH MORE!
thebankscincy.com
Table of Contents Downtown
Uptown
South
North
East
West
45
46 Downtown 58 Uptown
The Reds, Cincinnati Museum Center, Findlay Market and more
Cincinnati USA Regions
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Cincinnati Art Museum, Krohn Conservatory and more
A GUIDE TO EVERY AREA
CI
g
SA
p
Middletown Oxford 127 177
75
Williamsdale
Hamilton
INDIANA
Monroe
63
Lebanon
North
OHIO
Brookville
129
129
42
71
Liberty Township
127
Mason Okeana 1
Fairfield
75
4
52
42
275
128
127
Northgate
126
West
Miamitown
College Hill
74
Dent
Mt Airy 562
264
Northside
Bridgetown
Greendale
50
O
H
IO
Downtown 18
ER R IV O
HI O
H
IO
27
Camp Springs
Alexandria
VER
25
Union
Batavia
Amelia
52
O
Cold Spring
South
71
East
Highland Heights
RI
127
32
471
275
Eastgate
Mt Washington
Newport Fort Covington Thomas
Crescent Springs
Crestview Hills Erlanger
Florence
Rising Sun
Mt Carmel 52
RIVER
Burlington
50
Newtown
Bellevue
50
Hebron
Petersburg Aurora
50
50
Mt. Adams
Price Hill
Delhi
275
50
275
Mariemont Hyde Park
Over-theRhine
Lawrenceburg
Milford
Oakley
75
350
71
Norwood
Clifton
Westwood
275
Blue Ash
Uptown Kenwood
White Oak 27
50
Loveland
Sharonville
Harrison
9
Independence
Rabbit Hash
New Richmond
OHIO
75
Walton
KENTUCKY
Verona 42
75 71 Warsaw
8 /// 2015 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
BB Riverboats, Newport Aquarium, Florence Freedom, Creation Museum and more
78 North 90 East 94 West
Kings Island, EnterTRAINment Junction, IKEA and more
3
Springdale
74
66 South
Coney Island, Loveland Bike Trail, Belterra Park Gaming and more Perfect North Slopes, casinos, Henke Winery and more
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Snapshot C I N C I N N AT I U S A
@TONYSAVICKI: Photo taken the other day as I was leaving work. #FALLinCINCY @CincyUSA
@GEEKYEXPLORERS: Another day visiting
@MLVILARDO: A day at Union Terminal
@LEEFOVA: #SUMMERinCINCY Down by the river........ #explorekentucky #roamkentucky #roadlesstaken #exploreky #tourist
#SUMMERinCINCY
@CINCYGRAM: When pigs ďŹ&#x201A; y...
#washingtonpark and the beautiful #cincinnatimusichall ! #thisisotr #otrmatters
@ANUJADESILVA: My city view today! #cincinnati #SPRINGINCincy #365cincinnati
SEASONSinCINCY Share snapshots and stories about your favorite Cincinnati USA moments and be entered to win prizes! #SPRINGinCINCY #SUMMERinCINCY #FALLinCINCY #WINTERinCINCY @ADVENTUREMOM: WAY better than
@MIKEBOEHMER57: Little Miami
walking back up the hill! #beachmountain #winterincincy
#summerincincy
CincinnatiUSA.com/contest
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 11
Snapshot
Ode to
CINCINNATI-STYLE Chili Ì It’s sweet, it’s savory, and it’s a little thinner than traditional chili. And it’s ours. Whether you love it or loathe it, you simply must try this regional delicacy when you’re in town. Because in Cincinnati USA, chili is done differently. In place of chunks of meat and sizeable beans, you’ll get savory soupiness and creative accoutrements like spaghetti, hot dogs and mustard. In place of an overtly tomato-y base, you’ll taste hints of cinnamon, cloves, allspice and maybe even chocolate. So pick your place: the classic and ubiquitous Skyline Chili, its rival chain Gold Star Chili, or maybe a mom-and-pop version like Price Hill Chili, Blue Ash Chili, Camp Washington Chili or Dixie Chili. Grab your fork; it’s chili time. —ELIZABETH MILLER WOOD
How tot Eat I
Heaped with cheese.
With a not a s fork, poon. (And cu
t the pa sta like a casse role it aroun . Don’t twirl d your fork!)
With uce. o h t sa Poured over spaghetti, hot dog, fries, potato or burrito— never alone in a bowl.
With a sid of oyste e r crackers .
CHILI TERMS 101 2-Way
Chili + spaghetti (also called chili spaghetti)
3-Way
Chili + spaghetti + cheese
4-Way
Chili + spaghetti + cheese + onions or beans
5-Way
Chili + spaghetti + cheese + onions + beans
Vegetarian 3-Way
Spaghetti + black beans + rice + cheese
Cheese Coney
Small steamed bun topped with a hot dog, mustard, chili, onions and cheese
Coney
Cheese coney minus the cheese
Chili Cheese Fries
French fries with chili and cheese
Chili Sandwich
Small steamed bun with chili, mustard and onions
Oyster Bombs
Adding a dab of hot sauce to an oyster cracker
12 /// 2015 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
High Praise Ì One of 15 Places in the World to Visit in 2015, as named by Jetsetter.com in January 2015. Ì One of Six Small Cities With Big Food Scenes, as noted by USA Today in March 2014. Ì One of 20 Best Cities for 20-Somethings, as recognized by Greatist in October 2014. Ì 5th Best Foodie City for Your Wallet, according to WalletHub, 2014. Ì One of Five Cities with Up-and-coming Downtowns, as noted by Fortune in July 2014. Ì Covington, Kentucky, was ranked One of the Most Affordable Cities in America by NerdWallet in June 2014. Ì Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center was named Third Best Children’s Hospital in the Nation out of more than 100 pediatric institutions analyzed on behalf of U.S. News & World Report in June 2014. Ì Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport is the Best Regional Airport in North America for the fourth year in a row according to Skytrax, a London-based air research organization, in March 2014.
CROSS THAT BRIDGE Ì A river as mighty as the Ohio demands ample bridging to facilitate all the over-and-back action between Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Here are some of the region’s most iconic bridges. —E.M.W.
JOHN A. ROEBLING SUSPENSION BRIDGE
NEWPORT SOUTHBANK BRIDGE
— OPENED 1867 —
— OPENED 1872 —
Sometimes called the “singing bridge” because of the hum its metal-grate frame makes when driving over it, the Roebling connects The Banks in downtown Cincinnati to Covington, Kentucky. It’s a popular artery for both strolling pedestrians and commuting motor vehicles. The blue beauty was a prototype for the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City, which opened nearly two decades later.
Rarely called by its real name, the “Purple People Bridge,” as most locals know it, has been a pedestrianonly thoroughfare since 2003, connecting Newport on the Levee in Northern Kentucky and Sawyer Point in Cincinnati.
TAYLOR-SOUTHGATE BRIDGE
CLAY WADE BAILEY BRIDGE
— OPENED 1995 —
— OPENED 1974 —
Cincinnati USA’s youngest bridge, the Taylor-Southgate, replaced the Central Bridge and is equipped with two pedestrian paths, one of which connects to U.S. Bank Arena in Cincinnati.
This three-lane, cantilever bridge spans 675 feet and carries U.S. Route 127 and U.S. Route 42 from Cincinnati to Covington, Kentucky. It was named for a former Kentucky newspaper reporter.
BRENT SPENCE BRIDGE
DANIEL CARTER BEARD BRIDGE
— OPENED 1963 —
— OPENED 1976 —
This double-decker, cantilevered truss bridge is a carrier for Interstates 71 and 75 from Cincinnati into Covington, Kentucky. It is named for former Kentucky congressman Brent Spence, who retired in 1962 and was the state’s longest serving congressman at the time.
Named after the cofounder of the Boy Scouts of America, who was a Cincinnati native, the twinspan steel-tied arch bridge is often dubbed the “Big Mac Bridge” because of its likeness to the McDonald’s golden arches. It carries Interstate 471 between Cincinnati and Newport, Kentucky.
BRIDGE ILLUSTRATIONS BY DAN ZETTWOCH
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 13
Snapshot
Take a STROLL
The riverfront scene is vibrant as ever, and you can experience it all with just a short stroll. —E.M.W.
7 MINUTES
3 MINUTES
14 MINUTES
BB Riverboats Ì Newport on the Levee
Ì Purple People Bridge
Newport on the Levee
Purple People Bridge Ì Sawyer Point Park and Yeatman's Cove
From the boat launch of BB Riverboats on Riverboat Row, take the stairs up the grassy hill and head east. Then take your pick of attractions: restaurants, bars, games, a movie theater, a bowling alley, a comedy club, Newport Aquarium and much more.
Look for the big, purple, pedestrian-only bridge right outside the patio of Dick’s Last Resort, and enjoy the view as you cross the Ohio River.
14 MINUTES
3 MINUTES
4 MINUTES
Sawyer Point Park and Yeatman's Cove Ì Smale Riverfront Park
Ì Paul Brown Stadium
Smale Riverfront Park
Paul Brown Stadium Ì National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
Follow the walking paths west that line the Ohio River—passing the giant National Steamboat Monument— until you see the metal swinging chairs, the winding labyrinth and the interactive water fountains.
From Smale, you can spot the stadium, home of the Cincinnati Bengals. Go west, young man.
At the end of the bridge, to the east is Sawyer Point and an amphitheater; and to the west is Yeatman's Cove with the Serpentine Wall and a sprayground where the kids can cool off on hot summer days.
From the Elm Street side of the stadium, head east on West Freedom Way. Ahead on your left, the Freedom Center pays homage to the region’s pivotal involvement in the Underground Railroad and educates visitors about modern-day slavery.
1-2 MINUTES
1 MINUTE
6 MINUTES
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center Ì The Banks
The Banks Ì Great American Ball Park
Great American Ball Park Ì The Roebling Murals at the Covington Riverfront
Follow West Freedom Way just one block east to arrive at the smorgasbord of dining and entertainment options available at The Banks.
The end of West Freedom Way marks the end of The Banks. Simply cross Joe Nuxhall Way to arrive at the ballpark, home of the Cincinnati Reds.
As you cross the Roebling Suspension Bridge into Covington, Kentucky, the murals line the floodwall to the right, accessible by stairs. Created by Robert Dafford, each of the 18 larger-than-life murals depicts a key moment in Covington’s history, from 800 BC to 2008.
Rather see these sites by wheel than by foot? Check out the Southbank Shuttle Trolley, which connects major destinations between Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky and costs just $1 per ride. Call 859-331-8265 or visit tankbus.org for more information. 14 /// 2015 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find you stay close to each other, too. Touch a live shark, catch a major league baseball game and take in the local flavor at one of our weekly festivals and events. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more to explore, new adventures to be had and memories to be made all year long.
Snapshot
Calendar of
EVENTS Cincinnati Reds
Spring Fifth Third Bank Broadway in Cincinnati Through June 14, 2015 Aronoff Center for the Arts 513-241-2345 | cincinnati.broadway.com The Broadway in Cincinnati series presents shows at the Aronoff Center. Shows in 2015 include Anything Goes, The Lion King and I Love Lucy.
Bockfest March 6–8, 2015 Downtown and Over-the-Rhine 513-604-9812 | bockfest.com Three-day celebration of Bock Beer, the coming of spring and Cincinnati’s brewing heritage.
Macy’s Arts Sampler March 7–8, 2015 Multiple venues 513-871-2787 | theartswave.org FREE Sample dance, theater, music and art throughout the region.
The St. Patrick’s Day Celebration March 14 & 17, 2015 Downtown and Fountain Square 16 /// 2015 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
513-621-4400 | myfountainsquare.com FREE Watch the Fifth Street Parade and enjoy a celebration with Irish food, music and refreshments. On Tuesday, March 17, keep the celebration going on the Square with bands and beer.
Great American Ball Park 513-765-7000 | reds.com The 2010 and 2012 National League Central Division Champions return to the field, opening the 2015 season against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Mercy Heart Mini Marathon and Walk
Constella Festival of Music and Fine Arts
March 14–15, 2015 Fountain Square 513-281-4048 | heartmini.org Join thousands of participants to help fight heart disease and strokes at the Heart Mini, in its 38th year.
2015 International Butterfly Show “Butterflies of the Philippines” April 3–June 21, 2015 Krohn Conservatory 513-421-5707 | butterflyshow.com Since 1996 the Butterfly Show has entertained and educated more than one million people, young and old, dazzled by more than 25,000 butterflies flying free among the vibrant and colorful flowers and fascinating artifacts.
Cincinnati Reds Baseball April 6–October 1, 2015
April 8–19, 2015 Various venues, Downtown Cincinnati 513-549-7175 | constellafestival.org Constella Festival presents more than 30 events, unique collaborations between international artists in partnership with many of the city’s finest performing arts organizations, to spotlight the rich musical fabric of Cincinnati.
Cincinnati Flower Show April 14–19, 2015 Yeatman’s Cove 866-568-5189 | cincyflowershow.com Enjoy a beautiful garden and floral exhibit along the banks of the Ohio River. The show will feature signature floral displays, horticultural pavilions, urban spaces and dramatic table settings.
BENEFITING
PRESENTED BY
JUVENILE ARTHRITIS
C I N C I N N A T I , OHIO
The Show for Car Lovers.
Featuring more than 200 of the most spectacular vehicles of all time including this year’s star, Mercedes-Benz. Also featured: 60 Years of the Thunderbird • 70th Anniversary of the VW Beetle • Future Cars from the Past Plus 13 classes of classic, vintage and exotic automobiles and motorcycles
IMAGE COURTESY OF
GARY KESSLER • KESSLER PHOTOGRAPHY
Snapshot Taste of Cincinnati
Cincy-Cinco Festival May 2–3, 2015 Fountain Square cincy-cinco.com FREE Cincinnati USA celebrates this Mexican holiday on the Square with festive music, margaritas and caprianas.
Flying Pig Marathon Powered by P&G May 3, 2015 Downtown Cincinnati 513-721-7447 | flyingpigmarathon.com This event, now in its 17th year, draws runners from all over the world who enjoy its picturesque course, as well as the family-oriented fitness events that take place throughout the weekend, including the P&G Health & Fitness Expo.
Crafty Supermarket
Party in the Park
April 25, 2015 Clifton Cultural Arts Center craftysupermarket.wordpress.com FREE The Crafty Supermarket is a juried indie craft show featuring artists and crafters from all over the country. The Holiday Show is November 28 in the Music Hall Ballroom.
Wednesdays, May 7–August 27, 2015 Yeatman’s Cove, Pete Rose Way, Downtown Cincinnati 513-579-3187 | party-in-the-park.com FREE A summertime tradition, this weekly riverfront party features beer, wine and live rock, pop and country music.
May Festival May 22–24, 29–30, 2015 Music Hall and Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption 513-381-3300 | mayfestival.com Featuring the May Festival Chorus and the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the May Festival is the oldest con-
CONVENIENTLY LOCATED JUST 10 MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN CINCINNATI!
SUNLITE POOL & WATERSLIDES
over 65,000 items spanning 6,000 years. exciting exhibitions, events programming and entertainment.
we bring people and art together general admission is always free cincinnatiartmuseum.org
18 /// 2015 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
More than just a pool, Sunlite boasts four waterslides, six diving boards, and an acre of shallow water guarded by a Platinum award winning team.
26 CLASSIC RIDES
2 NEW rides for 2015! Coney Island’s unmatched collection of family and kiddie amusement park rides is sure to please guests of all ages.
FAMILY ATTRACTIONS
Enjoy the EuroBungy Dome, three live stage shows, Miniature Golf Course, the Games Arcade, Coney Island Mining Town and more!
tinuous choral festival in the Western hemisphere.
features local artists, food vendors and more.
Appalachian Festival
Taste of Cincinnati
May 8–10, 2015 Coney Island 513-251-3378 | appalachianfestival.org Come to Coney Island to celebrate the region’s rich Appalachian heritage. This festival is full of old-time music, handmade crafts, food and fun.
May 23–25, 2015 Downtown Cincinnati 513-579-3187 | tasteofcincinnati.com FREE One of the nation’s longest-running culinary arts festivals. Guests will be delighted by the culinary temptations, live music and more during Memorial Day Weekend.
Maifest May 15–17, 2015 MainStrasse Village 859-491-0458 | mainstrasse.org FREE This festival celebrates the arrival of spring. The 36th annual festival will feature fabulous food, arts and crafts booths and entertainment, ranging from traditional German music to rock and roll.
City Flea May 16, June 20, July 25, August 15, September 19, October 10, December 12, 2015 Washington Park thecityflea.com FREE Cincinnati’s urban flea market
T O W N
Cincinnati Fringe Festival May 26–June 6, 2015 Multiple venues, Downtown Cincinnati and Over-the-Rhine 513-300-5669 | cincyfringe.com Produced by Know Theatre of Cincinnati, this festival draws local, regional, national and international artists who invade downtown and Over-the-Rhine for 12 days of artistic expression in mediums including theater, dance, music, poetry, visual art and film.
Summerfair May 29–May 31, 2015 Coney Island
513-531-0050 | summerfair.org Those who love fine arts should head to Summerfair, one of the area’s largest craft festivals. It features a wide range of work, from paintings and fiber arts to ceramics, metalwork and wood works.
Summer Bunbury Music Festival June 5–7, 2015 Sawyer Point and Yeatman’s Cove bunburyfestival.com This three-day music festival, which features more than 80 performances on four stages, was named one of 2012’s Essential Summer Festivals by Yahoo! Music.
Cincinnati Opera: 95th Summer Season June 7–July 31, 2015 Music Hall 513-241-2742 | cincinnatiopera.org The second oldest opera company in the U.S. will present Opera in the Park (at Washington Park), II Trovatore, Morning Star, Don Pasquale and Turandot.
C E N T E R
STYLE YOURSELF at Crestview Hills
Over 65 shops and restaurants make this Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky’s shopping destination. Located just 10 minutes from both downtown Cincinnati and the airport, we offer a beautiful and convenient place to shop and dine.
For a complete list of stores, restaurants, directions and events, visit our website at: www.ShopCrestviewHillsTownCenter.com CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 19
Snapshot Ohio Renaissance Festival
Western & Southern Open
Newport Italianfest
Cincinnati Juneteenth Festival
June 11–14, 2015 Newport Riverfront 859-292-3666 FREE Italianfest was named a Top 20 Festival Event by the Southeast Tourism Society. Enjoy authentic Italian food and live Italian music performances by entertainers from around the nation.
June 20–21, 2015 Daniel Drake Park 513-631-7289 | juneteenthcincinnati.org FREE This festival celebrates AfricanAmerican culture and the end of slavery in America.
Second Sunday on Main June 14, July 12, August 9, September 13, October 11, 2015 Over-the-Rhine 513-241-2690 | secondsundayonmain.org FREE On the second Sunday of each month, enjoy a hip, eclectic neighborhood event with food and craft vendors, workshops, classes and activities.
Ohio River Paddlefest June 18–20, 2015 Coney Island 513-818-5235 | ohioriverpaddlefest.org Enjoy three days of activities that include the Kids Outdoor Adventure Expo, Outdoor Expo & Music Festival and “Paddle the Ohio.” Proceeds benefit programs of Green Umbrella and Kids Outdoor Adventure Expo.
Goettafest at MainStrasse Village June 19–21, 2015 MainStrasse Village 859-491-0458 | mainstrasse.org FREE Sample this Cincinnati favorite in everything from goetta pizza to goetta omelets and enjoy games, children’s activities, art and crafts, music and entertainment. 20 /// 2015 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
RoeblingFest 2015 June 20, 2015 Roebling Point Business District roeblingbridge.org FREE A daylong festival celebrating the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, a National Historic Landmark.
Red, White and Blue Ash July 4, 2015 Blue Ash Summit Park 513-745-8500 | blueashevents.com FREE The 30th year of this Independence Day celebration with fireworks, big-name entertainment, food and activities for kids.
NASCAR Racing at Kentucky Speedway July 9–11 & Sept. 25–26, 2015 Sparta, Kentucky 888-652-7223 | kentuckyspeedway.com The 2015 season includes top-tier NASCAR and open-wheel action trucks and more. The biggest names in racing return for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series on July 11.
All-Star Week July 10–14, 2015 Great American Ball Park MLB.com/allstargame Major League Baseball is bringing the 86th All-Star Game and surrounding
events to Cincinnati with the Cincinnati Reds hosting the festivities.
Cincinnati Music Festival July 24–25, 2015 Paul Brown Stadium 800-452-3132 | cincymusicfestival.com This major event brings jazz, R&B, blues and hip-hop music performers, stars from today and yesterday, to Paul Brown Stadium.
Cincy Blues Fest August 7–8, 2015 Sawyer Point cincybluesfest.org Enjoy more than 40 local and national blues acts, food and fun at this annual festival produced by Cincy Blues Society.
Glier’s Goettafest August 6–9, 2015 Newport on the Levee 859-291-1800 | goettafest.com FREE Celebrate a popular area food item, goetta—a German dish of pork, beef and oats—and enjoy live music, dancing, games and much more.
Western & Southern Open August 15–23, 2015 Lindner Family Tennis Center 513-651-0303 | cincytennis.com Catch the biggest stars of tennis in action, including 2014 champions Roger Federer and Serena Williams. The tournament also features fare from local restaurants and entertainment.
Great Inland Seafood Festival August 13–16, 2015
Newport Riverfront 513-477-3320 | greatinlandseafoodfest.com FREE Enjoy fresh seafood, including live Maine lobsters, from more than 15 participating vendors, as well as live entertainment.
Fall Ohio Renaissance Festival September 5–October 25, 2015 Harveysburg, Ohio 513-897-7000 | renfestival.com Experience a full day of family entertainment in a permanent 30-acre English village. See jousting, sorcery and enjoy a turkey leg with your grog.
Cincinnati Bengals Beginning in September, 2015 Paul Brown Stadium 513-621-8383 | bengals.com Who Dey! The Bengals take the field for the 2015 football season.
Riverfest September 6, 2015 Banks of Ohio River 513-686-8500 | webn.com/pages/FWX.html FREE Enjoy the city’s annual farewell to summer. It’s an all-day celebration along the Ohio River culminating with fireworks, one of the world’s largest displays set to music.
Oktoberfest at MainStrasse Village
downtown Zinzinnati showcases the rich German heritage of Southwestern Ohio, as well as tasty samples of German-style music, food and beer. First held in 1976, the event has grown to be North America’s largest Oktoberfest, with more than 500,000 people attending each year.
MidPoint Music Festival September 24–26, 2015 Multiple venues mpmf.com A must for independent music lovers, featuring local, national and international acts.
Newport Oktoberfest September 25–27, 2015 Newport Riverfront 513-477-3320 | oktoberfestnewport.com FREE An authentic Oktoberfest experience with food, music and large tents sponsored by German beer breweries.
Weeki Wachee Mermaids October 2015 Newport Aquarium 800-406-3474 | newportaquarium.com See mermaids as they swim through the 60,000-gallon Coral Reef exhibit that features nearly 200 aquatic animals and more than 50 species of fish. There will also be a chance to meet and chat with the mermaids.
Books by the Banks: Cincinnati USA Book Festival
September 11–13, 2015 MainStrasse Village 859-491-0458 | mainstrasse.org FREE Rated one of the top festivals in Kentucky, MainStrasse Village’s Oktoberfest offers a diverse mix of German and international beer, food and arts in a family setting with plenty of activities for the kids.
October 17, 2015 Duke Energy Convention Center booksbythebanks.org FREE Meet national and local authors, purchase signed copies of their books, attend lectures, visit the Kids Corner and more.
Old West Festival
PNC Festival of Lights
September 12–October 18, 2015 Williamsburg, Ohio 866-937-8337 | oldwestfestival.com This festival celebrates the Old West, complete with a re-creation of Dodge City, as well as crafts, food and entertainment.
November 21, 2015– January 2, 2016 Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden 513-281-4700 | cincinnatizoo.org Experience the amazing transformation of this lush botanical garden and worldclass zoo into a winter wonderland with 2.5 million twinkling LED lights.
America’s Oktoberfest-Zinzinnati (The second largest Oktoberfest in the world) September 18–20, 2015 Downtown Cincinnati 513-579-3197 | oktoberfestzinzinnati.com FREE This outdoor festival held in
Winter
lights and an illuminated, five-foot-tall red star, on Fountain Square officially welcomes the holiday season.
Scuba Santa’s® Water Wonderland November 27–December 31, 2015 Newport Aquarium 800-406-3474 | newportaquarium.com This wintertime favorite, where Santa Claus wears his diving gear and swims through a holiday-inspired water wonderland, will be newly reimagined with new features and experiences in 2015.
Macy’s Downtown Dazzle November 28, December 5 & 12, 2015 Fountain Square 513-621-4400 | myfountainsquare.com FREE Downtown Cincinnati becomes a magical winter wonderland with FREE sparkling lights and fireworks displays at Fountain Square. Plus, skate on the U.S. Bank Ice Rink and watch as Santa rappels his way down a building.
Redsfest December 4–5, 2015 Duke Energy Convention Center reds.com/redsfest An opportunity to get an autograph or photo with your favorite Reds player! This official annual winter warm-up will also include interaction from past, current and future stars from the Reds.
St. Nicholas’ Arrival December 5, 2015 MainStrasse Village 859-491-0458 | mainstrasse.org FREE The traditional German St. Nicholas arrives on horseback with treats for all the children who visit.
Scuba Santa’s® Water Wonderland
Macy’s Light Up the Square November 27, 2015 Fountain Square 513-621-4400 | myfountainsquare.com FREE This annual lighting of the holiday tree, sparkling with more than 20,000
Ì Visit CincinnatiUSA.com for a complete
list of events. Event dates and details are subject to change at any time without notice. CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 21
2015
Cincinnati USA
Ì Charles Dickens said of Cincinnati that it was “a beautiful city; cheerful, thriving, animated—I have not often seen a place that commends itself so favorably to a stranger at first glance.” And this is as true of our city today as it was in 1842. It is big enough to house some of the best museums, amusement parks, restaurants, attractions and events in the country, but intimate enough to still be warm and welcoming. It’s the place where you can take the kids to touch sharks at the aquarium or ride the Banshee, the world’s largest inverted roller coaster, at Kings Island; where you can stroll through one of the oldest historic neighborhoods in the country (and nosh on some of the best fine dining in the region) for date night; and where you can meet up with buddies for beers at one of its revived breweries. Whether you’re 20-something or 90-something, with kids or without, there’s plenty to explore and experience in Cincinnati USA. Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered. By Baihley Grandison
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New in 2015
Whether it’s your first time here or you’re a regular visitor, check out these must-see new attractions, which will guarantee a memorable time in town.
“DIVERSITY IN BASEBALL” at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center The Freedom Center’s newest exhibit will highlight America’s favorite pastime and explore how the sport’s evolution to being more diverse has mirrored the overall breakdown of ethnic, gender and racial barriers in American culture. June 26–Sept 13, 513-3337739, freedomcenter.org
CAROL ANN’S CAROUSEL at Smale Riverfront Park The park, which borders the Ohio River and is within walking distance of The Banks, Paul Brown Stadium and Great American Ball Park, welcomes a Cincinnatithemed carousel this spring. Local artist Jonathan Queen will paint local themes on the structure, and the ride itself will Carol Ann’s Carousel at Smale Riverfront Park
be built on a plaza that houses a conference center below. Opens in spring, 513-357-2621, mysmaleriverfrontpark.org
“TREASURES OF OUR MILITARY PAST” at Cincinnati Museum Center
(four-seaters that will bump up and down around a circle track), will debut at Planet Snoopy. Other new additions? International Street is being renovated to add more shops and food options, a petting zoo and what will be one of the largest Starbucks in the Midwest. Opens April 18, 513754-5700, visitkingsisland.com
Coming in May to the awardwinning Cincinnati Museum Center is a new exhibit and OMNIMAX CINCINNATI ZOO film commemorating the many This summer, the Zoo’s newest men and women who fought and addition will be to the AFRICA sacrificed for our country. The exexhibit: a local meerkat manor. hibit will feature memorabilia and The exhibit, near the Painted Dog veterans from the 18th century to Valley (which just the present, and the opened last July), OMNIMAX film D-Day: features a glass Ì In The News Normandy 1944 will pop-up bubble where unveil the events Newport Aquarium you can get up and that occurred in named one of the close with the meerthat pivotal battle in 12 Best Aquariums kats. Say, is that WWII. May 15–Sept in the United States Timon? New exhibits 27, 513-287-7000, by Destinations opening in summer, cincymuseum.org Travel Magazine 513-281-4700, (July 2014). cincinnatizoo.org
KINGS ISLAND
Two rides are opening this year in the perpetually expanding theme park—it’s the largest amusement and water park in the Midwest— and these new attractions are for the little ones. The familyfriendly rides, Woodstock Gliders (a self-steered flying plane ride) and Snoopy’s Space Buggies
CONEY ISLAND Swing back and forth in a pendulum motion, in a 360-degree arc over 35 feet in the air on the new thrill ride coming to Coney Island this summer. The classic amusement park is adding two new rides to the mix in 2015. The pendulum is for the thrill seekers; the new kiddie bumper cars are for the littles, who get to take the wheel for a bouncy, bumpy adventure. This brings the number of rides to 26 at this beloved attraction. Opens May 23, 513-2328230, coneyislandpark.com
NEW RIFF DISTILLING At New Riff Distilling in Newport, a member of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour, you can take an in-depth guided tour of the distillery that includes a complimentary tasting of a variety of spirits. The distillery, which opened last year, also hosts CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 23
Metropole
Ì In The News The American Sign Museum and Creation Museum listed among Flipkey’s Top Museums Worth Traveling For (March 2014).
cooking events, wine tastings and other special events. With modern architecture, the distillery offers the ultimate urban bourbon experience. 859-2617433, newriffdistilling.com
NEWPORT AQUARIUM With the introduction of North America’s first Shark Bridge—a 100-foot rope bridge suspended inches above a 385,000-gallon shark tank—daring Aquarium visitors who traipse across it will be able to see seven different shark species, multiple stingrays, rare shark rays and hundreds of fish. In addition, the aquarium is adding scalloped hammerhead sharks to its “Surrounded by Sharks” exhibit, making it one of the largest collections in the world of the extremely rare species. For those interested in tamer creatures, the Aquarium will debut a new otter exhibit, “Canyon Falls,” this spring, which will feature Asian small-clawed otters and exotic lizards. New exhibits opening in March and April, 859261-7444, newportaquarium.com
Shark Bridge at Newport Aquarium
Taste of the City There’s no doubt the Cincinnati USA region is foodie-friendly. Whether you’re craving a popular local dish, like Taste of Belgium’s chicken and waffles, or you have a hankering for something unique, like spaghetti squash pancakes (found seasonally at Metropole), there’s a spot here for you to grab some seriously delicious eats. The restaurants below have some of the best cuisine around, and they also all support area farmers and businesses by using locallysourced ingredients.
ORCHIDS AT PALM COURT Located downtown in the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza, Orchids has won many accolades for its fine dining. It is now an AAA Five Diamond restaurant. Executive Chef Todd Kelly was named USA Chef of the Year by the American Culinary Federation. In 2014 the restaurant earned a spot on OpenTable’s top 10 list of the best
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restaurants in the U.S., as well as four stars in Forbes’ Travel Guide. Known for its devotion to using locally-sourced ingredients, it even makes its own honey on the roof of the hotel. The menu changes seasonally, but includes anything from stuffed quail to chateaubriand, along with an award-winning complementary wine selection. And don’t skip dessert: Pastry Chef Megan Ketover, a former contestant on Bravo’s Top Chef: Just Desserts, knows how to dazzle with pastries like milk chocolate fig tarts and pumpkin crémeux. 35 W. Fifth St., downtown, 513-421-9100, orchidsatpalmcourt.com
BOUQUET RESTAURANT AND WINE BAR Farm-to-table is the main focus at Bouquet, where head chef Stephen Williams culls the freshest ingredients from more than 17 local vendors. Set in Covington’s historic MainStrasse district, the restaurant serves dinner only and has a range of soups, salads and entrees—including items such as crab cakes with pastrami and chive parsley root puree—and a wine list with more than 80 selections. Many of the dishes can be made vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free upon request. 519 Main St., Covington, 859-491-7777, bouquetrestaurant.com
METROPOLE The bulk of the dishes on Metropole’s rotating menu are cooked in a custom-built wood-burning fireplace, a nod to old-world cooking techniques. This is especially fitting because the restaurant, bar and lounge are set in Cincinnati’s 21c Museum Hotel, which still showcases many of the original architectural details of its historic building, like arched windows and mosaic tile floors. After sampling the charred beets and braised pork shank—as a “farm-to-fireplaceto-table” establishment, all of the ingredients are sourced from local farms, bakeries and coffee and spice shops—pop by the adjoining art museum to check out eclectic displays of contemporary works. 609 Walnut St., downtown, 513578-6660, metropoleonwalnut.com
Ì In The News Melt Eclectic Café featured in an episode of TLC’s Diners, Drive-ins and Dives (2014).
Café in Santa Fe and the highly has some of the best waffles for regarded French restaurant Monmiles around. The waffles themtrachet in New York City, and she selves are authentic Belgian-style has made sustainability (read: thick and and local and organic hearty) and the Ì In The News products her focus at varieties range Nectar. Menu offerings from the savory Graeter’s Ice include black bean and Southwestern Cream awarded goat cheese tamales, (turkey, pepper “Best Sweet” Verlasso salmon with citjack and chipoat the Food rus glaze, and leek, fentle mayo) to the Network South nel and butternut squash sweet S’mores Beach Wine and gratin. Each month, the waffle. And in Food Festival restaurant hosts a Dinner typical Cincinnati (2014). Club event, serving a fivefashion, there’s course meal based on also a specialty one local ingredient (past features crepe called the ’Nati, made include bourbon, chili and gelato). with eggs, roasted peppers and 1000 Delta Ave., Mt. Lookout, 513onions, Havarti cheese and 929-0525, dineatnectar.com local-favorite goetta: a breakfast sausage made with oats and spices that dates back to the TASTE OF BELGIUM city’s German heritage. 1133 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-381-4607, Equally popular for dinner as it authenticwaffle.com is for brunch, Taste of Belgium
Taste of Belgium
MELT ECLECTIC CAFÉ Perhaps best known for its melted sandwiches—like the Joan of Arc, which is braised beef with roasted garlic and red peppers, caramelized onions and bleu and provolone cheeses melted on foccaccia—this café also serves a tasty variety of soups, wraps, salads and sides. Try the roasted potatoes with curry ketchup. Melt partners with neighboring shop Picnic and Pantry for its ingredients, and has a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian-friendly options. 4165 Hamilton Ave., Northside, 513-6816358, meltcincy.com
NECTAR Nectar’s chef/owner Julie Francis has spent more than 20 years in the industry, including stints at Mark Miller’s venerated Coyote
Ì In The News Japp’s since 1879 and Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar on The Bourbon Review’s list of America’s Best Bourbon Bars in 2014.
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 25
Raise a Glass: Beer In the 1890s, Cincinnati was the third largest producer of beer in the U.S., and Cincinnatians drank two and a half times more beer than the national average, earning us the nickname “Beer Capital of the World.” Today, this region is still home to the largest collection of Pre-Prohibition breweries in the country. Beer production is alive and thriving around these parts. Check out our list for some cool places to nab a cold one. 26 /// 2015 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
home-brew hobby of founders Kenny McNutt, Jeff Hunt and Brady Where: Over-the-Rhine Most PopDuncan, but quickly evolved into ular Brew: Truth IPA The Draw: a craft brewery that offers it all: a In the former Moerlein bottling taproom, restaurant, growler fills plant, which was built in 1895, and keg sales. In 2013, it became Rhinegeist has kept the first Ohio brewery its warehouse-style to put its own craft Ì In The News interior open and beer in a can. Fun expansive, so there’s Fact: MadTree’s webRhinegeist named plenty of room for big site has a running one of the top 10 group activities— tally of total MadTree new breweries indoor corn hole, beers imbibed. Numin the world by anyone? Plus, it does ber to date: more national publicaall of its brewing and than 80,000. tion RateBeer.com canning in-house. 513-836-8733, (January 2014). The brewery doesn’t madtreebrewing.com have a menu, but guests are welcome to bring HOFBRÄUHAUS their own food. Fun Fact: Name means “Ghost of the Rhine.” Where: Newport, Kentucky Most 513-381-1367, rhinegeist.com Popular Brew: Hofbrau Premium Lager The Draw: All the lagers you could dream of—not to mention MADTREE BREWING plenty of German fare for the Where: Oakley Most Popular choosing—in an authentic MunichBrew: PsycHOPathy IPA The Draw: style setting. Prost! Fun Fact: It was the first Hofbräuhaus in the MadTree began as the basement
RHINEGEIST
PHOTOGRAPH BY JONATHAN WILLIS
Rhinegeist
United States (in fact, outside of Germany at all). It’s still one of only four in the country. 859-4917200, hofbrauhausnewport.com
BLANK SLATE BREWING COMPANY Where: Columbia Township Most Popular Brew: Fork in the Road The Draw: Head brewer and founder Scott LaFollette likes to experiment outside the range of “standard German styles,” so expect some funky brew choices (think brown ale with shiitake mushroom or imperial chocolate IBA). He’s also a Certified Cicerone, or certified beer connoisseur, and one of only 41 in Ohio. Nearby, there are bike paths and trails aplenty, as well as the Airport Bike Rental shop, so you can work up a sweat before swinging by for a freshly chilled brew. Fun Fact: Its Fork in the Road brew was the 2013 champion of the Ohio Beer Fantasy Leagues. 513-9794540, blankslatebeer.com
FIFTYWEST BREWING COMPANY Where: Mariemont Most Popular Brew: Punch You in the EyePA The Draw: Housed in a renovated 1827 farmhouse, FiftyWest is the perfect traveler’s jaunt—each brew is named with some sort of witty take on road trip lingo—though it’s popular among the locals, too. The brewery’s extensive menu, which varies seasonally but can include everything from smoked Gouda grits to Moroccan meatballs, is not your typical bar fare, either. Fun Fact: All beer is distributed in a 1972 orange Volkswagen van. 513834-8789, fiftywestbrew.com For a full list of local breweries, visit CincinnatiUSA.com/ bars-and-nightlife/breweries
Over-the-Rhine
Hit the Town: Over-theRhine The Over-the-Rhine district—or “OTR,” as it’s often locally dubbed—is located on the north edge of downtown Cincinnati and boasts some of the hottest restaurants and shops in the region. The neighborhood, listed in the National Register of Historic Places, is easily traversed on foot or, if you’re looking to cover a bit more ground, you can nab a rental bike from one of several Red Bike hubs downtown.
OTR’S ECLECTIC MIX OF eateries, bars and locally owned shops means you’ll have plenty to do, whether you visit during the day or spend a night on the town. Washington Park hosts frequent concerts and events (and has a castle-inspired playground for the kids and a designated dog park for the pups) and sits directly in front of 137-year-old Music Hall, a National Historic Landmark and treasured local venue. Foodies, you’ll definitely want to stop by Findlay Market, a year-round market and hub of all things Cincinnati. Be sure to sample the goods at newcomers
Ì In The News OTR restaurants Bakersfield, Senate, Taste of Belgium and Pho Lang Thang featured in episodes of TLC’s Diners, Drive-ins and Dives (2014).
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 27
Riverfest Fireworks
Maverick Chocolate Company, the city’s first bean-to-bar chocolate makers, and Macaron Bar, the only local bakery dedicated solely to French macarons. There’s food vendors aplenty, so your lunch options are limitless, and during the summer you can lunch at the on-site beer garden, too. Follow up lunch or dinner with a cold one at one of OTR’s several historic breweries, many of which were originally founded in the early 19th century. Prohibition closed down the region’s many breweries, but a few, like Christian Moerlein and Hudepohl, have been revived in the last 10 years. The emergence of several other local breweries in the last few years, including Rhinegeist on Elm Street and the soon-to-open Taft’s Ale House, have made OTR and downtown a beer destination once again. After you’ve wined and dined, take in a performance at the Know Theatre. It hosts everything from musicals to plays to the annual 12-day Cincy Fringe Festival, which brings in more than 130 acts— think push-the-envelope performances encompassing dance, visual art, film, music and more— from all over the country. Or see the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra or Cincinnati Opera (the second oldest opera company in the U.S.) at Music Hall. Prefer more tangible arts? Meander through one of the district’s museums or art galleries, such as the Jack Wood Gallery (vintage posters and graphics) or Rookwood Pottery (world-renowned handcrafted pottery; the company itself has been around for over a century.)
Ì In The News Washington Park appeared on Gizmodo’s 5 Coolest New Parks and Public Spaces in the U.S. list after the park received an Open Space Award from the Urban Land Institute (October 2014).
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Don’t Miss These attractions and events are big. You’ll definitely want to add them to your itinerary.
AMERICAN LEGACY TOURS You don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy American Legacy Tours’ fact-filled guided walks around Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Pick a theme— options include the Queen City Underground Tour, the Newport Gangster Tour and the Rookwood Tour, among others—and let your guide take you back in time. americanlegacytours.com
T-MOBILE ALL-STAR FANFEST As part of the 86th All-Star Game festivities, don’t miss T-Mobile All-Star FanFest—the largest interactive baseball fan event in the world featuring baseballrelated attractions for fans of all ages. T-Mobile All-Star FanFest is July 10–14 at the Duke Energy Convention Center. Visit MLB.com/ allstargame for more details and information on tickets to all of the events.
ARTWORKS MURALS ArtWorks Cincinnati has completed 90 murals throughout the region. They offer guided tours of the murals in the Central Business District and Over-theRhine, covering the backstory of each mural. Prefer to meander on your own? Grab an ArtWalks
RIVERFEST
Western & Southern Open Oktoberfest
Held the Sunday of Labor Day Weekend for the last 38 years, Riverfest celebrates the end of summer with a bang: the biggest fireworks show in the region, choreographed along to a themed soundtrack. Other happenings at the event, which draws crowds of 500,000 to both the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky Riverfront, are live music, a Rubber Duck Regatta (thousands of rubber ducks tossed off the Purple People Bridge into the Ohio River), and loads of food trucks. Sept 6, 513-686-8500, webn.com/pages/FWX.html
Ì Rent a Red Bike
map for a description of each mural, and pick and choose which you’d like to see. artworkscincinnati.org
OKTOBERFEST
There’s goetta, bratwurst and beer aplenty at America’s Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, the largest festival of its kind outside of Munich. The three-day NASCAR AT festival gives a nod to Ì In The News KENTUCKY the city’s rich German SPEEDWAY Donna Salyers’ heritage and features Fabulous-Furs in Four NASCAR sea plethora of GermanCovington, Kenries—including the style food and events. tucky, was named Quaker State 400, The Running of the one of Oprah’s which features Kyle Wieners is an annual Favorite Things Busch, Jeff Gordon, tradition, as is the (December 2014 isTony Stewart and Gemuetlichkeit (also sue of O Magazine) Dale Earnhardt Jr., known as the Goodwill fabulousfurs.com among others— Games). It’s esticome to Kentucky mated that more than Speedway in July 87,000 metts, 3,600 and September. Make a weekend pounds of sauerkraut and 20,000 of it; the Speedway has more cream puffs are consumed over than 3,600 RV lots, so you can the course of the weekend. stay smack dab in the middle of Needless to say, it won’t disapthe action. 859-567-3400, point. (Lederhosen optional.) Sept 18–20, oktoberfestzinzinnati.com kentuckyspeedway.com
Rent a bicycle for the whole day (all 24 hours!) for only $8. All you have to do is a quick check-in every 60 minutes at one of the many docking stations throughout the city.
WESTERN & SOUTHERN OPEN This major national tennis tournament is the oldest tournament played in its original city and the second largest summer tennis event in the nation. Cincinnati has hosted the event since 1899. Singles, doubles, men’s and women’s professional tennis events are all encompassed in the eight-day competition, which also features eats from favorite local restaurants such as Fusian and Montgomery Inn. There’s other fan events too, like Graeter’s Kids Day, with kids’ games and activities on the courts, and a Night on the Runway fashion show. Aug 15–23, 513-651-0303, cincytennis.com CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 29
HOME RUN
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LEGACY
AS THE CINCINNATI REDS GET READY TO HOST THE 2015 MLB ALL-STAR GAME, WE TAKE A LOOK AT THE FIRST PROFESSIONAL TEAM IN BASEBALL, ITS HISTORY AND ITS HOLD ON OUR REGION.
BY JOHN ERARDI CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 31
HOME RUN LEGACY
“IF YOU’VE NEVER PLAYED IN CINCINNATI,YOU’VE NEVER PLAYED.”
—Sparky Anderson, manager of the Big Red Machine
BACK IN TIME Clockwise, from top left: Manager Sparky Anderson and catcher Johnny Bench during the era of the Big Red Machine; Ken Griffey Jr. at bat in a game against the Boston Red Sox in 2008; Pete Rose, nicknamed Charlie Hustle, played for the Reds from 1963 to 1978; Tom Browning pitched a perfect game vs. the Los Angeles Dodgers on September 16, 1988. PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF THE CINCINNATI REDS
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VER SINCE RED STOCKINGS CAPTAIN HARRY WRIGHT LURED HIS 22-YEAR-OLD YOUNGER BROTHER TO CINCINNATI TO PLAY SHORTSTOP IN 1869—GEORGE WAS THE BEST PLAYER IN THE COUNTRY—THE PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL TEAM IN THE ICONIC RED SOCKS HAS BEEN THE QUEEN CITY’S FAVORITE SPORTING PASSION AND FAMILY HEIRLOOM. BRONZE, BUT LIFE-SIZE AND LIFE-LIKE, HARRY AND GEORGE ARE THERE TO GREET YOU TODAY WHEN YOU WALK INTO THE REDS HALL OF FAME AND MUSEUM THAT IS CONVENIENTLY LOCATED NEXT TO GREAT AMERICAN BALL PARK. FOR MOST OF THE PAST 145 YEARS, THE PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL TEAM HAS HAD AN INDELIBLE HOLD ON GREATER CINCINNATI. THE REDS ARE CINCINNATI. IT IS THE TEAM’S LEGACY.
Even though you’re reading the Visitors Guide, you may already be a Reds fan or at least a fan of the Cincinnati region. If not, there’s room on the bandwagon. We’d love for you to hop on with us. If you’re not one already—a fan of the team and/or the region, that is—and you haven’t been to a game, what better time to visit than in 2015? The Reds are pulling out all the stops all season long to entertain you, as they host the 2015 Major League Baseball All-Star Game in July. The T-Mobile All-Star FanFest, the largest interactive baseball fan event in the world, is the place to be for baseball fans of all ages during All-Star Week in Cincinnati. FanFest lives up to its name with autograph sessions, player appearances, the latest baseball video games, a collector’s showcase with collectibles and memorabilia, demo zones to test officially licensed MLB equipment, plus entertainment, food and more. It’s a big game, a huge game, but for 81 dates every season for the past 12 years (especially the past nine since the Castellinis bought the franchise), it’s been a party at Great American Ball Park. Let’s take a ride through Reds history and then go out to “GABP,” as we know it here in the heart of Reds Country.
Reds are stitched in the region’s fabric Anybody who’s been in Cincinnati USA for even a day knows that the Reds are as talked-about as the weather: “How’d the Reds do last night?” “Who are the Reds playing today?” “How ’bout dem Reds?”
It peppers our conversation. And here’s why: Not only are the Reds the first professional baseball team, they are the country’s first professional sports team. Think about that. We’re proud of it, and we have every right to be. Being first was just the first of firsts. The Reds were also first to utilize long socks and knicker-style pants, with the manager wearing the same, a tradition that persists to this day (all in 1869); a clean, simple, modern-day scoreboard with players’ names and positions, balls and strikes and scores of other games (1912); season tickets in the modern era, air travel and signifying ‘‘hit or error’’ on Matty Schwab’s scoreboard (all in 1934); night game (1935); dragging the infield midway through the game (late 1940s); and an all-synthetic infield (1970). Whew. And that’s just a partial list. Reds Opening Day is celebrated as a holiday in Cincinnati. Really, it is. Streets around the ballpark close for a giant block party and the annual Findlay Market Opening Day Parade traverses the downtown streets ending at Great American Ball Park. The region embraces this fresh beginning for the upcoming season and the devotion to the team is apparent by the sold-out ballpark and sea of red fan apparel. The Reds have played in nine World Series, won five (1919, 1940, 1975, 1976 and 1990), hosted four All-Star Games (1938, 1953, 1970 and 1988) and one president on Opening Day, and aren’t done celebrating yet. They have boasted 12 Most Valuable Players, 262 All-Stars and 12 National Baseball Hall of Famers. CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 33
HOME RUN LEGACY
PLAY BALL Devoted fans fill the streets around Great American Ball Park on Opening Day, which is celebrated as a holiday in Cincinnati.
Cincinnati Reds
NATIONAL LEAGUE MVPs
Ernie Lombardi - 1938
Bucky Walters - 1939
Frank McCormick - 1940
Frank Robinson - 1961
Johnny Bench - 1970, 1972
Pete Rose - 1973
Joe Morgan - 1975, 1976
George Foster - 1977
Barry Larkin - 1995
Joey Votto - 2010 34 /// 2015 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
We’re having a party The Reds have developed into one of the best MLB franchises at staging a party, er game, 81 dates a year. Nowhere is the ballpark experience better than at GABP, the franchise’s eighth ballpark, dating back to the first one in 1867, located where Union Terminal is today. What makes Reds games so much fun is there is always something going on—on the field, in the stands, on top of the dugout, in the fan zone, on the scoreboard, at the concession stands, on your cell phone. Be sure to hang onto your ticket, because on a day or night of 11 or more strikeouts of the opposition
by Reds pitchers, your electronically scanned price of admission will gain you a free small, one-topping pizza from locally loved LaRosa’s Pizzeria. And if you can be here for a Friday night home game, for gosh sakes, do it. Twenty minutes after the final out, it’s Fireworks Night after all Friday games (Reds broadcaster Marty Brennaman calls it “the best in baseball”). As if all this isn’t enough, consider all there is to do before and after the game. Not only is there Smale Riverfront Park (green space, fountains and walkways) for the youngsters, there are sandwiches, burgers and dishes galore in The Banks entertainment district, right next to the ballpark.
ON JULY 14, THE MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL ALLSTAR GAME COMES TO GREAT AMERICAN BALL PARK. HERE IS A QUICK LOOK AT THE OTHER FOUR MLB ALL-STAR GAMES PLAYED HERE.
1938: Only three weeks after pitching his second straight no-hitter, hard-throwing 23-year-old Reds lefthander Johnny Vander Meer pitches two innings of nohit ball, retiring six straight American League batters, five of them Hall of Famers, including Jimmie Foxx, Joe DiMaggio and Bill Dickey. NL 4-1
1953: Even though AL slugger Ted Williams wasn’t in uniform—he had just gotten home a few days earlier following two years in Korea where he’d flown 39 combat missions—he was the star of the pre-game, receiving a rousing standing ovation. NL 5-1
1970: Pete Rose barrels into AL catcher Ray Fosse in the bottom of the 12th inning to score the winning run at three-week-old Riverfront Stadium in front of President Richard Nixon, who hand-scored the entire game and never left his seat. NL 5-4 Whatever you do, don’t forget how it all started. Before, during and after day games, and before and until 8 o’clock on night games—and on all but Mondays during the offseason—the best Hall of Fame and Museum in a major league city will wow you. New this season is a Tony Perez exhibit. On August 22, Perez will be celebrated with the third of the Big Red Machine–related statues, as Doggie joins Johnny Bench in 2011 and Joe Morgan in 2013. Another new exhibit opens on the museum’s redesigned third floor that fetes many of the greatest players in team history. Yes, it is a great year to visit the home of professional baseball.
1988: By the seventh inning, most of the 55,837 fans in Riverfront Stadium were chanting, “Say-bo,” “Say-bo,” “Say-bo,” for the Reds goggle-wearing rookie third baseman Chris Sabo, who was called upon to pinch-run and promptly stole second base. AL 2-1
1970
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PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF THE CINCINNATI REDS
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 35
Meet Makers the
Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky have a culture of creation, becoming a region where makers are building their own futures. It also means residents and visitors can score some unique local goods. by Grace Dobush
ny Cincinnatian can tell you: The Queen City has changed a lot in the past decade. The recent urban revival isn’t just about improved infrastructure and a revived downtown—the people of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky are creating cool products, forging their own career paths. I’m a transplant to the city, and in my eight years here I’ve had the pleasure of seeing many people channel their creative energies into numerous new projects. With a friend I started Crafty Supermarket, a modern craft show that’s grown to be one of the largest indie craft events in this part of the country. So I will be your guide to the maker scene in Cincinnati USA—from museum programs and maker events to the makers themselves.
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36 /// 2015 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
Brian Stuparyk Ì Brian Stuparyk’s vintage-inspired letterpress is the latest chapter in Cincinnati’s
colorful printing history. “Stuff that comes out of a computer or plotter or laser cutter is too perfect,” Stuparyk says. “Imperfection is what makes things unique and what makes life interesting. There’s no modern technology involved with my cards. They could have been made the exact same way 150 years ago, and that’s pretty cool.” All of his projects, from cards to art prints and posters, are hand-set, meaning he arranges the wood or lead type by hand on a press and then prints each card individually, one color at a time. Steam Whistle Letterpress products are carried in many local stores and can also be found in 27 states, Canada, England and Germany. steamwhistlepress.com
STEAM WHISTLE LETTERPRESS
PHOTOGRAPH BY JONATHAN WILLIS
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 37
Sarah Horn SARAH HORN CERAMICS
Ì Sarah
Horn makes ceramic tiles, pressed and glazed by hand with images of local architectural landmarks and environments. “I have been working in clay for 20 years and am a lifelong resident of Cincinnati,” Horn says. “My tiles have become a way to use my favorite medium to celebrate the beauty and history of the many diverse villages in my hometown. Growing up the daughter of a cabinetmaker, I always had an appreciation for the craftsmanship and detail of the Art Deco and Victorian buildings that give this city its character. The nooks and crannies and details of our local spaces have always been my favorite subject matter to draw, and that eventually merged with my work in clay.” sarahhorn.com
P H O T O G RA P H BY A A RO N M . C O N WAY
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Chris Sutton
Ì Chris Sutton created his premium denim line, which is hand-cut, hand-ironed
and sewn on machines by two sewers, in the hopes of bringing jobs back to the region. Two years later, the raw selvage jeans and other small-batch clothing items are being sold in four foreign countries as well as Article Menswear in Over-the-Rhine. “Early on we learned a lot about the unseen cost behind throwaway fashion,” Sutton says. “There is a drive for cheap products that can be used a few times and disposed of for something new. These products are typically so affordable for consumers because the companies behind the product cut corners, often compromising quality and ethics in the process. Learning about this world of manufacturing, we’ve become very passionate about creating a product that is inherently good and meant to last longer.” nobledenim.com
NOBLE DENIM
PHOTOGRAPH BY JONATHAN WILLIS
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 39
Amanda Poston and Jessi Lalk
Ì This duo creates small-batch eco-friendly soaps, grooming supplies and cosmet-
ics for men and women. “Our small hobby rapidly blossomed into a career when we realized the products we originally developed for ourselves were in such high demand,” Lalk says. “Work is so rewarding when you’re allowed the autonomous ORANGE FUZZ creativity of having your own business.” After trying out art school in California, Poston and Lalk realized coastal living wasn’t for them and returned to Ohio, where they sell their creations in local shops, at festivals and online. “Cincinnati’s lower living cost and small city feel gave our business idea a chance to thrive,” Poston says. “We love living in a close community where we work with and truly get to know such fabulous small business owners, artists and crafters.” orangefuzz.etsy.com P H O T O G RA P H BY A A RO N M . C O N WAY
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al Find Loc
Makers Where to Shop Support local makers and find unique gifts. Broadhope Art Collective In the heart of Cincinnati’s West Side, Broadhope features artists who sell all kinds of crafts and art, while classes take place in its workshop space. 3022 Harrison Ave., Westwood, 513-225-8441, broadhopeartcollective.com Fabricate This hybrid space featuring a boutique and gallery has long been a favorite spot to pick up local handmade and repurposed goods. 4037 Hamilton Ave., Northside, 513-407-6057, fabnorthside.com Folksiders FOUND Borne of a funky market in Rabbit Hash, Kentucky, Folksiders FOUND is a year-round home in Northern Kentucky for finding handmade items. 9900 Old Union Rd., Union, Kentucky, 859-468-2766, facebook. com/Folksiders Indigenous, a handcrafted gallery Indigenous, in the O’Bryonville shopping district, offers an eclectic collection of contemporary craft from more than 150 artists. 2010 Madison Rd., O’Bryonville, 513-3213750, indigenouscraft.com MiCA 12/v A commerce cornerstone on Vine Street for seven years, MiCA 12/v has an exemplary selection of design objects and handmade wares—many by local artists. 1201 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-533-1974, shopmica.com Redtree Gallery Alongside its monthly art shows, Redtree has a large selection of local handmade works to peruse while you get lunch or enjoy an espresso. 3210 Madison Rd., Oakley, 513-321-8733, redtreegallery.net
Rock Paper Scissors This chic shop sells art, crafts and music from Cincinnati-area artists only, plus a well-curated selection of sustainable art supplies. 1301 Main St., Over-the-Rhine, 937-4791405, rpscincinnati.com Urban Eden Just down the street from Rock Paper Scissors, you’ll find Urban Eden, a boutique of fine art and contemporary craft by local and regional artists. 1313 Main St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-260-8434, irisbookcafe.com/urban-eden
Maker Events Cincinnati celebrates its maker culture with these festivals. Be sure to mark them in your 2015 calendar. Cincinnati Mini Maker Faire Only at this annual festival, part of the national Maker Faire network, can you find 3D printers, knitters and robots under the same roof. August 29 & 30, cincinnatimaker faire.com The City Flea Stop by this urban flea market with an ever-rotating roster of handmade and vintage vendors to shop, eat, drink and dance. Monthly, May through December, thecityflea.com The Clay Alliance This collective of local clay artists puts on two big shows featuring its members every year. May and December, clayalliance.org Crafty Supermarket This handmade marketplace draws artists, crafters and makers from all over the United States for spring and holiday shows. April and November, craftysupermarket.com Second Sunday on Main This long-running street fair in Over-the-Rhine draws artists and crafters from around the region. Monthly, May through October, secondsundayonmain.org
Making at Museums Visitors who want to get involved with the Cincinnati USA maker culture can visit these local institutions, which offer hands-on programs focused on crafting. Cincinnati Art Museum Come to the museum on the third Sunday of each month for Creative Encounter. A visiting artist leads a tour and discussion, and the event ends with a hands-on project. $10 nonmembers, $5 members, 953 Eden Park Dr., 513-721-2787, cincinnatiartmuseum.org Cincinnati Museum Center Get kids excited about making with the Museum of Natural History & Science’s STEM Discovery Lab and Explorer’s U programs (ages 9–15) and Duke Energy Children’s Museum Mini Makers programs (ages 5–9). 1301 Western Ave., 513-287-7000, cincymuseum.org Contemporary Arts Center Explore the world of DIY with the One Night One Craft series on select Monday evenings, when the museum has free admission. The materials fee includes all the supplies you’ll need and, on some occasions, a cocktail. 44 E. Sixth St., 513-345-8400, contemporaryartscenter.org The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County Inspired crafters will love the library’s new MakerSpace, which has vinyl cutters, 3D printers, sewing machines and digital creation stations they can use for free. 513-369-6900, cincinnatilibrary.org
The City Fl
ea
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 41
to s y a W y v Sav
SAVE
n u F y l i m a F on
Looking fo r the coole st kid-friendly attraction s and a way to s ave a few bucks? You’ve com e to the rig h t place. We’re spilli ng the bea ns on the best w ays to sco re deals— plus bonus tips for ge tting the most out o f your visit . By E lizabeth Mil ler Wood
Coney Island Super Saver: Go after 4 p.m. to save up to 45 percent off regular admission. Bonus Tip: Don’t miss the LaRosa’s Balloon Glow on July 3 when the night sky lights up with scores of hot air balloons and Rozzi fireworks. The event is free; you just pay for parking. 513-232-8230, coneyislandpark.com
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal Super Saver: During Free Fridays, which happen once a month between June and October, admission is free from 4 to 8 p.m. to the Museum of Natural History & Science, Cincinnati History Museum and Duke Energy Children’s Museum. Visit the website for 2015 dates. Bonus Tip: Free Rotunda tours on the weekends give a glimpse into the history and architecture of Union Terminal. Also, catch one of the free festivals offered throughout the year: African American Culture Fest, Latin American Culture Fest, Appalachian Culture Fest, Celtic Culture Fest, Asian Culture Fest, Bugfest, Batfest and 1940s Weekend. 513-287-7000, cincymuseum.org
EnterTRAINment Junction Super Saver: Purchase tickets online before you visit to save up to $2 per ticket. Bonus Tip: The Junction offers special events throughout the year that are worth a visit, including Everything Thomas, Jack O’Lantern Junction and Christmas at EnterTRAINment Junction. 513-898-8000, entertrainmentjunction.com
The Beach Waterpark Super Saver: Save $11 off admission every day after 4 p.m. Bonus Tip: Beat the crowds by visiting on Monday or Tuesday. Or cap off the weekend island-style with Reggae Sundays, every Sunday. 513-3987946, thebeachwaterpark.com
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Kings Island Super Saver: Save $22 per ticket on the regular price of admission by purchasing tickets online in advance. Purchase a souvenir sports bottle online for $9.99 and receive free refills on your first visit, plus 99 cent refills for the rest of the season. Bonus Tip: Add Fast Lane to your ticket purchase and speed past the lines on more than 20 attractions. 513-754-5700, visitkingsisland.com
Behringer-Crawford Museum Super Saver: Every Wednesday is Grandparents’ Day. Adults 60 and over save on their admission price, and each child is admitted free with a paying grandparent (normally $4 per child). Bonus Tip: Tot Tuesdays are the third Tuesday of each month. Parents and youngsters 2 to 5 years old can enjoy stories, music and art projects from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Regular admission fees apply, plus $1 craft fee. 859-491-4003, bcmuseum.org
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Super Saver: Purchase tickets ahead of time at participating Kroger stores to save $2 off adult admission and $1 off child admission. Bonus Tip: Download the free Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden app, which comes with a GPS-enabled map for easy navigating, exhibit information and a schedule of daily events. 513-281-4700, cincinnatizoo.org
Newport Aquarium Super Saver: An annual pass is less than the cost of two visits, so if you’re planning to come back within a year, it’s a good investment. Bonus Tip: If you’re visiting at a peak time (like weekends), buy your tickets online ahead of arrival to ensure your entry time and skip the admission lines. 859-261-7444, newportaquarium.com
Cincinnati Reds Super Saver: Book your Cincinnati USA hotel stay at CincinnatiUSA.com/reds and you can purchase Reds tickets at half price. Bonus Tip: On Fireworks Fridays, visitors are treated to free post-game fireworks with music. 513-381-REDS, reds.com
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 43
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR
MLB™ALL-STAR SUMMER
AT T-MOBILE ALL-STAR FANFEST! Duke Energy Convention Center, Cincinnati, Ohio • July 10 - 14
PLAYER APPEARANCES FREE AUTOGRAPH AND PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
Past MLB Hall of Famers have included: Barry Larkin, Cal Ripken, Jr., Ozzie Smith and Dave Winfield • Current Stars of the Game have included: Miguel Cabrera, Bryce Harper, Clayton Kershaw, Joe Mauer, Andrew McCutchen and Giancarlo Stanton
•
Barry Larkin (HOF)
ALL ACTIVITIES INCLUDED WITH THE PRICE OF ADMISSION DAILY GIVEAWAYS
RUN THE BASES
HIT HOME RUNS
© 2015 Major League Baseball Properties, Inc. All rights reserved. Major League Baseball trademarks are proprietary to Major League Baseball entities.
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A N T N I I U C SA Regional Map N I Franklin
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Oxford 127 177
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Monroe
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Lebanon
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Brookville
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Liberty Township
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Newport Fort Covington Thomas
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Hebron
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Bellevue
Delhi
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Oakley
75 Greendale
Uptown
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Clifton
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Blue Ash Kenwood
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Dent 50
Loveland
Sharonville
Harrison
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Independence
Rabbit Hash
New Richmond
OHIO
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KENTUCKY
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Because there is so much to explore in every corner of Cincinnati USA, we divided the entire area into six regions: Downtown, Uptown, South, North, East and West. Here’s where you’ll find out about some must-see spots all over Cincinnati and in Northern Kentucky and Southeast Indiana. These tried-and-true attractions, world-class museums, professional sporting events and award-winning restaurants are sure to deliver an experience to remember. Here’s to making the most of your stay in Cincinnati USA. CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 45 ILLUSTRATION BY DAN ZETTWOCH
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5 SPOTS Must-See
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1 Cincinnati Museum Center
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Housed in Union Terminal, a train station and iconic symbol of Cincinnati and the Art Deco style, Cincinnati Museum Center has three museums and an OMNIMAX Theater under one roof. Explore the Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History & Science, the Duke Energy Children’s Museum or see a major special exhibition. 513-287-7000, cincymuseum.org
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2 Findlay Market In historic Over-the-Rhine, Findlay Market is Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market. You’ll find two dozen indoor merchants selling produce, meat, fish, deli and ethnic foods. On Saturdays and Sundays the market really comes alive, with dozens of outdoor vendors, street performers and a farmer’s market. 513-665-4839, findlaymarket.org
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3 Music Hall
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A National Historic Landmark, Music Hall is home to the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Opera, May Festival Chorus and the Cincinnati Pops. World-renowned performers like Frank Sinatra, Miles Davis, Maya Angelou, Elton John and Eric Clapton have graced its stage. 513-744-3344, cincinnatiarts.org/ music-hall
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4 Cincinnati Reds This July, the Reds are hosting the 2015 Major League Baseball All-Star Game. The team’s legacy goes way back, including the Era of the Big Red Machine (1970–1976), when the Reds were the hottest team in baseball. Visit the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum to see the team’s three World Championship trophies and other memorabilia. 513-765-7923, redsmuseum.org
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5 Smale Riverfront Park This expansive green space at the front door of Cincinnati has become a favorite gathering spot of locals and visitors alike. With the river, public art, playgrounds, family-friendly events and a Cincinnati-themed carousel opening in spring 2015, Smale Riverfront Park is an urban oasis. mysmaleriverfrontpark.org
ILLUSTRATION BY DAN ZETTWOCH
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 47
Downtown 21c Museum Hotel
LOCALS SPEAK BLOGGER: Katie Scheper BLOG: thelittlethingsjournal.com NICHE: Family friendly
Name three of your family’s favorite places to hang on a Saturday afternoon. Findlay Market is always a favorite, especially on the weekends when it’s full of friendly shoppers, delicious scents and fresh and homemade foods for sale. Another fun place to visit is the UnMuseum at the Contemporary Arts Center, where kids can explore art interactively. Bonus: on the fourth Saturday of each month, the UnMuseum has a Family Festival where you can actually create your own works of art! Our family also loves to spend time in Devou Park in Northern Kentucky riding bikes, picnicking near the Overlook, searching for geocaches and visiting the Behringer-Crawford Museum to learn more about Northern Kentucky’s history.
What’s the best park in Cincinnati? I find that I’m drawn to the Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park over and over again. This small park boasts gardens and sculptures that are unique and beautiful, and the view of the Ohio River is gorgeous. The paths are perfect for walking, biking, rollerblading or running. This is where we take our kids to learn how to ride their bikes. Also, the paths of Friendship Park connect to the biking and walking path that leads along the river to Sawyer Point and Smale Riverfront Park. When we have the time, we make a whole day of it. If you don’t have a bike, you can always rent one!
What’s Cincinnati’s most kid-friendly restaurant? Why do kids love it? Why do parents love it? The Sky Galley Restaurant at the Lunken Airport. The planes taking off and landing on the runway outside the large glass windows of this restaurant keep the kids entertained during dinner. Parents love the wide variety of menu choices and the beer selection. And I’m not going to lie, I like watching the planes take off and land too, because I’m a kid at heart.
Finish this sentence: If you only do one thing... Spend an afternoon downtown, whether it be soaking up the sights and sounds at Fountain Square, shopping, attending a show or grabbing a bite to eat. Be sure to make a stop at Carew Tower and visit the observation deck, where you can take in the breathtaking views of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
Things to Do 21c Museum Hotel* 513-578-6600 | 21cmuseumhotels.com Award-winning hotel worth a visit for its contemporary art collection. Aronoff Center for the Arts* 513-621-2787 | cincinnatiarts.org Learn more on page 60. ArtWorks Murals 513-333-0388 | artworkscincinnati.org Learn more on pages 28, 60. The Betts House 513-651-0734 | thebettshouse.org In 1996, the oldest surviving brick building in Cincinnati opened to the public as a museum. This remarkable survivor of Cincinnati’s period of settlement offers exhibits and programs on architecture, historic preservation and construction technologies. Carew Tower* 513-241-3888 Learn more on page 48. Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati 513-569-8080 | thechildrenstheatre.com Introducing young audiences to the performing arts through professional, fully staged productions that appeal to parents and educators while teaching morals and values.
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* = Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Cincinnati Ballet* 513-621-5282 | cballet.org Since 1963, the region’s professional ballet company has presented bold classical, full-length ballets and contemporary works. Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium* 513-621-8383 | bengals.com Learn more on pages 14, 21. Cincinnati Cyclones* 513-421-7825 | cycloneshockey.com Professional hockey team playing at U.S. Bank Arena that has won the Kelly Cup twice, in 2008 and 2010. Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal* 513-287-7000 | cincymuseum.org Learn more on pages 11, 23, 42, 47, 60. Cincinnati Opera* 513-241-2742 | cincinnatiopera.org Learn more on page 28. Cincinnati Parks 513-352-4080 | cincinnatiparks.com Learn more on pages 14, 23, 33, 47, 48, 68. Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park* 513-381-REDS | reds.com Learn more on pages 14, 31–35, 43, 47. Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum* 513-765-7923 | redsmuseum.org Learn more on pages 35, 47. Cincinnati Shakespeare Company 513-381-2273 | cincyshakes.com A professional resident ensemble theater bringing Shakespeare and the classics to the modern audience with an interactive, relevant and exciting style. Cincinnati Symphony and Pops Orchestra* 513-381-3300 | cincinnatisymphony.org Learn more on page 28. Contemporary Arts Center* 513-345-8400 | contemporaryartscenter.org Learn more on pages 41, 48. Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati 513-421-3555 | ensemblecincinnati.org Learn more on page 60. Fifth Third Bank Broadway in Cincinnati* 513-241-2345 | cincinnati.broadway.com Learn more on pages 16, 60.
Findlay Market* 513-665-4839 | findlaymarket.org Learn more on pages 27, 33, 47, 48, 60. Fire Museum of Greater Cincinnati* 513-621-5553 | cincyfiremuseum.com The country’s first paid, professional fire department was created by law in Cincinnati in 1853. Housed in the former home of Engine Company No. 45, the museum highlights the significant contributions that Cincinnati has made to the firefighting profession. Fountain Square myfountainsquare.com Learn more on page 48. Know Theatre of Cincinnati 513-300-5669 | knowtheatre.com Learn more on page 28. Horseshoe Casino Cincinnati* 513-252-0777 | horseshoecincinnati.com Downtown casino with loads of gaming options and six restaurants, including Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville and Jack Binion’s Steak. Museums and Historic Sites of Greater Cincinnati* 513-651-0734 | historicgreatercincinnati.org Explore the architecture, history, lifestyles and culture of the Ohio River Valley at more than 20 museums, historic homes and sites in Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and Southeast Indiana. Music Hall* 513-744-3344 | cincinnatiarts.org Learn more on pages 27, 28, 47. National Underground Railroad Freedom Center* 513-333-7500 | freedomcenter.org Learn more on pages 14, 23. Old St. Mary’s Church* 513-721-2988 | oldstmarys.org Oldest church in Cincinnati. Built in 1842 by German immigrants in Overthe-Rhine. Bavarian-style stained-glass windows illuminate old world charm. Free guided tours. Over-the-Rhine* 513-241-2690 | otrchamber.com Learn more on pages 27, 28, 60, 80. The Public Library of Cincinnati & Hamilton County* 513-369-6900 | cincinnatilibrary.org Learn more on page 41. Taft Museum of Art* 513-241-0343 | taftmuseum.org
Built in 1820, the Taft Museum is home to an extensive art collection that includes European and American master paintings, Chinese porcelains and European decorative arts. See major works by Rembrandt, Goya and Whistler. Taft Theatre 513-232-6220 | tafttheatre.org Opened in 1928, Taft Theatre is a marvelous display of neo-classical and Art Deco architecture. Renovated in 2011, Taft hosts some of the biggest names in music, comedy, television and Broadway. Washington Park washingtonpark.org Learn more on pages 11, 27, 28, 80. Wheel Fun Rentals* 513-658-4161 | wheelfunrentals.com Learn more on page 99.
Shopping 5th Street Gallery 513-579-9333 | 5thstreetgallery.com A collaborative collection of Cincinnatiarea artists presenting fine art glass, paintings, clay, sculpture, photography, jewelry, floral and wearable art. Batsakes Hat Shop 513-721-9345 Located downtown for nearly a century, providing custom-made or off-the-rack hats. Booksellers on Fountain Square* 513-258-2038 | booksellersonfountainsquare.com Experience the downtown Cincinnati bookstore with books for all ages, gift items, greeting cards and more. Dick Waller’s artplace* 513-281-7726 | dickwaller.com This is a must-see. Intimate art gallery inspiring a sense of wonder, freedom and spontaneity. Beautiful expressions and contrasts. Also featuring other local artists. Hunt Club Clothiers* 513-721-2004 | huntclubclothiers.com Located in Carew Tower and voted Best Men’s Clothier in Cincinnati. Offers custom clothing and in-home wardrobe consultation services. I Love Cincinnati Shoppe 513-381-4401 | ilovecincinnatishoppe.com The name says it all: get some gear to cheer on a local team and pick up some souvenirs at this shop in Carew Tower. CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 49
Downtown Jack Wood Gallery 513-321-7077 | jackwoodgallery.com Learn more on page 28.
the largest department store retailers in the world. This beautiful downtown location anchors Fountain Square.
Jos. A. Bank Clothiers* 513-762-9333 | josbank.com The expert in men’s apparel for 108 years, with beautifully made, classically styled clothing, both tailored and casual.
MiCA 12/v 513-533-1974 | shopmica.com Learn more on page 41. Park+Vine 513-721-7275 | parkandvine.com Old-time general store meets 21st century eco chic. Eco-friendly merchandise and a lunch counter with healthy vegan options.
Koch’s Sporting Goods* 513-621-2352 | kochsports.com Cincinnati’s oldest and finest sporting goods store. Largest selection of Reds, Bengals and Collegiate apparel, hats, jerseys and souvenirs.
Rock Paper Scissors 513-479-1405 | rpscincinnati.com Learn more on page 41.
The Library Friends Shop* 513-369-6920 | friends.cincinnatilibrary.org Unique and affordable gifts for all ages and tastes. Wide variety of greeting cards. Thousands of gently used books, a wide selection of puzzles and toys, office and desk accessories and jewelry.
Saks Fifth Avenue* 513-421-6800 | saksfifthavenue.com Located on 5th Street, this famous upscale retailer sells exclusive designer collections for men and women. Sloane Boutique 513-579-8111 | sloaneboutique.com Sloane Boutique caters to the edgy and urban woman who embodies an effortless chic style. Located in Gateway Quarter in Over-the-Rhine.
Macy’s Fountain Place* 513-361-4200 | macys.com Starting as a small dry goods store in New York in 1858, Macy’s is now one of
Tiffany & Co.* 513-721-2022 | tiffany.com The epitome of American luxury. Tiffany & Co. sells jewelry, sterling silver, china, crystal, stationery and fragrances. Urban Eden 513-260-8434 Learn more on page 41. Wooden Nickel Antiques 513-241-2985 | woodennickelantiques.net Wooden Nickel opened in 1976 and started out specializing in architectural antiques. Now it buys and sells antique back bars, fireplace mantels, stained glass and chandeliers.
Dining A Tavola* 513-246-0192 | atavolapizza.com Handmade, wood-fired artisan pizzas with toppings like Brussels sprouts, house sausage and fig jam have made A Tavola one of the hottest spots for locals. Abby Girl Sweets* 513-335-0898 | abbygirlsweets.com
316 Pike Street www.taftmuseum.org Downtown Cincinnati
FREE SUNDAY ADMISSION AWARD-WINNING CAFÉ FREE ON-SITE PARKING MUSIC
Discover a world-renowned art collection, including the Taft's prized Rembrandt.
Rembrandt van Rijn, Portrait of a Man Rising from His Chair (detail), 1633, oil on canvas. Taft Museum of Art
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* = Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Named after the owners’ daughter, Abby, all cupcakes at this bakery are baked fresh from scratch, including the flavor of the week. Abigail Street 513-421-4040 | abigailstreet.com A restaurant with a Mediterranean flair, where the emphasis is on seasonal foods meant to be shared. Akash India Restaurant 513-723-1300 | akashindia.net Authentic Indian cuisine, including Saag Paneer, chicken curry, lamb curry and chicken Tikka Masala. The Anchor 513-421-8111 | theanchor-otr.com Urban fish shack and oyster bar in Overthe-Rhine serving innovative seafood specialties. Arnold’s Bar & Grill* 513-421-6234 | arnoldsbarandgrill.com Established in 1861, Arnold’s is one of the oldest and coolest bars in the world. Bakersfield OTR* 513-579-0446 | bakersfieldotr.com Learn more on page 27.
The Banks* thebankscincy.com Learn more on page 14. Bistro on Elm* 513-352-2189 | millenniumhotels.com/cincinnati Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in the Millennium Hotel’s restaurant, which features a wide variety of flavorful cuisine. Cocktails are available in the bar and lounge.
Busken Bakery* 513-246-4390 | busken.com With several area locations and daily fresh items, Busken is available for catering, lunch or a morning treat. The bakery’s iced sugar cookies are a local favorite.
Boca* 513-542-2022 | bocacincinnati.com Fine French restaurant that was honored by Travel + Leisure as one of the best in the U.S.
Campanello’s Restaurant* 513-721-9833 | campanellos.com Featuring home-cooked Italian cuisine and a full-service bar for more than 40 years.
Boi Na Braza* 513-421-7111 | boinabraza.com Based on the churrasco cooking of Brazilian gaúchos who roasted meat on skewers over an ember fire pit. The restaurant style is all-you-can-eat meat with a side station buffet.
Christian Moerlein Lager House* 513-421-2337 | moerleinlagerhouse.com Along the river adjacent to The Banks, this restaurant and brewery serves Christian Moerlein’s award-winning craft beers and even offers tours of the facility.
Booksellers on Fountain Square Café* 513-258-2038 | booksellersonfountainsquare.com
Y H OUR
Situated in the city center at Fountain Square, The Booksellers Café features tasty entrees, Madisono’s creamy gelato, an array of sweets and LavAzza coffee.
EROES
Cincinnati Food Trucks cincinnatifoodtrucks.com, roaminghunger.com/cin Grab a quick bite wherever you might be. From Cincinnati-style chili to burgers
A
WAIT
STEP INTO BASEBALL HEAVEN TODAY NEW
NEW
FEATURED EXHIBITS: A Tribute to the 100 Reds All-Stars
Reds Museum @RedsMuseum Special prices for groups of 15 or more. Senior is 60+, Student is 5–18 or anyone showing a college ID. Children 4 and younger admitted free.
MUSEUM ADMISSION Adults ................................ $10 Senior/Student ...................$8 Active Military/Veterans.....$6
BALLPARK TOURS
Includes Hall of Fame and Museum admission
Adults ................................ $20 Senior/Student .................$17 Active Military/Veterans...$17
TICKETS: (513) 765-7923
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 51
Downtown to sweet treats, the food trucks around Cincinnati USA aim to please. Coffee Emporium 513-651-5483 | coffee-emporium.com With five area locations and assorted artisan roasted coffee and teas, this locally owned coffeehouse is a favorite among residents and visitors alike. CRAVE* 513-241-8600 | craveamerica.com Offers a fresh spin on American cuisine with a focus on the seasons. Also has a modern sushi bar and award-winning wine list. The Cricket Lounge* 513-381-3000 | cincinnatianhotel.com In the Cincinnatian Hotel, the Cricket Lounge is a cozy and stylish lounge that serves delicious food from lunch until midnight. Extensive wine-by-the-glass menu and live music on Fridays and Saturdays. Crosley’s American Café* 513-834-6110 This café offers Cincinnati charm with a twist of fun. Great service and great food. Currito* 513-579-1333 | currito.com Cincinnati-based burrito chain with internationally inspired burritos, real fruit smoothies and salads. Multiple locations. D. Burnham’s* 513-333-0000 | dburnhams.com A contemporary Midwestern American restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients. The Eagle Food and Beer Hall 513-802-5007 | theeagleotr.com Serves classic comfort food including fried chicken, corn bread, and kale and spinach dip, all housed in a former post office. Fins Feathers & BarBQ* 513-621-3467 Specializing in barbecue, turkey ribs and salmon croquettes as well as specialty homemade sides, including candied yams, cole slaw, baked beans, potato salad, macaroni & cheese, greens, cornbread and homemade desserts. French Crust Café* 513-621-2013 | jrtable.com/french-crust-cafe/ A charming café specializing in downto-earth French cuisine with all of the fancy fixings.
Freshii 513-421-3000 | freshii.com Healthy fast food restaurant serving salads, wraps, burritos, bowls, soups and frozen yogurt.
Huit Craft BBQ* 513-381-4848 | huitfoodbar.com A non-traditional barbecue joint that’s easy and fun. Items prepared with one thing in mind: cultivating flavor.
Frisch’s Big Boy Restaurants* frischs.com More than 50 Cincinnati USA locations. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and drive-thru. Featuring the Big Boy double-decker hamburger, soup, Salad ‘n’ Fruit Bar and Breakfast Bar.
Ingredients (Some Assembly Required)* 513-852-2740 | ingredientsforyou.com Innovative restaurant concept that combines made-to-order gourmet meals and fresh, healthy ingredients in a casual grab-and-go atmosphere. Located in the atrium of the Westin Hotel across from Fountain Square.
Gilpin’s Steamed Sandwiches 513-421-4223 | eatgilpins.com Features more than 70 steamed sandwiches, including gluten-free options, steamed cheeseburgers and the Donut Bacon Cheddar Burger. Open until 3 a.m. Gomez Salsa 513-381-1596 | gomezsalsa.com Walk-up/takeout window featuring authentic tacos and fresh salsa. Catering available. Graeter’s* 513-381-4191 | graeters.com Learn more on page 25. The Grille at Palm Court/ The Bar at Palm Court* 513-421-9100 | orchidsatpalmcourt.com 1930s Art Deco Grille features weekday pasta bar and full menu. Bar offers relaxed fare, specialty cocktails and live entertainment Friday and Saturday. Hathaway’s Diner* 513-621-1332 Nostalgic coffee shop/diner in historic Carew Tower. Featuring affordable comfort food, including daily specials, shakes and malts, and breakfast available all day long.
Istanbul Cafe* 513-421-5100 | istanbulcafecincy.com Authentic, freshly made Turkish Mediterranean cuisine. Lamb, chicken kabobs, grilled and delicately seasoned. Walking distance from downtown hotels and Fountain Square. Izzy’s* 513-241-6246 | izzys.com Chow down on classic corned beef Reuben and potato pancakes at this Cincinnati deli. Jean-Robert’s Table* 513-621-4777 | jrtable.com Delectable French fare by Jean-Robert de Cavel. Stop in for the French Lunch Tray Expressly at the Bar, a four-course lunch (soup, salad, savory and sweet). Menu changes weekly. Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse* 513-784-1200 | jeffruby.com The finest steaks and an exclusive experience have earned Jeff Ruby’s a number of awards. Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville* 513-250-3318 | margaritavillecincinnati.com Escape to your favorite island destination and indulge in the coastal-inspired menu.
Happy Belly* 513-873-8619 Features clean, healthy eating on-thego, from breakfast options to soups, wraps, sandwiches, smoothies and clean sweets.
Jimmy G’s* 513-621-8555 | jimmy-gs.com Modern steakhouse with a contemporary American twist. Executive Chef Jimmy Gibson has 30 years of experience working at five-star restaurants.
Holtman’s Donuts* 513-381-0903 | holtmansdonutshop.com This sweet shop is a local favorite, serving all sorts of donuts including the maple bacon donut.
Joe’s Diner 513-421-5637 A classic, stainless-steel diner car with jukebox and neon that serves breakfast and diner menu all day. Delicious shakes, fresh coffee and bottled beer.
Holy Grail Tavern & Grille 513-621-2222 | holygrailcincy.com Directly across the street from Great American Ball Park, Holy Grail has 31 HD TVs and an outside patio.
Kaze Restaurant & Bar* 513-898-7991 | kazeotr.com Kaze is an independently owned Japanese gastropub and sushi bar with a
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* = Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
contemporary dining room, bar/lounge and year-round landscaped beer garden. Krueger’s Tavern 513-834-8670 | facebook.com/kruegerstavern New spot from the owners of Bakersfield inspired by European taverns of decades past, with house-made sausages and a huge selection of canned beer. LaRosa’s Pizzeria 513-347-1111 | larosas.com What started as a small pizzeria on the West Side is now a go-to for pizza night, serving pizza, pasta, calzones and hoagies. The Mercer OTR 513-421-5111 | themercerotr.com An Italian-European restaurant in the newly constructed Mercer Commons building serving fine dishes like risotto and a porterhouse for two. McCormick & Schmick’s* 513-721-9339 | mccormickandschmicks.com This seafood restaurant on Fountain Square features a menu printed daily by the chef, employing seasonal seafood from around the world and full-flavored beef. Metropole* 513-578-6660 | metropoleonwalnut.com Learn more on pages 24, 25, 96. Montgomery Inn* 513-721-7427 | montgomeryinn.com Ribs slathered in Montgomery Inn’s signature barbecue sauce keep guests coming back for more. Morton’s The Steakhouse* 513-621-3111 | mortons.com Serving USDA prime-aged beef since 1978 in an upscale atmosphere overlooking Fountain Square. Nada* 513-721-6232 | eatdrinknada.com Authentic Mexican flavors served in a modern way. Nada serves a killer Sunday brunch with a Mexican take on brunch classics. Nicholson’s Tavern & Pub* 513-564-9111 | nicholsonspub.com Authentic Scottish tavern and pub across from the Aronoff Center. Classic British Isles dishes and American favorites, and a large selection of single-malt scotches. Nicola’s Ristorante 513-721-6200 | nicolasrestaurant.com A stellar Italian fine dining experience in
historic Over-the-Rhine. Given a Top Zagat rating in 2011, and the only restaurant to appear in Cincinnati Magazine’s Best Restaurants issue 11 years in a row.
A barbecue restaurant from Daniel Wright, the owner of Senate, serving Texas-style brisket and pulled pork and offering a large selection of bourbon.
O’Malley’s in the Alley* 513-381-3114 | omalleysinthealley.com Friendly atmosphere, great food, drinks and daily specials. Cincinnati’s second oldest bar.
Potbelly Sandwich Shop* 513-381-5572 | potbelly.com Listen to live music while enjoying a toasty sandwich or crave-worthy salad. Finish your meal with a fresh baked cookie or hand-dipped milkshake.
Ollie’s Trolley 513-381-6100 Family-owned business specializing in comfort food and catering, including macaroni & cheese, ribs, deep-fried turkey, collard greens, cornbread and sweet potatoes. Won the Best of Roadside Dining Award on the Food Network. Orchids at Palm Court* 513-421-9100 | orchidsatpalmcourt.com Learn more on page 24. The Palace Restaurant* 513-381-3000 | palacecincinnati.com Fine dining within the historic Cincinnatian Hotel. The menu changes seasonally and features eclectic cuisine. Palomino* 513-381-1300 | palomino.com A vibrant “urban Italian” restaurant, bar and rotisserie known for its hardwoodfired Mediterranean cooking. Panera Bread* 513-241-0000 | panerabread.com Freshly baked breads and pastries, soups, salads and sandwiches. Breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. Multiple locations. Papa John’s Pizza* papajohns.com For better ingredients, better pizza, call for prompt delivery or carryout. Pho Lang Thang 513-376-9177 | pholangthang.com Learn more on page 27. Pi Pizzeria* 513-721-8900 | pi-pizza.com Award-winning deep dish and thin crust pizza with 20 American beers on draft. Gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options available. Plum Street Café* 513-651-4341 | plumstcafe.com Celebrating more than 25 years, this family-owned restaurant is just a half block from the Duke Energy Convention Center. Full bar, open seven days a week. Pontiac 513-579-8500 | pontiacbbq.com
The President’s Room* 513-721-2260 | thepresidentsrm.com Chef Jeremy Luers is in the kitchen at this modern American restaurant with lasting Italian and German influences, as well as well-curated wines and classic cocktails. Prime 47* 513-579-0720 | prime47.com A steakhouse and seafood restaurant that includes an extensive wine list. Great stop after seeing a show at the Aronoff Center. Quan Hapa 513-421-7826 | quanhapa.com A gastropub serving unique Asian street food, including Asian-inspired wings and Okonomiyaki, a Japanese-style pancake. Red Roost Tavern* 513-354-4025 | redroosttavern.com Located inside the Hyatt Regency Cincinnati, featuring farm-to-table dining. Savor a carefully crafted menu cultivated from the freshest local foods and satisfy your appetite for unique culinary surprises. Rock Bottom Brewery* 513-621-1588 | rockbottom.com Clean, classic beer recipes, brewed inhouse by the local boss and paired with a made-from-scratch menu. On Fountain Square. Rusconi Pizza* 513-721-2253 | rusconipizza.com Pizzas, hoagies, wings, calzones, pasta and more in downtown Cincinnati. Fullservice bar includes a cocktail list, craft beers, draft beers, and a spirits and wine list. Ruth’s Chris Steak House* 513-381-0491 | ruthschris.com Enjoy a Petite Filet or Porterhouse at this upscale steakhouse at The Banks. Salazar Restaurant* 513-621-7000 | salazarcincinnati.com Salazar Restaurant features a menu highlighting the seasons with a refined and casual atmosphere. CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 53
Downtown Scotti’s Italian Restaurant 513-721-9484 | scottiscincinnati.com Open since 1912, Scotti’s is one of America’s longest-running restaurants. Some favorite dishes at this Italian restaurant, independently owned and operated for four generations, are spaghetti carbonara and steak samorilla. Senate 513-421-2020 | senatepub.com Learn more on page 27. Servatii Pastry Shop & Deli 513-421-2253 | servatiipastryshop.com Cincinnati baking tradition, with three generations of European masters. Fine pastries, coffee, freshly baked breads, cakes and pretzels baked all day long. Awarded Cincinnati Magazine’s Hall of Fame Bakery. Silver Ladle* 513-834-7650 | silverladle.com Offers fresh salads, signature soups and chilis, delicious sandwiches, stuffed burgers and more for lunch and dinner.
Opening Spring 2015!
Skyline Chili* skylinechili.com Learn more on page 12.
seafood appetizers and vegetable dishes.
Sotto* 513-977-6886 | sottocincinnati.com Trattoria with a rustic ambience and classic, no-frills Italian fare like Bistecca Fiorentina or Short Rib Cappellacci. Sports Page Restaurant* 513-721-0067 Serving breakfast and lunch in downtown Cincinnati since 1977. Delicious ice cream. Streetpops* 513-446-7505 | streetpops.com Streetpops is mobile, fun and friendly, serving handcrafted, all-natural gourmet popsicles from both its brick-andmortar location in Over-the-Rhine and from small pushcarts around the city. Sung Korean Bistro* 513-721-7864 | sungkoreanbistro.com Traditional Korean cuisine, including Kimchi, Dolsot Bibimbab, Bulgogi, delicious marinated pork and beef ribs, grilled spicy chicken, noodles,
Taqueria Mercado* 513-381-0678 | taqueriamercado.com A traditional Mexican restaurant. Happy Hour and live music on the weekends. Open daily. Taste of Belgium— A Belgian Bistro* 513-381-4607 | authenticwaffle.com Learn more on pages 24, 25, 27. Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill* 513-721-8629 | countrybaroh.com Head to this spot at The Banks for appetizers or dinner, drinks and honkytonk dancing. Tom + Chee* 513-381-2433 | tomandchee.com Gourmet grilled cheese creations, including the grilled cheese donut, that have garnered national attention. Trattoria Roma* 513-723-0220 | trattoriaroma.net Cozy Italian trattoria with candlelit wine bottles on red-checked tablecloths. Serving fresh seafood, fresh veal,
One of the newest hotels in the heart of Downtown Cincinnati!
105 Rooms • For the Extended Stay Traveler
144 Rooms • For the Business & Leisure Traveler Fully Equipped Kitchens in Every Room
2 Hotels at 1 Historic Address!
The Former Cincinnati Enquirer Building 617 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202 Hampton Inn & Suites: 513-373-4184 (Main) • 513-373-4206 (Fax) • hamptoninn.hilton.com Homewood Suites: 513-373-4176 (Main) • 513-373-4206 (Fax) • homewoodsuites.hilton.com
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* = Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
pastas and both Northern and Southern authentic Italian cuisine.
Nightlife
Via Vite* 513-721-8483 | viaviterestaurant.com Italian dishes built around the freshest flavors, a wall of wine and an energetic atmosphere on Fountain Square.
Below Zero* 513-421-9376 | belowzerolounge.com Ultra plush lounges, a video jukebox and more than 100 vodka selections as well as other fine liquors. Available for special parties and private events.
Washington Platform Saloon & Restaurant 513-421-0110 | washingtonplatform.com Casual seafood, oysters, pastas, sandwiches and salads served in a restored turn-of-the-century saloon. Locally owned and operated since 1986. Yard House* 513-381-4071 | yardhouse.com Learn more on page 96. Zula Restaurant & Wine Bar 513-744-9852 | zulabistro.com Zula has a unique and eclectic menu and an extensive wine list. Zula pairs great wine and craft beer with your choice of entrée; hot steamy mussels, hot and cold plates and Artisan Z flat breads.
The Blind Pig* 513-381-3114 An updated version of a speakeasy. From the patio you can see the city, the stadiums and National Underground Railroad Freedom Center clear as day. Cocktail Terrace at 21c* 513-578-6600 | 21ccocktailterrace.com Located on the rooftop of the 21c Museum Hotel, the Cocktail Terrace is open seasonally and offers views of the city to enjoy cocktail hour. The Drinkery 513-827-9357 | drinkeryotr.com Over-the-Rhine’s neighborhood drinking establishment and live music venue, featuring some of the area’s best original music.
HalfCut* 513-381-1952 | halfcut.com Cincinnati’s source for the best local and rare craft beers. Sample beers at the bar or get growlers (32 and 64 oz. jugs) to go and enjoy fresher, straightfrom-keg beer, wherever you want. Igby’s* 513-246-4396 | igbysbar.com Three stories of hyper-stylized spaces. Cool cocktail menu and shareable plates, including salads and oysters. Japp’s japps1879.com Learn more on page 25. Knockback Nat’s 513-621-1000 A neighborhood bar with great food, great people, and of course, great drinks. Lachey’s Bar 513-275-0740 | lacheys.com Drew and Nick Lachey have brought a sports bar, lounge and full-service restaurant, with beer and wine on tap and a menu of upscale bar food, to Over-the-Rhine.
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 55
Downtown libations, elegantly presented aperitifs and sweets, and ambient music styles.
The Lackman 513-381-0741 | lackmanbar.com Throw back a beer, including microbrews, domestics and imports, in the restored building of brewer Herman Lackman.
Rhinegeist 513-381-1367 | rhinegeist.com Learn more on pages 26, 28, 96.
Mixx Ultra Lounge* 513-621-6499 | mixxcincy.com Sleek lounge downtown where you can sip, dine on sushi selections and mingle.
Rhinehaus 513-381-2277 | rhinehausbar.com A sports bar in Over-the-Rhine that offers more than 12 TVs and 16 rotating taps.
Mynt* 513-621-6968 | myntcincinnati.com Upscale establishment on Fountain Square with an excellent Happy Hour, three bars, live entertainment, DJ, huge patio and a kitchen serving fresh food. The Famous Neons Unplugged 513-827-9361 | neons-unplugged.com Cool casual bar with an award-winning patio featuring giant Jenga, bocce ball and live music. Obscura* 513-421-3800 | obscuracincinnati.com A cocktail lounge that offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy artfully infused
The Righteous Room 513-381-4408 | therighteousroom.com This warm, intimate bar and lounge caters to a young professional crowd, including patrons of the arts from the nearby Aronoff Center. Enjoy half-price happy hours during the week. Scene Ultra Lounge 513-381-4327 | scenecinci.com Features an eclectic array of music, a spacious yet intimate bar and an exotic granite ice bar. Taft’s Ale House taftsalehouse.com Learn more on page 28.
Going Up? Come and visit the highest open-air Observation Deck in the city on the 49th floor of Carew Tower, 574 feet above the streets of downtown Cincinnati.
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Monday–Thursday 9-5:30 Friday 9-6:00 Saturday & Sunday 10-7:00 Closed Holidays
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Tin Roof* 513-381-2176 | tinroofbars.com A spot at The Banks for live music, with a full menu of snacks, sandwiches and quesadillas. Tina’s* 513-621-3567 | tinasbar.com Family-owned-and-operated restaurant and bar for more than 30 years. A laidback, leave your bags at the door type of place.
Hotels Free Breakfast Fitness Room Internet Restaurant Indoor Pool Outdoor Pool
Free Parking Pet Friendly Airport Transportation Business Center Room Service
21c Museum Hotel* 513-578-6600 | 21cCincinnati.com 609 Walnut St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 156 rooms
1/2 PRICE REDS TICKETS Book your hotel at CincinnatiUSA.com/reds and get 1/2 price tickets to a Reds home game.
Photo Credits: Cincinnati USA Regional Tourism Network
Adults (12 & up) $2 Children (6-11) $1 5 & under free
441 Vine Street • Cincinnati, OH 45202
CincinnatiUSA.com/reds Some restrictions apply. See website for details.
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The Cincinnatian Hotel* 513-381-3000 | cincinnatianhotel.com 601 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 146 rooms
GarďŹ eld Suites Hotel* 513-421-3355 | garfieldsuiteshotel.com Two Garfield Place, Cincinnati, OH 45202 152 rooms
Guest Inn & Suites 513-241-8660 | guestinnandsuites.com 800 W. Eighth St., Cincinnati, OH 45203 150 rooms
Hampton Inn & SuitesDowntown Cincinnati* 513-373-4184 619 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 Opening in 2015 Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza* 513-421-9100 | cincinnatinetherlandplaza.hilton.com 35 W. Fifth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
561 rooms
Homewood SuitesDowntown Cincinnati* 513-373-4176 617 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 Opening in 2015 Hyatt Regency Cincinnati* 513-579-1234 | cincinnati.hyatt.com 151 W. Fifth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 491 rooms
Millennium Hotel Cincinnati* 513-352-2100 | milleniumhotels.com/cincinnati 150 W. Fifth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 864 rooms
Renaissance Cincinnati Downtown* 513-333-0000 | renaissancehotels.com 323 rooms 36 E. Fourth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Residence Inn Cincinnati Downtown* 513-651-1234 |
residenceinncincinnatidowntown.com 506 E. Fourth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 134 suites
Silver Screen B&B Retreat 513-721-0347 | silverscreenretreat.com 917 York St., Cincinnati, OH 45214 1 room
Symphony Hotel & Restaurant* 513-721-3353 | symphonyhotel.com 210 W. 14th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 6 rooms
Walnut St. Bed & Breakfast 513-258-5101 637 Walnut St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 4 rooms
The Westin Cincinnati* 513-621-7700 | westin.com/cincinnati 21 E. Fifth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 456 rooms (dog only)
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1 American Sign Museum Step inside the American Sign Museum and take a walk down memory lane. More than 19,000 square feet of exhibit space is chock-full of vintage and neon signs that span a century. There’s also a working neon shop, and visitors can observe and ask questions. 513-541-6366, americansignmuseum.org
2 Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Featuring more than 500 animal and 3,000 plant species, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is home to one of the largest zoo collections in the country. Its dedication to green initiatives—green building, renewable energy and water conservation—has also made it one of the greenest zoos in the country. 513-281-4700, cincinnatizoo.org
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5 OHIO 561
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471 3 Cincinnati Art Museum The Cincinnati Art Museum, located in scenic Eden Park, features a collection of more than 65,000 works spanning 6,000 years, plus a number of national and international traveling exhibitions each year. General admission is always free for all, and parking is just $4. Closed on Mondays, 513721-2787, cincinnatiartmuseum.org
4 Krohn Conservatory Made of aluminum and glass, Krohn Conservatory was built in 1933 at the height of the Art Deco movement. Inside, guests can peruse more than 3,500 plant species from around the world. Special programs throughout the year include the popular butterfly and holiday shows. 513-421-4086, cincinnatiparks.com/krohn
5 Cincinnati Observatory Located in Mt. Lookout, the Cincinnati Observatory is a local landmark, the oldest observatory in the Western Hemisphere and home to the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest telescope, from 1845, still in use by the public. 513-321-5186, cincinnatiobservatory.org
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 59
Uptown Things to Do
LOCALS SPEAK
American Sign Museum* 513-541-6366 | signmuseum.org Learn more on pages 24, 58. Cincinnati Art Museum* 513-721-2787 | cincinnatiartmuseum.org Learn more on pages 41, 59.
BLOGGER: Paige E. Malott BLOG: cincywhimsy.com NICHE: Arts and culture
Cincinnati Observatory Center* 513-321-5186 | cincinnatiobservatory.org Learn more on page 59.
I’m looking for an offbeat art experience. Got any ideas? Two roadside vernacular attractions that you must see are just a short drive into Cincinnati’s suburbs. Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, is home to Vent Haven, the only ventriloquist museum in the world. The collection features more than 800 ventriloquist figures, some dating back to as early as 1820. Across the river, New Richmond, Ohio, is known for its annual Cardboard Boat Regatta, where contestants build and race boats made only of cardboard, duct tape and paint. From grandiose paddleboats to a giant floating cheese coney, many of the creations that survived the Ohio River are on display in the town’s Cardboard Boat Museum.
What’s your favorite theater venue in town? So hard to choose! Cincinnati has an abundance of extraordinary theaters. Ensemble Theatre in Over-the-Rhine is stunning as it is housed inside a historic bank. They present a variety of world-premiere plays, from comedic musicals to compelling dramas about social issues. I also enjoy The Carnegie in Covington for contemporary classics. You can catch the latest Broadway show downtown at the Aronoff Center.
Museums, museums—how does one choose? Whenever I travel, my first stop is the history museum. Learning about a city’s background provides perspective for the rest of your trip. Cincinnati is bursting at the seams with fascinating heritage, which you can learn all about by exploring the Cincinnati History Museum at Cincinnati Museum Center. Expect to spend two to three hours at the exhibit. If you have time, watch an OMNIMAX movie, take a free tour of Union Terminal’s rotunda, or visit one of the other two museums. Finish this sentence: Cincinnati’s best-kept secret is… I’ve entertained guests from Atlanta to NYC to Switzerland and we all agree: the architecture! With more than 900 historic buildings, Over-the-Rhine is home to the largest intact 19thcentury urban neighborhood in the United States. Europeanesque coupled with the indie vibe of Brooklyn—it’s not something a traveler usually thinks of when visiting the Midwest. Stroll to Findlay Market, a German-style markethaus, or spy the collection of ArtWorks murals to maximize your experience.
Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park* 513-421-3888 | cincyplay.com Two-time Tony Award–winning regional theater presenting Peter and the Starcatcher and Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike, among other plays. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden* 513-281-4700 | cincinnatizoo.org Learn more on pages 23, 43, 58, 80. Drake Planetarium & Science Center* 513-396-5578 | drakeplanetarium.org Cincinnati’s only educational planetarium and STEM venue open to the general public. Harriet Beecher Stowe House* 513-751-0651 | stowehousecincy.org Home of Harriet Beecher Stowe, author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, and the Beecher family. Hours vary by season. Hebrew Union College— Skirball Museum* 513-221-1875 | huc.edu/research/museums Opened in 1875, the Skirball Museum has a long history as one of the oldest repositories of Jewish cultural artifacts in America. Historic Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum* 513-681-7526 | springgrove.org Experience Cincinnati heritage year round, where 750 acres offer picturesque landscapes, diverse topography and 1,200 labeled plant species in a world-class horticultural garden. Krohn Conservatory* 513-421-4086 | cincinnatiparks.com Learn more on page 59. U-Square @The Loop 513-221-1400 | usquareattheloop.com Mixed-use development with restaurants such as Keystone Bar & Grill and Elephant Walk Injera, and shops such as Altar’d State. University of Cincinnati* 513-556-6000 | uc.edu Founded in 1819, UC offers students a balance of educational excellence and
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real-world experience. UC is a public research university with an enrollment of more than 43,000 students. William Howard Taft National Historic Site* 513-684-3262 | nps.gov/wiho The only National Park Service site in Cincinnati. The birthplace home is a memorial to the nation’s 27th president and 10th chief justice. Xavier University* 513-745-3000 | xavier.edu A private, coeducational university that provides a liberal arts education in the Catholic, Jesuit tradition. Ranked second among 142 master’s-level colleges and universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report.
Shopping Castle House* 513-871-2458 | castlehouse.com Located in Hyde Park Square, Castle House was founded 55 years ago and specializes in designer clothing and shoes for girls, boys and infants. Duck Creek Antique Mall 513-321-0900 | duckcreekantiquemall.com Featuring 170 dealers in a 22,000square-foot, beautifully restored building. Fabricate 513-407-6057 | fabnorthside.com Learn more on page 41. The Fig Leaf 513-321-2970 | thefigleaf.com Provides quality handcrafted jewelry, accessories and gifts. Owned and operated by a mother-daughter team. Greenwich House Gallery of Fine Art* 513-871-8787 | greenwichhousegallery.com Cincinnati’s largest fine art gallery, located in historic O’Bryonville. Finest quality art and conservation framing to discriminating collectors for more than 22 years. Diverse array of artistic styles in painting and sculpture. Hyde Park Gourmet Food & Wine* 513-533-4329 | hydeparkgourmet.com Nationally acclaimed specialty food and wine store with a European-style shopping experience. Unique products, specialty cheeses, chocolates, stellar wine selection and award-winning gift baskets. indigenous 513-321-3750 | indigenouscraft.com Learn more on page 41.
Joseph-Beth Booksellers 513-396-8960 | josephbeth.com Celebrating 25 years! Independent book-selling company featuring books, gifts, toys and more. Two locations. Kismet 513-871-7879 Fun and affordable boutique featuring women’s apparel, jewelry, accessories, shoes and gifts. Malton Art Gallery* 513-321-8614 | maltonartgallery.com Offers a comprehensive, curated selection of art in all mediums in a beautiful, light-filled gallery space. Neusole Glassworks/JJS3 Foundation* 513-751-3292 | neusoleglassworks.com An exciting public access glass facility devoted to creating and promoting glass art. Offers pieces created for sale in the gift shop, custom glass design services and educational instruction in all of the techniques used at the Neusole. Redtree Gallery 513-321-8733 | redtreegallery.net Learn more on page 41. Rookwood Commons & Pavilion* 513-241-5800 | shoprookwood.com Popular open-air shopping center with Nordstrom Rack, Nike, Whole Foods, REI and dozens of other shops and restaurants. Shake It Records 513-591-0123 | shakeitrecords.com Learn more on page 92. Ten Thousand Villages 513-871-5840 | tenthousandvillages.com Unique fair trade items from around the world including jewelry, home decor and accessories. Three French Hens 513-321-1161 | threefrenchhenshydepark.com Offers ladies clothing, accessories and great gifts featuring Bourbon & Boweties, Mariana Jewelry, Baabaazuzu Hats, Capri Blue Candles and much more.
Dining Aglamesis Bros. 513-531-5196 | aglamesis.com Makers of gourmet chocolates and premium ice creams since 1908. Come visit its nostalgic turn-of-the-century ice cream parlor. Allyn’s Cafe 513-871-5779 | allynscafe.net
Cajun American restaurant featuring several house specialties like Big Al’s seafood platter, crawfish and shrimp etoufee and New Orleans BBQ shrimp. Ambar India Restaurant 513-281-7000 | ambarindia.com Authentic cuisine from Northern India, including savory tandoori oven dishes and exotic curries. Andy’s Mediterranean Grille 513-281-9791 | andyskabob.com Authentic and traditional Middle Eastern cuisine complete with Lebanese coffee and a smoking pipe. Arthur’s 513-871-5543 | arthurscincinnati.com Around for over half a century, Arthur's has burgers, sandwiches and salads, and only serves local draft beer. Two locations. The BonBonerie 513-321-3399 | bonbonerie.com Bakery and pastry shop that creates cupcakes, cakes, tortes, scones and custom cakes, among other desserts. Bow Tie Café 513-621-2233 | bowtiecafe.com Your stop for coffee, conversations and cocktails. Offers a wide selection of coffees and teas, and an expansive menu. BrewRiver GastroPub 513-861-2484 | brewrivergastropub.com Celebrate Cincinnati USA’s brewing legacy with a glass at BrewRiver Gastro Pub. Fine dining with a casual pub atmosphere. Buca di Beppo 513-396-7673 | bucadibeppo.com Buca di Beppo serves innovative and traditional dishes inspired by Northern and Southern Italian cuisine. Camp Washington Chili 513-541-0061 | campwashingtonchili.com Learn more on page 12. The Capital Grille* 513-351-0814 | thecapitalgrille.com Nationally acclaimed for its dry-aged steak, fresh seafood and award-winning wine list of more than 350 labels, presented with professional, attentive service in an atmosphere of relaxed elegance. The Celestial Steakhouse* 513-241-4455 | thecelestial.com Four-star and four-diamond awardwinning steakhouse enhanced by a spectacular view of Cincinnati from high atop Mt. Adams. CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 61
Uptown Eli’s BBQ
Cincinnati Dinner Train 513-791-7245 | cincinnatidinnertrain.com Three vintage dining cars that operate every Saturday throughout the year, offering a four-course dinner during a ride to the riverfront. City View Tavern 513-241-8439 | cityviewtavern.com A little tavern with great city views, burgers and Bloody Marys. Cock & Bull English Pub* 513-533-4253 | theenglishpub.com Award-winning fish and chips and traditional public house fare. Draft beers on tap from around the world at three locations—Hyde Park, Covington and Glendale.
PHOTOGRAPH BY RYAN KURTZ
Dewey’s Pizza 513-731-7755 | deweyspizza.com Local favorite serving signature pizzas like the Ryan’s Inferno, a buffalo chicken pizza, as well as salads and calzones. Don Pablo’s 513-631-1356 | donpablos.com TexMex restaurant serving big, bold fla-
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vors in a festive and informal Mexican atmosphere. Multiple area locations. Dutch’s Larder 513-871-1446 | dutchs.squarespace.com Cozy beer and wine bar and deli in Hyde Park with rotating tap selections and a lunch and dinner menu. Eli’s BBQ 513-307-8318 | elisbarbeque.com Travel + Leisure named Eli's, and its hickory-smoked pulled pork, on the 2013 America's Best New BBQ list. Enoteca Emilia 513-834-5773 | enotecaemilia.com An Italian wine bar featuring pastas, artisanal pizzas and other unique dishes. Fireside Pizza 859-982-9759 | firesidepizzawagon.com The only brick-oven-on-wheels in the Tri-State area, Fireside serves guests fresh, fire-baked foods. J. Alexander’s* 513-531-7495 | jalexanders.com J. Alexander’s is a contemporary American restaurant known for its wood-fired cuisine. Reservations accepted.
La Poste Eatery 513-281-3663 | laposteeatery.com Located in Clifton’s Gaslight District. Menu creations are like the neighborhood, American, but with many different influences. M. Wood Fired Oven* 513-386-7783 | m-woodfiredoven.com M. perpetuates an environment of fiery creativity, warmth and style fueled by a French brick oven. M.’s menu is inventive and fresh, offering something for everyone. Maribelle’s eat + drink* 513-321-9111 | maribellestavern.com Fresh menu with local and seasonal ingredients. Daily menu changes showcase culinary creativity. Saturday and Sunday brunch. Gluten-free and vegan friendly. Mecklenburg Gardens Restaurant* 513-221-5353 | mecklenburgs.net Oldest restaurant in Cincinnati—since 1865. Unique outdoor beer garden that appeared in The Atlantic’s list of best beer gardens in America. On the National Register of Historic Places and features German cuisine and lighter American fare.
Melt Eclectic Deli 513-681-6358 | meltcincy.com Learn more on page 25. Mt. Adams Bar & Grill* 513-621-3666 | mtadamsbarandgrill.com Neighborhood bar and restaurant with a year-round porch and friendly prices in the heart of historic Mt. Adams. Nectar 513-929-0525 | dineatnectar.com Learn more on page 25. Next Chapter* 513-381-1905 | mtadamschapter.com Offers everything from burgers and tacos to live bands and DJs in Mt. Adams. The Precinct* 513-321-5454 | jeffruby.com/precinct The first restaurant of the Jeff Ruby family, opened in 1981. The Rookwood Bar & Restaurant 513-421-5555 | therookwood.com Housed in the former Rookwood Pottery Co., the restaurant features freshly prepared food and craft beverages in a Cincinnati historic setting.
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Uptown Ruth’s Parkside Cafe 513-542-7884 | ruthscafe.com Located in the American Can Building, Ruth’s is dedicated to providing great dining and an eclectic atmosphere to the Northside community. Seasons 52* 513-631-5252 | seasons52.com Seasons 52 Rookwood Exchange offers a fresh experience. With a seasonal menu and an award-winning wine list, Seasons 52 offers a sophisticated environment and live entertainment. Stone Bowl Korean* 513-533-9600 | stonebowloakley.com Authentic, gourmet Korean home-style dishes without MSG. Serves beautiful sushi at half price. Sugar n’ Spice Restaurant 513-242-3521 | sugar-n-spice-restaurant.com Serving breakfast and lunch since 1941. Huge fluffy omelettes, wispy thin pancakes, creative sandwiches and specials. Tavern on the Hill 513-421-3309 | mtadamstavernonthehill.com A sports pub in historic Mt. Adams. Homemade fare and daily food and drink specials. Tea ‘n’ Bowl 513-744-9800 | teanbowluc.com Tea ‘n’ Bowl offers Asian cuisine from Cantonese, SzeChuan and Southeast Asia and specializes in bubble tea. Delivery available. Teak Thai Cuisine & Sushi Bar* 513-665-9800 | teakthaicuisinecincinnati.com Authentic Thai cuisine from Pad Thai, Crispy Duck, curry dishes and stir-fry to alluring arrangements of sushi and sashimi that are almost too beautiful to eat. Zip’s Café 513-871-9876 | zipscafe.com Repeatedly hailed as the home of one of the best burgers in town, Zip’s is a genuine, venerable neighborhood bar.
entertainment in the lush garden with cold-weather bonfires and cocktail specialties. The Comet 513-541-8900 | cometbar.com Cool atmosphere, live local acts, more than 150 beers to choose from and enormous San Francisco– style burritos. Listermann Brewing Company 513-731-1130 | listermannbrewing.com A homebrew shop/brewery hybrid with a cozy taproom offering up to 10 freshly made beers. Longworth’s* 513-651-2253 Located in the heart of Mt. Adams, where visitors and locals come to have a fabulous time. MadTree Brewing Company 513-836-8733 | madtreebrewing.com Learn more on page 26. MOTR Pub 513-381-6687 | motrpub.com Learn more on page 92. Mt. Adams Pavilion 513-744-9200 | mountadamspavilion.com Four big patios overlooking the scenic Cincinnati skyline, DJs inside and live music outside during the warmer months. Myrtle’s Punch House* 513-834-8589 Creative and unique neighborhood bar in East Walnut Hills from Molly Wellmann serving handcrafted punch and cocktails. Northside Tavern 513-542-3603 | northsidetav.com/cincy Learn more on page 92. Schwartz's Point Jazz Club 513-208-4466 | schwartzspoint.com Learn more on page 92.
Hotels Free Breakfast
Free Parking
Fitness Room
Pet Friendly
Internet
Airport Transportation
Nightlife
Restaurant
Blind Lemon Café* 513-241-3885 | theblindlemon.com A touch of old-world charm surrounded by beauty and history. Enjoy nightly
Outdoor Pool
Indoor Pool
Business Center Room Service
The Clifton House Bed And Breakfast* 513-221-7600 | thecliftonhouse.com
500 Terrace Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220 6 rooms
Comfort Inn & Suites (Mitchell Avenue) 513-242-1010 | comfortinn.com 130 W. Mitchell Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45217 54 rooms
Courtyard by Marriott Cincinnati Midtown/Rookwood* 513-672-7100 | marriott.com/cvgnw 3813 Edwards Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209 123 rooms
Gaslight Bed and Breakfast 513-861-5222 | gaslightbb.com 3652 Middleton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220 4 rooms
Grace And Glory Bed and Breakfast 513-321-2824 | graceandglorybb.com 3539 Shaw Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208 2 rooms
Hampton Inn & Suites Uptown University Area* 513-281-2700 | hamptoninn3.hilton.com 3024 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45219 132 rooms
Marriott Kingsgate Conference Center at the University of Cincinnati* 513-487-3800 | kingsgatemarriott.com 151 Goodman Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45219 206 rooms
Parker House Bed and Breakfast 513-579-8236 | parkerhousecinci.com 2323 Ohio Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45219 3 rooms
SpringHill Suites Cincinnati Midtown* 513-381-8300 | marriott.com/cvgdt 610 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45202 122 rooms
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1 Creation Museum With its 70,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility in Petersburg, Kentucky, the Creation Museum brings the Bible to life, offering personal interaction with 160 exhibits. Guests can walk through the Garden of Eden, check out the busy work site of Noah’s Ark, cruise on the zip lines and come face to face with T. Rex all in a day’s visit. 888-582-4253, creationmuseum.org
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2 Florence Freedom Families can catch Florence Freedom, Florence, Kentucky’s minor league baseball team, from May through September at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center Stadium. Regular ticket promotions make Freedom games fun and affordable. 859-594-4487, florencefreedom.com
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27 3 Devou Park The breathtaking views here are worth the visit. Visitors can ride their bikes, picnic near an overlook of Cincinnati or visit the Behringer-Crawford Museum to learn about Northern Kentuckyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rich history. The amphitheater is home to the Kentucky Symphony Orchestraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s summer concert series. 859-292-2151, covingtonky.gov
4 BB Riverboats BB Riverboats offers sightseeing, dining and holiday cruises along the majestic Ohio River on boats with Victorian decor and romantic riverboat-era charm. Special kid-friendly cruises throughout the year include Pirates of the Ohio Cruise, Little Goblins and Ghouls Costume Cruise, Super Hero Cruise and Princess Cruise. 859-261-8500, bbriverboats.com
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5 Newport on the Levee The Levee is an entertainment center right across the river from downtown Cincinnati where guests can dine, shop, see a movie and walk along the Ohio River. It is home to the Newport Aquarium and features a year-round schedule of events. Bonus: visitors from at least 50 miles away get a special coupon package! 859-291-0550, newportonthelevee.com CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 67
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LOCALS SPEAK BLOGGER: Cody Sowers BLOG: outsidecincy.com NICHE: Outdoors and biking
What are your favorite Cincinnati-area hiking spots? When it comes to hiking, I am a huge fan of Mt. Airy Forest. As Cincinnati’s largest city park, it has more than enough trails and hills to keep you busy for as long as you would like. Other must-sees include California Woods Nature Preserve for the dedicated hill climbers, and Red Bird Hollow for a great hike with the entire family.
Where should visiting cyclists spin their wheels? One of the best road rides for visitors is the Little Miami Scenic Trail. Although it follows a former rail line which makes it very flat, it is one of the longest continuously paved trails in the country. If you would prefer to get your tires dirty mountain biking, check out the trails at Devou Park in Covington or at East Fork State Park just outside the city in Bethel. Where’s the best view and how do I get there? For views of the city, look no farther than Devou Park in Covington. The park is just minutes from downtown off of I-71/75. For views of the mighty Ohio River, check out Eden Park on the Ohio side of the river. You can park near the Twin Lakes off of Eden Park Drive.
It’s Saturday; I want to relax outside and maybe go for a swim. What’s my best option? If you are looking for relaxation and swimming, start off with one of the nearby Ohio State Parks. Caesar Creek, East Fork and Hueston Woods all have beach areas on their lakes and offer the solitude of relaxing in the woods that state parks are known for. If you’re just looking to relax, try out Ault Park for a stroll through the garden area, a hike in the woods or a picnic on the green. All of those options are great places to start when it comes to getting outside in Cincinnati.
Things to Do
class concerts, family shows and a wide variety of sporting events.
Axis Alley* 859-652-7250 | axisalleylevee.com A boutique bowling experience that features upscale bowling, billiards and a high-energy bar and lounge.
BB Riverboats* 859-261-8500 | bbriverboats.com Learn more on pages 14, 67.
The Bank of Kentucky Center 859-442-2652 | bankofkentuckycenter.com This 10,000-seat arena features first-
Behringer-Crawford Museum 859-491-4003 | bcmuseum.org Learn more on pages 43, 48. Big Bone Lick State Park 859-384-3522 | parks.ky.gov
Discovery Trail and spacious campground featuring 62 campsites with utility hookups, grills, swimming pool and playground. Boone County Arboretum 859-384-4999 | bcarboretum.org The nation’s first arboretum within an active recreation park setting, with more than 3,000 trees and shrubs over 121 acres. Camp Springs Vineyard 859-448-0253 | campspringsvineyard.com This small farm vineyard, part of the Northern Kentucky Back Roads Wine Trail Tour, produces white, red, fruit and flower wines, and wine jelly. The Carnegie 859-491-2030 | thecarnegie.com Learn more on page 60. Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption* 859-431-2060 | covcathedral.com One of only 35 basilicas in the U.S., this cathedral features stunning gothic architecture and one of the world’s largest church stained-glass windows. Creation Museum* 888-582-4253 | creationmuseum.org Learn more on pages 24, 66. Devou Park 859-292-2151 | covingtonky.gov Learn more on pages 48, 67, 68. Dinsmore Homestead 859-586-6117 | dinsmorefarm.org A unique historic site where visitors can learn about rural life in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Eagle Bend Alpacas* 859-750-3560 | eaglebendalpacas.com Working farm boasting the largest alpaca herd in Kentucky, located on an 1830s historical property. Educational tours for groups and on-site shopping in the Fiber & Gift Shoppe. Earth Joy Tree Adventures 859-635-0320 | climbtreeswithearthjoy.com Northern Kentucky’s first recreational tree-climbing company designs fun and challenging playgrounds in nature where you feel safe to be yourself, connecting to trees, nature and others. Florence Freedom 859-594-4487 | florencefreedom.com Learn more on page 66. GameWorks* 859-581-7529 | gameworks.com Eat, drink and play all under one roof. Hundreds of the latest and greatest
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South Kentucky Speedway
World Peace Bell 859-655-7700 | southbankpartners.com This 66,000-pound bell was built in France and brought to Newport to ring in the new millennium in honor of World Peace Day. Viewings by appointment.
Shopping Historic Bellevue shopbellevueky.com A charming historic district filled with an eclectic array of shops, salons and eateries. Be sure to check out Shop Bellevue! on the first Friday of every month; businesses are open late and many offer open houses and specials.
arcade games, prize games and old school classics like billiards and darts.
Henry County, Kentucky. Take in the scenery and taste some award-winning wines.
James A. Ramage Civil War Museum 859-344-1145 | fortwright.com Learn about the defense of Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati during the Civil War. The Museum preserves and interprets Northern Kentucky’s unique role in the Civil War through archaeology, education and research.
StoneBrook Winery* 859-635-0111 | stonebrookwinery.com Small family winery in Camp Springs, Kentucky, that produces high-quality, award-winning grape and fruit wines. Part of the Northern Kentucky Back Roads Wine Trail Tour.
Kentucky Speedway* 859-578-2300 | kentuckyspeedway.com Learn more on pages 20, 29.
Sushi Cincinnati 513-335-0297 | sushicinti.com Learn to roll sushi, then enjoy what you rolled. Fun two-hour Rolling & Dining Experience. Six blocks from the river.
Kentucky Symphony Orchestra 859-431-6216 | kyso.org Through the years, KSO concerts have offered many surprises, including silent films, dancers, comedians, zoo animals, alternative, rock and complete operas and musicals, country bands and even a limbo contest.
Turfway Park* 859-371-0200 | turfway.com Live Thoroughbred racing September through October and December through April. Simulcast racing year-round. Admission and parking are free every day (with the exception of Spiral Stakes Day in March).
MainStrasse Village* 859-491-0458 | mainstrasse.org Centered around Covington’s historic German area, MainStrasse is a collection of unique shops and restaurants.
Vent Haven Museum 859-341-0461 | venthavenmuseum.com Learn more on page 60.
Newport Aquarium* 859-491-3467 | newportaquarium.com Learn more on pages 14, 22, 23, 24, 43, 80. Newport on the Levee* 859-291-0550 | newportonthelevee.com Learn more on pages 14, 67. Smith-Berry Vineyard and Winery* 502-845-7091 | smithberrywinery.com A true small farm winery in beautiful
Wizardz Magic Theater* 513-784-6883 | wizardzmagictheater.net A live magical performance that brings joy and amazement to the whole family through the discovery of the artistic creation. The audience takes part in the show. World of Golf 859-371-8255 | landrumgolf.com Facility in Florence offering a golf course, private instruction, practice facilities, golf simulator, miniature golf and events.
Cork ’n Bottle 859-261-8333 | corknbottle.com With 50 years of service, Cork ’n Bottle specializes in wine, bourbon, beer, cheeses and gift baskets, and offers wedding planning and private space for events. Crestview Hills Town Center 859-341-4353 | shopcrestviewhillstowncenter.com Popular shopping center with stores such as Banana Republic, Eddie Bauer and Sephora, as well as restaurants. Donna Salyers’ Fabulous-Furs 859-291-3300 | fabulousfurs.com Learn more on page 29. Field and Stream 859-331-0364 | fieldandstreamshop.com A store for all things outdoor including fishing gear, hunting items and outdoor equipment. Florence Antique Mall 859-371-0600 | florenceantiquemall.com A 50,000-square-foot showroom with an amazing selection of antiques, collectibles, clothing and furniture. Florence Mall 859-371-1231 | florencemall.com Anchored by Sears, Macy’s and JCPenney, this mall also offers a double-decker carousel and a children’s play area. Folksiders FOUND 859-468-2766 | facebook.com/Folksiders Learn more on page 41. The Friendly Market 859-488-1053 | thefriendlymkt.com A year-round indoor market and seasonal outdoor market. Gap Clearance Store 859-586-3320 | gap.com Huge clearance center offering Gap brand merchandise at bargain prices.
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The Party Source 859-291-4007 | thepartysource.com “Everything but…the guests!” From beer kegs and wine to specialty foods and party supplies, your destination for everything you’ll need to throw the best party. Rabbit Hash General Store 859-586-7744 | rabbithash.com A working general store since 1831 in the heart of historic Rabbit Hash, a slice of Americana from another era.
Dining
tacular view of the Cincinnati skyline and the Ohio River. Dee Felice Cafe 859-261-2365 | deefelicecafe.com Casual New Orleans–style Cajun and Creole dishes, with live jazz performances Wednesday through Sunday. Dick’s Last Resort* 859-581-2500 | dickslastresort.com Learn more on page 14. Dixie Chili 859-291-5337 | dixiechili.com Learn more on page 12.
AmerAsia 859-261-6121 Fresh Asian cuisine, including the Dragon’s Breath wontons, and an eclectic selection of beers.
Don Pablo’s* 513-631-1356 | donpablos.com TexMex restaurant serving big, bold flavors in a festive and informal Mexican atmosphere. Multiple area locations.
Arnie’s on the Levee 859-431-4340 | arniesonthelevee.com Sports bar and dining complex at Newport on the Levee featuring a full menu, 13 HDTVs, and pizza, wings and burgers. Entertainment nightly.
Goodfellas Pizzeria/Wiseguy Lounge 859-916-5209 | goodfellaspizzeria.com New York–style pizza for dinner and elite bourbons and craft cocktails for dessert. New location in Over-the-Rhine also.
Bar Louie-Newport 859-291-4222 | barlouieamerica.com Specializes in handcrafted martinis and mojitos, as well as a unique variety of drafts, bottled beers, micro and craft brews and more than 20 wines by the glass. Beer Sellar 859-431-6969 Floating restaurant and barge that offers live entertainment, skyline views, a full bar, 135 bottled beers, 60 taps and one great jukebox. Dinner served. Bouquet Restaurant and Wine Bar 859-491-7777 | bouquetrestaurant.com Learn more on page 24. BRIO Tuscan Grille 859-431-0900 | brioitalian.com Features steaks, house-made pasta specialties and flatbreads prepared in an authentic Italian oven. Brothers Bar & Grill* 859-291-2767 | brothersbar.com American bar comfort food, with great specials daily. Buckhead Mountain Grill* 859-491-7333 | eatatbuckheads.com Rustic lodge overlooking the Ohio River and downtown Cincinnati that serves steaks, chicken, ribs, salads, sandwiches and more. Chart House Restaurant* 859-261-0300 | chart-house.com Fresh seafood and steaks with a spec-
The Gruff 859-581-0040 | atthegruff.com Fresh, quality food and a creative atmosphere with a full bar and eat-in restaurant featuring brick-oven pizzas as well as sandwiches, salads and other specialties. Guru India Restaurant 859-341-5858 | guruindiarestaurant.com Authentic cuisine from Northern India. Famous for its savory tandoori oven dishes and exotic curries, cooked fresh. Hofbräuhaus* 859-491-7200 | hofbrauhausnewport.com Learn more on page 26. Hooters Restaurant* 859-291-9191 | hooters.com Known for its worldfamous chicken wings, great food, fun and oneof-a-kind hospitality that can only be served by the Hooters Girls.
Keystone Bar & Grill* 859-261-6777 | keystonebar.com Sample craft beers, single-batch bourbons or a mixed drink, enjoy a full lunch or dinner menu, and relax with friends at this contemporary bar and grill. Three locations. Knotty Pine on the Bayou 859-781-2200 | letseat.at/knottypine Casual and cozy Cajun cuisine, off the beaten path. Reservations highly recommended. Matsuya Japanese Restaurant 859-746-1199 | matsuyaweb.com Sushi, tempura, teriyaki, tabletop hot pots and much more. Family-owned for more than 10 years. Mitchell’s Fish Market* 859-291-7454 | mitchellsfishmarket.com The Mitchell’s menu is updated daily to feature the market catch of the day, along with the weather report where it was caught. It also offers a variety of seafood options grilled or broiled, blackened, cooked Shang Hai style or prepared to your taste. Molly Malone’s Irish Pub & Restaurant 859-491-6659 | covington.mollymalonesirishpub.com Offers traditional Irish fare, a large selection of Irish whiskey and Scotch and 28 craft and import beers on tap.
Nuvo at Greenup* 859-415-1308 | nuvoatgreenup.com The first Greater Cincinnati restaurant to offer an entirely prix fixe menu. Unique entrée Covington, Kentucky selections, sourced locelebrates its bicentencally, and patron decides nial in 2015. The city is whether to have three or celebrating 200 years six courses. Includes a with events throughout backyard patio.
Did You Know?
the year, including special museum exhibits, neighborhood-wide activities, volunteer opportunities and more. cov200.com
Jo An Japanese Restaurant 859-746-2634 | joanjapanese.com Serves authentic Japanese cuisine and is consistently rated as the top restaurant for Japanese food in the Cincinnati area. Joe’s Crab Shack* 859-581-6333 | joescrabshack.com A plethora of seafood choices, cocktails and featured seasonal menu items.
Oriental Wok 859-331-3000 | orientalwok.com The Wong family landmark since 1977. Enjoy specialties like the spicy Volcano Chicken, and vegetarians can rejoice with items like five-spice tofu over spinach. Two locations. Otto’s 859-491-6678 | ottosonmain.com A funky deli with a brightly colored interior, mismatched chairs and light-hearted decor. Otto’s serves creative, flavorful dishes in a casual atmosphere. CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 71
South Pompilios* 859-581-3065 | pompilios.com Homemade Italian cooking for the past 80 years. Prides itself on its handmade sauces and traditional items. Redondo Taqueria 859-652-7260 | redondolevee.com The food, made with high-quality ingredients including handmade tortillas and fresh meats and produce, is the show at Redondo. Riverside Korean Restaurant 859-291-1484 | riversidekoreanrestaurant.com Authentic Korean dishes served in traditional Korean style on the floor or in an American-style table or booth. Known for its Dolsot Bi Bim Bab. Steinhaus Restaurant* 859-371-3000 | steinhausrestaurant.com Steinhaus is a unique and contemporary restaurant with its main focus being authentic German cuisine and great American fare. Virgil’s Café 859-491-3287 | virgilscafe.com Intimate, casual eatery with an ever-
changing menu that was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Walt’s Hitching Post 859-360-2222 | waltshitchingpost.com Classic American cuisine in Northern Kentucky, including legendary smoke house ribs complemented by Walt’s secret sauce. Wertheim’s Restaurant 859-261-1233 This German restaurant in Northern Kentucky specializes in schnitzels, homemade potato pancakes and German sausages. York St. Café 859-261-9675 | yorkstonline.com Located in an 1880s-era pharmacy, it’s your prescription for a great night out. York Street Café is a romantic restaurant, lounge, live music venue and art gallery all in one. Zola Pub and Grill* 859-261-7510 | zolapubandgrill.com Delicious food served in an upbeat, fun atmosphere. Full menu ranges from appetizers and salads to sandwiches and burgers and a fully stocked bar. Live music Wednesday–Saturday.
Nightlife Bobby Mackey’s 859-431-5588 | bobbymackey.com A live music venue featured on the show Ghost Adventures, Bobby Mackey’s is known for paranormal activity and offers haunted tours on the weekends. Funny Bone Comedy Club 859-957-2000 | funnyboneonthelevee.com A comedy club featuring stand-up acts from all over the country. Gangsters Dueling Piano Bar 859-491-8900 | gangstersduelingpianobar.com One of the most entertaining bars in the Tri-state. All of the music performed by the pianists is by request. It also offers a full-service food and bar menu. J.B. Fins* 859-291-9191 J. B. Fins is the hottest outdoor bar on the river. Live music everyday with a Tiki bar atmosphere. New Riff Distilling and Ei8ht Ball Brewing* newriffdistilling.com, ei8htballbrewing.com Working distillery, tasting bar and
Craft Bier
Of Bavarian Kings
Come experience freshly brewed Hofbräu Bier. Brewed the same way since 1589 200 East 3rd Street, Newport KY www.hofbrauhausnewport.com • 859-491-7200 72 /// 2015 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
* = Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
event space. Ei8ht Ball has 42 craft beers on tap. Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar* 859-581-1777 Learn more on page 25. Southgate House Revival 859-431-2201 | southgatehouse.com Learn more on page 92. Thompson House 859-261-7469 | thompsonhousenewport.com Features live music, comedy and other events with multiple bars and stages throughout the venue.
5009 Petersburg Rd., Petersburg, KY 41080 3 rooms
Christopherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s B&B 859-491-9354 | christophersbb.com 604 Poplar St., Bellevue, KY 41073 3 rooms
Cincinnati Marriott at RiverCenter 859-261-2900 | marriott.com 10 W. RiverCenter Blvd., Covington, KY 41011 326 rooms
Hotels Free Breakfast Fitness Room Internet Restaurant Indoor Pool Outdoor Pool
Free Parking Pet Friendly Airport Transportation Business Center Room Service
NORTHERN KENTUCKYâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;RIVERFRONT
Bodewell Bed and Breakfast 859-250-4789 | bodewellbnb.com
Comfort Suites Riverfront Newport 859-291-6700 | choicehotels.com 420 Riverboat Row, Newport, KY 41071 124 rooms
Courtyard by Marriott Covington 859-491-4000 | marriott.com 500 W. Third St., Covington, KY 41011 194 rooms
Embassy Suites Cincinnati RiverCenter 859-261-8400 | embassysuites.com 10 E. Rivercenter Blvd., Covington, KY 41011 227 rooms (dogs only) Extended Stay America Covington 859-581-3000 | extendedstayhotels.com 650 W. 3rd St., Covington, KY 41011 102 rooms Gateway Bed and Breakfast 859-581-6447 | gatewaybb.com 326 E. 6th St., Newport, KY 41071 3 rooms Grace Manor Bed & Breakfast 859-491-4213 | gracemanorbb.com 828 Linden Ave., Newport, KY 41071 2 rooms Hampton Inn Cincinnati Riverfront 859-581-7800 | cincinnatiriverfront.hamptoninn.com 200 Crescent Ave., Covington, KY 41011 151 rooms
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 73
South Holiday Inn Express Cincinnati Southeast Newport 859-957-2320 | hiexpress.com 110 Landmark Dr., Bellevue, KY 41073 73 rooms Holiday Inn Cincinnati Riverfront 859-291-4300 | holidayinn.com/cvg-riverfront 600 W. 3rd St., Covington, KY 41011 155 rooms Radisson Cincinnati Riverfront 859-491-1200 | cincinnatiradisson.com 668 W. Fifth St., Covington, KY 41011 220 rooms Cincinnati Travelodge Riverfront 859-291-4434 | travelodge.com 222 York St., Newport, KY 41071 104 rooms Weller Haus B&B 859-391-8315 | wellerhaus.com 319 Poplar St., Bellevue, KY 41073 5 rooms
NORTHERN KENTUCKY—I-71/I-75 CENTRAL
America’s Best Value Inn Florence 859-283-2030 | abviflorenceky.com 7810 Commerce Dr., Florence, KY 41042 50 rooms Baymont Inn And Suites Florence 859-371-0081 | baymontinns.com 30 Cavalier Ct., Florence, KY 41042 111 rooms Best Western Florence 859-525-0090 | bestwestern.com 7821 Commerce Dr., Florence, KY 41042 51 rooms Richwood Inn 859-485-2330 | comfortinn.com 164 Winning Colors Dr., Richwood, KY 41097 56 rooms
Country Hearth Inn Erlanger 859-342-7111 | countryheartherlanger.com
599 Donaldson Rd., Erlanger, KY 41018 135 rooms Courtyard Cincinnati Airport South/Florence 859-371-6464 | marriott.com 46 Cavalier Blvd., Florence, KY 41042 78 rooms Days Inn Florence 859-371-4800 | daysinn.com 50 Cavalier Blvd., Florence, KY 41042 110 rooms Econo Lodge Richwood 859-485-4123 | econolodge.com 11165 Frontage Rd., Richwood, KY 41094 55 rooms Econo Lodge Erlanger 859-342-5500 | econolodge.com 633 Donaldson Rd., Erlanger, KY 41018 71 rooms Extended Stay America Florence 859-282-7829 | extendedstayamerica.com
Your Entertainment Destination! • 16 State-of-the- Art Lanes • Full Bar & Menu • Private Party Rooms - Birthday g in d il u B m a e -T ts Corporate Even
Parties
Newport on the Levee • 1 Levee Way • Newport, KY • 859.652.7250 • axisalleylevee.com 74 /// 2015 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
7350 Turfway Rd., Florence, KY 41042 101 rooms
Motel 6 Cincinnati South 859-283-0909 | motel6.com 7937 Dream St., Florence, KY 41042 78 rooms
Extended Stay America Florence/ Meijer Drive 859-746-0172 | extendedstayamerica.com 200 Meijer Dr., Florence, KY 41042 71 rooms
Howard Johnson of Florence 859-371-6300 | hojo.com 7809 U.S. 42, Florence, KY 41042 114 rooms
Knights Inn Florence 859-371-9711 | knightsinn.com 8049 Dream St., Florence, KY 41042 114 rooms
Motel 6 Florence 859-980-1380 7820 Commerce Dr., Florence, KY 41042 50 rooms
Fort Wright Inn 859-331-1400 1937 Dixie Hwy., Fort Wright, KY 41011 70 rooms
La Quinta Inn & Suites Florence 859-282-8212 | lq.com 350 Meijer Dr., Florence, KY 41242 74 rooms
The Old Hashienda 859-586-7744 | rabbithash.com 10021 Lower River Rd., Rabbit Hash, KY 41005 1 suite
Holiday Inn Express Richwood 859-493-0900 | hiexpress.com 12928 Frogtown Connector Rd., Richwood, KY 41094 76 rooms
Lookout Motel 859-431-5141 1700 Dixie Dr., Fort Wright, KY 41011 29 rooms
Holiday Inn Florence 859-980-1700 | holidayinn.com 7905 Freedom Way, Florence, KY 41042 85 rooms
Microtel Inn & Suites 859-746-8100 | microtelinn.com 7490 Woodspoint Dr., Florence, KY 41042 83 rooms
Quality Inn & Suites Florence 859-371-4700 | qualityinn.com 7915 U.S. 42, Florence, KY 41042 102 rooms
Magnuson Hotel Florence 859-371-2700 | magnusonhotels.com 8050 Holiday Pl., Florence, KY 41042 100 rooms
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 75
South Stay Lodge of Florence 859-746-2400 | staylodgehotels.com 8035 Action Blvd., Florence, KY 41042 121 rooms
Comfort Inn Airport Turfway Road 859-647-2700 | comfortinn.com 7454 Turfway Rd., Florence, KY 41042 53 rooms
holidayinn.com/cvg-airport 1717 Airport Exchange Blvd., Erlanger, KY 41018 237 rooms
Super 8 Florence 859-283-1221 | super8.com 7928 Dream St., Florence, KY 41042 92 rooms
Comfort Suites Cincinnati Airport 859-980-0555 | choicehotels.com/hotel/ky160 775 Petersburg Rd., Hebron, KY 41048 70 rooms
Homewood Suites by Hilton Cincinnati Airport South 859-283-2111 | homewoodsuites.com 1090 Vandercar Way, Florence, KY 41042 96 rooms
Country Inn & Suites Cincinnati Airport 859-689-0700 | countryinns.com 759 Petersburg Rd., Hebron, KY 41048 86 rooms
Hyatt Place Cincinnati Airport 859-647-1170 | hyatt.com 300 Meijer Dr., Florence, KY 41042 126 rooms
Super 8 Fort Mitchell 859-341-2090 | super8.com 2350 Royal Dr., Fort Mitchell, KY 41017 100 rooms Travelodge Florence 859-371-0277 | travelodge.com 8075 Steilen Dr., Florence, KY 41042 90 rooms Turfside Motel 859-371-6181 6501 Dixie Hwy., Florence, KY 41042 21 rooms Value Place Florence 859-371-0611 | valueplace.com 40 Cavalier Blvd., Florence, KY 41042 124 rooms Wingate by Wyndham Cincinnati Airport 859-727-0144 | wingatehotels.com/erlanger 605 Viox Rd., Erlanger, KY 41018 76 rooms
NORTHERN KENTUCKY—AIRPORT
Ashley Quarters 859-525-9997 | ashleyquarters.com 4880 Houston Rd., Florence, KY 41042 70 rooms Burlington’s Willis Graves B&B 859-689-5096 | burligrave.com 5825 N. Jefferson St., Burlington, KY 41005 5 rooms Cincinnati Airport Marriott 859-586-0166 | cincinnatiairportmarriott.com 2395 Progress Dr., Hebron, KY 41048 295 rooms
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Courtyard by Marriott Cincinnati Airport 859-647-9900 | courtyard.com/cvgca 3990 Olympic Blvd., Erlanger, KY 41018 120 rooms Doubletree by Hilton Cincinnati Airport 859-371-6166 | cincinnatiairport.doubletree.com 2826 Terminal Dr., Hebron, KY 41048 177 rooms First Farm Inn 859-586-0199 | firstfarminn.com 2510 Stevens Rd., Petersburg, KY 41080 2 rooms Hampton Inn Cincinnati Airport North 859-689-1960 | cincinnatiairportnorth.hamptoninn.com 755 Petersburg Rd., Hebron, KY 41048 83 rooms Hampton Inn Cincinnati Airport South 859-283-1600 | cincinnatiairportsouth.hamptoninn.com 7393 Turfway Rd., Florence, KY 41042 116 rooms Hilton Cincinnati Airport 859-371-4400 | hilton.com 7373 Turfway Rd., Florence, KY 41042 365 rooms Holiday Inn Cincinnati Airport 859-371-2233 |
Quality Inn & Suites Cincinnati Airport 859-746-0300 | choicehotels.com/hotel/ky145 1805 Airport Exchange, Erlanger, KY 41018 107 rooms
Residence Inn by Marriott Cincinnati Airport 859-282-7400 | residenceinncincinnatiairport.com 2811 Circleport Dr., Erlanger, KY 41018 150 rooms
Red Roof Inn Cincinnati Airport 859-727-3400 | redroof.com 630 Donaldson Hwy., Erlanger, KY 41018 145 rooms
Springhill Suites Cincinnati Airport South 859-371-3388 | springhillsuites.com 7492 Turfway Rd., Florence, KY 41042 101 rooms
NORTHERN KENTUCKY—CENTRAL/SOUTHEAST
Country Inn & Suites Wilder 859-441-3707 | countryinns.com/wilderky 1010 Town Dr., Wilder, KY 41076 65 rooms
Hampton Inn & Suites Wilder 859-441-3049 | hiltonhotels.com 10 Hampton Lane, Wilder, KY 41076 94 rooms
explore compare connect extraordinary starts here! Far from ordinary – in the heart of Cincinnati USA – Northern Kentucky’s fun and attractions are right where you want to be.
meetNKY.com
Oxford
North OHIO 129 Hamilton
127 Okeana
Fairfield 4 27
52 128
74
275
West
S
1
Colerain Township
White Oak College Hill
74 50
Mt Airy
264
275 75
5 SPOTS Must-See
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1 Winton Woods Parkyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Farm in Winton Woods is a 100acre educational farm with live animals, wagon and pony rides and a playground. Winton Woods is also home to the 156acre Winton Lake, where guests can rent boats, canoes and kayaks, and the Winton Woods Riding Center, which offers horseback riding lessons year-round. 513-5213276, greatparks.org
2 IKEA The only IKEA in Ohio is in West Chester. Browse the giant showroom of design possibilities, note what you love along the way before picking up the goods downstairs. Also, make a pit stop for Swedish meatballs in the cafeteria and let the kids play in the Smaland Play Area. 513-779-7100, ikea-usa.com/westchester
Middletown
75
63
Monroe
4
Liberty Township
129
3
747
2
OHIO
42
West Chester
Mason
5
3
71
Springdale Sharonville Blue Ash 126
Bond Hill
562
East
ILLUSTRATION BY DAN ZETTWOCH
Kenwood
75 71
275 50 3 EnterTRAINment Junction EnterTRAINment Junction features a 1,000-square-foot hand-built replica of Cincinnati’s historic Coney Island Amusement Park, as well as the world’s largest indoor model train display. The enormous train layout is the size of more than half of a football field! 513-898-8000, entertrainmentjunction.com
50 4 Cincinnati Premium Outlets Cincinnati Premium Outlets, in Monroe, features 100 outlet stores including designer brands like Banana Republic, Coach, Cole Haan, J. Crew, Michael Kors, Nike, Saks Fifth Avenue and more. There’s also a playground for the kids. 513-5390710, premiumoutlets.com/cincinnati
5 Kings Island Kings Island boasts world-class thrill rides including Banshee, the longest inverted roller coaster in the world, and The Beast, the longest wooden roller coaster in the world. Kids can enjoy PEANUTS-themed Planet Snoopy and Soak City Waterpark, home to 30 water slides and a 650,000-gallon wave pool. 513-754-5700, visitkingsisland.com CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 79
North Things to Do
LOCALS SPEAK
The Beach Waterpark* 513-398-7946 | thebeachwaterpark.com Learn more on pages 11, 42. Bonnybrook Farms* 937-289-2500 | bonnybrookfarms.com Bonnybrook Farms offers Chuck Wagon dinner rides, corporate picnics and events, Lantern Light wagon rides and fall farm days at their beautiful and historic 370-acre working farm.
BLOGGER: Nedra McDaniel BLOG: adventuremomblog.com NICHE: Family adventures
Describe your idea of a perfect outdoor kid-friendly adventure. The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is an adventure that our family enjoys all year long, and it’s perfect for all ages. Special events like Festival of Lights in the winter, Tunes & Blooms in the spring, Zoo Babies in the summer and HallZOOween in fall give guests an added bonus to look forward to all year. Kings Island is another family favorite that is perfect for all thrill levels. There is also a great kids area and a waterpark that’s included in your admission.
Describe your idea of a perfect indoor kid-friendly adventure. The Newport Aquarium is a great indoor option. The tunnels that you walk through make you feel like you are submerged in this incredible underwater world. The animal encounters are also a memorable experience, where you can touch a shark or a penguin, and Mighty Mike, the 800-pound gator, is amazing to see up close. There is a small play area halfway through the aquarium that gives younger guests an opportunity to burn off some energy too. My boys also love SkyZone, an indoor trampoline park. It’s a short drive from the Root Beer Stand, where you can grab a root beer float and a chili dog.
It’s date night and you’re so over dinner and a movie. Where do you go? What do you do? My favorite part of town is Over-the-Rhine. There are so many fantastic places to eat on Vine Street that it’s really hard to decide. We tend to spend a lot of time at Washington Park, which is walking distance from Vine Street. The park has something going on all year round. You can listen to live music for free in the warmer months several nights a week, buy a unique gift at The City Flea, enjoy a festival, or just relax and people watch. I highly recommend taking a local tour as a date. Our city has beautiful architecture and such a rich history. Taking a Segway, brewery, food, Ride the Ducks, museum or history tour has really added to our appreciation of what a gem our city really is.
Give one piece of advice for adventurers visiting Cincinnati for the first time. Do a little research beforehand so you can maximize your time and get the most out of your visit. When I visit a city for the first time, I check out blogs and tourism sites so that I can learn about the hidden gems. Locals are such a great resource; they’re proud to share why they love their city.
Caesar Creek State Park 513-897-3055 | caesarcreekstatepark.com Learn more on page 68. CoCo Key Water Resort 513-771-2080 | cocokeycincinnati.com An exciting 50,000-square-foot indoor water park, complete with palm trees and a year-round 84-degree temperature. Dave & Busters 513-671-5501 | daveandbusters.com This 65,000-square-foot restaurant and entertainment complex specializes in great food and great fun. EnterTRAINment Junction* 513-898-8000 | entertrainmentjunction.com Learn more on pages 42, 79. Full Throttle Indoor Karting* 513-341-5278 | cincykarting.com Offers everyone, from the complete novice to the experienced racer, a fun and competitive place to race. Drive stateof-the-art go-karts on a professionally designed indoor racetrack. Glendower Historic Mansion 513-932-1817 | glendower.org One of the finest examples of residential northern antebellum Greek Revival architecture in the Midwest, Glendower is furnished circa 1845 to 1865. Costumed interpreters lead tours of the mansion. Open by appointment for groups of 20 or more. Go Bananas Comedy Club 513-984-9288 | gobananascomedy.com Go Bananas has been providing comedy in Cincinnati since 1990 and is constantly searching for the newest and freshest comics to help induce guests’ laughter. Heritage Village Museum* 513-563-9484 | heritagevillagecincinnati.org Guests experience 19th-century life through entertaining, educational, nostalgic tours led by costumed interpreters.
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* = Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
North Ozone Zipline Adventures
and a comprehensive 19th- and 20thcentury collection. Warren County Park District 513-925-1109 | co.warren.oh.us/parks Operates many green spaces, including Warren County Armco Park, Landen Deerfield Park, Morrow Park and Carmody Park/Twin Creek, among others. THE WEB extreme entertainment* 513-860-2882 | funattheweb.com Entertainment center featuring Laser Web laser tag, inside-track electric indoor go-karts, Jurassic Par mini-golf and Hang Ten miniature bowling.
Shopping Hueston Woods 513-523-6347 | parks.ohiodnr.gov/huestonwoods Learn more on page 68. Kings Island* 513-754-5700 | visitkingsisland.com Learn more on pages 22, 23, 43, 79, 80. Lazer Kraze* 513-339-1030 | lazerkraze.com Located in both northeast Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, Lazer Kraze features multi-level laser tag arenas and indoor trampoline parks. Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad 513-933-8022 | lebanonrr.com Offers themed train rides, including the Civil War Train, the Great Train Robbery and the Pumpkin Patch Express. Meier’s Wine Cellars* 513-891-2900 | meierswinecellars.com Founded in 1890, Meier’s is Ohio’s oldest and largest winery, and it features a tasting room and wine store, winemaking supplies and gifts. MetroParks of Butler County 513-867-5835 | butlercountymetroparks.org MetroParks includes more than 3,000 acres throughout the county at Voice of America MetroPark, Rentschler Forest MetroPark, Sebald Park, Governor Bebb MetroPark and others. Miami Valley Gaming* 513-934-7070 | miamivalleygaming.com Newest gaming and harness racing facility, located off I-75 between Dayton and Cincinnati. Enjoy 1,600 gaming machines, four great restaurants and live harness racing.
Ozone Zipline Adventures* 513-932-3756 | ozonezips.org Breeze through and above the canopy of the Little Miami River Valley. Ozone has 12 zip lines ranging in length from 250 to 1,300 feet. Heights vary from 10 to 200 feet. Parky’s Farm at Winton Woods 513-521-3276 | greatparks.org/learn/ parkys-farm Learn more on page 78. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum 513-868-8336 | pyramidhill.org Outdoor museum with more than 60 monumental pieces of sculpture in an environment of meadows, forests and various gardens. SkyZone 513-671-1333 | skyzone.com Learn more on page 80. Summit Park Blue Ash 513-745-8570 | blueash.com A 130-acre regional park in the heart of Blue Ash with interactive programming, unique learning opportunities and yearround experiences in one of the region’s most beautiful settings. Wake Nation 513-887-9253 | wakenationcincinnati.com The first and only cable wake park in the Midwest. Wakeboard, waterski, kneeboard, and wake skate on a 10-acre lake without a boat. Warren County Historical Society Museum 513-932-1817 | wchsmuseum.org Award-winning regional history museum featuring a large collection of Shaker furniture, an extensive historical library
Bass Pro Shops at Cincinnati Mall 513-826-5200 | basspro.com One of America’s premier retailers for pursuits in the great outdoors, from fishing and hunting to camping and more. Bridgewater Falls 513-895-6800 | shopbridgewaterfalls.com More than 60 acres of shopping, dining and services in the heart of Fairfield Township in Butler County. Includes retailers such as Target, Best Buy and JCPenney. Brooks Brothers 513-791-1975 | brooksbrothers.com Visit Brooks Brothers, America’s oldest clothing retailer, with collections for men, women and children. Caesar Creek Markets 937-382-1660 | caesarcreek.com One of the largest outdoor markets in the Midwest. Visitors are treated to a huge selection of items for sale at more than 500 outdoor spaces. It also features seven buildings with airconditioning and heat for year-round shopping. Cincinnati Premium Outlets* 513-539-0710 | premiumoutlets.com/cincinnati Learn more on page 79. Deerfield Towne Center 513-770-0273 | deerfieldtownecenter.com Home to more than 50 national brand stores, including Whole Foods Market and ULTA Beauty, and specialty boutiques like James Wolf Jewelers. Also features furniture stores, fine restaurants and Regal Cinema. Frontgate Outlet Store 513-603-1444 | frontgate.com
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North Founded in 1991 as a direct marketing catalog company, Frontgate has grown to be a recognized leader in catalog and online shopping for the home environment. The outlet store features luxurious indoor and outdoor furniture as well as home goods and gifts. IKEA* 513-779-7100 | ikea-usa.com/westchester Learn more on page 78. Jungle Jim’s International Market 513-674-6000 | junglejims.com Explore international cuisine at Jungle Jim’s, which has aisles organized by country. Also features American groceries, beer and wine and fresh produce. Kenwood Towne Centre* 513-745-9100 | kenwoodtownecentre.com Valet parking and luxury retailers like Nordstrom, Coach and Lacoste, and specialty boutiques including The Art of Shaving and the LEGO store. Northgate Mall 513-385-5600 | mynorthgatemall.com
Shopping center in Colerain Township with 100 specialty shops, three department stores, and tenants such as DSW, ULTA Beauty and Marshalls.
Enjoy shopping values on antiques and collectibles, new and used merchandise, tools, fruits and vegetables and pet supplies at this modern market.
Ohio Valley Antique Mall* 513-874-7855 | ohiovalleyantiques.com One of the largest multi-dealer antique malls in the region, with 65,000 square feet of antiques and collectibles.
Treasure Aisles 513-539-4497 | treasure-aisles.com Miles and miles of aisles with everything from furniture to jewelry to tools and electronics. Open weekends year-round from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. rain or shine.
Stone Creek Towne Center stonecreektownecenter.com Major tenants in this 540,000-squarefoot center include JCPenney, Bed Bath & Beyond, Old Navy, Olive Garden and Logan’s Roadhouse. Tanger Outlets Jeffersonville* 740-948-9090 | tangeroutlet.com/jeffersonville Tanger offers 100 brand-name stores with savings up to 65 percent. Trader Joe’s 513-984-3452 | traderjoes.com Cincinnati’s only location of the popular national seller of innovative, hard-to-find, great tasting foods and wines. Trader’s World 513-424-5708 | tradersworld.info
Tri-County Mall 513-671-0120 | tricountymall.com Features department stores including Macy’s, Dillard’s and Sears, and many specialty retailers. Venice Antique Mall* 513-738-8180 | venicepavilionantiques.com Home to more than 80 dealers with more than 14,000 square feet of shopping in a historic building.
Dining Barresi’s Italian Restaurant 513-793-2540 | barresis.com Beloved by its patrons for its authentic Italian cuisine, which is a blend of tastes
The Extras Aren’t Extra!® Free Hot Breakfast Free 5:30 Kickback® Free Wireless Internet Free Long Distance Calls Free Indoor/Outdoor Pool & Whirlpool Meeting and event space available
1-800-436-1169
Drury Inn & Suites Cincinnati North 513-771-5601
druryhotels.com | 1-800-DRURYINN Service of alcohol is subject to state and local law.
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* = Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
from the southern olive oil region near Calabria and the northern city of Genoa. BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse 513-671-1805 | bjsrestaurants.com Serves everything from deep-dish pizza and baby back ribs to handcrafted beers in a high-energy, child-friendly environment. Has another location in Florence, Kentucky. Blue Ash Chili 513-984-6107 | blueashchili.com Learn more on page 12. Bombay Brazier 513-794-0000 The only four-star Indian restaurant in Cincinnati. Full bar and large wine selection. Reservations recommended. Brazenhead Irish Pub 513-229-0809 | thebrazenhead.net This 16,000-square-foot location seats 650 people with three bars, all built in Ireland and shipped to Ohio. There are 30 rotating draft beer taps and one of the largest selections of scotch in the area. Chuy’s 513-793-2489 | chuys.com Chuy’s specializes in Mexican food using
fresh ingredients by hand rolling its tortillas, making salsa fresca every hour and using fresh New Mexican Chilies. Also in Florence, Kentucky.
An American steakhouse showcasing prime aged beef and seafood as well as unique dishes like its filet mignon pot stickers.
Cock & Bull (Glendale) 513-771-4253 | candbpublichouse.com Featuring award-winning fish and chips, 60 craft beers on tap and a weekend Bloody Mary bar, Cock & Bull is a place to watch the game and enjoy a brew.
Eli’s Sports Bar & Grill 513-738-3547 | elissportsbar.com Local watering hole atmosphere featuring deep-fried Buffalo-style wings in 10 succulent sauces. Three locations.
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant 513-488-1110 | coopershawkwinery.com Cooper’s Hawk offers an extensive wine list and a modern casual dining experience. The menu consists of steak and seafood along with salads and soups. deSha’s 513-247-9933 | deshas.com Savory American entrées and inventive side dishes served in a warm wooden lodge atmosphere. Dingle House Pub & Grub 513-874-7468 | dinglehouse.com Experience the traditional dishes of a local Irish pub served by a friendly, kilted staff. Eddie Merlot’s 513-489-1212 | eddiemerlots.com
Emanu 513-351-7686 | emanuea.com Share Ethiopian food on a common plate and break “injera” (bread) with friends. Embers Restaurant* 513-984-8090 | embersrestaurant.com Contemporary American steakhouse offering mouthwatering steaks and the freshest seafood and sushi. Weekly food and drink specials. The Friendly Stop 513-771-7427 Excellent pub fare and full bar in historic Glendale since 1907. Gabby’s Cafe 513-821-6040 | gabbyswyoming.com A family-owned restaurant serving gourmet pizzas, delicious pasta, one
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North of Cincinnati’s best burgers and much more. Draft beer, wine and full bar. Germano’s Restaurant* 513-794-1155 | germanosrestaurant.com Fine Italian restaurant offering pasta, fresh seafood, veal dishes, homemade desserts and an extensive selection of Italian and California wines. Golden Lamb 513-932-5065 | goldenlamb.com The oldest continually operating business in Ohio offers a classic menu, intimate candlelit tables—and a rich history. Gold Star Chili* goldstarchili.com Learn more on page 12. Grand Finale 513-771-5925 | grandfinale.info A romantic restaurant in an elegant Victorian home with decadent dishes and divine, over-the-top desserts. Half Day Cafe 513-821-2323 | halfdaycafe.org A neighborhood family operating a neighborhood restaurant. The menu at Half Day reflects the seasonal—and sometimes daily—availability of fresh and local ingredients. HD Beans & Brew Cafe 513-793-6036 | hdbeans.com Spot where you can get everything from coffee to spirits and football to jazz. Free Wi-Fi and karaoke. Artisan locally roasted coffee and local craft brews. Jag’s Steak and Seafood* 513-860-5353 | jags.com Jag’s eclectic menu offers an extensive list of sushi and sashimi, Yellowfin Tuna, Chilean Sea Bass and Alaskan King Crab. The restaurant consists of six distinct and richly appointed dining rooms steeped in mahogany and fine art. Jeff Ruby’s Carlo & Johnny* 513-936-8600 | jeffruby.com/carlojohnny Housed in an historic mansion that was once a casino and gangster hideout, this award-winning steakhouse oozes intimacy and character. Zagat rates Carlo & Johnny higher than any steakhouse in either Chicago or New York City. La Petite France* 513-733-8383 | lapetitefrance.biz Has served fine, classic French cuisine like escargot, pâté maison, mousse and crepes for 30 years. The restaurant has two French dining rooms: one formal, the other a more casually decorated bistro. Maggiano’s Little Italy* 513-794-0670 | maggianos.com Founded in Chicago in the ’90s,
Maggiano’s has a menu that features both classic and contemporary Italian recipes, from pastas to steaks and seafood to specialty desserts. Marty’s Hops and Vines 513-681-4222 | martys-hopsandvines.com Grown from the owner’s love of the British pub—a comfortable and relaxing place to enjoy friends and refresh from a busy day, Marty’s features fine wine, craft beer and a small-plate menu. Max & Erma’s* 513-830-3044 | maxandermas.com Located in the Cincinnati Holiday Inn I-275 North. Relaxed and contemporary, offering generous salads, stacked deli sandwiches, fresh pastas and delicious hand-cut steaks. Daily seafood specials and luncheon buffet. Five other area locations. Melting Pot 513-530-5501 | meltingpot.com Melting Pot is a restaurant specializing in all things fondue. From cheese to chocolate, Melting Pot serves most dishes with a dipping sauce for an interactive food experience. Pappadeaux 513-671-4473 | pappadeaux.com With a warm, inviting atmosphere and a big, open layout, Pappadeaux offers a range of cuisines, all served in generous portions.
Upscale-casual restaurant and bar opening soon that will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week, with salad bar, pizza, steaks, hamburgers and a wine list. The Silver Spring House 513-489-7044 | thesilverspringhouse.com A fun and relaxing restaurant and bar, famous for its “Cincinnati’s Best” citrusmarinated grilled chicken, great atmosphere and open-air dining. Soho Japanese Bistro 513-759-6876 | sohojapanesedining.com The biggest hibachi in Cincinnati and some of the freshest sushi in the Midwest. Stone Creek Dining Company 513-489-1444 | stonecreekdining.com Blends contemporary elegance and comfort with incredible food and excellent service. Serving lunch and dinner seven days a week in historic Montgomery and West Chester. Straits of Malacca 513-492-7656 | straitsmalacca.com Three dining areas in one: Tioman Café (authentic Malaysian “street food”), Blue Intan (jazz and tapas bar) and Langkawi Spice (gourmet dining experience). Red Squirrel 513-741-4800 | myredsquirrel.com Family-owned chain serving its original double-decker sandwiches using only the finest quality products.
Parkers Blue Ash Tavern* 513-891-8300 | parkersblueash.com Prime rib, steaks, burgers and craft beers combine with amazing salads, spectacular seafood and a wine list honored with the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.
Tony’s* 513-677-1993 | tonysofcincinnati.com Understated upscale atmosphere where diners enjoy prime steaks, seafood and Mediterranean dishes and choose from an eclectic list of drinks.
Quatman Cafe 513-731-4370 | quatmancafe.com Learn more on page 96.
Towne Square Atrium Restaurant* 513-793-4500 | crowneplaza.com/blueash Located in the Crowne Plaza Hotel of Blue Ash. Serves breakfast and lunch.
Rivertown Brewing Company 513-827-9280 | rivertownbrewery.com A brewery and taproom serving handcrafted lagers and ales in the village of Lockland. Romano’s Macaroni Grill* 513-671-2747 | macaronigrill.com Inspired by Italian trattoria cuisine, culture and conversation, Romano’s Macaroni Grill has a menu that features expertly handcrafted rustic dishes and Italian classics.
Trio Bistro* 513-984-1905 | triobistro.com Across the street from Nordstrom and Kenwood Towne Centre, Trio’s casual dining menu offers delicious steaks, fresh seafood, specialty pizza and creative daily chef specials.
The Root Beer Stand 513-769-4349 | therootbeerstand.com Learn more on page 80.
Vincenzo’s 513-771-0022 | vincenzos.net Vincenzo’s opened in 1996 as a tiny 14-table restaurant. It has grown to a larger fine-dining restaurant serving authentic Italian fare prepared to order with the finest ingredients.
Sharon Hill Bar & Grill* 513-771-2080 | redlion.com
Vinoklet Winery, Restaurant & Vineyard* 513-385-9309 | vinokletwines.com
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* = Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
The only working winery with a vineyard in Hamilton County, with scenic rolling hills and eight award-winning labels.
Days Inn & Suites Cincinnati 513-631-8500 | daysinncincinnati.com 5410 Ridge Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45213 108 rooms
Hotels Free Breakfast Fitness Room Internet Restaurant Indoor Pool Outdoor Pool
200 rooms
Free Parking Pet Friendly Airport Transportation Business Center Room Service
Atrium Hotel And Conference Center* 513-771-7171 | thehotelatrium.com 30 Tri County Pkwy., Cincinnati, OH 45246 150 rooms
Baymont Inn & Suites Sharonville 513-771-6888 | baymontinns.com 10900 Crowne Point Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45241 130 rooms
Best Western Plus Hannaford Inn & Suites* 513-936-0525 | bestwestern.com 5900 E. Galbraith Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45236 76 rooms
Days Inn Sharonville 513-554-1400 | daysinn.com 11775 Lebanon Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241 102 rooms
Doubletree Suites by Hilton Cincinnati Blue Ash* 513-489-3636 | cincinnatiblueashsuites.doubletree.com 6300 E. Kemper Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241 152 rooms
Drury Inn & Suites Cincinnati North* 513-771-5601 | druryhotels.com 2265 E. Sharon Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241 180 rooms
Econo Lodge Sharonville 513-771-0370 | econolodge.com 11620 Chester Rd., Sharonville, OH 45246 78 rooms
(up to 25lbs) Comfort Inn Northeast* 513-683-9700 | choicehotels.com 9011 Fields Ertel Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45249 106 rooms
Comfort Suites Forest Park 513-551-5028 | comfortsuitesforestpark.com 1234 Omniplex Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45240 84 rooms
Courtyard by Marriott Blue Ash* 513-733-4334 | marriott.com/cvgba 4625 Lake Forest Dr., Blue Ash, OH 45242 137 rooms
Crossland Economy Studios Cincinnati Springdale Tri-County Mall 513-771-2457 | extendedstayhotels.com 11645 Chesterdale Rd., Springdale, OH 45246 71 rooms
Crowne Plaza Cincinnati Blue Ash* 513-793-4500 | crowneplaza.com/blueash 5901 Pfeiffer Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45242
Embassy Suites Northeast Blue Ash* 513-733-8900 | cincinnatinortheast blueash.embassysuites.com 4554 Lake Forest Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45242 233 rooms
Extended Stay America Blue Ash Kenwood Road 513-469-8900 | extendedstayamerica.com 11145 Kenwood Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242 132 rooms
Extended Stay America Blue Ash Reagan Highway 513-793-6750 | extendedstayamerica.com 4260 Hunt Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242 71 rooms
Extended Stay America Blue Ash Reed Hartman 513-985-9992 | extendedstayamerica.com 4630 Creek Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242 100 rooms
Extended Stay America Sharonville 513-771-7829 | extendedstayamerica.com 11457 Chester Rd., Sharonville, OH 45246 130 rooms Extended Stay America Springdale North 513-671-4900 | extendedstayamerica.com 320 Glensprings Dr., Springdale, OH 45246 126 rooms FairďŹ eld Inn & Suites by Marriott North Sharonville* 513-842-9112 | marriott.com/cvgsn 11440 Chester Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45246 95 rooms Glendalia Boutique Hotel 513-376-9645 | theglendalia.com 10 Village Square, Cincinnati, OH 45246 6 rooms Hampton Inn Blue Ash* 513-791-2822 | hamptoninn.com 4640 Creek Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45242 80 rooms Hawthorn Suites Blue Ash* 513-733-0100 | hawthorn.com 10665 Techwoods Circle, Blue Ash, OH 45242 72 rooms Hawthorn Suites Cincinnati 513-354-1000 | hawthorn.com 11180 Dowlin Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45241 73 rooms Hilton Garden Inn Blue Ash* 513-469-6900 | cincinnatiblueash.stayhgi.com 5300 Cornell Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242 122 rooms Hilton Garden Inn Cincinnati Sharonville* 513-772-2837 | cincinnatisharonville.hgi.com 11149 Dowlin Dr., Sharonville, OH 45241 90 rooms Holiday Inn Cincinnati I-275 North* 513-563-8330 | ihg.com/holidayinn 3855 Hauck Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241 276 rooms
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North 11435 Reed Hartman Hwy., Cincinnati, OH 45241 125 rooms
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Blue Ash 513-985-9035 | hiexpress.com 4660 Creek Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242 69 rooms
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Sharonville* 513-771-9080 | hiexpress.com 11160 Dowlin Dr., Sharonville, OH 45241 79 rooms
Homewood Suites by Hilton Cincinnati North Sharonville* 513-772-8888 | cincinnati.homewoodsuites.com 2670 E. Kemper Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241 111 rooms
Howard Johnson Inn Cincinnati North 513-825-3129 | hojo.com 400 Glensprings Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45246 100 rooms
Hyatt Place Blue Ash* 513-489-3666 | blueash.place.hyatt.com
Motel 6 Sharonville East 513-563-1123 | motel6.com 3850 Hauck Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241 110 rooms
La Quinta Inn & Suites Sharonville* 513-771-0300 | lq.com 11029 Dowlin Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45241 150 rooms
La Quinta Inn Cincinnati North 513-671-2300 | lq.com 12150 Springfield Pike, Springdale, OH 45246 98 rooms
Quality Inn & Suites Sharonville 513-771-9309 | qualityinn.com 2463 E. Sharon Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241 60 rooms
Livinn Hotels* 513-772-7877 | livinn.com 11385 Chester Rd., Sharonville, OH 45246 130 rooms
Motel 6 Cincinnati Norwood 513-531-6589 | motel6.com 5300 Kennedy Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45213 75 rooms
CHUCK WAGON DINNER RIDES
Quality Inn & Suites 513-825-9600 | qualityinn.com 11967 Chase Plaza Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45240 81 rooms
Quality Suites* 513-530-5999 | choicehotels.com 11349 Reed Hartman Hwy., Blue Ash, OH 45241 50 rooms
Red Lion Hotel Cincinnati Sharonville* 513-771-2080 | redlion.com
FAMILY FEUDS ENCOURAGED! The Web Extreme Entertainment is the Tri-Stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest and most exciting entertainment center! The WEB offers fun activities, featuring four amazing attractions: Laser Web Laser Tag, Inside Track Go-Karts, Jurassic Par Glow Golf and Hang Ten Mini-Bowling. And for more fun play at our huge arcade and win some great prizes. Then grab a bite to eat at the Winners CafĂŠ! Bring your whole family in for a memorable experience at an incredible value!
Work up an appetite on our 370 acres with ďŹ shing, our 80 ft. underground slide, slingshots, animals and more! Enjoy a dinner of pulled pork, chicken and farm-fresh sides. Then board the wagon for a ride out to the Old Chuck Wagon for homemade cobblers, cookies and sâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;mores. Saturday Evenings June, July, Aug & Sept Call for Reservations
Bonnybrook Farms
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7172 Cincinnati-Dayton Road West Chester, Ohio 45069 513-860-2882 Friâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Sat: 11am â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Midnight Sunâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Thurs: 11amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;10pm
FunAtTheWeb.com
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* = Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
11320 Chester Rd., Sharonville, OH 45246 257 rooms
Red Roof Inn Blue Ash* 513-793-8811 | redroof.com 5900 Pfeiffer Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242 99 rooms
Red Roof Inn Cincinnati North - Mason* 513-683-3086 | redroof.com 8870 Governors Hill Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45249 97 rooms
Red Roof Inn Sharonville 513-771-5552 | redroof.com 2301 E. Sharon Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241 108 rooms
Residence Inn by Marriott Blue Ash* 513-530-5060 | marriott.com/cvgri 11401 Reed Hartman Hwy., Cincinnati, OH 45241 118 rooms
Residence Inn by Marriott Sharonville* 513-771-2525 | marriott.com 11689 Chester Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45246 144 rooms
Six Acres Bed and Breakfast 513-541-0873 | sixacresbb.com 5350 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45224 5 rooms
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Cincinnati North 513-825-9035 | marriott.com 12001 Chase Plaza Dr., Forest Park, OH 45240 124 rooms
Super 8 Motel 513-671-0556 | super8.com 330 Glensprings Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45246 105 rooms
Towneplace Suites Blue Ash* 513-469-8222 | marriott.com/cvgts
4650 Cornell Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241 94 rooms
Travel Inn 513-772-5771 2000 E. Kemper Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241 78 rooms
Travelodge 513-772-4114 | travelodge.com 11171 Dowlin Dr., Sharonville, OH 45241 130 rooms
Value Place Sharonville 513-769-9500 | valueplace.com 4020 Hauck Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241 120 rooms
Wingate by Wyndham Cincinnati Blue Ash* 513-733-1142 | wingatecinci.com 4320 Glendale-Milford Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242 84 rooms
Out of this World
FUN!
• World Class Laser Tag
• Indoor Trampoline Park
• Arcade & Fresh Made Pizzas
TWO GREAT LOCATIONS! 7082 Columbia Rd., Maineville (Mason) OH (513) 339-1030 Just south of Kings Island on Columbia Road 1335 Donaldson, Erlanger, KY (859) 371-KRAZ (5729) Minutes from CVG Airport
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1 Coney Island In addition to classic amusement rides and the world’s largest flat-surfaced recirculating pool, Coney Island is home to an 18-hole miniature golf course, an arcade, a kid-sized version of an Old Western Town, and a EuroBungy Dome where guests can experience the rush of bungee jumping without the risk. 513-232-8230, coneyislandpark.com
2 Belterra Park Gaming & Entertainment Center
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Catch the excitement of live racing on the only turf racetrack in Ohio at Belterra Park Gaming & Entertainment Center, on the grounds of the historic River Downs Racetrack. Visitors also enjoy gaming and dining at one of several restaurants, including the Market Buffet. 513-232-8000, belterrapark.com
3 Loveland Bike Trail
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The Loveland Bike Trail is part of a 70-mile paved trail that weaves through the Little Miami Scenic State Park. The trail follows an old railway line, and legend has it, was the site of a train robbery back in the day. Riders and walkers can take in stunning views of the Little Miami River and spot Canadian geese, ducks and deer along the way. One of four trailheads is in Milford. 513-683-0468, lovelandbiketrail.com
4 Loveland Castle
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Sir Harry Delos Andrews laid every brick of Chateau Laroche, the Loveland Castle, by hand. Upon his death, he willed the property to the Knights of the Golden Trail, who still guard it to this day. Its beautiful gardens are perfect for a picnic and the site is popular for Scout “overknights,” weddings and paranormal investigations. 513-6834686, lovelandcastle.com
5 Jungle Jim’s Eastgate
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With more than 200,000 square feet of shopping space and more than 150,000 products from around the world, Jungle Jim’s is an exotic grocery destination. Take a store tour, watch a food demonstration, and visit the gift shop at the Eastgate location. Or take a trip to the flagship store in Fairfield. 513-674-6000, junglejims.com
ILLUSTRATION BY DAN ZETTWOCH
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East Shopping
LOCALS SPEAK BLOGGER: Courtney Phenicie BLOG: cincymusic.com NICHE: Music and nightlife
Anderson Towne Center 513-232-2075 | atcstores.com Shopping center that is home to favorites such as UNO Chicago Grill, Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt, Moonstone Salon, Chico’s, Macy’s and more. EastGate Mall 513-752-2294 | shopeastgate-mall.com EastGate Mall houses Dillard’s, Sears, JCPenney, Kohl’s, Yankee Candle Company, Hollister Co., Bath & Body Works and more.
Describe Cincinnati’s music scene in three words. Eclectic. Passionate. Welcoming.
Name three hot spots for live local music. The Southgate House Revival, MOTR Pub and Northside Tavern. The Southgate House Revival has three beautiful rooms for music; the venue is housed in an old church. You can experience different genres of music in the same place on the same night. MOTR Pub is located right in the center of the action in Over-the-Rhine. Northside Tavern is a fun place to see a rocking local band, and it has two bars!
Eisele Gallery* 513-791-7717 | eiselefineart.com Eisele Gallery is one of Cincinnati’s oldest and most respected fine art galleries, specializing in original paintings by noted 19th and 20th century American/European artists and recognized living artists.
Where should I go for cocktails and jazz? Schwartz’s Point is the
Jungle Jim’s International Market Eastgate 513-674-6000 | junglejims.com Learn more on page 91.
best place for jazz in Cincinnati. It’s that funky triangular building at the five-way stop at Vine and West McMicken. Ed Moss is the owner and you can always find him at the keyboard. At Schwartz’s Point, you go back in time. No talking during the music, and bring cash. You will leave having a profound respect for the music and the venue.
Sara Benjamin’s 513-272-2280 | sarabenjamins.com Contemporary women’s boutique located in the quaint village of Mariemont that offers everything from jeans to dresses.
What’s your favorite record store? If I had to pick, it would be Shake It Records in Northside. The staff is very knowledgeable about all genres of music. Not only does Shake It have an immense collection of vinyl, but they also have vintage T-shirts, books and other fun random items. I always leave with something I never knew I had to have.
Things to Do Belterra Park Gaming & Entertainment Center* 513-232-8000 | belterrapark.com Learn more on page 91. Cardboard Boat Museum 513-553-4146 Learn more on page 60. Chateau LaRoche, Loveland Castle & Museum 513-683-4686 | lovelandcastle.com Learn more on page 91. Cincinnati Nature Center—Rowe Woods 513-831-1711 | cincynature.org Spans 1,025 acres (including 65 acres of old growth forest) and offers more than 16 miles of hiking trails. Coney Island* 513-232-8230 | coneyislandpark.com Learn more on pages 23, 42, 91.
East Fork State Park 513-734-4323 | parks.ohiodnr.gov Learn more on page 68. Loveland Bike Trail 513-683-0468 | lovelandbiketrail.com Learn more on pages 68, 91. Riverbend Music Center 513-232-6220 | riverbend.org One of Cincinnati USA’s most popular outdoor music venues, with a schedule of chart-topping performers all summer long. Tri-State Warbird Museum 513-735-4500 | tri-statewarbirdmuseum.org Formed in 2003 with a commitment to preserve the aircraft of World War II, educate visitors on America’s role in WWII, and to honor the veterans who fought and made the ultimate sacrifice.
Dining 20 Brix 513-831-2749 | 20brix.com Upscale wine bar and restaurant with more than 100 selections of wine and a full dinner menu. Bella Luna Restaurant 513-871-5862 | bellalunacincy.com Features a traditional Italian menu with old favorites and new twists to satisfy every palate. An OpenTable.com Diner’s Choice Winner. dilly. bistro, bar & bottle shop 513-561-5233 | dillycafe.com Restaurant and bar in historic Mariemont with extensive beer and wine selections and accolades from BeerAdvocate.com and Wine Spectator. El Coyote 513-232-5757 | elcoyotecincy.com El Coyote has been serving steaks, chops and Tex-Mex for 30 years. Fifty West Brewing Company 513-834-8789 | fiftywestbrew.com Learn more on page 27. Flipdaddy’s 513-272-2337 | flipdaddys.com Located just down the street from historic
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Mariemont Village, Flipdaddy’s is the classic burger joint redefined. Twenty-four craft beers on tap, 14 HDTVs and outdoor dining. Mt. Carmel Brewing Co. 513-240-2739 | mtcarmelbrewingcompany.com Take a tour or visit the taproom of this full-fledged brewery; local favorites include the Amber Ale, Nut Brown Ale and IPA. Padrino 513-965-0100 | padrinoitalian.com From the family who owns 20 Brix, this cool pizzeria serves gourmet pizzas, classic pastas, Italian hoagies and fresh salads. Paxton’s Grill 513-583-1717 | paxtonsgrill.com Housed in one of Loveland’s oldest buildings, Paxton’s is a family-friendly establishment providing good food at reasonable prices in a comfortable setting. Quarter Bistro 513-271-5400 | qbcincy.com In the heart of historic Mariemont Square, Quarter Bistro offers a comfortable setting for both an extravagant night on the town or a relaxing afternoon on an enchanting patio.
Sky Galley 513-871-7400 | skygalley.net Learn more on page 48.
Clement and Old Abe American Ale, an American-style ale based on English beers with a dark amber color.
Tano Bistro & Catering 513-683-8266 | foodbytano.com Contemporary bistro highlighting fresh ingredients with a menu that changes with the seasons. Has an elegant yet comfortable bar.
Blank Slate Brewing Company 513-979-4540 | blankslatebeer.com Learn more on page 27.
Terry’s Turf Club 513-533-4222 Guy Fieri, host of the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, came here to taste the over-the-top, award-winning burgers at this retro-styled restaurant. The Works Brick Oven Restaurant 513-697-8408 | theworkspizza.com Housed in a landmark Loveland building that once functioned as a water filling station for steam locomotives and then a firehouse, The Works serves pizza, calzones and sandwiches prepared in its brick oven.
Nightlife Bad Tom Brewing 513-871-4677 | badtomsmithbrewing.com Impressive beer list includes the flagship Bad Tom Smith, a reddish brown ale. Other favorites include Brother
The Sandbar 513-533-3810 | thesandbarcincinnati.com Outdoor cabana bar, seven volleyball courts, a large grass area for corn hole, cozy indoor bar with seven flat-screen TVs and a pool table, and an awningcovered deck overlooking the marina.
Hotels Free Breakfast Fitness Room Internet Restaurant Indoor Pool Outdoor Pool
Free Parking Pet Friendly Airport Transportation Business Center Room Service
Best Western Mariemont Inn 513-271-2100 | mariemontinn.com 6880 Woster Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45227 45 rooms
The Amish Rule... ...when it comes to furniture and food!
Amish quality is legendary. That’s why people drive from far away to shop Miller’s. We carry a select line of the highest quality, Amish-made furniture for both inside and outside your home, plus playhouses, sheds, and gazebos. All made in America. While you’re shopping, check out our deli and bakery and ask about our unbelievable cream horns!
Just a short drive from the Cincinnati and Dayton areas. 960 Wheat Ridge Road • West Union • 937.544.8524 9am–5pm Mondays through Saturdays, closed on Sundays
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1 Brookville Lake With more than 25 miles of hiking trails, boating, nationally known fishing, two beaches and more than 400 campsites, Brookville Lake is an ideal family vacation destination for nature lovers. Historical bonus: traces of prehistoric Native American mounds and 450-millionyear-old Ordovician fossils can still be seen around the lake. 765-6472657, brookvillelake.com
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North
Overlooking the Ohio River, this Italian Renaissanceâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;style mansion was built for industrialist and financier Thomas Gaff and his family. Marvel at the broad overhangs, arched windows and balconies of this National Historic Landmark via an individual or group tour, group luncheon or at teatime. 812-9260087, hillforest.org
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3 Perfect North Slopes
Miamitown
Located in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, Perfect North Slopes makes perfect powder that guests of all ages and skill levels can enjoy atop skis, snowboards and inner tubes. During the off-season, visitors can participate in the Mud-Stash, an event featuring a run/walk course outfitted with muddy obstacles. 812-537-3754, perfectnorth.com
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Get away for a weekend and play the slots and a variety of table games at your choice of three worldclass Indiana casinos: Belterra Casino in Florence (belterracasino. com), Hollywood Casino in Lawrenceburg (hollywoodindiana.com) and Rising Star Casino in Rising Sun (risingstarcasino.com).
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One of the top urban wineries in the country, Henke consistently earns medals in international wine competitions. Stop in for a glass and stay for the eclectic American cuisine, local art and live music. 513-6629463, henkewine.com
ILLUSTRATION BY DAN ZETTWOCH
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West
LOCALS SPEAK BLOGGER: Heather Johnson BLOG: thefoodhussy.com NICHE: Food
Where’s the best drink in Cincinnati? Cincinnati has a huge brewing history, so I’ve become much more of a beer drinker. My favorite place is Rhinegeist in Over-the-Rhine. It’s a brewery with 20 beers on tap (and usually a cider beer for me), plus they have Ping-Pong and corn hole. After that, I’d say Yard House. It’s right on the river and has every beer you can think of—more than 150 beers on tap!
What’s your favorite spot for cheap eats? By far, Quatman’s in Norwood. It’s a little burger place that used to be a grocery store. They still have a deli counter (with the best prices on cheese and tasty chicken salad), but their specialty is their burgers. You get a giant cheeseburger with skinny fries and a soda for under $6! Name the restaurant with the most surprising menu. Metropole at the 21c Museum Hotel for sure. I went for lunch and saw a Burnt Carrot Salad on the menu. Seriously; would you want to eat that? Well you should! It was the best salad I have ever had. They also have these funky drinks called Shrubs that are very refreshing and tangy.
Describe your idea of a perfect date night for a couple of foodies. I like a date night where we’re actually doing something. One of my favorite places is the Glendalia Boutique Hotel & Culinary Studio in Glendale. They have cooking classes where the class makes a four-course meal together. You get to meet new people and have a great time learning to cook new dishes. Plus it’s BYOB!
Rising Star Casino Resort* 812-438-1234 | risingstarcasino.com Learn more on page 95. S&S Western Bowl 513-574-2222 | westernbowl.com A Cincinnati landmark since 1950, with 68 lanes of automatic scoring, games, food, drink and entertainment. Home to the Hoinke Classic bowling tournament. Scallywag Tag 513-922-4999 | scallywagtag.com Cincinnati’s premier pirate-themed family entertainment center. Play laser tag, blacklight miniature golf and arcades, and enjoy the snack bar. Whitewater Memorial State Park 765-458-5565 | in.gov Sprawling park in Liberty, Indiana, with nine miles of horseback riding trails, campgrounds, and some of the bestpreserved fossils in the region. Whitewater Valley Railroad 765-825-2054 | whitewatervalleyrr.org A 19-mile scenic railroad stretching from Connersville to Metamora, Indiana. Trains and special events like Easter Bunny Express and The Polar Express are available throughout the year.
Shopping Broadhope Art Collective 513-225-8441 | broadhopeartcollective.com Learn more on page 41. Metamora, Indiana metamoraindiana.com Explore more than 40 unique shops and eateries filled with handcrafted items, antiques and specialty goods.
Dining Things to Do Belterra Casino Resort belterracasino.com Learn more on page 95. Brookville Lake 765-647-2657 | brookvillelake.com Learn more on page 95. Competition Racing 812-539-4949 | competitionracing.net An indoor karting facility with the highspeed, high-intensity precision racing of European-style karting.
Great Parks of Hamilton County 513-521-7275 | greatparks.org Learn more on page 78. Hillforest Mansion 812-926-0087 | hillforest.org Learn more on page 95. Hollywood Casino* 888-274-6797 | hollywoodindiana.com Learn more on page 95. Perfect North Slopes 812-537-3754 | perfectnorth.com Learn more on page 95.
Barnesburg Tavern & Grille 513-741-1200 | barnesburgtavernandgrille.com American-style menu and 13 huge flat-screen TVs. College Hill Coffee Company and Casual Gourmet 513-542-2739 | collegehillcoffeeco.com A charming, sunny gathering place with an extensive menu, fresh coffee and a large selection of international teas. Full espresso and coffee bar. Great Crescent Brewing 812-655-9079 | gcbeer.com
96 /// 2015 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
* = Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Thai Taste Thai Cuisine and Sushi Bar 513-421-6151 Hidden gem specializing in authentic Thai cuisine, including Thai curries and noodle dishes. Also has a sushi bar. Two locations. Vitor’s Bistro 513-481-5333 | vitorsbistro.net International upscale fine dining restaurant and bistro in the heart of Westwood. You can even dine with Chef Vitor at his Chef’s Table, a one-on-one experience. Wild Mike’s 513-451-9464 (Delhi location) | wildmikeswings.com A sports bar serving brews, wings, burgers, sandwiches and much more, including daily specials. Three area locations.
Hotels Perfect North Slopes
Family-owned-and-operated brewery and coffee shop in Aurora, Indiana, that was named in Cincinnati Magazine’s “Best of the City” issue in 2014. Henke Winery* 513-662-9463 | henkewine.com Learn more on page 95. Incline Public House 513-251-3000 | inclinepublichouse.com A hilltop restaurant with sweeping scenes of downtown Cincinnati and dishes prepared in a wood-fired oven. Kreimer’s Bier Haus 513-353-2168 | bierhauswest.net Kreimer’s, nestled along the banks of the Great Miami River, has served authentic German dishes for more than 30 years. Enjoy a glass of Kreimer’s own brew on its expansive outdoor patio. Market Street Grille 513-202-0200 | marketstreetgrille.com Tucked in the heart of the business district in downtown Harrison. Features American-style fare and a Sunday brunch. Maury’s Tiny Cove 513-662-2683 | maurys-steakhouse.com
Serves fresh, choice, hand-cut steaks, fall-off-the-bone BBQ baby-back ribs, fresh salmon cut in house and more since 1949. Nick & Tom’s Restaurant & Bar 513-574-4242 | nickandtoms.com Enjoy a casual roadhouse atmosphere at this local favorite. Price Hill Chili 513-471-9507 | pricehillchili.com Learn more on page 12. Primavista* 513-251-6467 | pvista.com Romantic Italian restaurant with beautiful views and classic fare, from Scallopine alla Discepoli to Osso Buco Milanese. Putz’s Creamy Whip 513-681-8668 | putzscreamywhip.com This family-owned establishment has been serving up tasty treats every summer since 1938. Tap & Screw Brewery 513-451-1763 | tapandscrew.com Tap & Screw Brewery is Cincinnati’s first microbrewery on the West Side, featuring brewed beer on site, freshly made food and local wines.
Free Breakfast
Free Parking
Fitness Room
Pet Friendly
Internet
Airport Transportation
Restaurant Indoor Pool
Business Center Room Service
Outdoor Pool Best Western Plus Whitewater Inn* 513-845-4970 | bestwesternohio.com 391 Comfort Dr., Harrison, OH 45030 57 rooms
Holiday Inn Express Cincinnati West* 513-574-6000 | hiecincinnatihotel.com 5505 Rybolt Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45248 115 rooms
Holiday Inn Express Harrison 513-367-1111 | hiexpress.com 10906 New Haven Rd., Harrison, OH 45030 62 rooms
Super 8 Harrison 513-367-5200 | super8.com 10900 New Haven Rd., Harrison, OH 45030 100 rooms
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 97
Sightseeing & Tours Walking Tours
Tours by Sea
Tours by Air
Experience the Queen City’s grandeur on foot.
See both sides of the Ohio River on a water adventure.
Take to the sky for the best views of Cincinnati USA.
American Legacy Tours*
BB Riverboats*
Bella Balloons*
859-951-8560 | americanlegacytours.com Tours exploring many aspects of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky’s heritage, whether it be underground or at a haunted dwelling.
859-261-8500 | bbriverboats.com Lunch, dinner, sightseeing and specialty cruises (for adults and kids) aboard an historic riverboat.
513-932-3552 | flybellaballoons.com Provides scenic views of Ohio’s beautiful landscapes year-round, at sunrise and near sunset. Post-flight celebration includes champagne and flight certificate presentation. Reservations recommended.
Destiny Yacht Charters*
513-831-0181 | cincinnatirunningtours.com Six running tours explore Cincinnati’s rich history and cultural traditions.
513-921-3210 | destinyyachtcharters.com A cruise on Destiny is a unique way to show guests our wonderful city. All-inclusive packages make planning easy.
German Heritage Tours
Queen City Riverboats*
513-256-0384 | germanheritagetours.com Learn about Cincinnati’s German heritage, from neighborhoods to buildings and landmarks, with an expert German-American historian as your guide.
859-292-8687 | queencityriverboats.com Custom cruises for groups from 30 to 325; sightseeing, lunch, dinner, appetizer and cocktail cruises.
Cincinnati Running Tours*
Ride the Ducks Newport* 859-815-1439 | newportducks.com Sightseeing from a duck’s eye view on this tour that traverses land and water in an amphibious vehicle.
Gentle Breeze Hot Air Balloon Co. 513-932-9007 | hotairballoonrides.com Scenic and exciting hot air ballooning adventures offered in both the morning and evening.
Higher Ground Helicopters Flight Academy 513-217-6700 | hghelicopters.com Guests enjoy 30-minute hands-on helicopter tours. Also offers heliskydiving.
Stratus Helicopters 513-533-4354 | stratushelicopters.com Get a birds-eye view of the city. Scenic helicopter tours of Cincinnati. Located at Lunken Airport.
Tour Professional Sports Venues Go beyond any game with a chance to visit the homes of the Cincinnati Reds and Bengals. Scotts Ballpark Tours at Great American Ball Park* 513-765-7923 | reds.com Get a behind-the-scenes look at the home of the Cincinnati Reds. Includes admission to Reds Hall of Fame and Museum.
Paul Brown Stadium Tour* 513-455-4805 | bengals.com Come see the home of the Cincinnati Bengals! Tours Monday–Friday, April 1–June 30.
98 /// 2015 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
* = Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tours on Wheels
Step-on Guides
Food & Beverage Tours
There are so many cool ways to cruise around town.
Guided tours for those visiting with a group.
Explore Cincinnati USA’s food and beer culture.
Cincinnati Bike Center
Able Scotsman Tours*
Cincinnati Brewery District Tours
513-282-4260 | bikeandpark.com/city/cincinnati Queen City and Riverfront bike tours offered. Segway tours for sightseeing on the Riverfront.
513-351-7673 Enjoy an informative and fun tour of the Cincinnati USA sights or customize your own tour.
513-604-9812 | cincinnatibrewerytours.com Seasonal tours educating people on the history of beer in Cincinnati.
Accent on Cincinnati*
Cincy Brew Bus*
Elegant Carriage
513-721-8687 | accentcinti.com Services include sightseeing tours, receptions, banquets, theme parties, hospitality programs, decor and entertainment.
513-258-7909 | cincybrewbus.com Takes you or your group out to see the Cincinnati brewing renaissance and the taprooms it boasts. Be a part of the long and rich tradition of beer and its consumption here.
937-903-5156 | elegantcarriage.com Horse-drawn carriage rides in downtown Cincinnati, Newport and Covington.
Pedego Cincinnati* 513-206-8891 | pedegocincinnati.com Pedego sells, rents and provides electric bikes for guided tours of Cincinnati. Leave a smaller carbon footprint and get there faster.
Cincinnati Specialty Tours 513-300-1222 | cincinnatispecialtytours.com Transportation solution that includes city tours, concerts, sporting events and more.
Cincinnati Trolley
Did You Know?
Segway of Cincinnati* 513-225-1583 | segwayof cincinnati.com See downtown Cincinnati or Eden Park in a whole new way on a Segway Personal Transporter.
American Legacy Tours’ “Queen City Underground Tour” named one of the Top Five Underground Tours in the U.S. by National Geographic.
Wheel Fun Rentals* 513-658-4161 | wheelfunrentals.com Large selection of specialty cycles, bicycles and more. Family-friendly way to ride around Sawyer Point and view the sights.
513-467-9888 | cincinnatitrolley.com Trolley Tours of Cincinnati includes a Queen City Tour, which samples historic, architectural and cultural sites. This tour visits parts of Cincinnati, Covington and Newport. It is for private groups and fits up to 30 people total.
See the Sights of Cincy & NKY 859-384-4010 | seethesights.net Fully experienced uniform step-on guides for groups cover the local sights in a two-hour or customized city tour of the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area, including tales of the Underground Railroad, folk stories, trivia and haunted places.
Flavors of the Queen City 513-703-0880 | flavorsofthequeencity.com Walking tour of local restaurants. Experience Cincinnati’s rich culinary tradition, one bite at a time.
Night Shift Limousine 513-658-5466 | nightshiftlimousine.com Limousine service and guide to all that is unique in Cincinnati USA. Wineries, microbreweries, standard or custom tours. Offers a tour of the Northern Kentucky Back Roads Wine Trail.
Pedal Wagon* 513-201-7655 | pedalwagon.com The Pedal Wagon is a 15-person pedal-powered rolling party. Take in Cincinnati on a two-hour pub crawl or enjoy scenic tours of Cincinnati landmarks.
Taste the World at Findlay Market 513-602-5602 | cincinnatifoodtours.com Escorted walking tour of Cincinnati’s oldest continuously operated public market and its neighborhood in Over-the-Rhine. Taste samples and small bites while meeting specialty merchants. For more information and a complete list of tours, visit CincinnatiUSA.com CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 99
Getting Around Town Ways to Walk From Over-the-Rhine to the Northern Kentucky riverfront, the neighborhoods around downtown Cincinnati are filled with cool and diverse shops, restaurants, museums, parks and attractions—and you can easily reach them on foot. There’s so much to explore, and all it takes is a short walk to reach your next destination.
So many ways to see the sights!
Ways to Ride Ì Metro. Offers nearly 50 local service routes throughout Greater Cincinnati at $1.75 per ride. Now you can purchase a day pass for $4.50 for unlimited rides in Zone 1 (Downtown and Uptown) until 3 a.m. 513-621-4455, go-metro.com
Ì Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky (TANK). Operates 30 bus routes throughout Northern Kentucky neighborhoods, with the majority connecting to downtown Cincinnati, at $1.50 per ride. 859-331-8265, tankbus.org
Ì Southbank Shuttle. Sticking around Ì Four pedestrian-friendly bridges. The John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, Purple People Bridge, Taylor Southgate Bridge and Clay Wade Bailey Bridge connect our region and make it easy to traverse the Ohio River. Whether you want to get to the Reds game from your Northern Kentucky hotel or head to Newport on the Levee after exploring Smale Riverfront Park, the bridges are a safe and convenient way to get there. To see detailed walking routes, see “Take a Stroll” on page 14.
Ì Explore an entire urban neighborhood or entertainment district by foot. Each one—including Over-the-Rhine, the Central Business District, The Banks, Newport on the Levee, Covington and Bellevue, to name a few—offers its own diverse mix of shopping, dining and entertainment. Have dinner or drinks, explore boutiques and enjoy a night out, all in the same neighborhood—no need for wheels.
the riverfront? Southbank Shuttle Trolleys, operated by TANK, service Newport, Covington and downtown Cincinnati every 15 minutes for $1 per ride. Get to a Reds game from your Northern Kentucky hotel or ride from Fountain Square to Newport on the Levee. tankbus.org
Ì Uber, Lyft and Drivr. Uber and Lyft are app-powered rideshare programs available throughout Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Drivr gives you a lift in a Tesla Model S, a luxury electric car. uber.com, lyft.com, godrivr.com
Ì Taxi Service. Find taxi stands at the airport and at most of the riverfront and downtown hotels. Community Yellow Cab, 859-261-4400 or 513-241-2100; Elite Taxi, 859-630-6948; Towne Taxi, 513-761-7700
Ways to Bike Ì Cincy Red Bike. Thirty stations are located Downtown and Uptown to conveniently rent your ride. An $8 day pass offers unlimited 60-minute rides. cincyredbike.org 100 /// 2015 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
19
To Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
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To X
Museum Center
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To University of Cincinnati
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26
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15 To Cincinnati
Dr K rohn Conservatory
13
35
Cincinnati Art Museum
42
Mirror Lake
To T he Bea ch
39
nP a rk
53
6
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24
49 Over-the-Rhine/
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Horseshoe Casino
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55
14 61 18
Contemporary Arts Center 21
2
To 75 N
Theodore M . Berry International Friendship Park
23 37
Duke Energy Convention Center
Fountain 28 Square
64
Government Square (Metro)
To 71 N & 471 S 62
63 9 Carew Tower
36
To 75 N
Sawyer Point & Yeatman’s Cove
To 75 S
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60
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Smale Riverfront Park
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National Steamboat Monument
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Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum
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Great American Ball Park Home of the Reds
k uc nt Ke of nk a B
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Paul Brown Stadium Home of the Bengals
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11 Casinos
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Freedom Way
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National Underground Railroad Freedom Center 44
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Newport on the Levee
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Newport Aquarium
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Northern Kentucky Convention Center
MainStrasse 38 Village
Cathedral 10 The 12 Basilica of the Carnegie Assumption
Parking Garages Parking Garages Parking Parking LotsLots 68
Points of Interest
(8-2013)
70Rt.Points ofOne Interest Metro68 1 – The for Fun Southbank Southbank Shuttle Shuttle Pedestrian-friendly(1-2014)
Downtown Cincinnati USA Cincinnati USA Visitor Center 1. American Sign Museum 2. Aronoff Center for the Arts 3. Bank of Kentucky Center 4. The Banks 5. BB Riverboats 6. The Beach Waterpark 7. Behringer-Crawford Museum 8. Belterra Park Gaming and Entertainment Center 9. Carew Tower 10. The Carnegie 11. Casinos (Indiana) 12. Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption 13. Cincinnati Art Museum 14. Cincinnati City Hall 15. Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal 16. Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport
17. Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum 18. Cincinnati Shakespeare Company 19. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden 20. Coney Island 21. Contemporary Arts Center 22. Creation Museum 23. Duke Energy Convention Center 24. Eden Park 25. EnterTRAINment Junction 26. Findlay Market 27. Fire Museum of Greater Cincinnati 28. Fountain Square 29. Great American Ball Park 30. Hofbräuhaus Newport 31. Horseshoe Casino Cincinnati 32. IKEA 33. Kentucky Speedway
34. Kings Island 35. Krohn Conservatory 36. Lytle Park 37. Macy’s Fountain Place 38. MainStrasse Village 39. Memorial Hall 40. Moerlein Lager House 41. Mount Adams 42. Music Hall 43. National Steamboat Monument 44. National Underground Railroad Freedom Center 45. New Riff Distilling 46. Newport Aquarium 47. Newport on the Levee 48. Northern Kentucky Convention Center 49. Over-the-Rhine/ Gateway Quarter 50. Party Source 51. Paul Brown Stadium
52. Perfect North Slopes 53. Playhouse in the Park 54. Ride the Ducks 55. Riverbend Music Center 56. Riverwalk Statues 57. Roebling Murals 58. Sawyer Point & Yeatman’s Cove 59. Sharonville Convention Center 60. Smale Riverfront Park 61. St. Peter in Chains Cathedral 62. Taft Museum of Art 63. Taft Theatre 64. Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park 65. Turfway Park 66. U.S. Bank Arena 67. University of Cincinnati 68. Washington Park 69. World Peace Bell 70. Xavier University
KENWOOD TOWNE CENTRE THE LEGO STORE NORDSTROM
CHEESECAKE FACTORY APPLE
POTTERY BARN KIDS
HANNA ANDERSSON
ANTHROPOLOGIE
DISNEY STORE
KATE SPADE NEW YORK
HOUSE OF HOOPS
MICHAEL KORS
Monday - Saturday: 10 am - 9 pm Sunday: Noon - 6 pm • Exit 12 off I-71 • kenwoodtownecentre.com