HOT DISHES
SIGHTSEE CINCINNATI USA
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Culinary delights
Standouts around the region
Splash and play under the sun
LET’S GET GOING Explore Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky
Cincinnati USA OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE SPRING/SUMMER 2017
THINK
BIGGER
Plan your visit at ArkEncounter.com Williamstown, KY (south of Cincinnati)
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
PHOTOGRAPH BY RYAN KURTZ
Director of Operations Marianne Yauger-Miller
Welcome to
Cincinnati USA!
Visitor Operations Manager Julie Brock Board of Directors Michael Laatsch, Chairman of the Board John Ellison, Vice Chair Hofbräuhaus Edgar Smith, Jr. World Pac Paper, LLC Dan Fay Commonwealth Hotels, Inc. Mike Conway Winegardner & Hammons Hotel Group Harold Dull Newport on the Levee Rachael Hadaway 84.51 Louise Hughes P&G Retiree Libby Korosec Enquirer Media Melissa Wideman Castellini Management Company
CINCINNATI USA TOURISM PARTNERS Cincinnati USA Convention & Visitors Bureau 800.543.2613
Cincinnati USA’s vibrant river region is full of things to do, whether you are bringing the kids or planning a romantic getaway for couples only. Cheer with the crowd at a baseball game, cruise the Ohio River on an iconic riverboat or experience a distinctive culinary delight at one of the hot spots for dining. (We have a few suggestions for you in the “Hot Dishes” story!) “The Great Outdoors” offers ideas for outdoor fun including how to cool off with the kids, bike the best trails and enjoy stunning views of the region. You can also stroll along the revitalized riverfront— with four pedestrian-friendly bridges, it’s easy to get back and forth from Cincinnati to Northern Kentucky! Flip to “Sightsee Cincinnati USA” and discover new experiences, fun festivals and outdoor works of art. Plus, a handy guide to getting around includes helpful hints for using public transportation to visit the regional entertainment and events that connect our urban energy with our southern charm. And be sure to check out the calendar of events! Whether it’s your first time visiting, or you are coming back for more fun, we always offer memorable moments and more to explore in our unique river region. Stay close to CincinnatiUSA.com for endless things to do all year long!
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 Publisher Ivy Bayer Custom Publishing Editor Kara Renee Hagerman Custom Publishing Art Director Danielle Johnson Director of Editorial Operations Amanda Boyd Walters Advertising Director Tammy Vilaboy Marketing Director Chris Ohmer
Linda Antus President & CEO, Cincinnati USA Regional Tourism Network
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.
2 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
Custom Publishing Account Manager Maggie Wint Goecke Art & Production Manager Julie Whitaker Advertising Designer Emily Nevius Contributing Writers Kayla Blanton, Jessica Gordon, Baihley Grandison, Jacqueline Homan, Bryn Mooth, Sarah M. Mullins, Alex Talks, Elizabeth Miller Wood Custom Publishing & Special Sections Interns Michelle Flanagan, Lauren Klocinski
SPRING/SUMMER 2017
Contents TA B L E O F
Features
Plus
28 Sightsee Cincinnati USA
13
36 Hot Dishes
Get a taste of the culinary delights that help define our region as one for foodies.
42
The Great Outdoors If it’s fresh air you want, you’ll get it in spades this spring and summer in Cincinnati USA.
46 Let’s Get Going
Planning to visit some of the popular spots in the heart of Cincinnati USA? Leave the car parked and explore it all by walking, riding and/or biking!
4 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
Neighborhood spotlight, an ode to Cincinnati-style chili, making a day of it at the ballpark and more. Plus, a calendar of events.
100
Sightseeing & Tours
Explore the Cincinnati USA region on one of these tours.
102 Getting Around Town A guide to making your way around Cincinnati USA.
SPRING/SUMMER 2017
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY CINCINNATI USA CVB
The list of things to explore and experience in the Cincinnati USA region is nearly endless. We’ve compiled a go-to guide to get you started.
Cincinnati USA Snapshot
Discover Cincinnati’s hidden history with a stroll through Over-the-Rhine. Descend below the city streets to a hidden crypt where some of Cincinnati’s first residents were buried. Explore newly discovered tunnels vital to Cincinnati’s brewery heritage. Finally, end the tour with a visit to a local bottling plant and tap room. Find tour times and tickets at AmericanLegacyTours.com.
GET TICKETS & TOUR TIMES AT
www.AmericanLegacyTours.com
BARONS BREW BUS Our brewery bus tour visits four greater Cincinnati breweries where you will taste over 14 different beers. Expert guides will entertain you with stories of Cincinnati’s legendary brewing heritage while pouring your next beer. Join us on the next bus. Tickets available at AmericanLegacyTours.com.
QUEEN CITY IS HAUNTED Discover stories of grisly murders, ghastly deaths and other disturbing tales buried deep within Cincinnati’s storied past. Guides will enthrall you with the heinous history of the Queen City that might just keep you up at night! Get spooked on this haunted walk. Tickets available at AmericanLegacyTours.com.
NEWPORT GANGSTER TOUR Explore the streets where the mob made their millions, gamblers lost their lives, and ladies of the night earned their reputations. Discover how this little town gave birth to the modern day gaming industry. Tickets available at AmericanLegacyTours.com.
1919: THE YEAR THAT CHANGED BASEBALL American Legacy Tours, together with the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum, are proud to present 1919: The Year That Changed Baseball. This walking tour of downtown Cincinnati celebrates the city’s central role in shaping the game of baseball. Discover the “Father of the World Series.” Tickets available at AmericanLegacyTours.com.
PRIVATE & GROUP TOURS Did you know that American Legacy Tours provides guided bus tours for more than 100 buses each year? We can customize a tour for your group no matter the size. From two hours to two weeks, our friendly staff is here to help you plan your perfect outing or event. Please contact us at questions@americanlegacytours.com for more information.
Downtown
Uptown
South
North
East
West
51
52 Downtown 64 Uptown
Findlay Market, Cincinnati Reds, Contemporary Arts Center 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
Mason Fairfield
75
4
52
3
42
Springdale
74
275
128
127
Northgate
126
West
Miamitown
27
College Hill
74 Mt Airy 562
264
Northside
Bridgetown
Greendale
50 Price Hill
275
50
H
IO
Downtown 18
Crestview Hills Erlanger
ER R IV O
HI O
Union
H
Metamora, Brookville Lake, casinos, Miami Whitewater Forest and more
IO
27
Camp Springs
Alexandria
VER
25
Batavia
Amelia
52
O
Cold Spring
South
71
32
East
Highland Heights
RI
127
275
Eastgate
Mt Washington
471
Crescent Springs
Florence
Rising Sun
Mt Carmel 52
Newport Fort Covington Thomas
RIVER
Burlington
50
50
Mt. Adams
50
O
Hebron
Petersburg
275
Newtown
Bellevue
Delhi
Lawrenceburg
50
9
Independence
Rabbit Hash
New Richmond
OHIO
75
Walton
Verona 42
75 71 Warsaw
8 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
Ark Encounter, Florence Freedom, BB Riverboats, Newport on the Levee and more
Coney Island, Loveland Castle, Belterra Park Gaming and more
Milford
Mariemont Hyde Park
Over-theRhine
Aurora
71
Oakley
75
350
Uptown
Norwood
Clifton
Westwood
275
Blue Ash Kenwood
White Oak
Dent 50
Loveland
Sharonville
Harrison
70 South 82 North 92 East 96 West
EnterTRAINment Junction, Kings Island, Liberty Center and more
127
Okeana 1
PHOTOGRAPHS (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) COURTESY THE CINCINNATI REDS; BY TRATONG/SHUTTERSTOCK; COURTESY BB RIVERBOATS; BY ANNE KITZMAN/SHUTTERSTOCK; BY RYAN KURTZ; COURTESY KINGS ISLAND
Table of Contents
KENTUCKY
On the Cover: (Top) John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge; (bottom, left to right) MainStrasse Village, Smale Riverfront Park, Taft’s Ale House SPRING/SUMMER 2017
DISCOVER THE UNEXPECTED IN CINCINNATI. The Renaissance Cincinnati Downtown Hotel is anything but usual with its stately elegance and modern flair. Whether you’re visiting for work, play or a little of both, you’ll love our luxury accommodations and prime location in the city’s historic district. Experience the local area after dining at our signature restaurant, D. Burnham’s, or relax in our effortlessly chic guestrooms after a long day. With over 14,000 square feet of unique and sophisticated event space, you’re sure to find the perfect atmosphere to inspire your next meeting or event. We look forward to helping you craft your intriguing moments of discovery here in Cincinnati.
Visit RenaissanceCincinnati.com to learn more. RENAISSANCE CINCINNATI DOWNTOWN HOTEL 36 East Fourth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 t: 513.333.0000, RenaissanceCincinnati.com © 2016 Renaissance Holdings, Inc.
LOOK FOR THE PIN!
PHOTOGRAPH COUTESY CINCINNATI USA CVB
Cincy USA Tourism Ambassadors are ready to serve you! Have a question? Need directions? Want advice on a great place to eat? They can help! Just look for hospitality professionals wearing the pin.
The CINCINNATI USA VISITOR CENTER is brought to you by:
Ì Find information on dining, shopping, hotels, attractions, recreation and more! Open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. through April 30; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily starting May 1. Fountain Square, 511 Walnut St., downtown (between Chipotle and Rock Bottom Brewery), 513-534-5877
Visit CincyUSA.com/visitors for directions and parking information.
10 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
In partnership with:
SPRING/SUMMER 2017
Let’s
PLAY! For a list of parks, visit greatparks.org.
Snapshot PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY INSTAGRAM USERS: @AMYBETH1985, @ADVENTUREMOM, @ADORKABLEMILY, @MURRAY.THE.DOODLE, @DOGSOFCINCY, @CINCINNATISCENTS, @FINDLAYMARKET, @TONYSAVICKI, @COURTNEYJEANN, @ALITTLEMOORE
C I N C I N N AT I U S A
@AMYBETH1985
@ADVENTUREMOM
@ADORKABLEMILY
@MURRAY.THE.DOODLE ON @DOGSOFCINCY
@CINCINNATISCENTS
@FINDLAYMARKET
@TONYSAVICKI
@COURTNEYJEANN
@ALITTLEMOORE
Tag photos. Win prizes. CincinnatiUSA.com/springincincy
SPRING/SUMMER 2017
CincinnatiUSA.com/summerincincy
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 13
Snapshot
NEIGHBORHOOD Spotlight
Bellevue
Hyde Park
MainStrasse Village
Just across the Ohio River in Kentucky, Bellevue is home to a bustling main drag of delightful yet unpretentious shops where gifty goods and knickknacks abound, plus a casual selection of hometown cafés and bistros. SOUTH
Clean-shaven and manicured, this historic neighborhood oozes with prep and charm. The central square is brimming with artisanal coffee shops, upscale boutiques, a sprawling farmers market that runs June to October, families eating ice cream on park benches and lots of young professionals jogging on weekend mornings. UPTOWN
With colorful historic row houses, café patios and a glockenspiel clock tower that touts a puppet show of the Pied Piper, this little Kentucky village feels as charmingly European as its name sounds. SOUTH
play
A public pool, a playground and live goats that provide “rotational grazing” to help curb the park’s overgrowth. covingtonky.gov
play
play
Like having a cozy high tea at your English grandmother’s house. mrsteapots.com
eat THE ELUSIVE COW CAFE
AWAKENINGS Coffee and wine shop with live music every Friday and Saturday night. awakeningscoffeeandwine.com
eat COMMONWEALTH BISTRO
Sophisticated pub food with locally sourced meats and produce. theelusivecow.com
E+O KITCHEN
Locally sourced and inspired by the region’s past (Kentucky fried rabbit, anyone?). commonwealthbistro.com
shop
Asian fusion with a south-of-theborder twist. eokitchen.com
shop
THE COZY COTTAGE
shop
VILLAGE GIFTS KY
LEELI + LOU
Kentucky-made gifts and goodies. villagegiftsky.com
A mecca of handcrafted gifts, including lots of doll clothing. cozycottagebellevueky.com
hidden gem
eat
Trendy threads and accessories for women. facebook.com/leeliandlou
hidden gem
WITT’S END CANDY EMPORIUM
CORK + CAP
A whimsically old-fashioned candy shop with sweet treats by the handful. wittsendcandy.com
An intimate, international wine bar with light bites and local beer. corkandcapofhydepark.com
14 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
hidden gem OLD KENTUCKY BOURBON BAR More than 300 bottles of domestic bourbon and whiskey for your sipping pleasure. wellmannsbrands.com/okbb SPRING/SUMMER 2017
PHOTOGRAPHS (LEFT TO RIGHT) COURTESY SHOP BELLEVUE; COURTESY CINCINNATIUSA.COM; BY RYAN KURTZ; BY RYAN KURTZ; BY REBECCA BUTTS; BY AARON M. CONWAY
GOEBEL PARK MRS. TEAPOTS TEA ROOM
Ì WITH SO MUCH HAPPENING IN THESE HOT ’HOODS, WE’RE HIGHLIGHTING JUST A FEW FAVORITES TO JUMPSTART YOUR EATING, SHOPPING AND PLAYING ADVENTURES.
—ELIZABETH MILLER WOOD
Northside
Over-the-Rhine
Walnut Hills
Artsy, eclectic and a little bit edgy, Northside is your hip older sister that’s cool without even trying. Vintage boutiques, art galleries and a smattering of cute-and-casual eateries make this hood feel cultured and creative. UPTOWN
A wildly successful urban revival has made “OTR” (as the locals call it) a see-and-be-seen destination where hipsters, yuppies and empty nesters alike will gladly wait three hours for a dinner seat. Not far off the main drag is Findlay Market, Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market. DOWNTOWN
Urban chic meets suburban convenience for this relative newcomer to the cool neighborhood club. A diverse collection of commerce—from creative watering holes and salons to art galleries and a bike shop—make it an ideal locale for both Friday night and Saturday afternoon. UPTOWN
play ARCADE LEGACY A collection of 50-some freeto-play arcade and video games, plus cheap pinball machines, craft beers and a hot dog menu. arcadelegacyohio.com
eat
play WASHINGTON PARK Sprawling green space, a playground, a dog park and entertainment most summer nights. washingtonpark.org
NORTHSIDE YACHT CLUB
eat
Nautical-themed gastropub with frequent live music and a sizeable outdoor patio. northsideyachtclub.com
Gourmet hot dogs. senatepub.com
shop
shop
SENATE
NVISION
ELM & IRON
Vintage and designer clothing and home decor. nvisionshop.com
Fabulous vintage-inspired decor. elmandiron.com
hidden gem SHAKE IT RECORDS A vinyl-lover’s paradise since 1978. shakeitrecords.com SPRING/SUMMER 2017
hidden gem
play MANIFEST An art gallery, publications press, artist residency and education center for the visual arts. manifestgallery.org
eat FIRESIDE PIZZA Hearty, wood-fired pies in a historic rehabbed firehouse. firesidepizzawalnuthills.com
shop HI-BRED Fashion-forward vintage wears for ladies and gents. facebook.com/hibredlife
hidden gem HARRIET BEECHER STOWE HOUSE
THE ROOK A bar where you can play every board game imaginable. therookotr.com
A historic site dedicated to the life and work of the famed abolitionist and writer of Uncle Tom’s Cabin. stowehousecincy.org CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 15
Snapshot
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.
Ode to
CINCINNATISTYLE 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. So grab your fork; it’s chili time. —E.M.W.
HOW TO EAT IT Poured over spaghetti, fries, a potato or burrito—never alone in a bowl. Heaped with cheese.
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
With a fork, not a spoon. (And cut the pasta like a casserole. Don’t twirl it around your fork!) With hot sauce. If it’s a snack, one coney does the trick. If it’s a meal, go for multiple.
CHILI TERMS 101 2-Way (also called chili spaghetti): Chili + spaghetti 3-Way: Chili + spaghetti + cheese 4-Way: Chili + spaghetti + cheese + onions or beans
— 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
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 16 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
— 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. SPRING/SUMMER 2017
PHOTOGRAPH BY RYAN KURTZ; ILLUSTRATIONS BY DAN ZETTWOCH
With a side of oyster crackers.
Your Open for Anything everything everyt everythi hing g about the the Open Open that th hatt means mea ans th the e mos mo ost st to yo you ou. u. With the W he best be local ca al music, mu m usic, cu cuisine uisi sine n from m tthe he e area’s s top top p ch chefs/r hefs/r s//res /restauran estaurants st nts, nts ts, s select e liba libations ibations batiio and de deluxe del el xe e shopping, shopp shop g, this is s one ne e of of the mos mo ost anti os anticipa antic ic pat ated cel at ate celebration cele bra rati ns in i the he Midw Midwest. stt.
Get tthe G he e rest r off th the he st story ory or ry y and an a nd your ttickets kets toda t ay to ay at W WSOp SOpen SOpen. Open pen.com om om
Western & Southern Open August 12 -20, 2017
Snapshot
Hey, BATTER BATTER! Ì The Great American Ball Park (GABP) experience isn’t just about America’s favorite pastime. Get ready to root, root, root for the Cincinnati Reds—and so much more. —E.M.W.
Taste the City From Taste of Belgium waffles and LaRosa’s pizza to Skyline
Chili coneys and Frisch’s Big Boy hamburgers, GABP brings all the hometown flavors to one place.
Pre-Game and Post-Game Come down early to visit the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame &
Museum, or let the kiddos burn off some steam on the creative playgrounds of Smale Riverfront Park. After the game, hang out at The Banks for a local brew at Moerlein Lager House or latenight tacos at Jefferson Social.
Wee Reds Cushy rocking chairs, changing stations, a refrigerator and a
private bathroom in the Pampers Nursing Suite make it easier for mommies to bring babies to the ballgame.
Super Steals Specials offer discounted ticket prices. Fans can also score halfprice tickets when they book their hotel through CincinnatiUSA. com. Visit CincinnatiUSA.com/reds for details.
Thirsty Thursdays Available during every Thursday home game, fans can buy a $30
Field Box ticket that includes a $10 food and beverage credit.
Baby, You’re a Firework Fans can stick around after Friday home games for a post-game
fireworks display set to music.
Run the Bases Days On select Sundays, little (and big) fans can line up after the
game to run the bases.
18 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
SPRING/SUMMER 2017
PHOTOGRAPHS (FROM TOP) BY ANDREY_POPOV/SHUTTERSTOCK; BY RYAN KURTZ; BY JEREMY KRAMER; BY DANA.S/SHUTTERSTOCK; COURTESY THE CINCINNATI REDS
Family Sundays, Military Appreciation Days and Senior Citizen
Snapshot
CALENDAR of Events MARCH 25–JUNE 18, 2017
2017 International Butterfly Show “The Majestic Monarch” This year’s annual Butterfly Show features the wonders of the annual migration of the monarch butterfly with 12,000 butterflies in free flight throughout the showroom. Krohn Conservatory, 513-421-5707, butterflyshow.com
Through June 18, 2017 Contemporary Arts Center contemporaryartscenter.org FREE Analia Saban takes a forensic approach to media and its embedded conventions. Other exhibits in 2017 include Noel Anderson: Blak Origin Moment (through June 18), Ugo Rondinone: CHROMAphile (May 5– August 27) and more.
Vikings: Beyond the Legend Through April 23, 2017 Cincinnati Museum Center 513-287-7000, cincymuseum.org See the largest collection of Viking artifacts ever assembled in North America, including weapons, tools and the longest Viking ship ever discovered.
Bijoux Parisiens: French Jewelry from the Petit Palais, Paris Through May 14, 2017 Taft Museum of Art 513-241-0343, taftmuseum.org Other exhibits include COLOR+RHYTHM: Paintings by Cedric Michael Cox (March 20 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
17–June 25) and Treasures from the Berger Collection: British Paintings 1400–2000 (June 10–October 1).
The Poetry of Place: William Clift, Linda Connor, and Michael Kenna Through June 11, 2017 Cincinnati Art Museum 513-721-2787, cincinnatiartmuseum.org Photographs invite visitors to consider meanings beyond visible details. Other exhibits include Dressed to Kill: Japanese Arms & Armor (through May 7), Transcending Reality: The Woodcuts of Kosaka Gajin (through May 7), Tiffany Glass: Painting with Color and Light (April 1–August 13) and A Shared Legacy: Folk Art in America (June 10– September 3).
Final Friday Last Friday of each month Pendleton Art Center finalfridayotr.com FREE Get a close look at art and meet the artists in galleries throughout Overthe-Rhine.
Cincinnati International Wine Festival March 2–4, 2017 Duke Energy Convention Center 513-723-9463, winefestival.com The Midwest’s premier wine festival features a plethora of selections from various wineries.
Bockfest March 3–5, 2017 Downtown and Over-the-Rhine 513-604-9812, bockfest.com FREE Three-day celebration of Bock Beer, the coming of spring and Cincinnati’s brewing heritage. Also enjoy tours of historic breweries.
Maroon 5 March 3, 2017 U.S. Bank Arena 513-421-4111, usbankarena.com Other events at U.S. Bank Arena include Eric Church (April 22), The Total Package Tour featuring New Kids on the Block, Paula Abdul and Boyz II Men (May 16), Red Hot Chili Peppers (May 19), The Weeknd (June 9) and Tim McGraw/Faith Hill (September 2). SPRING/SUMMER 2017
PHOTOGRAPH BY GARY KESSLER
Analia Saban
Bringing you four decades of luxury and legend Featuring the best of Cincinnati’s Concours d’Elegance since 1978
Special displays: Camaro & Firebird – 50 Years | Tuners – Custom Tuners – Factory-backed | Plus 13 classes of classic, vintage and exotic automobiles & motorcycles
PRESENTED BY
OHIOCONCOURS.COM
GARY KESSLER KESSLER PHOTOGRAPHY
IMAGE COURTESY OF
BENEFITING
JUVENILE ARTHRITIS
Snapshot The Labèque Sisters Play Mozart March 3–4, 2017 Taft Theatre 513-381-3300, cincinnatisymphony.org The Labèque sisters join the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra for the first time since 1999 to perform Mozart’s Concerto for Two Pianos. Other CSO events include Rhapsody in Blue (March 9 & 11–12), Louis Conducts Brahms Fest (April 14–15), Stravinksy’s Firebird (May 12–13) and more.
11th Annual Wine Walk March 4, 2017 Newport on the Levee newportonthelevee.com Visit participating restaurants at the Levee and receive wine tastes and light appetizers.
Mamma Mia! March 10–12, 2017 Aronoff Center for the Arts 513-621-2787, cincinnati.broadway.com The ultimate feel-good show is a hilarious tale that unfolds on a Greek island. Other Broadway in Cincinnati shows include The Illusionists (March 21–26), Matilda The Musical (April 4–16) and Beautiful, the Carole King Musical (May 2–14).
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus presents Circus Xtreme March 10–19, 2017 U.S. Bank Arena 513-421-4111, usbankarena.com Last chance to see “the greatest show on Earth” in the Queen City!
Jane Eyre March 11–April 8, 2017 Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park 513-421-3888, cincyplay.com Other shows include All the Roads Home (March 25–April 23), Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery (April 22–May 20) and Erma Bombeck: At Wit’s End (May 6–June 4).
The St. Patrick’s Day Celebration March 11 & 17, 2017 Downtown and Fountain Square 513-621-4400, myfountainsquare.com FREE On March 11, watch the parade and enjoy a celebration with Irish food, music and refreshments. On March 17, keep the celebration going on the Square with bands and beer.
Mercy Heart Mini Marathon and Walk March 12, 2017 Downtown Cincinnati 866-441-3686, heartmini.org
Join thousands of participants to help fight heart disease and strokes.
Norah Jones March 16, 2017 Taft Theatre 800-745-3000, tafttheatre.org The Grammy Award–winning jazz artist performs. Other events include Paula Poundstone (March 17), Experience Hendrix (March 21), Kathy Griffin (March 24) and Lewis Black (April 6).
Bold Moves March 17–18, 2017 Aronoff Center for the Arts 513-621-5282, cballet.org Cincinnati Ballet presents a mixedrepertoire performance featuring collaboration and innovation that goes beyond classical ballet. Other performances this season include Ballet Toybox: Swan Lake Jr. (March 19) and the Kaplan New Works Series (April 20–29).
Constella Festival of Music and Fine Arts March 18–25, 2017 Various venues, downtown Cincinnati 513-549-7175, constellaarts.com Seven events, unique collaborations between international artists in partnership with many of the city’s finest per-
APRIL 1–30, 2017
Zoo Blooms
PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHELLE CURLEY
The Zoo explodes with color and features the largest tulip display in the Midwest. Every Thursday is Tunes & Blooms, a free evening concert in the garden, weather permitting. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 513-281-4700, cincinnatizoo.org
22 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
SPRING/SUMMER 2017
forming arts organizations, to spotlight the rich musical fabric of Cincinnati.
A Raisin in the Sun March 24–April 15, 2017 Cincinnati Shakespeare Company 513-381-2273, cincyshakes.com A story of the Youngers, a working class family in 1950s Chicago. Also in 2017, The Tempest (April 28–May 20) and Shakespeare in the Park, free shows around the region.
Mandela: The Journey to Ubuntu March 24–August 20, 2017 National Underground Railroad Freedom Center 513-333-7500, freedomcenter.org Exhibition of photographs taken by Matthew Willman that shares the last years of the life of former South African President Nelson Mandela.
Spiral Stakes March 25, 2017 Turfway Park 859-371-0200, turfway.com Since 1972, this horse race has taken over Turfway Park each spring as a nine-furlong competition on the park’s main track.
Disenchanted March 25–April 9, 2017 The Carnegie 859-957-1940, thecarnegie.com Snow White leads an all-star cast featuring Cinderella, Belle, Rapunzel, Sleeping Beauty and many more in this adults-only cabaret.
Theresa Caputo March 27, 2017 Aronoff Center for the Arts 513-621-2787, cincinnatiarts.org The star of the TV show Long Island Medium will share stories and talk about her gift. Other events include Rocktopia (April 1) and Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles (April 17).
Tarzan The Stage Musical
PHOTOGRAPH BY J. MILES WOLF
April 1–2 & 7–9, 2017 Taft Theatre 513-569-8080, thechildrenstheatre.com Presented by The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati and based on the Disney movie.
Cincinnati Reds Baseball April 3–September 24, 2017 Great American Ball Park 513-765-7000, reds.com Welcome baseball with the annual Opening Day Parade as the Reds open the season against the Philadelphia Phillies. Come for the baseball and also enjoy SPRING/SUMMER 2017
MAY 7, 2017
Flying Pig Marathon Powered by P&G This event, now in its 19th 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. Downtown Cincinnati, 513-721-7447, flyingpigmarathon.com
hometown food favorites, craft beer and a fun-filled Fan Zone.
859-442-2652, thebbtarena.com Platinum artists take the stage.
Bloomsday
Crafty Supermarket
April 4–23, 2017 Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati 513-421-3555, ensemblecincinnati.org A charming, Irish time-travel-love-odyssey brings the audience into a world of history, humor and heartache.
April 29, 2017 Clifton Cultural Arts Center craftysupermarket.com FREE This juried indie craft show features artists and crafters from all over the country.
Monster Jam
Stingray Hideaway
April 7–8, 2017 U.S. Bank Arena 513-421-4111, usbankarena.com Featuring the world’s most famous monster trucks.
Opens May 2017 Newport Aquarium 800-406-3474, newportaquarium.com Touch stingrays as they glide through a brand new 17,000-gallon touch pool.
FC Cincinnati
Zoo Babies
April 15–September 16, 2017 Nippert Stadium 513-977-5425, fccincinnati.com Cincinnati’s newest professional soccer franchise kicks off their second season.
May 1–31, 2017 Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden 513-281-4700, cincinnatizoo.org Meet the newest arrivals at the zoo.
Casting Crowns
May 5–7, 2017 Fountain Square cincy-cinco.com
April 27, 2017 BB&T Arena
Cincy Cinco Festival
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Snapshot FREE Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with activities for the kids, music, food and dance.
Ben Folds May 9, 2017 Taft Theatre 513-381-3300, cincinnatisymphony.org/pops The multiplatinum singer, songwriter and producer makes his debut with the Cincinnati Pops. Also see Lollipops Family Concert: Superheroes: Up, Up and Away! (June 10).
Appalachian Festival May 12–14, 2017 Coney Island 513-251-3378, appalachianfestival.org Celebrate the region’s rich Appalachian heritage. This festival is full of old-time music, handmade crafts, food and fun.
Florence Freedom May 17–September 3, 2017 UC Health Stadium 859-594-4487, florencefreedom.com Northern Kentucky’s minor league baseball team kicks off its season against the Southern Illinois Miners.
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Maifest May 19–21, 2017 MainStrasse Village 859-491-0458, mainstrasse.org FREE This annual festival celebrates the arrival of spring. It features fabulous food, arts and crafts booths, and entertainment, ranging from traditional German music to rock and roll.
An Evening with Garrison Keillor May 19, 2017 Aronoff Center for the Arts 513-621-2787, cincinnatiarts.org The former host of A Prairie Home Companion shares hilarious anecdotes of living in the Midwest.
May Festival May 19–21 & 26–27, 2017 Taft Theatre 513-381-3300, mayfestival.com Featuring the May Festival Chorus and the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, it is the oldest continuous choral festival in the Western hemisphere.
City Flea May 20, June 17, July 15, August 19, September 16, October 21, 2017
Washington Park thecityflea.com FREE Cincinnati’s urban flea market features local artists and food vendors.
LIVE at the Levee Summer Concert Series May 25–August 31, 2017 Newport on the Levee newportonthelevee.com FREE Thursday night concert series with feature headliners like the Naked Karate Girls and The Rusty Griswolds.
Midwest MIND, Body & Beauty Expo May 26–28, 2017 Woodlawn Community Center mmbbexpo.com The Midwest MIND, Body & Beauty Expo is where natural hair and beauty, health and wellness, and learning converge.
Taste of Cincinnati May 27–29, 2017 Downtown Cincinnati 513-579-3187, tasteofcincinnati.com FREE One of the nation’s longestrunning culinary arts festivals includes culinary temptations, live music and more during Memorial Day Weekend.
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PNC Summer Series May 29–September 4, 2017 Fountain Square 513-621-4400, myfountainsquare.com FREE Enjoy live music on the Square and other events all summer long.
Cincinnati Fringe Festival May 30–June 11, 2017 Multiple venues, downtown 513-300-5669, cincyfringe.com Produced by Know Theatre of Cincinnati, this festival draws local, regional, national and international artists, presenting artistic expression in mediums including theater, dance, music, poetry, visual art and film.
Summer Cinema Series Wednesday evenings, May 31–August 30, 2017 Washington Park 513-977-8023, washingtonpark.org FREE Enjoy a different movie every week on the green from 9 to 11 p.m.
Summerfair
Star Wars and the Power of Costume TM
Featuring more than 60 costumes from the first seven Star Wars films. Cincinnati Museum Center, 513-287-7000, cincymuseum.org
PHOTOGRAPH © & TM 2015 LUCASFILM LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED UNDER AUTHORIZATION.
June 2–4, 2017 Coney Island 513-531-0050, summerfair.org One of the area’s largest craft festivals,
MAY 25–OCTOBER 1, 2017
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Snapshot Roebling Point Business District roeblingbridge.org FREE A festival celebrating the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, a National Historic Landmark.
Cincinnati Pride Parade and Festival June 24, 2017 Sawyer Point cincinnatipride.org FREE Two-hour parade, music, drag queen performances, beer and spirits, and a Family Fun Zone. This event is family-friendly and open to the public.
Christmas in July
Bunbury Music Festival A three-day music festival that features more than 80 performances on four stages. Headliners include Muse and Wiz Khalifa. Sawyer Point and Yeatman’s Cove, bunburyfestival.com
featuring a wide range of work, from paintings and fiber arts to ceramics, metalwork and wood works.
Taste of Newport June 4, 2017 Monmouth Street between Sixth and Ninth Streets 859-655-6341, newportky.gov FREE Music, events, food and drinks!
Newport Italianfest June 8–11, 2017 Newport Riverfront 859-292-3666, newportky.gov FREE Enjoy authentic Italian food and live Italian music performances by entertainers from around the nation.
A Celebration of Black Music June 9–10, 2017 Hyatt Regency Cincinnati theabercrumbiegroup.com/blackmusic A Celebration of Black Music pays tribute to Black Music Month with national jazz artists.
Second Sunday on Main Second Sunday of each month, June–October Main Street between 13th and Liberty secondsundayonmain.org FREE Neighborhood event with food and craft vendors, workshops, classes and activities. 26 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance June 11, 2017 Ault Park 513-321-1951, ohioconcours.com The nationally recognized car show celebrates its 40th year.
La Bohème by Cincinnati Opera June 15, 17, 22 & 24, 2017 Aronoff Center for the Arts 513-241-2742, cincinnatiopera.org Other 2017 Cincinnati Opera productions include Frida (June 23–July 8) and The Magic Flute (July 15, 20, 22 & 23).
Goettafest at MainStrasse Village June 16–18, 2017 MainStrasse Village 859-491-0458, mainstrasse.org FREE Taste the Cincinnati favorite in everything from goetta pizza to goetta omelets and enjoy games, children’s activities, arts and crafts, music and entertainment.
Cincinnati Juneteenth Festival June 17–18, 2017 Eden Park juneteenthcincinnati.org FREE This festival celebrates AfricanAmerican culture and the end of slavery in America.
RoeblingFest 2017 June 17, 2017
LaRosa’s Balloon Glow July 3, 2017 Coney Island 513-232-8230, coneyislandpark.com Live music, rides and plenty of familyfriendly entertainment. Once night falls, lay back and watch the evening sky illuminate with hot air balloons and a fireworks display.
Red, White and Blue Ash July 4, 2017 Summit Park 513-745-8550, blueashevents.com FREE The Independence Day celebration features fireworks, big-name entertainment, food and activities for kids.
Bacon, Bourbon & Brew Festival July 14–16, 2017 Riverboat Row, Newport cincinnatifestivalsandevents.com FREE A festival dedicated to Porkopolis’s favorite things: bacon, bourbon and beer.
NASCAR Racing at Kentucky Speedway July 6–8, 2017 Sparta, Kentucky 859-578-2300, kentuckyspeedway.com The 2017 season includes top-tier NASCAR action, trucks and more. The biggest names in racing return for the NASCAR XFINITY Series Alsco 300 on July 7.
Kentucky Symphony Orchestra Summer Series July 8, August 5, September 2, 2017 Devou Park SPRING/SUMMER 2017
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY BUNBURY MUSIC FESTIVAL
JUNE 2–4, 2017
June 26–July 31, 2017 EnterTRAINment Junction 513-898-8000, entertrainmentjunction.com Enjoy the attractions and make your way to the North Pole for a mid-year checkup with Santa.
859-431-6216, kyso.org FREE Live themed performances by the Kentucky Symphony Orchestra.
Chicago & The Doobie Brothers July 15, 2017 Riverbend Music Center 513-232-6220, riverbend.org The Grammy Award–winning and multiplatinum groups will perform. Also at Riverbend, Foreigner (August 8), Green Day (August 20) and more.
Cincinnati Music Festival July 28–29, 2017 Paul Brown Stadium 513-924-0900, cincymusicfestival.com This major event brings jazz, R&B, blues and hip-hop music performers, stars including Mary J. Blige and Usher, to Paul Brown Stadium. Also, Thursday night Party with a Purpose event hosted by Doug E. Fresh.
Porkopolis Pig & Whiskey Festival July 28–29, 2017 JACK Cincinnati Casino 513-665-4700, citybeat.com FREE Live music, the region’s best barbecue and several varieties of bourbon, scotch and whiskey.
Glier’s Goettafest August 3–6, 2017 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.
Ohio River Paddlefest August 5, 2017 Starts at Schmidt Recreation Complex ohioriverpaddlefest.org One of America’s largest paddling events on the Ohio River.
Hamilton County Fair August 9–13, 2017 Hamilton County Fairgrounds 513-761-4224, hamiltoncountyfair.com Performances, live music and traditional fair activities.
Great Inland Seafood Festival August 10–13, 2017 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.
Cincy Blues Fest August 11–12, 2017 SPRING/SUMMER 2017
Sawyer Point cincybluesfest.org Enjoy more than 40 local and national blues acts, food and fun.
Western & Southern Open August 12–20, 2017 Lindner Family Tennis Center 513-651-0303, wsopen.com Catch the biggest stars of tennis in action. The tournament also features fare from local restaurants and familyfriendly entertainment.
Midwest Regional Black Family Reunion August 18–20, 2017 Various locations 513-247-0205, myblackfamilyreunion.org A three-day weekend with concerts, communities and corporations coming together to focus on the historic values of the Black family.
Cincy Brew Ha-Ha August 24–26, 2017 Sawyer Point Park cincybrewhaha.com This weekend-long party returns, featuring more than 120 beers and 75 comedians on four stages.
Germania Society Oktoberfest August 25–27, 2017 Germania Park 513-742-0060, germaniasociety.com This authentic celebration kicks off the Oktoberfest season with live entertainment, German beer and food.
Taste of Blue Ash August 25–26, 2017 Summit Park 513-745-8500, blueashevents.com FREE The annual event includes a variety of local cuisine, musical entertainment, festival rides, games and strolling entertainment.
Western & Southern/ WEBN Fireworks September 3, 2017 Riverfront 513-686-8300, webn.com FREE Enjoy the city’s annual farewell to summer. It’s an all-day celebration along both sides of the Ohio River culminating with one of the world’s largest fireworks displays set to music.
Ì Visit CincinnatiUSA.com for a complete list of events. Event dates and details are subject to change at any time without notice.
Looking Ahead COME BACK TO CINCINNATI USA THIS FALL AND WINTER FOR THESE GREAT EVENTS:
Oktoberfest Zinzinnati September 15–17, 2017 oktoberfestzinzinnati.com
NASCAR & ARCA Racing September 22–23, 2017 kentuckyspeedway.com
Cincinnati Food + Wine Classic September 22–23, 2017 cincinnatifoodandwineclassic.com
Blink October 12–15, 2017 blinkcincinnati.com
Winterfest at Kings Island November 24– December 30, 2017 visitkingsisland.com
Redsfest December 1–2, 2017 reds.com/redsfest
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company opens its brand new theater this summer while Music Hall is scheduled to reopen this fall. Some beloved performing arts organizations— Cincinnati Ballet, Cincinnati Symphony and Pops Orchestras, Ensemble Theatre and Playhouse in the Park—kick off their seasons in the fall. At that point, holiday festivals, events and performances will be on the horizon. There’s plenty of arts and cultural entertainment to look forward to in Cincinnati USA!
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sightsee CINCINNATI USA 2017
Carew Tower Observation Deck
C
incinnati USA has a rich history—home to the first professional baseball team, the birthplace of American astronomy, and the region from which four U.S. presidents hailed, among other notable distinctions—but its living legacy is what brings people back to visit again and again. Big enough to accommodate some of the Midwest’s finest museums, restaurants, events and amusement parks, the region is also intimate enough to be welcoming and familyfriendly. Not sure where to begin? Let this must-see list be your guide. By Baihley Grandison
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PHOTOGRAPHS (OPPOSITE) BY JEREMY KRAMER; (THIS PAGE, 1) COURTESY BLDG; (2–5) BY J. MILES WOLF
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street art
PHOTOGRAPHS BY J. MILES WOLF
1
Famed British street artists The London Police make their “second coming” in Covington—this time, bringing their iconic and whimsical “LADS” to Boone Block Lofts. The London Police © 2016 / BLDG / Artists: The London Police / 422 Scott Blvd., Covington SOUTH
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An ode to Cincinnati-based company Kenner Toys, the mural features some of Kenner’s most iconic creations: Care Bear, Easy Bake Oven, Spirograph, C-3PO,
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Strawberry Shortcake and more. Toy Heritage © 2016 / ArtWorks Cincinnati / Artist: Jonathan Queen / 23 West Court St. DOWNTOWN
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Famed recording artist and White Christmas actress Rosemary Clooney—who was born and raised in Maysville, Kentucky—got her start singing for a Cincinnati radio show with her sister, Betty. Swing Around Rosie © 2016 / ArtWorks Cincinnati / Artist: Natalie Lanese / 1606 Pleasant St. DOWNTOWN
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Scottish artist Morag Myerscough designed this bright and pop art–styled mural as one of
five wayfinding murals throughout Five Points Alley in Walnut Hills. We Are Walnut Hills © 2016 / ArtWorks Cincinnati / Artist: Morag Myerscough / 2429 Gilbert Ave., Walnut Hills UPTOWN
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Old Kroger storefront-turnedKennedy Heights Cultural Campus got a facelift from local artist Casey Riordan Millard, who designed the cheery mural on the campus’s Lindner Annex with the help of a local residents’ committee. Me and You. You and Me. © 2016 / ArtWorks Cincinnati / Artist: Casey Riordan Millard / 6620 Montgomery Rd., Kennedy Heights NORTH
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best fests BOCKFEST Cincinnatians love their beer: At one time, the city’s historic Overthe-Rhine neighborhood boasted more than 300 saloons, and locals consumed nearly double the amount of beer as did their fellow U.S. citizens. Now in its 25th year, Bockfest—the largest in the country—draws beer lovers together for all sorts of “hoppy” happenings: a kickoff parade, historic brewery and neighborhood tours, a Bockfeast, live music, a 5K, the crowning of the Sausage Queen and more—not to mention all the bock beer you can consume. March 3–5, 2017, bockfest.com DOWNTOWN
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INTERNATIONAL BUTTERFLY SHOW Each spring, thousands of butterflies from around the world are set free inside the tropical confines of Krohn Conservatory, enabling visitors to experience up-close the fluttering creatures of all sizes and colors. This year, the show’s theme will center on “The Majestic Monarch,” offering a behind-thescenes look at one of the world’s most unique migratory species. March 25–June 18, 2017, 513421-5707, butterflyshow.com
the region’s most iconic cuisine from more than 40 restaurants. Aside from fare both traditional (think mettwurst on a pretzel bun) and experimental (buffalo chicken empanadas or grilled cheese donuts), you’ll find events like the Taste Experience—an upscale sampler of chef-prepared bites and cocktails—plus live music, a Food Truck Alley, plenty of regional beers, carnival rides, the annual soapbox derby–style Veggie Races and more. May 27–29, 2017, tasteofcincinnati.com DOWNTOWN
UPTOWN
CINCY FRINGE FESTIVAL TASTE OF CINCINNATI The longest-running culinary festival in the U.S., Taste of Cincinnati is a foodie heaven. The three-day event congregates a medley of
For the last 14 years, artists and production companies from around the world have converged downtown for the Cincy Fringe Festival, putting on more than
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PHOTOGRAPHS (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) COURTESY BUNBURY MUSIC FESTIVAL; BY JENNIFER PRINE; COURTESY BOCKFEST; BY AMANDA DAVIDSON
Bunbury Music Festival
pre-party on Thursday night at Paul Brown Stadium’s East Club Lounge, with a fashion show, performances, DJs and more. Visit CincinnatiUSA. com to find a buy one, get one ticket deal when you book a hotel. July 28–29, 2017, cincymusicfestival.com
Taste of Belgium
DOWNTOWN
GLIER’S GOETTAFEST Taste of Cincinnati
Bockfest
Western & Southern/WEBN Fireworks at Riverfest
Kentucky’s Glier family makes the best-selling goetta sausage in the world—the perfect blend of pork, beef, steel-cut oats, onions and spices, a uniquely Cincinnati-style concoction—and Goettafest draws crowds from across the country to experience the German staple’s culinary versatility. Every vendor at the fest must serve the sausage in some form and menus are not allowed to duplicate items, so the offerings get quite creative—think goetta rangoons, goetta strawberry cake donuts or bacon goetta sliders. The festival also includes kid-friendly events and activities and live musical performances, so you can easily make a day of it. August 3–6, 2017, goettafest.com SOUTH
WESTERN & SOUTHERN/WEBN 200 live shows at multiple venues throughout Over-the-Rhine for the 13-day event. Performances push the envelope on convention, style and content—whether the medium is theater, music, film, visual art, dance or poetry—and encompass the offbeat, quirky and peculiar: the “fringe” of artistic expression. May 30–June 11, 2017, cincyfringe. com DOWNTOWN
BUNBURY MUSIC FESTIVAL Held along the Ohio riverfront at Sawyer Point Park and Yeatman’s Cove, Bunbury is the largest music festival in Cincinnati USA, hosting more than 50 alternative and indie acts throughout the three-day fest. Headliners will include Muse, Wiz Khalifa, Thirty Seconds to Mars, Death Cab for Cutie and more.
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Forbes and USA Today have both FIREWORKS AT RIVERFEST dubbed it one of the best music The city’s biggest end-of-summer festivals in the country. In between celebration kicks off at noon on the sets, check out dozens of food Sunday before Labor Day with live trucks and craft beer vendors for music and family-friendly activities a wide sampling of along the riverfront at local cuisine. June Sawyer Point Park, in2–4, 2017, bunbury cluding the annual Rubfestival.com ber Duck Regatta—the Many Over-theDOWNTOWN ceremonial pitching of Rhine restaurants 100,000-plus rubber serve food to go. ducks off the Purple CINCINNATI Much faster than People Bridge to race MUSIC FESTIVAL waiting for a table downriver—and foland you can enjoy Now in its 55th year, lowed by a military it at Washington Cincinnati Music ceremony. The day culPark. The deck Festival is one of the minates in a fireworks even serves largest R&B events extravaganza, with alcohol. in the country. This rockets shot off barges year’s lineup inin the Ohio River and cludes Usher, Mary coordinated to music J. Blige, En Vogue and Fantasia. by local radio station WEBN. SeptemDon’t miss the ’90s-themed ber 3, 2017, webn.com DOWNTOWN
Hungry?
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 31
Mystic Timbers at Kings Island
new in 2017 AFRICAN PAINTED PUPS AT THE CINCINNATI ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDEN There are lots of new faces at the Zoo. This spring, for the first time, visitors will be able to see African painted dog Imara’s newest litter of 11. The species is one of the most endangered carnivores in Africa, with fewer than 5,000 wild dogs. Only 52 percent of painted dog pups survive, so a healthy litter like Imara’s is a boon for the species.
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The Zoo’s black rhino, Seyia, is also expecting her first calf this summer. 513-281-4700, cincinnatizoo.org UPTOWN
ARK ENCOUNTER This life-sized model of Noah’s Ark opened last summer, and since then the attraction has made some exciting additions: the Ararat Ridge Zoo (with camel and donkey rides and a petting zoo) and Screaming Eagle Zip Lines (an adventure park boasting 24 zip lines—one a 2,100 footer that’s among the longest in the Midwest—an aerial ropes course and four free-fall jumps). After a day of activities, grab some
African Painted Pups at Cincinnati Zoo
Sidewinder Fries or Noah’s Chili and Cheese at Emzara’s Kitchen, a two-story casual eatery off the bow of the Ark. 855-248-3275, arkencounter.com SOUTH
BREWING HERITAGE TRAIL Cincinnati was once a booming brewing center, with a per capita consumption of beer outpacing that of any other U.S. city. The Brewing Heritage Trail is a celebration of that heritage, an urban walking trail weaving through Cincinnati neighborhoods and past (and into and under) dozens of historic breweries, illustrated along the way with a mix of public art and digital experiences.
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PHOTOGRAPHS (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) © & TM 2015 LUCASFILM LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED UNDER AUTHORIZATION; COURTESY KINGS ISLAND; BY NAGEL PHOTOGRAPHY/SHUTTERSTOCK
Star WarsTM and the Power of Costume at Cincinnati Museum Center
Ark Encounter
Download the informative free smartphone app for augmented reality, interactive learning experiences and self-guided tours to further enhance the experience. Guided tours available year-round, first segment opens early fall 2017; brewingheritagetrail.org DOWNTOWN
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY ARK ENCOUNTER
MYSTIC TIMBERS AT KINGS ISLAND Kings Island adds its 16th roller coaster this spring—Mystic Timbers, a 3,200-foot-long wooden coaster that weaves through the forest on the edge of the park and boasts 16 airtime hills. Kings Island is no stranger to epic wooden coasters: It’s home to the world’s longest, The Beast, which has earned recognition from the Guinness Book of World Records and American Coaster Enthusiasts. Also returning after a 12-year hiatus is Winterfest—a holiday-themed transformation of the park’s International Street. Watch for more details about Winterfest in the Fall/Winter edition of the Official Visitors Guide. Opens
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Spring 2017, 513-754-5700, visitkingsisland.com NORTH TM
STAR WARS AND THE POWER OF COSTUME AT CINCINNATI MUSEUM CENTER
bikini worn by Princess Leia when enslaved by Jabba the Hutt. Opens May 25, 2017, 513-287-7000, cincymuseum.org DOWNTOWN
STINGRAY HIDEAWAY AT NEWPORT AQUARIUM
Calling all Star Wars fans: CincinNewport Aquarium is open 365 nati Museum Center’s newest days a year and showcases exhibit, Star Wars and the Power thousands of aquatic animals of Costume, feafrom around the world. tures more than This summer, the 60 handcrafted cosattraction is adding a tumes from the first 17,000-gallon stingray OK, you can’t seven Star Wars touch pool where visibring your own films, along with the tors can experience beer, but you latest installment what it’s like to pet can bring your Rogue One: A Star the majestic creatures own food and Wars Story. It’s a as they glide through non-alcoholic deeper look at the the water. The pool beverages into creative process is set inside the Great American of the artists who inlet of a rocky CaribBall Park as worked to bring bean coast, so guests long as bottles George Lucas’s can also venture unare plastic and fantastical world to derneath the water’s everything is life, whether it was surface to see the sealed. the menacing black stingrays in an undermask of Darth Vawater viewing area. der, the gilded suit Opens May 2017, of C-3PO, the lavish royal gowns 859-261-7444, newportaquarium. of Queen Amidala or the iconic com SOUTH
BYOB
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Western & Southern Open
FC CINCINNATI Last year was the inaugural season for Cincinnati’s professional soccer club, FC Cincinnati, and the team drew record-breaking crowds all season long—none more impressive than the July match against Crystal Palace, which with 35,000-plus fans had a higher turnout than any other soccer match in North America, besting even Major League Soccer attendance. Moms and Dads, don’t miss the UDF Kids Zone, where kids can kick a ball around and catch some FC fever. Tickets are affordable, making this a perfect activity for the entire family. 513977-KICK, fccincinnati.com UPTOWN
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NASCAR AT KENTUCKY SPEEDWAY
it’s encouraged—or to make a weekend of it, park your RV at one of more than 3,000 available campsites. July 6–8, 2017, kentuckyspeed way.com SOUTH
Just 40 minutes from downtown Cincinnati in Sparta, Kentucky Speedway hosts some of the top NASCAR races NATIONAL in the country, Admission is UNDERGROUND from the Quaker free daily at RAILROAD State 400 (part of Cincinnati FREEDOM CENTER NASCAR’s highest Art Museum, The Freedom Center level of competition, Contemporary chronicles the the Monster Energy Arts Center and development of the NASCAR Cup Se21c Museum Underground Railries) to the Camping Hotel. The Taft road, but also delves World Truck Series Museum of deep into covering (a NASCAR race Art is free on contemporary human solely for modified Sundays. rights issues. It offers pickups) and more. a variety of programs The track is situated and attractions for on 1,000 acres of visitors and educators, from the land, so there’s plenty of room to tailgate before a big race—and Solomon Northup (of Twelve Years
See Art Free
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PHOTOGRAPH BY VIC KINCER, COURTESY WESTERN & SOUTHERN OPEN
don’t miss
Carol Ann’s Carousel
shop local
Take a Ride
FC Cincinnati ball cap, $25, FC Cincinnati Team Shop, downtown, fccincinnati.com
3-Way T-Shirt, $28, The Direction, shopmadeincincinnati.com
New Riff Distillery shot glass, $5, New Riff Distillery, Newport, newriffdistillery.com
Cuisine Art Cocktails, $50, Contemporary Arts Center, downtown, contemporaryartscenter.org
Doggie Bag Gift Box, $30 (as shown), Made in Cincinnati, shopmadeincincinnati.com
Rookwood Pottery Cincinnati Skyline tile, 6"x6", $90, Rookwood Pottery, Over-The-Rhine, rookwood.com
Queen City Love hand-pressed prints, $30, James Billiter Studio, jamesbilliterstudio. bigcartel.com
Honey, Pear and Vanilla Bean Jam, $8, Made by Mavis, made-by-mavis. myshopify.com
Take the kids to ride the Cincinnati-themed Carol Ann’s Carousel at the riverfront for only $2 a ride. Just be sure they play in the nearby fountains at Smale Riverfront Park afterward—carousel rules mandate dry clothes.
a Slave) tour to the Oprah Winfrey Foundation–sponsored exhibit, From Slavery to Freedom, plus an ever-rotating schedule of teacher workshops, gallery talks, films and lectures. From March 24 to August 20, view Mandela: The Journey to Ubuntu, an exhibit that commemorates the life and legacy of South African President Nelson Mandela. 513-333-7500, freedomcenter.org DOWNTOWN
PHOTOGRAPH (ABOVE) BY KIRK RHEIN; (RIGHT) COURTESY MANUFACTURERS
WESTERN & SOUTHERN OPEN The world’s biggest tennis stars make their way to Cincinnati each August—Roger Federer, Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal make regular appearances, to name a few—to battle for more than $7 million in prize money. In addition to the matches, the eight-day event includes performances by more than 30 bands, food offerings from local restaurants and James Beard Award–winning chefs and a W&S Open bar crawl, making it a fun outing for avid tennis enthusiasts and casual fans alike. August 12–20, 2017, wsopen.com NORTH
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Hot
DISHES Cincinnati USA’s booming food scene has it all, from boutique farm-to-table restaurants to fine dining establishments to neighborhood taverns. What sets the region apart is the unique perspective and creative spin that local chefs unleash in their kitchens. They’re interpreting old-fashioned food in new ways with locally sourced ingredients, blending in flavors from Cincinnati’s German heritage and Northern Kentucky’s Southern roots, and importing foodie trends from around the world. Take a culinary tour of the region via these five bite-worthy dishes. BY BRYN MOOTH
36 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
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PHOTOGRAPH BY ANNA JONES/OMS
Tagliatelle alla Bolognese
NICOLA’S RISTORANTE, OVER-THE-RHINE
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This dish is an incredible paradox: light, tender handmade pasta wrapped in a blanket of rich, intense sauce. Nicola’s Bolognese is a traditional recipe of beef and veal simmered with tomatoes; owner Nicola Pietoso calls it comfort food, Italian style. “This is something I watched my mother make so often, and it was always a wonderful dish that the whole family enjoyed when we got together,” he says. “Over the years, the temptation was to make some changes, but I said, ‘No, we’re going to stay with what it’s always been.’” The signature dish is especially popular on Monday nights when it’s offered (with a house salad) for just $15. It’s a great value in delicious fine dining.
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PHOTOGRAPH (LEFT) BY DEVYN GLISTA; (RIGHT) BY AARON M. CONWAY
The Zip Burger
ZIP’S CAFÉ, MT. LOOKOUT SQUARE
38 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
Cincinnati’s identity is built upon its 52 neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm—like Mt. Lookout, just a couple of miles east of Downtown. Zip’s Café, a Mt. Lookout Square institution that celebrated its 90th year in 2016, serves what devotees call the best burger in the city. It starts with quality beef, a custom blend ground to order and delivered daily by renowned local butcher Avril Bleh Meat Market. Ask for grilled onions on your burger and order a craft beer from the rotating tap selection. A side of fries is a fine option, but you’ll probably succumb to the enticing aroma of onion rings that beckoned you in the door.
SPRING/SUMMER 2017
Honey Vinegar Pie
O PIE O, EAST WALNUT HILLS
It’s been called the best pie in Ohio by local and national food fans, and no wonder. Honey Vinegar Pie lives in that perfect place between too sweet and too tart, with a touch of salt that hits the tip of the tongue with every incredible bite. Honey and vinegar sounds like an oddball combination, but O Pie O general manager Lou Ginocchio says the pairing just works. “The vinegar not only balances out the sweetness of the honey but also brings out many of the other flavors (such as the vanilla bean). Chef Paul Alford sprinkles a touch of Maldon sea salt on top—which really makes all the flavors pop.” The dessert dates back to the Depression, when Midwestern cooks couldn’t afford lemons to make pie and substituted vinegar instead— and it’s perfectly at home in today’s “old is new” food culture.
SPRING/SUMMER 2017
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Kentucky Hot Brown
OTTO’S, MAINSTRASSE VILLAGE, COVINGTON
40 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
Otto’s chef and owner Paul Weckman, a Kentucky native, says putting a Hot Brown on his menu was a no-brainer. Kentucky’s favorite sandwich, which traces its backstory to Louisville’s Brown Hotel, isn’t fussy: a slice of white toast topped with roast turkey, cheese sauce and crispy bacon. But Weckman says it’s a dish that many restaurants mess up. “When we put it on the menu, our objective was to do it right,” he says. “So many people had gone to a nacho cheese–style sauce. We didn’t feel good about that. We use a cream based white cheese sauce that we make in house, and we top it with a fried green tomato, another of our Southern calling cards, instead of a red sliced tomato.”
SPRING/SUMMER 2017
COOL COCKTAILS
Japp’s Since 1879 The drinks list at this Over-the-Rhine cocktail spot changes biweekly. Feel like going off-menu? The bartender is happy to recommend her go-to, a Remember the Maine: rye whiskey, cherry liqueur, sweet vermouth and bitters stirred and poured in an absinthe-rinsed coupe glass. It’ll chase your cares away.
PHOTOGRAPHS (FROM LEFT) BY DEVYN GLISTA; LUANNE DEMEO; DEVYN GLISTA
Cocktail Terrace The rooftop bar at the 21c Museum Hotel is the place to be when the weather’s perfect. And beverage manager Chris Brown’s riff on the Paloma is the thing to drink. In this nod to the margarita’s lesser-known cousin, The DL blends tequila and grapefruit shrub with soda. Shrub, a vinegar and fruit infusion, underlines the zing of the citrus. It’s your new favorite cocktail for warm evenings.
The Vestry This mod cocktail lounge in a renovated church opposite Washington Park stirs up a classic Negroni with an Ohio twist. Watershed Distillery’s Bourbon Barrel Gin (made in Columbus) adds hints of spice and toast, and its Nocino liqueur, made with Ohio black walnuts, adds an inky color and a bold, nutty flavor.
Bánh Mì
PHO LANG THANG, FINDLAY MARKET, OVER-THE-RHINE
SPRING/SUMMER 2017
The bánh mì sandwich has its roots in French colonial Vietnam, and it’s traveled to foodie cities around the globe as part of the street food trend. Owners Bao Nguyen, Duy Nguyen and David Le, whose families emigrated to Cincinnati from Vietnam, tapped into the popularity of their native dishes and introduced the sandwich to hungry diners eager to try new things when they opened Pho Lang Thang at Findlay Market. Pho Lang’s house special bánh mì is distinctly Cincinnatian, with a braunschweiger-like liver sausage, a German specialty, subbing in for the traditional pâté. “People liked bánh mì because they could relate to it: like many other sandwiches it has bread, mayo, meat, veggies and pickles,” says Bao. “It’s the same, but different.”
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 41
THE GREAT OUTDOORS IF IT’S FRESH AIR YOU WANT, YOU’LL GET IT IN SPADES THIS SPRING AND SUMMER IN CINCINNATI USA. By Jessica Gordon
Washington Park
When the weather is fine, it’s the right time to soak up as much sun as you can handle. Luckily, you can do everything from dine and drink to splash, shop and ride across the region. This list is only the beginning. Find even more at CincinnatiUSA.com. 42 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
SPRING / SUMMER 2017
Make a Splash
Scenic CINCINNATI USA Ì Cincinnati USA boasts many overlooks that offer beautiful views. Here are seven spots in parks on both sides of the river that give you some breathtaking looks at the city skyline and surrounding scenery.
LET THE KIDS COOL OFF AND HAVE LOADS OF FUN ON A HOT SUMMER DAY.
All-Day Water Play
Smale Riverfront Park
Thrill seekers, head to Soak City at Kings Island, which features 36 water slides. For a resort-style, family-friendly atmosphere, enjoy real sand and palm trees (plus plenty of water attractions) at The Beach Waterpark in Mason. visitkingsisland.com, thebeachwaterpark.com
Cincinnati Classics
PHOTOGRAPHS (LEFT) BY SHAY NARTKER; (RIGHT) COURTESY CINCINNATI PARKS
Want to cool off like the locals have been for decades? Parky’s Wetland Adventure offers a wet playground with 18 water-spraying animal figures. Or step back in time at Coney Island’s Sunlite Pool— at over two acres, it’s been the world’s largest flat-surfaced, recirculating swimming pool since it was built in 1925! greatparks.org/ recreation/playgrounds, coneyislandpark.com
Downtown Waterworks Washington Park has 7,000 splash-tacular square feet with 130 pop-up jets that can be synchronized to music and lights. Also, check out Smale Riverfront Park, which offers multiple interactive water features, one that mimics a natural creek. There’s even more—Sawyer Point Park has the Armleder Sprayground at the north side of Yeatman’s Cove. washingtonpark.org, mysmaleriverfrontpark.org, cincinnatiparks.com
SPRING / SUMMER 2017
Devou Park Drive over the river and up a curving Covington road to glimpse Cincinnati USA at her absolute best. From this high vantage point, you get a sweeping view of the entire city skyline, end to end, with the tranquil Ohio River in the foreground and the park’s pretty greenery framing the scene. It’s a picture that practically takes itself. 790 Park Lane, Covington, covingtonky.gov/visitors/ parks/devou-park SOUTH
Mt. Echo Park Alms Park This charming hilltop park offers a sweeping view of the very spot where the Little Miami River feeds into the Ohio River’s gigantic bend. You’ll also see the comings and goings at Lunken Airport (many small private planes take off and land from there), as well as the panoramic hills and valleys of Northern Kentucky. 711 Tusculum Ave., Columbia-Tusculum, cincinnatiparks.com EAST
Bellevue Beach Park (Thomas J. Wiethorn Memorial Beach Park)
Just across the river in Bellevue, Kentucky, you’ll find a charming little park that curves along the river’s edge and offers a unique perspective of Cincinnati’s downtown skyline. 665 Frank Benke Way, Bellevue, bellevueky.org/about/parks SOUTH
Bellevue Hill Park This Clifton Heights park used to be the end point for the Cincinnati incline. Alas, the incline is gone—but the scenic view remains. Other vestiges of the past worth seeing are the huge circular concrete cupolas that were installed as a festive touch for all the outdoor dance parties once held here. 2191 Ohio Ave., Clifton Heights, cincinnatiparks.com UPTOWN
For a Westside vantage point, take a 10-minute drive west of downtown to Mt. Echo Park. The overlook here offers a sweeping view of downtown, the Ohio River and Kentucky’s riverside hills. While you’re there, stop by the unique Frank Lloyd Wright–inspired shelter supported by two massive stone chimneys at its center. 202 Crestline Dr., East Price Hill, cincinnatiparks.com WEST
Smale Riverfront Park From this lush and lovely park that follows the curves of the Ohio River on the Cincinnati side, you get an up-close-andpersonal view of downtown Cincinnati as well as Newport and Covington, Kentucky, across the river. It’s a truly memorable spot that will leave you with plenty of Instagram-worthy shots (hint: snap at least a few of the Roebling Bridge, one of the first suspension bridges in the country). West Mehring Way, downtown, mysmaleriverfrontpark.org DOWNTOWN
Twin Lakes at Eden Park
Within its 186 acres, Eden Park houses the Cincinnati Art Museum, Playhouse in the Park, Krohn Conservatory, Mirror Lake and its 60-foot geyser, a gazebo dating to 1904 and, finally, the Twin Lakes. The remnants of an old quarry, these two small lakes with their footbridge and surrounding walking paths offer a picturesque view of the winding Ohio River. 950 Eden Park Dr., Mt. Adams, cincinnatiparks.com UPTOWN
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DINING & DRINKING ALFRESCO
City Flea
DOWNTOWN
Moerlein Lager House
MARKET If you’re in town on a Saturday, check to see if City Flea is happening at Washington Park. More than 130 vendors sell jewelry and clothing (both vintage and new), antiques, art, laser-cut wood decor, furniture, stationery, screen prints and more. And if it’s the second Sunday of the month from June through October, you can enjoy the eclectic Over-theRhine street festival, Second Sunday on Main. thecityflea.com, secondsundayonmain.org Findlay Market features grocery vendors side-by-side with specialty shops selling unique goods. It’s been operating continuously since 1855, within the same cast- and wrought-iron frame still standing today. Plus, this Cincinnati institution has more than a dozen restaurants serving everything from Vietnamese pho to Belgian waffles. In Northern Kentucky, The Friendly Market offers up Kentucky flavor (think bourbon and Kentucky microbrews). findlaymarket.org, thefriendlymkt.com
Via Vite
Coffee or bourbon? At this European-flavored neighborhood bistro and bar complete with sidewalk tables, you don’t have to choose. newberrybroscoffee.com
Top of the Park
Queen City Radio
This outdoor lounge atop The Phelps, a Residence Inn, boasts two levels with an almost 360degree view of Cincinnati. topoftheparkcincinnati.com
This 1920s-era filling stationturned-radio installation company is now an expansive beer garden and bar with 14 beers on tap. qcrbar.com
NORTHERN KENTUCKY
The Gruff Nestled nearly underneath the Roebling Suspension Bridge, this casual spot is both a restaurant and a market selling gourmet foods, including many from local purveyors. atthegruff.com
Foosball and margaritas make an unexpectedly fun combination, especially alongside deliciously unconventional taco fillings. facebook.com/frida602
Hofbräuhaus The biergarten is the perfect spot for enjoying a generous beer in the same iconic glass stein served in the original Munich location. hofbrauhausnewport.com
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Newberry Bros. Café & Prohibition Bourbon Bar
An intimate open-air second-story dining area and piazza overlooking Fountain Square paired with classic Italian dishes, plus a weekday halfoff happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m.— what’s not to love? viaviterestaurant.com
Frida 602 Findlay Market
Eli’s BBQ
OVER-THE-RHINE
Che Craving empanadas? You’ll find plenty of crave-worthy options to choose from at this Argentine eatery, along with daily specials from the grill, salads, soups and cheese-and-meat boards. checincinnati.com
Rhinegeist The draw at this brewery during summer is definitely the spacious rooftop deck. One musttry brew? Cougar, an easy-drinking crisp and refreshing blonde ale. rhinegeist.com
AROUND TOWN
Incline Public House This one’s worth a trip for the picture-perfect view alone. Stay for a drink and a bite from the menu featuring classic American fare such as brick oven pizzas and gourmet sandwiches. inclinepublichouse.com SPRING / SUMMER 2017
PHOTOGRAPHS (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) BY JOE SIMON; RYAN KURTZ; 5CHW4R7Z; COURTESY CINCINNATIUSA.COM; BY LIZ DUFOUR
Take a Trip to the
A solid menu, a noteworthy collection of beers and two levels of open-air dining with a river view make this a go-to spot on a nice day—especially before or after a Reds game. moerleinlagerhouse.com
Choose Your Own
BIKING Adventure
Red Bike
IF YOU WANT...
a downtown route: Eli’s BBQ BYOB to this uber-casual, family-friendly spot where eating mostly takes place at picnic tables outside, which means plenty of room for kids to run around and let off steam. Oh, and the food is amazingly good. elisbarbeque.com
Unwind Wine Bar A beautiful little oasis tucked into Hyde Park, serving just about any wine you could wish for. Try an appetizer, too. unwindhydepark.com
For auto-free rides, rent a Red Bike and coast through Sawyer Point and Friendship Park or pedal across the Purple People Bridge. cincyredbike.org
a unique ride: Enjoy the scenic Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum, the second largest cemetery in the U.S. springgrove.org
a nice, flat, quick ride: Try the five-mile loop around Lunken Airport.
to ride like a local:
to ride all day:
Check out the Cincinnati Cycle Club’s constantly updated ride calendar (no membership required to view) to find group rides to join. cincinnaticycleclub.org
Take on the 70-plus paved miles of the Loveland Bike Trail in Little Miami Scenic State Park, going from Newtown to Springfield. lovelandbiketrail.com
Loveland Bike Trail
The Littlefield Bourbon Bar and Kitchen A generous outdoor patio offers a sweetly sunny spot for sipping bourbon and grabbing a bite. littlefieldns.com
TO THE NORTH
Brown Dog Café A spacious covered patio overlooking Summit Park makes this a great spot to nosh for breakfast, lunch or dinner—or weekend brunch. browndogcafe.com
Wildflower Café & Coffee House Fresh, local and organic is the mantra here, with a menu best described as eclectic American. Reservations encouraged. wildflowergourmetcafe.com = dog-friendly SPRING / SUMMER 2017
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OHIO OVER-THE-RHINE
DOWNTOWN
CINCINNATI RIVERFRONT ohio river
COVINGTON
NEWPORT
KENTUCKY
46 //////// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
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Let’s Get
GOING PHOTOGRAPHS (TOP TO BOTTOM) BY KELLY LANSER; COURTESY CINCINNATI PARKS; BY J. MILES WOLF; COURTESY THE BANKS; (BOTTOM LEFT) BY RYAN KURTZ; (BOTTOM RIGHT) COURTESY CINCINNATIUSA.COM
Planning to visit some of the popular spots in the heart of Cincinnati USA? Leave the car parked and explore it all by walking, riding and/or biking! The map to the left and the key below show your transportation options between some of the downtown and riverfront parts of the region. Not sure what you’d like to visit? Turn the page to see what each area has to offer.
Walking Explore an entire urban neighborhood by foot. Each one–including Over-the-Rhine, downtown, Covington and Newport, 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.
Streetcar
(Cincinnati Bell Connector) HOURS
Monday–Thursday 6:30 a.m.–midnight; Friday 6:30 a.m.–1 a.m.; Saturday 8 a.m.–1 a.m.; Sunday and holidays: 9 a.m.–11 p.m.
HOURS
Monday–Thursday 6 a.m.–7 p.m.; Friday 6 a.m.–10 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. COST
COST
Day pass $2; 2 hours $1 APP
CincyEZride QUICK TIP
The app is a quick, simple way to plan and pay for your trip. 513-621-4455, cincinnatibellconnector.com
SPRING / SUMMER 2017
Southbank Shuttle
$1 per ride QUICK TIP
This shuttle only takes exact change, so check your pockets prior to boarding. 859-331-8265, tankbus.org
Red Bike HOURS
24/7 COST
$8 per day QUICK TIP
Make sure to check in at a kiosk every 60 minutes to avoid an extra $4 charge. Red Bike now has 50-plus stations downtown, uptown and in Northern Kentucky, so stopping by one should be pretty convenient. 513-621-2453, cincyredbike.org
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DOWNTOWN
CINCINNATI RIVERFRONT
OVER-THE-RHINE
Fountain Square
The Banks
Washington Park
You might catch some live music, shop at the Strauss Troy Market or attend a special event at this gathering spot in the city’s center. Surrounded by restaurants like Via Vite and shops like Tiffany & Co., Fountain Square always has something fun happening.
The landscape along the river’s edge has changed dramatically in recent years, and The Banks is the biggest addition. This mixed-use development between Paul Brown Stadium and Great American Ball Park is full of bars and restaurants including Yard House, Pies & Pints and Taste of Belgium, offering tons of entertainment for those watching a game—or just out looking for fun. Adjacent to The Banks is Smale Riverfront Park, an inspired green space that offers gardens, fountains, interactive play areas, swings and Carol Ann’s Carousel.
The focal point of downtown’s historic OTR neighborhood, Washington Park balances both old and new. A revitalization in 2012 added an interactive water park, dynamic children’s playground and dog park to the expansive green space. There’s almost always a cool event here, from the popular City Flea to yoga to festivals and live music.
ALSO NEARBY
• Contemporary Arts Center • Carew Tower Observation Deck • Street art murals
ALSO NEARBY
• Boutique shops • Trendy bars • Unique dining
ALSO NEARBY
• Great American Ball Park • National Underground Railroad Freedom Center • Sawyer Point
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SPRING / SUMMER 2017
PHOTOGRAPHS (LEFT TO RIGHT) BY J. MILES WOLF; COURTESY THE BANKS; COURTESY CINCINNATI PARKS; BY KELLY LANSER; BY RYAN KURTZ; COURTESY CINCINNATIUSA.COM
These are just some of the highlights of what to do,
see and discover in these areas of Cincinnati USA.
OVER-THE-RHINE
COVINGTON
NEWPORT
Findlay Market
MainStrasse Village
Newport on the Levee
Another gem in OTR, Findlay Market is Ohio’s oldest continuously operating public market. This cherished institution, home to more than 40 indoor merchants selling meat, seafood, produce, flowers, cheese, deli and ethnic foods, is especially vibrant on the weekends, when a diverse crowd comes to enjoy the farmer’s market, street performers, beer garden and more.
This 19th century German village in Northern Kentucky is decorated with themed shops, restaurants and bars galore. Throughout the year, MainStrasse Village celebrates various German holidays and traditions. Its historic Goose Girl Fountain sits proudly in the center of everything, reminding guests of the town’s heritage as well as the popular Grimm fairy tale.
Newport on the Levee has a variety of activities suitable for the entire family. Start your day with the exhibits at Newport Aquarium (pet a shark or, new this May, a stingray), catch lunch at the lively Brothers Bar and Grille, and hit up the numerous bars and entertainment venues when the sun goes down.
ALSO NEARBY
ALSO NEARBY
• Rhinegeist Brewery
• Goebel Park
• The Skeleton Root Winery
• Bourbon bars
ALSO NEARBY
• New Riff Distilling
• Unique dining
• BB Riverboats • Hofbräuhaus • Purple People Bridge
• Street art murals
FIND AN INTERACTIVE MAP, NEIGHBORHOOD MAPS AND TRANSPORTATION MAPS TO HELP PLAN YOUR ACTIVITIES AT CINCINNATIUSA.COM/MAPS
SPRING / SUMMER 2017
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 49
CINCINNATI USA Regional Map 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
3
42
Springdale
275
128
127
Northgate
126
West
Miamitown
27
College Hill
74 Mt Airy 562
264
Northside
Bridgetown
Over-theRhine Price Hill
O
H
IO
Downtown
Aurora
18
Crestview Hills Erlanger
ER
R IV
O HI
25
O
Amelia
52
O
Cold Spring
South
71
Union
Highland Heights H
IO
27
Camp Springs
Alexandria
VER
127
East
Batavia
RI
Rising Sun
32
471
275
Eastgate
Mt Washington
Newport Fort Covington Thomas
Crescent Springs
Florence
50
Mt Carmel 52
RIVER
Burlington
50
275
Newtown
Mt. Adams
50
Hebron
Petersburg
50
Bellevue
Delhi
275
50
Milford
Mariemont Hyde Park
50
Lawrenceburg 350
71
Oakley
75 Greendale
Uptown
Norwood
Clifton
Westwood
275
Blue Ash Kenwood
White Oak
Dent 50
Loveland
Sharonville
Harrison
9
Independence
Rabbit Hash
New Richmond
OHIO
75
Walton
KENTUCKY
Verona 42
75 71 Warsaw
ILLUSTRATION BY DAN ZETTWOCH
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Ì 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. SPRING/SUMMER 2017
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 51
75
Downtown 127
52
1 27
75
2
OHIO
Over-the-
ILLUSTRATION BY DAN ZETTWOCH
71
5 71 52 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
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3
5 SPOTS Must-See
1 Findlay Market Findlay Market, in historic Over-the-Rhine, is Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market. You’ll find more than 40 indoor merchants selling produce, meat, fish, deli and ethnic foods. On weekends the market really comes alive with dozens of outdoor vendors, street performers, a farmers’ market and a beer garden. You can also take a guided tour. Closed on Mondays, 513-665-4839, findlaymarket.org
42
2 Washington Park An important civic space in the heart of Cincinnati, this park is home to many community events throughout the year including concerts, movie nights, craft markets and group exercise classes. The space features a dog park, concessions and a playground with interactive fountains, sandbox and climbing walls based on Cincinnati’s historic architecture. washingtonpark.org
3 Contemporary Arts Center
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The CAC, offering free daily admission, features rotating exhibitions, special performances and the permanent UnMuseum, an innovative gallery of interactive art designed to enhance the experience for children, schools and families. The structure that houses CAC, architect Zaha Hadid’s Lois & Richard Rosenthal Center for Contemporary Art, has been referred to as “the most important building since the end of the Cold War” in the New York Times. 513345-8400, contemporaryartscenter.org
Rhine
42
4 Cincinnati Reds
3
The Reds’ legacy goes way back, including the Era of the Big Red Machine (1970– 1976), when the Reds—America’s first professional team—were the hottest in the country. Enjoy a game at Great American Ball Park and visit the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum to see the team’s three World Championship trophies and more. 513765-7923, reds.com, redsmuseum.org
4 ER
471
OHIO SPRING/SUMMER 2017
V I R
5 Smale Riverfront Park With the river, public art, playgrounds, a Cincinnati-themed carousel and family-friendly events, Smale Riverfront Park is an urban oasis. This expansive green space at the front door of Cincinnati has become a favorite gathering spot of locals and visitors alike. mysmaleriver frontpark.org CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 53
Downtown
21c Museum Hotel* 513-578-6600, 21cmuseumhotels.com A true cultural experience resides within this boutique hotel, equipped with 156 rooms and a contemporary art museum that offers free admission and is open 24/7. Learn more on pages 34, 41. Aronoff Center for the Arts* 513-621-2787, cincinnatiarts.org Just a block from Fountain Square, the center houses three theater performance spaces and also showcases visual art in the Weston Art Gallery. ArtWorks Murals 513-333-0388, artworkscincinnati.org Since 2007, ArtWorks has created more than 120 public murals and other public art pieces. Tours available. Learn more on pages 29, 100. 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 reminder of Cincinnati’s period of settlement offers exhibits and programs on architecture, historic preservation and construction technologies. Brewing Heritage Trail brewingheritagetrail.org Urban walking trail that explores dozens of historic breweries. Learn more on page 32. Carew Tower* 513-241-3888 Forty-nine stories of Art Deco architecture in the thriving epicenter of downtown. A rooftop observation deck provides a birds-eye view of the city and beyond. Learn more on page 48. Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati* 513-569-8080, thechildrenstheatre.com Introducing children to the art and magic of theater since 1947. MainStage shows take place at the Taft Theatre. Cincinnati Ballet* 513-621-5282, cballet.org The cornerstone professional ballet company of the region has a mission to inspire hope and joy in Cincinnati through the power and passion of dance. 54 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium* 513-621-8383, bengals.com Cheer for the city’s professional football team from one of the stadium’s 65,515 seats. 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 A multi-museum complex housed in Union Terminal, a historic train station. The award-winning Duke Energy Children’s Museum features hands-on, educational play areas for kids of all ages. Learn more on page 33. Cincinnati Opera* 513-241-2742, cincinnatiopera.org The second oldest opera company in the U.S. It will present La Bohème, Frida and The Magic Flute in 2017. Cincinnati Parks 513-352-4080, cincinnatiparks.com More than 5,000 acres of park and facilities are sure to meet all recreational needs, from dog park visits to private event booking. Learn more on pages 43, 48. Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park* 513-381-REDS, reds.com Baseball’s first professional franchise calls this riverbank stadium home. A fan-friendly venue, with fireworks on Friday nights and giveaways on weekends. Learn more on pages 18, 33, 48, 53. Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame & Museum* 513-765-7923, redsmuseum.org A treasure trove of Reds history, with the team’s three World Championship trophies and other memorabilia. Learn more on pages 18, 53. Cincinnati Shakespeare Company 513-381-2273, cincyshakes.com A resident ensemble Shakespeare company bringing classic theater to audiences of all ages. Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and Cincinnati Pops* 513-381-3300, cincinnatisymphony.org
The talented ensemble maintains a balance, performing classical masterpieces (CSO) and diverse and newly commissioned musical works (Pops). Contemporary Arts Center* 513-345-8400, contemporaryartscenter.org Ever-changing modern art exhibitions and free admission. Learn more on pages 34, 48, 53. Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati 513-421-3555, ensemblecincinnati.org Performing powerful and provocative contemporary theater. Fifth Third Bank Broadway in Cincinnati* 513-241-2345, cincinnati.broadway.com Bringing the best of Broadway to the Queen City. Fire Museum of Greater Cincinnati* 513-621-5553, cincyfiremuseum.com Housed in the former home of Engine Company No. 45, the museum highlights the significant contributions Cincinnati has made to fire fighting. Fountain Square 513-621-4400, myfountainsquare.com From ice-skating in the winter to free music during the summer, the Square is bustling with activities year-round. Learn more on page 48. Greater Cincinnati Police Museum 513-300-3664, gcphs.com Funded solely by donations, this museum houses some of the country’s oldest police artifacts. JACK Cincinnati Casino* 513-252-0777, jackentertainment.com/Cincinnati Hit the gaming tables and enjoy casual or fine dining, plus the Rock Bar and Lounge for drinks. Know Theatre of Cincinnati 513-300-5669, knowtheatre.com An artistic playground for nationally and regionally underrepresented acts that wish to engage audiences on a new level. 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 30 museums, historic homes and sites SPRING/SUMMER 2017
*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Things to Do
in Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and Southeast Indiana. Music Hall* 513-744-3344, cincinnatiarts.org Music Hall, reopening in fall 2017 after renovations, is home to some of the region’s finest arts performances. National Underground Railroad Freedom Center* 513-333-7500, freedomcenter.org Through innovative exhibits and historical artifacts, the Freedom Center strives to provide an education while challenging contemporary conceptions of freedom. Learn more on pages 34, 48.
Washington Park washingtonpark.org An iconic space in Over-the-Rhine that features a playground, dog park, waterpark and sustainable elements, all while maintaining its 150-year rich history. Learn more on pages 15, 31, 43, 48, 53. Wheel Fun Rentals 513-658-4161, wheelfunrentals.com Cincinnati’s premier bike rental company features a large selection of specialty cycles for the whole family.
Shopping
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.
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 has recently relocated next to Tiffany & Co. inside Macy’s.
Over-the-Rhine* 513-241-2690, otrchamber.com Historic neighborhood with trendy eateries, cool boutiques, lively watering holes and art galleries. Learn more on page 15.
Artichoke 513-263-1002, artichokeotr.com Locally-owned shop at Findlay Market offering handmade and unique kitchen tools, decor and attire.
The Public Library of Cincinnati & Hamilton County* 513-369-6900, cincinnatilibrary.org More than 4.5 million books and nonprint media, free Wi-Fi and computer usage, café and shop, major genealogical research center and a space for makers. Tours available by request. Smale Riverfront Park mysmaleriverfrontpark.org Spanning from east to west along the Ohio River, the park is lined with playgrounds, gardens, restaurants and a carousel. Learn more on pages 18, 35, 43, 48, 53. Taft Museum of Art 513-241-0343, taftmuseum.org A historic landmark built in 1820, this small museum showcases touchstones of European and American art. Learn more on page 34. Taft Theatre 513-232-6220, tafttheatre.org A healthy mix of live music, comedy and professional theater. U.S. Bank Arena* 513-421-4111, usbankarena.com This indoor arena hosts more than 100 events each year. SPRING/SUMMER 2017
Batsakes Hat Shop 513-721-9345 Located downtown for over a century, providing custom-made or off-therack hats. Booksellers on Fountain Square* 513-258-2038, booksellersonfountainsquare.com Books for all ages, gift items, greeting cards and more. Also has a café that features tasty entrees and LavAzza coffee. Cincy Shirts* 513-510-5774, cincyshirts.com Beginning as a web store, Cincy Shirts now has two retail stores on Main Street and in Hyde Park stocked with T-shirts of all kinds, along with accessories and outerwear. Dick Waller’s ArtPlace 513-281-7726, dickwaller.com Intimate art gallery inspiring a sense of wonder, freedom and spontaneity. Beautiful expressions and contrasts. Booking for private events is available. Elm & Iron 513-954-4217, elmandiron.com An eclectic collection of home
furnishings, accessories and decor. Learn more on page 15. Findlay Market* 513-665-4839, findlaymarket.org Cincinnati’s oldest continually operating public market, with more than 40 indoor merchants year-round. Learn more on pages 15, 44, 49, 53. I Love Cincinnati Shop* 513-381-4401, ilovecincinnatishop.com Cincinnati-themed apparel, gifts and souvenirs, as well as merchandise to cheer on your favorite local teams. On the skywalk level of Carew Tower. Jack Wood Gallery 513-321-7077, jackwoodgallery.com Gallery in Over-the-Rhine featuring vintage poster art for sale. Koch 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. The Library Friends Shop* 513-369-6920, friends.cincinnatilibrary.org Unique and affordable gifts for all ages and tastes. Greeting cards, gently used books, puzzles and toys, office and desk accessories, and jewelry. 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 the largest department store retailers in the world. This beautiful downtown location anchors Fountain Square. M. Hopple & Co.* 513-381-4972, mhopple.com Fine stationery and gift boutique. Unique gifts for baby, Bar & Bat Mitzvahs, graduations, invitations, seasonal, special occasions and weddings. MiCA 12/v 513-533-1974, shopmica.com Contemporary design-based gifts and home accessories, including work from local and national designers. Ohio Book Store 513-621-5142, ohiobookstore.net Explore five floors of books and magazines at this book lover’s store, operating in downtown Cincinnati since 1940. CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 55
Downtown Piston Society* 513-277-0300, pistonsociety.com Motorcycle rental and retail shop. A place where motorcyclists and scooterists can rent a ride, select gear and find moto-related art for their walls. Rates and details online.
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.
Portaluca Boutique* 513-322-1784, dfscincy.org Sophisticated thrift store, selling surplus clothing donated to Dress for Success Cincinnati (DfSC). All proceeds are donated to DfSC, a nonprofit organization helping low-income women throughout Cincinnati secure and retain employment.
Tervis* 513-381-0931, tervis.com Since 1946, Tervis has manufactured customizable lifetime guaranteed insulated tumblers that keep hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold. Proudly made in America.
Rookwood Pottery Company Store 513-579-1209, rookwood.com Browse thousands of pieces of Cincinnati’s famous Rookwood Pottery at this 1,000-plus squarefoot store. Saks Fifth Avenue 513-421-6800, saksfifthavenue.com Located on Fifth Street, this famous upscale retailer sells exclusive designer collections for men and women.
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, irisbookcafe.com/urban-eden Fine art and contemporary craft by local and regional artists. 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 A Tavola promises to serve as an extension of your dining room table; the ideal balance between a seasoned palate and grandma’s homemade touch. Abby Girl Sweets* 513-335-0898, abbygirlsweets.com 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. Americano Burger Bar 513-345-6677, americanoburgerbar.com
105 Suites • For the Extended Stay Traveler
144 Rooms & Suites • For the Business & Leisure Traveler Fully Equipped Kitchens in Every Suite
2 Hotels at 1 Historic Address!
The Former Cincinnati Enquirer Building 617 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202 Hampton Inn & Suites: 513-354-2430 (Main) • 513-354-2431 (Fax) • cincinnatidowntownsuites.hamptoninn.com Homewood Suites: 513-354-2440 (Main) • 513-354-2441 (Fax) • cincinnatidowntown.homewoodsuites.com
56 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
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*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Two of the newest hotels in the heart of Downtown Cincinnati!
Features steak burgers, boozy milkshakes and hand-cut fries.
French country food as well. “Bauer” means farmer in German.
The Anchor 513-421-8111, theanchor-otr.com Urban fish shack and oyster bar in Over-the-Rhine serving innovative seafood specialties.
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.
Arnold’s Bar & Grill 513-421-6234, arnoldsbarandgrill.com As Cincinnati’s oldest tavern, it continues to be known for its reasonable prices and friendly atmosphere. Bakersfield OTR 513-579-0446, bakersfieldtacos.com Hot spot in Over-the-Rhine with a Mexican-inspired menu and plenty of Kentucky bourbons. The Banks* thebankscincy.com Riverfront development with restaurants such as Holy Grail Tavern & Grille, Yard House, Pies & Pints, The Stretch, Jefferson Social, Taste of Belgium and more. Learn more on pages 18, 48. Bauer European Farm Kitchen* 513-621-8555, bauercincinnati.com European farmhouse restaurant, emphasizing German food with some
upcoming exhibitions & events cincinnatiartmuseum.org
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Boca* 513-542-2022, bocacincinnati.com Fine French restaurant that was honored by Travel + Leisure as one of the best in the U.S. 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. Booksellers on Fountain Square Café* 513-258-2038, thebooksellersonfountainsquare.com Situated across from Fountain Square, the Café features tasty entrées,
Madisono’s creamy gelato, an array of sweets and Italy’s No. 1 coffee, LavAzza. Brezel 513-407-7916, brezelpower.com Spring Onion and Lemon Basil Blueberry are just a few of the 40-plus available flavors of hand-rolled Bavarian-style soft pretzels sold here. BRU Burger Bar* 513-463-6003, bruburgerbar.com This restaurant features a grind of sirloin, chuck and brisket burgers in a location near Fountain Square. Café de Vine* 513-241-4448, cafedevineon4th.com Walking distance from the Convention Center and downtown hotels. Delicious burgers, fresh veggie options and six salad selections. Campanello’s Restaurant* 513-721-9833, campanellos.com Featuring home-cooked Italian cuisine and a full-service bar for more than 40 years. Ché Restaurant* 513-978-1706, checincinnati.com Argentinian restaurant and bar
Tiffany Glass: Painting with Color and Light April 1, 2017–August 13, 2017 A Shared Legacy: Folk Art in America June 10–September 3, 2017 A Taste of Duveneck presents: The Art of Wine June 16, 2017 Art After Dark Final Fridays
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 57
Downtown
Coffee Emporium 513-651-5483, coffee-emporium.com With three area locations and assorted artisan roasted coffee and teas, this locally owned coffeehouse is a favorite among residents and visitors alike. 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-bythe-glass menu and live music on Saturdays. 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 inside the Renaissance Hotel 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 513-455-3720, jrcincy.com/french-crust-café A charming café specializing in downto-earth French cuisine with all of the fancy fixings. 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. Learn more on page 18. 58 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
Gilpin’s Steamed Sandwiches 513-421-4223 Features steamed sandwiches and sides, including gluten-free options. Open until 3 a.m. Gomez Salsa 513-381-1596, gomezsalsa.com Walk-up/takeout window featuring authentic tacos and fresh salsa. Two locations. Gourmet Food To Go* 513-954-4231, gourmetfoodtogo.co Breakfast and lunch. Food service with all the right ingredients. Dine in, carry out and catering, all in the heart of downtown Cincinnati. Graeter’s* 513-381-4191, graeters.com This Cincinnati-born favorite continues to handcraft ice cream 2 ½ gallons at a time. 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. 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. Multiple locations. 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. Ingredients (Some Assembly Required)* 513-852-2740, ingredientsforyou.com 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. Istanbul Café 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. Multiple locations. Jean-Robert’s Table 513-621-4777, jrcincy.com/jrtable Delectable French fare by Jean-Robert de Cavel. Stop in for the French Lunch Tray, 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. Kaze Restaurant & Bar* 513-898-7991, kazeotr.com Japanese gastropub and sushi bar with a contemporary dining room, bar/ lounge and beer garden. Kitty’s Sports Grill* 513-421-8900, kittyssportsgrill.net Family-owned sports grill with fresh, quality pub food and walls decorated with sports memorabilia. Krueger’s Tavern 513-834-8670 Inspired by European taverns of decades past, with house-made sausages and a huge selection of canned beer. Enjoy the rooftop bar and patio. Macaron Bar 513-813-8181, macaron-bar.com The Macaron Collection features 12-plus flavors of the decadent French pastry. Multiple locations. Maplewood Kitchen and Bar 513-421-2100, maplewoodkitchenandbar.com A taste of California, with a menu highlighting super foods. Also offers a weekend brunch. The Mercer OTR* 513-421-5111, themercerotr.com An Italian-European restaurant 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 seaSPRING/SUMMER 2017
*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
that proudly offers freshly grilled empanadas, charcuteries, delicious meats, soups, pizzas and gelatos. Learn more on page 44.
food from around the world and fullflavored beef. Metropole* 513-578-6660, metropoleonwalnut.com The restaurant at 21c Museum Hotel serves dishes cooked in a wood-burning fireplace. The ever-changing menu consistently features hearth-roasted meats, fish and vegetables. Mita’s 513-421-6482, mitas.co Thanks to the farm-inspired menu, accommodations can be made for both a quick tapa and sangria and a largeplated family meal. 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. Learn more on pages 18, 44. Montgomery Inn 513-721-7427, montgomeryinn.com Ribs slathered in Montgomery Inn’s signature barbecue sauce keep guests coming back for more. Multiple locations.
Nicola’s Ristorante 513-721-6200, nicolasotr.com The owners take pride in the extensive wine list and contemporary Italian menu. Learn more on page 37. O’Malley’s in the Alley* 513-381-3114, omalleyscincy.com Friendly atmosphere, great food, drinks and daily specials. Cincinnati’s second oldest bar. 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. 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.
Morton’s The Steakhouse* 513-621-3111, mortons.com Serving USDA prime-aged beef since 1978, the Cincinnati location is in an upscale atmosphere overlooking Fountain Square.
Panera Bread* 513-241-0000, panerabread.com Freshly baked breads and pastries, soups, salads and sandwiches. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Multiple locations.
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.
Papa John’s Pizza* 513-961-7272, papajohns.com For better ingredients, better pizza, call for prompt delivery or carryout.
Nation Kitchen and Bar* 513-381-3794, nationkitchenandbar.com Nation strives to be an extension of your living room by providing a comfortable environment with great food and drink selections at an affordable price. Neuf Asian Eatery 513-381-5256, neufcincinnati.com Asian soul food on Main Street. 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 singlemalt scotches. SPRING/SUMMER 2017
Pho Lang Thang 513-376-9177, pholangthang.com Upbeat Vietnamese spot at Findlay Market serving pho, bánh mì and bun thit nuong. Learn more on page 41. Pi Pizzeria* 513-721-8900, pi-pizza.com Award-winning deep dish and thin crust pizza with 19 American beers on draft. Gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options available. Pleasantry 513-381-1969, pleasantryotr.com Cincinnati neighborhood restaurant focusing on natural wine, approachable Midwestern food and crafted coffee. Serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Plum Street Café* 513-651-4341, plumstcafe.com Celebrating more than 25 years, this
family-owned establishment is just a block from the Duke Energy Convention Center. Full bar, open seven days a week. Pontiac BBQ 513-579-8500, pontiacbbq.com A barbecue restaurant serving Texasstyle brisket and pulled pork and offering a large selection of bourbon. 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. Multiple locations. 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 Cincinnati* 513-579-0720, primecincy.com Known for its USDA prime steaks, exquisite cuisine, extensive wine selection and outstanding service. 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 Located inside the Hyatt Regency Cincinnati. Savor a carefully crafted menu cultivated from the freshest local foods. Restaurant L 513-760-5525, lcincinnati.com Named after the shared first initial of their daughters, restaurant owners and longtime friends Jean-Robert de Cavel and Richard Brown welcome guests to experience a Parisian-style menu at Queen City Square. Restaurants at Palm Court* 513-421-9100, orchidsatpalmcourt.com Fine dining at five-diamond Orchids at Palm Court. The Grille at Palm Court features a weekday pasta bar and full menu. Bar at Palm Court offers relaxed fare, specialty cocktails and live entertainment Friday and Saturday. Rock Bottom Brewery* 513-621-1588, rockbottom.com Clean, classic beer recipes, brewed in-house and paired with a made-fromscratch menu. On Fountain Square. CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 59
Downtown
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 The creative farm-inspired menu changes frequently, featuring inventive New American cuisine. 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 are spaghetti carbonara and steak samorilla. Senate 513-421-2020, senatepub.com Features a rotating list of original gourmet hot dogs and a full bar including specialty cocktails and craft beers. Two locations. Learn more on page 15.
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. Multiple locations. Silver Ladle* 513-834-7650, silverladle.com Offers fresh salads, signature soups and chilis, delicious sandwiches, stuffed mushroom burgers and more for lunch and dinner. Skyline Chili* skylinechili.com Original recipe chili served on coneys, spaghetti and more. Learn more on page 18. Sotto* 513-977-6886, sottocincinnati.com Trattoria with a rustic ambience and classic, no-frills Italian fare like bistecca Fiorentina or short rib cappellacci. Spoon & Cellar* 513-904-4149, spoonandcellar.com Where simplicity meets sophistication. Simple yet thoughtful menu delivers
a preppy-casual experience and the cellar serves as the catalyst for crafted cocktails and a sophisticated wine selection. Sports Page Restaurant* 513-721-0067, sportspagecincinnati.com Serving breakfast and lunch in downtown Cincinnati since 1977. Delicious ice cream. 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, seafood appetizers and vegetable dishes. Sweet Petit Desserts* 513-443-5094, sweetpetitdesserts.com Specializes in bite-size desserts that burst with flavor while demonstrating unique artistry. Enjoy the taste of any dessert without overindulging. Taft’s Ale House* 513-334-1393, taftsalehouse.com
RESTAURANT & BREWERY RESERVATIONS
(513) 421-2337 | MOERLEINLAGERHOUSE.COM
Located at Smale Riverfront Park Next to Great American Ball Park 60 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
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*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Rusconi Pizza* 513-721-2253, rusconipizza.com Pizzas, hoagies, wings, calzones and more in downtown Cincinnati. Fullservice bar.
An 1850 evangelical church-turned-bar that pays homage to Cincinnatian and former president William Howard Taft. 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 Beloved eatery serving authentic Belgian waffles and other delights. Multiple locations, including Over-the-Rhine and The Banks. Learn more on page 18. Tom + Chee 513-721-2433, tomandchee.com A fresh and tasty take on grilled cheese. Became a sensation after being featured on ABC’s Shark Tank. Trattoria Roma 513-723-0220, trattoriaroma.net Cozy Italian trattoria with candlelit wine bottles on red-checked tablecloths. Serving fresh seafood, fresh veal, pastas and both Northern and Southern authentic Italian cuisine.
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V’s Café on Seventh* 513-977-4074, cafeon7th.com Enjoy the Vonderhaar’s fine food tradition. Offering a wide array of items: wraps, sandwiches, salads, jumbo muffins, fresh scones, yogurt parfait, homemade dips, crisp slaws and cold pasta salads. Via Vite* 513-721-8483, viaviterestaurant.com Handmade Italian cuisine, the product of fresh local and imported ingredients. Indoor and outdoor dining on Fountain Square. Learn more on page 44. 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. We Olive and Wine Bar* 513-954-8875, weolive.com/cincinnati Provides the highest quality extra virgin olive oil, artisan foods and wine, as well as a sharable plates menu. Yard House* 513-381-4071, yardhouse.com
Upscale casual eatery at The Banks with 160 beers on tap. ZBGB 513-744-9242, zbgb.co New American restaurant and gourmet burger bar featuring Prime-grade aged beef, locally raised lamb and artisan hamburger buns baked daily. Zula Restaurant & Wine Bar 513-744-9852 zulabistro.com Zula pairs great wine and craft beer with your choice of entrée; hot steamy mussels, hot and cold plates and Artisan Z flat breads.
Nightlife 16-Bit Bar + Arcade 513-381-1616, 16-bitbar.com/cincy A retro watering hole offering classic arcade games, old-school cocktails and an awesome beer selection. The Bar at Palm Court* 513-421-9100, orchidsatpalmcourt.com Historic 1930s bar with breathtaking original French Art Deco. Relaxed menu, weeknight happy hour, live jazz Friday and Saturday evenings.
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 61
Downtown
The Blind Pig 513-381-3114, blindpigcincy.com An updated version of a speakeasy. From the patio you can see the city, the stadiums and National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Christian Moerlein Malt House Taproom 513-827-6025, christianmoerlein.com Tour Moerlein’s underground Moore Street Malt House for free, enjoy a beer and take a growler to go. Cocktail Terrace at 21c* 513-578-6600, 21ccocktailterrace.com Located on the rooftop of the 21c Museum Hotel, the Terrace is open seasonally and offers views of the city. Learn more on page 41. Corkopolis* 513-381-3752, corkopolis.com The name may be a play on words, but this place doesn’t play around when it comes to artisan wine. The Drinkery 513-509-2574, 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 Sample local and rare craft beers. Growlers available. Igby’s 513-246-4396, igbysbar.com Three stories of hyper-stylized spaces. Cool cocktail menu and shareable plates, including salads and oysters. Ivy Lounge 513-421-3800, ivycincinnati.com A cocktail lounge that offers artfully infused craft cocktails, local brews and a small bites menu amid a warm, ambient atmosphere. Japp’s–Since 1879 513-381-1524, wellmannsbrands.com/japps1879 Handcrafted cocktails inspired by clas62 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
sic mixology from the 1700s to the 1950s. The authentic Cincinnati cocktail experience. Learn more on page 41. Knockback Nat’s* 513-621-1000 A cool neighborhood bar. 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. The Lackman 513-381-0741, lackmanbar.com Throw back a beer, including microbrews, domestics and imports, in the restored building of brewer Herman Lackman. MOTR Pub 513-381-6687, motrpub.com Popular hangout featuring local art, live rock bands and hearty fare. Prvlgd Lounge & Bistro* 513-846-4060, prvlgdcincy.com Social lounge across from Duke Energy Convention Center. Sophisticated venue that caters to working professionals. Queen City Exchange* 513-954-0395, queencityexchange.com Cincinnati’s newest interactive bar with more than 41 taps, where prices fluctuate based on demand. Queen City Radio* 513-381-0918, qcrbar.com Located in the historic Over-theRhine district. Catch a game with family or friends and be tempted to stray from your favorite draft beer to indulge in a booze-infused slushie. Learn more on page 44. Rhinegeist 513-381-1367, rhinegeist.com Unique and flavorful batches of beer come from this “Ghost of the Rhine.” Learn more on pages 44, 49. Rhinehaus 513-381-2277, rhinehausbar.com A sports bar in Over-the-Rhine that offers more than 12 TVs and 16 rotating taps. The Righteous Room 513-381-4408, therighteousroom.com Warm, intimate bar and lounge across from the Aronoff Center.
Enjoy half-price happy hours Monday– Saturday. The Rook 513-954-8191, therookotr.com A board game bar dedicated to quality food, drinks and the ultimate board game experience. Learn more on page 15. 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. The Skeleton Root 513-918-3015, skeletonroot.com Wine handcrafted on site in historic Over-the-Rhine with ties to local and regional growers. Learn more on page 49. Splitsville Luxury Lanes/ Howl at the Moon* 513-421-2695, splitsvillelanes.com Live entertainment, food and drink options, and 16,000 square feet of bowling space. Sundry and Vice* 513-721-8423, sundryandvice.com This apothecary-themed cocktail bar in OTR features cocktails named for patent medicines, the often-ineffective “cures” of the era. 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 laid-back, leave your bags at the door type of place. Top of the Park* 513-651-1234, topoftheparkcincinnati.com Rooftop lounge at the Residence Inn with views of Lytle Park, the Ohio River and downtown Cincinnati. Small bites, wines, beer and handcrafted cocktails. Open seasonally. Learn more on page 44. Vestry 513-841-9999, thetransept.com A public bar located within The Transept, a premium event space in OTR, embodies a unique classic edge thanks to its German gothic church architecture. Learn more on page 41. SPRING/SUMMER 2017
*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Below Zero* 513-421-9376, belowzerolounge.com Lounge that is gay-friendly, with more than 100 vodka selections as well as other fine liquors, a video jukebox and cabaret shows.
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 AC Hotel Cincinnati at The Banks* 513-744-9900, achotelcincinnati.com 135 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Opening Summer 2017
Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza* 513-421-9100, cincinnatinetherlandplaza.hilton.com 35 W. Fifth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Cincinnati Downtown* 513-381-5025, ihg.com 701 Broadway, Cincinnati, OH 45202 Homewood Suites— Cincinnati Downtown* 513-354-2440, homewoodsuites3.hilton.com 617 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
The Cincinnatian Hotel* 513-381-3000, cincinnatianhotel.com 601 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Hyatt Regency Cincinnati* 513-579-1234, cincinnati.hyatt.com 151 W. Fifth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Hampton Inn & Suites— Cincinnati Downtown* 513-354-2430, hamptoninn3.hilton.com 617 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Millennium Hotel Cincinnati* 513-352-2100, millenniumhotels.com/cincinnati 150 W. Fifth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Quality Inn & Suites Downtown* 513-241-8660, choicehotels.com 800 W. Eighth St., Cincinnati, OH 45203 Renaissance Cincinnati Downtown* 513-333-0000, renaissancehotels.com 36 E. Fourth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 Residence Inn Cincinnati Downtown/The Phelps* 513-651-1234, residenceinncincinnatidowntown.com 506 E. Fourth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 Symphony Hotel & Restaurant* 513-721-3353, symphonyhotel.com 210 W. 14th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 The Westin Cincinnati* 513-621-7700, westin.com/cincinnati 21 E. Fifth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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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1 American Sign Museum 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 where visitors can observe and ask questions. Step inside the American Sign Museum and take a walk down memory lane. 513-541-6366, americansignmuseum.org
2 Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Featuring more than 500 animal and 3,000 plant species, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden has one of the largest zoo collections in the country. It is also one of the country’s greenest zoos, with dedicated green building, renewable energy and water conservation initiatives. 513-281-4700, cincinnatizoo.org SPRING/SUMMER 2017
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471 3 Cincinnati Art Museum Located in scenic Eden Park, Cincinnati Art Museum features a collection of more than 67,000 works spanning 6,000 years, plus a number of national and international traveling exhibitions each year. General admission is always free. Closed on Mondays, 513-721-2787, cincinnatiartmuseum.org SPRING/SUMMER 2017
4 Krohn Conservatory Krohn Conservatory was built in 1933 at the height of the Art Deco movement. Inside aluminum and glass walls, 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. 513-352-4080, cincinnatiparks.com/krohn-conservatory
5 Cincinnati Observatory Located in Mt. Lookout, the Cincinnati Observatory is a National Historic Landmark, the oldest observatory in the Western Hemisphere, and home to one of the world’s oldest telescopes, from 1845, still in use by the public. 513-321-5186, cincinnati observatory.org CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 65
Uptown 20th Century Theater 513-731-8000, the20thcenturytheatre.com A venue rich in history that now hosts weddings, concerts and other events at Oakley Square. American Sign Museum* 513-541-6366, americansignmuseum.org A vast collection of American signage. Learn more on page 64. Cincinnati Art Museum* 513-721-2787, cincinnatiartmuseum.org Features a diverse collection of more than 67,000 artworks spanning 6,000 years. Learn more on pages 34, 65. Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra 513-723-1182, ccocincinnati.org A talented and intimate ensemble that aims to connect audiences with music in new ways. Cincinnati Observatory* 513-321-5186, cincinnatiobservatory.org Have a look through the oldest working public telescope in the country. Learn more on page 65. Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park* 513-421-3888, cincyplay.com The finest in professional theater for more than 50 years. Winner of two Tony Awards. Cincinnati Skirball Museum* 513-487-3098, 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. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden* 513-281-4700, cincinnatizoo.org One of the largest zoo collections in the country, with more than 500 animal and 3,000 plant species. Learn more on pages 32, 64. Drake Planetarium & Science Center 513-396-5578, drakeplanetarium.org Cincinnati’s only educational planetarium and STEM venue open to the general public. Esquire Theatre* 513-281-2803, esquiretheatre.com A theater that survived the Great De66 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
pression now shows independent films. Beer, spirits and wine available. FC Cincinnati* fccincinnati.com The city’s professional soccer team has rallied some of the Midwest’s most passionate fans. Pick up general admission tickets for the 2017 season for as little as $5. Home games take place at University of Cincinnati’s Nippert Stadium. Learn more on page 34. 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. Learn more on page 15. Krohn Conservatory* 513-421-4086, cincinnatiparks.com Encounter a rainforest in the city, along with thousands of other plant species. Learn more on pages 30, 65. Manifest 513-861-3638, manifestgallery.org Nonprofit neighborhood art gallery featuring insightful, thought-provoking works. Learn more on page 15. Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum 513-681-7526, springgrove.org Founded over 150 years ago, its 750 acres are home to exotic and native plants, state and national champion trees, and a serene visiting experience. Learn more on page 45. University of Cincinnati* 513-556-6000, uc.edu Founded in 1819, UC offers students a balance of educational excellence and real-world experience. UC is a public research university with an enrollment of more than 44,000 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 fourth among 171 colleges and universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report.
Shopping Bob Roncker's Running Spot 513-321-3006, runningspot.com Local chain featuring top footwear brands such as Asics, Saucony, Merrell and Keen. Has locations in O'Bryonville, Glendale, Loveland and Newport. Casablanca Vintage 513-541-6999, casablancavintage.com Longtime Northside retailer with a large vintage inventory cultivated over 31 years. Castle House 513-871-2458, castlehouse.com Located in Hyde Park Square, Castle House was founded more than 55 years ago and specializes in designer clothing and shoes for girls, boys and infants. 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. Hi-Bred 513-240-4664, hibred.life Features contemporary and vintage jewelry, clothing, furniture and more. Learn more on page 15. 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 An eclectic collection of arts and crafts from more than 150 artists. Joseph-Beth Booksellers 513-396-8960, josephbeth.com Celebrating 25 years! Independent book-selling company featuring books, gifts, toys and more. Two locations. SPRING/SUMMER 2017
*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Things to Do
Kismet 513-871-7879 Fun and affordable boutique featuring women’s apparel, jewelry, accessories, shoes and gifts. Leeli+Lou 513-873-2892, facebook.com/leeliandlou A style bar featuring trendy clothing, jewelry and gifts at affordable prices. Learn more on page 14. 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. NVISION 513-542-4577, nvisionshop.com Retail shop selling vintage and designer clothing, art and home furnishings. Learn more on page 15. Redtree Gallery 513-321-8733, redtreegallery.net Monthly art shows and a large selection of local handmade works to peruse while you have lunch or espresso. Rookwood Commons & Pavilion* 513-241-5800, shoprookwood.com Popular open-air shopping center with Nordstrom Rack, Nike Outlet, Whole Foods, REI and dozens of other shops and restaurants. Shake It Records 513-591-0123, shakeitrecords.com One of the country’s most eclectically stocked record stores, with 40,000 musical selections. Learn more on page 15. 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 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. SPRING/SUMMER 2017
Aladdin’s Eatery 513-871-8333, aladdinseatery.com Aladdin’s Eatery serves deliciously healthy, nutritious Lebanese-American food in a relaxed, casual atmosphere with superior, friendly service. Allyn’s Cafe 513-871-5779, allynscafe.com Cajun American restaurant featuring several house specialties like Big Al’s seafood platter, crawfish and shrimp étoufée and New Orleans–style blackened meats. 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 on tap. Two locations. Awakenings 513-321-2525, awakeningscoffeeandwine.com Neighborhood coffee and wine shop. Also serves pastries and showcases local art. Learn more on page 15. The BonBonerie 513-321-3399, bonbonerie.com Original recipes ensure that each pastry from this bakery is not only beautiful, but delicious as well. 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.
Busken Bakery* 513-871-2114, 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. Camp Washington Chili* 513-541-0061, campwashingtonchili.com Serving up secret recipe chili since 1940. Open 24 hours a day, six days a week. 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. City View Tavern 513-241-8439 A little tavern with great city views, burgers and Bloody Marys. Cock & Bull English Pub* 513-533-4253, candbpublichouse.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. Cork & Cap 513-321-5227, corkandcapofhydepark.com Relaxed wine bar and restaurant in Hyde Park Square. Learn more on page 14.
Brew House 513-961-9058, brewhouse.com Laid-back tavern serving freshly made soup, salads, burgers and more, plus craft beer and cocktails.
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. Multiple locations.
BrewRiver GastroPub 513-861-2484, brewrivergastropub.com Fine dining with a casual pub atmosphere.
Don Pablo’s 513-631-1356, donpablos.com TexMex restaurant serving big, bold flavors in a festive and informal Mexican atmosphere.
Buca di Beppo* 513-396-7673, bucadibeppo.com Italian cuisine served family-style.
Dutch’s 513-871-1446, dutchscincinnati.com Cozy beer and wine bar and deli in CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 67
Uptown a beautiful outside patio in Cincinnati’s eclectic Northside neighborhood. Learn more on page 45.
Eli’s BBQ* 513-307-8318, elisbarbeque.com Travel + Leisure named Eli’s, and its hickory-smoked pulled pork, to the 2013 America’s Best New BBQ list. Multiple locations. Learn more on page 45.
Live at the Ludlow Garage 513-221-4111, liveattheludlowgarage.com Intimate concert venue featuring national and regional bands that serves dinner and drinks to your seats.
E+O Kitchen 513-832-1023, eokitchen.com Contemporary, tropical-themed eatery with Asian dishes, some with a Latin spin. Learn more on page 14. Fireside Pizza 513-751-3473, firesidepizzawalnuthills.com Along with Fireside’s brick-oven-onwheels, there is now a permanent location in the old No. 16 Firehouse in Walnut Hills. Learn more on page 15. Forno Osteria+Bar 513-818-8720, fornoosteriabar.com Rustic Italian entrées and a full bar. Brunch, dinner and dessert menus. Hangover Easy 513-221-5400, hangovereasycincinnati.com Laid-back breakfast spot serving playful twists on morning classics. Harvest Bistro and Wine Bar 513-281-3663, harvest-bistro.com Located in Clifton’s Gaslight District. Menu creations are like the neighborhood, American, but with many different influences. J. Alexander’s* 513-531-7495, jalexanders.com Contemporary American restaurant known for its wood-fired cuisine. Jean-Robert’s Le Bar a Boeuf 513-751-2333, jrtable.com A modern French bistro serving beef, Wagyu beef, bison, lamb and fish, garnished with compound butters and classic sauces. A separate lounge allows visitors to enjoy views of the Ohio River from the patio. Just Q'in 513-386-4848, justqin.com A food truck-turned-brick-and-mortar restaurant serving quality slow-smoked brisket and sides that are made inhouse daily. Two locations. The Littlefield 513-386-7570, littlefieldns.com Bourbon bar and bistro restaurant with 68 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
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.com Oldest restaurant in Cincinnati—since 1865. Unique outdoor beer garden that appeared in Travel + Leisure’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 Local favorite serves vegetarian, omnivorous and vegan options, including delicious melted sandwiches. 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. Next Chapter 513-381-1905, mtadamschapter.com Offers everything from burgers and tacos to live bands and DJs in Mt. Adams. O Pie O 513-274-3238, opieo.com Sweet and savory handcrafted pies inspired by the seasons, including flavors like Honey Vinegar and Bourbon Pecan. Learn more on page 39.
Seasons 52* 513-631-5252, seasons52.com With a seasonal menu and an award-winning wine list, Seasons 52 offers a sophisticated environment and live entertainment. Sleepy Bee Café* 513-533-2339, sleepybeecafe.com A café that comes from a family’s love of bees and healthy and creatively produced meals. Two locations. Stone Bowl Korean 513-533-9600, stonebowloakley.com Authentic, gourmet Korean home-style dishes without MSG. Serves sushi at half price. Sugar n’ Spice Restaurant* 513-242-3521, sugar-n-spice-restaurant.com Serving breakfast and lunch since 1941. Huge fluffy omelets, 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 Offers Asian cuisine from Cantonese, Szechuan and Southeast Asian traditions and specializes in bubble tea. Delivery available. Teak Thai Cuisine & Sushi Bar* 513-665-9800, teakthaicuisine.com Authentic Thai cuisine from Pad Thai, crispy duck, curry dishes and stir-fry to alluring arrangements of sushi and sashimi. Tickle Pickle 513-954-4003, ticklepicklenorthside.com All-American restaurant with an ’80s rock-and-roll twist. Vegan options available.
The Precinct* 513-321-5454, jeffruby.com/precinct The first restaurant of Jeff Ruby’s steakhouses, opened in 1981.
Wild Eggs 513-345-7014, wildeggs.com This warm, sunny breakfast café is known for its Sweet Home apple bourbon crepes.
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.
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. Learn more on page 38. SPRING/SUMMER 2017
*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Hyde Park with rotating tap selections. Soups, salads, snacks and sandwiches.
Nightlife Arcade Legacy 513-874-8766, arcadelegacyohio.com More than 50 arcade games, including a console lounge with popular gaming systems, plus craft beers, mixed drinks and food. Learn more on page 15. Blind Lemon* 513-241-3885, theblindlemon.com A touch of old-world charm surrounded by beauty and history. Enjoy nightly 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 12 freshly made beers. Longworth’s* 513-381-5111 Located in the heart of Mt. Adams, it’s the premier destination for nightlife. MadTree Brewing Company 513-836-8733, madtreebrewing.com A brewery that specializes in canned craft beer. 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, wellmannsbrands.com/myrtles A creative neighborhood bar offering homemade draft punches along with Paninis and charcuterie. Northside Tavern 513-542-3603, northsidetav.com/cincy Free live music and two bars serving local brews on tap. Northside Yacht Club 513-541-0528, SPRING/SUMMER 2017
northsideyachtclub.com A nautical-inspired pub serving food and drinks every night until 2 a.m. Learn more on page 15. Second Place 513-417-8468, secondplacebar.com Decorated with more than 100 trophies, this neighborhood bar is all about sports and games. Known for its specialty bourbon slush drink. Tillie’s Lounge 513-541-1414, tillieslounge.com A neighborhood lounge with two plush VIP areas and a music parlor that serves sparkling cocktails. Unwind Wine Bar 513-321-9463, unwindhydepark.com Rustic, upscale wine bar with light fare. Learn more on page 45. Urban Artifact 513-620-4729, artifactbeer.com A craft brewery with a taproom, full bar and live music venue. The Video Archive 513-559-9500, thatgrindhousebar.com Brought to you by the masterminds behind The Overlook Lodge, this Quentin Tarantino–inspired video store and bar is complete with signature cocktails, milkshakes and movie snacks. Woodburn Brewery 513-373-1726, woodburnbrewery.com New brewery in East Walnut Hills offering award-winning SteinPils.
Hotels Free Breakfast
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Pet Friendly
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Airport Transportation
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Cincinnati, OH 45209 Elysian Place 513-470-9725, elysianplacellc.com 2161 Elysian Place, Cincinnati, OH 45219 Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, Cincinnati Uptown* 513-281-2200, marriott.com/cvgmt 2500 Market St., Cincinnati, OH 45219 Gaslight Bed and Breakfast 513-861-5222, gaslightbb.com 3652 Middleton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220 Grace and Glory Bed and Breakfast 513-321-2824 3539 Shaw Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208 Hampton Inn & Suites By Hilton* 513-281-2700, hamptoninn3.hilton.com 3024 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45219 Marriott Kingsgate Conference Center at the University of Cincinnati* 513-487-3800, kingsgatemarriott.com 151 Goodman Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45219 Parker House Bed and Breakfast 513-579-8236, parkerhousecinci.com 2323 Ohio Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45219
Outdoor Pool The Clifton House Bed And Breakfast 513-221-7600, thecliftonhouse.com 500 Terrace Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220 Courtyard by Marriott Cincinnati Midtown/Rookwood* 513-672-7100, marriott.com/cvgnw 3813 Edwards Rd.,
Quality Inn & Suites 513-242-1010, qualityinn.com 130 W. Mitchell Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45217 SpringHill Suites Cincinnati Midtown* 513-381-8300, marriott.com/cvgdt 610 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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1 Ark Encounter This one-of-a-kind, historically themed educational attraction based on biblical events features a full-size wooden Ark that visitors can explore. The Ark, the largest timber frame structure in the world, offers three decks of exhibits, plus a petting zoo, donkey and camel rides, and a buffet-style restaurant. It stretches more than one and a half football fields in length and is taller than a four-story house. 855-284-3275, arkencounter.com
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2 Florence Freedom Families can catch Florence, Kentucky’s minor league baseball team Florence Freedom from May through September at the University of Cincinnati Health Stadium. Regular ticket promotions make Freedom games fun and affordable. 859-594-4487, orencefreedom.com SPRING/SUMMER 2017
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27 3 Devou Park Visitors can ride their bikes, picnic near an amazing overlook of the Ohio River and Cincinnati skyline, or visit the Behringer-Crawford Museum to learn about Northern Kentucky’s rich history at Devou Park. The amphitheater is home to the Kentucky Symphony Orchestra’s free summer concert series. 859-292-2151, covingtonky.gov/visitors/parks/devou-park SPRING/SUMMER 2017
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4 BB Riverboats BB Riverboats offers sightseeing, dining and specialty cruises along the majestic Ohio River on boats with Victorian decor and romantic riverboat-era charm. Book the Historic Cincinnati Cruise or Captain’s Cruise, or take the little ones on Pirates of the Ohio, a special event with pirate games for the entire family. 859-261-8500, bbriverboats.com
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KENTUCKY 5 Newport on the Levee Newport on 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. 859-291-0550, newport onthelevee.com CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 71
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From beloved attractions like the Newport Aquarium to a vibrant dining and nightlife scene, the riverfront in Northern Kentucky is a happening spot. And it’s just a short stroll across a bridge from Cincinnati.
Things to Do 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 Kids cruises, sightseeing cruises, dining cruises and more on the Ohio River. Learn more on pages 49, 71. Behringer-Crawford Museum 859-491-4003, bcmuseum.org A regional museum documenting the heritage and culture of Northern Kentucky. Learn more on page 71. Bellevue Beach Park 859-431-8888, bellevueky.org Riverfront park that hosts a summer concert series. Learn more on page 43. The Carnegie 859-491-2030, thecarnegie.com Largest multidisciplinary arts venue in Northern Kentucky, with galleries, theater and education center. 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. Devou Park 859-292-2151, covingtonky.gov Beloved Northern Kentucky park with wide-angle views of the Cincinnati skyline and the Ohio River. Learn more on pages 43, 71. The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show* 866-496-0535, thedinnerdetective.com/cincinnati America’s largest interactive murder mystery dinner show! The Dinner Detective provides a hilarious evening of murder mystery, a four-course meal and a prize package for the top sleuth. Just beware: The killer might be sitting right next to you. Falcon Theatre 513-479-6783, falcontheater.net 72 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
A professional theater company producing a wide range of shows, from comedy and drama to musicals and classics. GameWorks* 859-581-7529, gameworks.com Eat, drink and play all under one roof. Hundreds of the latest and greatest arcade games, prize games and old school classics like billiards and darts. Goebel Park 859-292-2160, covingtonky.gov Park in Covington with a public pool, picnic shelters, gazebo, playground and the German-style Carroll Chimes Clock Tower. Learn more on pages 14, 49. Kentucky Symphony Orchestra 859-431-6216, kyso.org More than 25 seasons of both familiar and unique classical repertoire along with other thematic performances and collaborations. Learn more on page 71. Madison Theater 859-491-2444, madisontheateronline.com A beautifully restored movie theater that now features regional and national music acts.
whole family through the discovery of the artistic creation. 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 the International Day of Peace. 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. Learn more on page 14. Donna Salyers’ Fabulous-Furs 859-291-3300, fabulousfurs.com Fabulous-Furs, which sells faux fur coats, vests, wraps and stoles, has been profiled in People magazine and the Wall Street Journal.
MainStrasse Village 859-491-0458, mainstrasse.org A walkable community with plenty of shopping, entertainment and nightlife. Learn more on pages 14, 49.
The Cozy Cottage 859-581-4972, cozycottagebellevueky.com Charming shop featuring handcrafted items such as gifts and doll clothing. Learn more on page 14.
Newport Aquarium* 859-261-7444, newportaquarium.com Thousands of animals from around the world are showcased in a million gallons of water. Learn more on pages 33, 49, 71.
The Party Source 859-291-4007, thepartysource.com From beer kegs and wine to specialty foods and party supplies, your destination for everything you’ll need to throw the best party.
Newport on the Levee* 859-291-0550, newportonthelevee.com Eat, shop and play with the city skyline and the Ohio River as your scenic backdrop. Learn more on pages 49, 71.
Village Gifts KY 859-878-2858, villagegiftsky.com Gift shop specializing in Kentucky-made food products, art and apparel. Learn more on page 14.
New Riff Distilling* 859-261-7433, newriffdistilling.com A craft distillery specializing in Kentucky bourbon and rye whiskey that offers free tours. Learn more on page 49. Second Sight Spirits 702-510-6075, secondsightspirits.com The distillery’s interest in a “second sight” refers to its passion to impact the future of Ludlow with premium spirits. Wizardz Magic Theater 513-784-6883, wizardzmagictheater.net A live magical performance where the audience is part of the show. This theater brings joy and amazement to the
Witt’s End Candy Emporium 859-261-9488, wittsendcandy.com Be a kid in a candy store, choosing from tons of treats, old-fashioned toys, popcorn, cotton candy and more. Learn more on page 14.
Dining AmerAsia 859-261-6121 Fresh Asian cuisine, including the Dragon’s Breath wontons, and a selection of craft beers. Beer Sellar 859-431-6969 Floating restaurant and barge that offers SPRING/SUMMER 2017
*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
RIVERFRONT— NORTHERN KENTUCKY
live entertainment, skyline views, full bar, 135 bottled beers, 64 taps and one great jukebox. Dinner served. Bouquet Restaurant and Wine Bar 859-491-7777, bouquetrestaurant.com Homemade soup, hearty and indulgent entrées, and an extensive wine list. Located in the heart of Covington’s MainStrasse historic district. BRIO Tuscan Grille* 859-431-0900, brioitalian.com Features steaks, house-made pasta specialties and flatbreads prepared in an authentic Italian oven. Multiple locations. 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. Carabello Coffee 859-415-1587, carabellocoffee.com A philanthropic artisan coffee roasting company that equitably sources coffee beans and roasts and brews them to perfection. Chart House Restaurant* 859-261-0300, chart-house.com Fresh seafood and steaks with a spectacular view of the Cincinnati skyline and the Ohio River. Commonwealth Bistro 859-916-6719, commonwealthbistro.com Located in Covington’s MainStrasse neighborhood and a 2016 winner of OpenTable.com’s Diner’s Choice award. Features Kentucky-style dinner and weekend brunch made with locally sourced ingredients. Learn more on page 14. Coppin’s Restaurant and Bar 866-501-1700, hotelcovington.com Inside Hotel Covington, Coppin’s gives off an elegant vibe and offers a variety of dishes as well as flexible hours.
Original recipe chili served fresh from the kettle daily. Elusive Cow Cafe 859-291-0269, theelusivecow.com Classic menu items made with highquality, locally sourced ingredients. Learn more on page 14. Frida 602 859-815-8736 A tequila and mezcal bar serving up Latin cuisine in a bright eclectic atmosphere, after the hearts of all Frida Kahlo admirers. Learn more on page 44. Game Time Sports Bar & Grill* 859-261-1450, gametime2012.com Your corner sports bar on the Levee. Have one of 20 mouthwatering burgers and a cold beer before, during or after the big game on the spacious patio. Goodfellas Pizzeria/Wiseguy Lounge 859-916-5209, goodfellaspizzeria.com Enjoy “a slice of New York City” and a stand-out bourbon cocktail at this iconic pizzeria-bar complex. Additional location on Main Street in OTR. 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. Learn more on page 44. Hofbräuhaus* 859-491-7200, hofbrauhausnewport.com America’s first authentic Hofbräuhaus, with traditional Bavarian fare and classic German lagers. Learn more on pages 44, 49. Hooters Restaurant* 859-291-9191, hooters.com Known for its world-famous chicken wings, great food, fun and one-of-a-kind hospitality served by the Hooters Girls. Joe’s Crab Shack* 859-581-6333, joescrabshack.com Seafood, cocktails and featured seasonal menu items.
Dee Felice Cafe 859-261-2365, deefelicecafe.com Casual New Orleans–style Cajun and Creole dishes, with live jazz performances Wednesday through Sunday.
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.
Dixie Chili & Deli 859-291-5337, dixiechili.com Northern Kentucky’s first chili parlor.
Lisse Steakhuis* 859-360-7008, lisse.restaurant Dutch-inspired steakhouse with an
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American twist. Dutch cheese board, smoked whitefish pate, lobster ravioli and crab cakes. Plus, steak, lamb and more. Mitchell’s Fish Market* 859-291-7454, mitchellsfishmarket.com The 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. Multiple locations. 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. Mrs. Teapots Tea Room 859-491-2731, mrsteapots.com English-inspired tea room with imported and domestic teas, salads, soups, sandwiches and pastries. Learn more on page 14. Newberry Bros. Coffee* 859-261-9463, newberrybroscoffee.com Café and bistro in the Historic East Row/Mansion Hill District of Newport. Offering organic and fair-trade coffee roasted on site, with an espresso bar, lunch menu, and more than 500 types of bourbon and rye whiskeys. Learn more on page 44. 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. Learn more on page 40. Packhouse 859-415-2312, packhousemeats.com A no-frills, full-service hangout and hashery serving up hand-packed meats and cold drinks. No tipping allowed. Piccolo Casa 859-415-1308, piccolocovington.com A little bit of Northern Italy can be found in Covington, with dishes like parsley pesto bruschetta and 12 month–cured prosciutto. Pompilios 859-581-3065, pompiliosrestaurant.com Homemade Italian cooking for the past 80-plus years. Prides itself on its handmade sauces and traditional items. CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 73
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Redondo Taqueria* 859-652-7260, redondolevee.com Food made with high-quality ingredients including handmade tortillas and fresh meats and produce. 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 bibimbab. Smoke Justis 859-814-8858, smokejustis.com Live music, an arcade, smoked meat and a specialty whiskey bar. What more could a Southerner ask for? Strong’s Brick Oven Pizzeria 859-291-6836, strongsbrickovenpizza.com Cozy neighborhood pizzeria serving
wood-fired pies like Pizza Alla Vodka and Margherita. Multiple locations. Wertheim’s Restaurant 859-261-1233 This German restaurant specializes in schnitzels, homemade potato pancakes and German sausages.
Where the surreal world of circus meets the universal love of beer. Bircus delivers a jaw-dropping brewery experience with live performers. Braxton Brewing Co. 859-261-5600, braxtonbrewing.com This brewery, in a renovated garage, brews its own beer, like Crank Shaft and Twisted Bit, and offers the ultimate hangout spot.
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.
Darkness Brewing facebook.com/darknessbrewing Experimental, locally crafted beer in Bellevue.
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 Tuesday–Saturday.
Gangsters Dueling Piano Bar 859-491-8900, gangstersduelingpianobar.com One of the most entertaining bars in the tristate. All of the music performed by the pianists is by request. It also offers a full-service food and bar menu.
Nightlife Bircus Brewery 859-360-7757, bircus.com
The Globe 859-261-1267, theglobecov.com A former gentleman’s club-turned-community bar keeps it local with an array of Kentucky-made spirits and craft beers,
CINCINNATI 6173 GLENWAY AVENUE • 513-481-WING(9464) 9336 COLERAIN AVENUE • 513-385-WING(9464) 2707 SHORT VINE • 513-559-WING(9464) SKIP THE WAIT. ORDER @ WINGSTOP.COM
74 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
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*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Purple Poulet 859-916-5602, purplepoulet.com Southern bourbon bistro influenced by Charleston, New Orleans and its own Kentucky roots.
topped off with bites like warm olives and charcuterie flatbread. The Hannaford thehannaford.com With a selection of cocktails, wine and beer, you can have it all at this Covington bar, named for architect Samuel Hannaford, who designed this building and other Cincinnati USA landmarks. J.B. Fins* 859-291-9191 J.B. Fins is the hottest outdoor bar on the river. Live music every day with a Tiki bar atmosphere. Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar* 859-581-1777 Serving specialty bourbon in the state that gives it its name. Learn more on page 14. Southgate House Revival 859-431-2201, southgatehouse.com A bar and venue for original live music in Newport. Thompson House 859-261-7469,
thompsonhousenewport.com Features live music, comedy and other events with multiple bars and stages throughout the venue.
Hotels Free Breakfast
Free Parking
Fitness Room
Pet Friendly
Internet
Airport Transportation
Restaurant Indoor Pool
Covington, KY 41011
Comfort Suites Riverfront Newport 859-291-6700, choicehotels.com 420 Riverboat Row, Newport, KY 41071
Courtyard by Marriott Covington 859-491-4000, marriott.com/cvgcy 500 W. Third St., Covington, KY 41011
Business Center Room Service
Outdoor Pool Aloft Newport on the Levee 859-916-5306, starwoodhotels.com 201 E. Third St., Newport, KY 41071
Christopher’s B&B 859-491-9354, christophersbb.com 604 Poplar St., Bellevue, KY 41073
Cincinnati Marriott at RiverCenter 859-261-2900, marriott.com/cvgdr 10 W. Rivercenter Blvd.,
Embassy Suites Cincinnati RiverCenter 859-261-8400, embassysuites.com 10 E. Rivercenter Blvd., Covington, KY 41011
Extended Stay America Covington 859-581-3000, extendedstayhotels.com 650 W. Third St., Covington, KY 41011
Gateway Bed and Breakfast 859-581-6447, gatewaybb.com 326 E. Sixth St., Newport, KY 41071
The Craft Bier of Bavarian Kings
Come enjoy many of the traditions from Germany that have made Hofbräuhaus famous. From the traditionally decorated rooms to the bier that is brewed on-site using the same recipes since 1589 and of course the excellent German fare. 800 GOODALE STREET • COLUMBUS, OHIO 43212 w w w. h o f b r a u h a u s c o l u m b u s . c o m SPRING/SUMMER 2017
200 EAST THIRD STREET • NEWPORT, KENTUCKY 41071 w w w. h o f b r a u h a u s n e w p o r t . c o m CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 75
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Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Newport 859-415-0678, hamptoninn.com 222 York St., Newport, KY 41071
Holiday Inn Express Cincinnati Southeast Newport 859-957-2320, hiexpress.com 110 Landmark Dr., Bellevue, KY 41073
Holiday Inn Cincinnati Riverfront 859-291-4300, holidayinn.com/cvg-riverfront 600 W. Third St., Covington, KY 41011
Hotel Covington 866-501-1700, hotelcovington.com 638 Madison Ave., Covington, KY 41011
Radisson Cincinnati Riverfront 859-491-1200, cincinnatiradisson.com 668 W. Fifth St., Covington, KY 41011
Taylor Garden B&B 317-523-5270 316 Overton St., Newport, KY 41071
Weller Haus Bed, Breakfast & Event Center 859-391-8315, wellerhaus.com 319 Poplar St., Bellevue, KY 41073
MORE TO SEE & DO— NORTHERN KENTUCKY Things to Do Ark Encounter 855-284-3275, arkencounter.com A full-size Noah’s Ark built according to the dimensions given by The Bible, plus other exhibits and activities. Learn more on pages 32, 70. BB&T Arena at Northern Kentucky University 859-442-2652, thebbtarena.com This 10,000-seat arena features first76 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
class concerts, family shows and a wide variety of sporting events.
you feel safe to be yourself, connecting to trees, nature and others.
Big Bone Lick State Park 859-384-3522, parks.ky.gov View bison, enjoy miles of hiking trails and explore the museum filled with displays on ice age mammals and Native American history.
Florence Freedom 859-594-4487, florencefreedom.com Catch Florence, Kentucky’s minor league baseball team from May through September. Ticket promotions make games fun and affordable. Learn more on page 70.
Boone County Arboretum 859-384-4999, bcarboretum.org The nation’s first arboretum within an active recreation park setting. Boone County Distilling 859-282-6545, boonedistilling.com This 5,000-square-foot distillery proudly bottles small batch bourbon as a continued homage to the spirit’s prominent role in the region. Distillery tours and Eighteen 33 Ten Year Old Bourbon are available daily. Brianza Gardens and Winery 859-445-9369, brianzagardensandwinery.com Winery with beautiful scenery—vineyards, formal gardens and walking trails. Closed Mondays. 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. Creation Museum* 888-582-4253, creationmuseum.org Venture through biblical history with stunning exhibits and experience other attractions like botanical gardens, a planetarium and a zip line adventure course. 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
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. Kentucky Speedway* 859-578-2300, kentuckyspeedway.com Hosts multiple NASCAR events each year, from the Sprint Cup Series to the XFINITY Series and NSCS Quaker State 400. Learn more on page 34. 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. Tower Park ftthomas.org Wooded, hilly trails close to the banks of the Ohio River and a 102foot stone water tower marking the entrance. Turfway Park* 859-371-0200, turfway.com Thoroughbred horseracing in the winter and simulcast racing year-round. Vent Haven Museum 859-341-0461, venthavenmuseum.com The world’s only museum dedicated to ventriloquism. By appointment only. Williamstown Family Fun Park 859-215-0007, zipputtplay.com Zip, putt and play all in one convenient location with a zipline, mini golf and more ways to explore nature. 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. SPRING/SUMMER 2017
*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Hampton Inn Cincinnati Riverfront 859-581-7800, hamptoninncincinnatiriverfront.com 200 Crescent Ave., Covington, KY 41011
Shopping Crestview Hills Town Center 859-341-4353, shopcrestviewhillstowncenter.com Popular shopping center with stores such as Christopher & Banks, Dillard’s and Sephora, as well as restaurants. 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.
Ft. Thomas Antiques & Design Center 859-441-2015, nkyantiques.com Find unique antiques, retro 20th century cool stuff, repurposed furniture and curios from more than 100 vendors. Relax and enjoy the Highlander Bourbon and Wine Bar, also featuring Lookout Joe Coffee.
Grandview Tavern & Grille* 859-341-8439, grandviewtaverngrille.com Casual, upscale restaurant with everything from homemade gourmet pizza to fresh fish and steaks. Happy hour daily, live music multiple nights a week, 16 flat-screen TVs and a patio.
The Friendly Market 859-488-1053, thefriendlymkt.com A year-round indoor market and seasonal outdoor market. Learn more on page 44.
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.
Gap Clearance Store 859-586-3320, gap.com Huge clearance center offering Gap brand merchandise at bargain prices.
Dining
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.
Flipdaddy’s Brilliant Burgers & Craft Beer Bar* 859-431-2337, flipdaddys.com Serves ultra-fresh, beefed-up burgers and an outstanding selection of craft beer. Multiple locations.
Knotty Pine on the Bayou 859-781-2200, knottypineonthebayou.com Casual and cozy Cajun cuisine, off the beaten path. Reservations highly recommended.
Discover these thrilling exhibitions!
Bijoux Parisiens French Jewelry from the Petit Palais, Paris February 11–May 14 Be captivated by sparkling gems, luxurious materials, and the superb craftsmanship of the great Parisian jewelry houses.
Treasures from the Berger Collection British Paintings 1400–2000 June 10–October 1 Gallant horses, enchanting landscapes, and irresistible portraits delight the eye as you journey through six centuries of British art.
For more information visit www.taftmuseum.org. Images, left to right: Georges Fouquet (1862–1957), design by Charles Desrosiers (dates unknown), Sycamore Maple Pendant, about 1905. Gold, enamel, diamonds, two peridots, and baroque pearl. Petit Palais, Musée des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Paris. © Patrick Pierrain / Petit Palais / Roger-Viollet. Droits d’auteur © ADAGP | Adriaen van Diest, The Battle of Lowestoft (detail), about 1690, oil on canvas. The Berger Collection at the Denver Art Museum, 8.2010
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CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 77
South Matsuya Japanese Restaurant 859-746-1199, sites.google.com/site/matsuyaky/home Sushi, tempura, teriyaki, tabletop hot pots and much more. Family-owned for more than 10 years. 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. Tousey House Tavern 859-586-9900, touseyhouse.com Traditional Southern cuisine served in a restored 1800s building in quaint Burlington, Kentucky. 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.
Nightlife
Florence, KY 41042
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.
Hotels Free Breakfast Fitness Room Internet Restaurant Indoor Pool Outdoor Pool
Best Western Florence 859-525-0090, bestwestern.com 7821 Commerce Dr., Florence, KY 41042
Bodewell Bed and Breakfast 859-250-4789, bodewellbnb.com 5009 Petersburg Rd., Petersburg, KY 41080
Free Parking Pet Friendly Airport Transportation Business Center
Burlington’s Willis Graves B&B 859-689-5096, burligrave.com 5825 N. Jefferson St., Burlington, KY 41005
Room Service
America’s Best Value Inn Florence 859-283-2030, abviflorenceky.com 7810 Commerce Dr., Florence, KY 41042 Ashley Quarters 859-525-9997, ashleyquarters.com 4880 Houston Rd.,
Cincinnati Airport Marriott 859-586-0166, cincinnatiairportmarriott.com 2395 Progress Dr., Hebron, KY 41048 Comfort Inn Airport Turfway Road 859-647-2700, comfortinn.com
A tailored EXPERIENCE
Accommodations of Guest Rooms and Suites • Locally-Curated Room Amenities • Coffee Bar Serving Locally-Sourced Carabello Coffee • Outdoor Event Lawn and Courtyard with Fireplace • Event Spaces for Groups of 10-250 • Coppin’s Restaurant and Bar
hotelcovington.com • 859.905.6621 • sales@hotelcovington.com • 638 Madison Ave., Covington, KY 41011 78 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
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*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Hotel Covington stands as a testament of high stakes, high fashion and high ambition. Sings in style, character and comfort.
7454 Turfway Rd., Florence, KY 41042
Comfort Suites Cincinnati Airport 859-980-0555, choicehotels.com/hotel/ky160 775 Petersburg Rd., Hebron, KY 41048
Country Hearth Inn Erlanger 859-342-7111, countryheartherlanger.com 599 Donaldson Rd., Erlanger, KY 41018
Country Inn & Suites Cincinnati Airport 859-689-0700, countryinns.com 759 Petersburg Rd., Hebron, KY 41048
Country Inn & Suites Wilder 859-441-3707, countryinns.com/wilderky 10 Country Dr., Wilder, KY 41076
T O W N
Courtyard by Marriott Cincinnati Airport 859-647-9900, marriott.com/cvgca 3990 Olympic Blvd., Erlanger, KY 41018 Days Inn Florence 859-371-4800, daysinn.com 50 Cavalier Blvd., Florence, KY 41042 Days Inn Fort Wright 859-331-1400, daysinn.com 1937 Dixie Hwy., Ft. Wright, KY 41011 Doubletree by Hilton Cincinnati Airport 859-371-6166, cincinnatiairport.doubletree.com 2826 Terminal Dr., Hebron, KY 41048 Econo Lodge Richwood 859-485-4123, econolodge.com 11165 Frontage Rd.,
Richwood, KY 41094
Econo Lodge Erlanger 859-342-5500, econolodge.com 633 Donaldson Rd., Erlanger, KY 41018
Extended Stay America Florence 859-282-7829, extendedstayamerica.com 7350 Turfway Rd., Florence, KY 41042
Extended Stay America Florence/Meijer Drive 859-746-0172, extendedstayamerica.com 200 Meijer Dr., Florence, KY 41042
First Farm Inn 859-586-0199, ďŹ rstfarminn.com 2510 Stevens Rd., Petersburg, KY 41080
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. SPRING/SUMMER 2017
For a complete list of stores, restaurants, directions and events, visit our website at: www.ShopCrestviewHillsTownCenter.com CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 79
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Hampton Inn Cincinnati Airport South 859-283-1600, hamptoninn.com 7393 Turfway Rd., Florence, KY 41042
Hampton Inn & Suites Wilder 859-441-3049, hilton.com 10 Hampton Lane, Wilder, KY 41076
Hilton Cincinnati Airport 859-371-4400, hilton.com 7373 Turfway Rd., Florence, KY 41042
Holiday Inn Cincinnati Airport 859-371-2233, holidayinn.com/cvg-airport
1717 Airport Exchange Blvd., Erlanger, KY 41018
Holiday Inn Express Richwood 859-493-0900, hiexpress.com 12928 Frogtown Connector Rd., Richwood, KY 41094
Holiday Inn Florence 859-980-1700, holidayinn.com 7905 Freedom Way, Florence, KY 41042
La Quinta Inn & Suites Florence 859-282-8212, lq.com 350 Meijer Dr., Florence, KY 41242
Magnuson Hotel Florence 859-371-2700, magnusonhotels.com 8050 Holiday Pl., Florence, KY 41042
Microtel Inn & Suites 859-746-8100, microtelinn.com 7490 Woodspoint Dr., Florence, KY 41042
Homewood Suites by Hilton Cincinnati Airport South 859-283-2111, homewoodsuites.com 1090 Vandercar Way, Florence, KY 41042
Motel 6 Florence 859-980-1380 7820 Commerce Dr., Florence, KY 41042
Hyatt Place Cincinnati Airport 859-647-1170, hyatt.com 300 Meijer Dr., Florence, KY 41042
Motel 6 Richwood 859-485-2330, motel6.com 164 Winning Colors Dr., Walton, KY 41097
d pool with • Indoor heate hot tub d waterfall an es • Theme Suit k, to Turfway Par • Easy access rt, Cincinnati, o Airport, Newp um, and se u M n io at Cre rk Encounter A 30 mins from
7809 US 42, Florence, KY • wildwoodinnky.com • 859-371-6300 80 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
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*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Hampton Inn Cincinnati Airport North 859-689-1960, cincinnatiairportnorth.hamptoninn.com 755 Petersburg Rd., Hebron, KY 41048
The Old Hashienda 859-586-7744, rabbithash.com 10021 Lower River Rd., Rabbit Hash, KY 41005
Quality Inn & Suites 859-371-0081, choicehotels.com 30 Cavalier Blvd., Florence, KY 41042
Quality Inn & Suites Cincinnati Airport 859-746-0300, choicehotels.com/hotel/ky145 1805 Airport Exchange, Erlanger, KY 41018
marriott.com/cvgap 2811 Circleport Dr., Erlanger, KY 41018
Rodeway Inn Florence 859-283-1221, rodewayinn.com 7928 Dream St., Florence, KY 41042
Springhill Suites Cincinnati Airport South 859-371-3388, springhillsuites.com 7492 Turfway Rd., Florence, KY 41042
Red Roof Inn Cincinnati Airport 859-727-3400, redroof.com 630 Donaldson Hwy., Erlanger, KY 41018
Stay Lodge of Florence 859-746-2400, staylodgehotels.com 8035 Action Blvd., Florence, KY 41042
Residence Inn by Marriott Cincinnati Airport 859-282-7400,
Super 8 Fort Mitchell 859-341-2090, super8.com 2350 Royal Dr.,
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Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017
Travelodge Florence 859-371-0277, travelodge.com 8075 Steilen Dr., Florence, KY 41042
Wildwood Inn 859-371-6300, wildwoodinnky.com 7809 U.S. 42, Florence, KY 41042
Wingate by Wyndham Cincinnati Airport 859-727-0144, wingatehotels.com/erlanger 605 Viox Rd., Erlanger, KY 41018
WoodSpring Suites 859-371-0611, woodspring.com 40 Cavalier Blvd., Florence, KY 41042
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Oxford
North OHIO 129 Hamilton
127 Okeana
Fairfield 4 27
52 128
74
275
West
S
1
Colerain Township
White Oak ILLUSTRATION BY DAN ZETTWOCH
College Hill
74 50
Mt Airy
264
275 75
5 SPOTS Must-See
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1 Winton Woods Parky’s Farm is a 100-acre farm at Winton Woods featuring indoor and outdoor playgrounds, picnic shelters, a garden, an orchard and live animals. Winton Woods is also home to the 156-acre Winton Lake, where guests can rent boats, canoes and kayaks, and the Winton Woods Riding Center, which offers horseback riding lessons year-round. 513-521-7275, 513521-3276, greatparks.org/winton-woods
2 IKEA Browse the giant showroom of design possibilities at IKEA; note what you love along the way and pick up your 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 SPRING/SUMMER 2017
Middletown
75
63
Monroe
Liberty Township
4
129
747
2
OHIO
42
3
West Chester
Mason
5
3
71
Springdale Sharonville Blue Ash 126
Kenwood
75 Bond Hill
562
East
71 275 50
3 EnterTRAINment Junction Indoor theme park EnterTRAINment Junction features the world’s largest indoor model train display, including more than two miles of track in a layout spanning the size of more than half a football field. Families also love this attraction for its A-Maze-N Funhouse and cool events, like Christmas in July. 513898-8000, entertrainmentjunction.com SPRING/SUMMER 2017
50 4 Liberty Center Liberty Center is a premier shopping, dining and entertainment destination located along I-75 between Cincinnati and Dayton. The multi-use center also offers a movie theater, comedy club, yoga classes, children’s story times and other special events throughout the year. 513-644-0900, liberty-center.com
5 Kings Island Kings Island is the largest amusement and waterpark in the Midwest, featuring worldclass thrill rides like Banshee, the longest steel 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 50 water activities and a 650,000-gallon wave pool. 513-754-5700, visitkingsisland.com CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 83
North The Beach Waterpark* 513-398-7946, thebeachwaterpark.com Tons of water thrills, from The Cliff, a five-story slide, to the 750,000gallon heated wave pool. Learn more on page 43. Black Ops Global* 513-208-9232, blackopswarzone.com Cincinnati’s only indoor Airsoft field. Fun, safe war games with a flexible layout and onsite pro shop. Bonnybrook Farms* 937-289-2500, bonnybrookfarms.com Offers Chuck Wagon dinner rides, corporate picnics and events, and Lantern Light wagon rides at its beautiful and historic 370-acre working farm. Caesar Creek State Park 513-897-3055, caesarcreekstatepark.com This 7,900-acre park offers outdoor recreation activities and a nature preserve. Dave & Buster’s* 513-671-5501, daveandbusters.com A combination of food, drinks and game play in an ideal environment for celebrating all-out fun. Two locations. EnterTRAINment Junction* 513-898-8000, entertrainmentjunction.com The world’s largest train display is accompanied by many family fun activities like a mirror maze and seasonal rides. Learn more on page 83. Escape The Room Challenge* 513-759-7666, escapetheroomchallenge.com Enhance group communication and foster teamwork with this hands-on experience. It requires teamwork, communication, collaboration and trust to succeed. Full Throttle Indoor Karting* 513-341-5278, gofullthrottle.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. Game On! Sports Complex 513-432-5100, gameoncinci.com A welcoming, comfortable lounge with TVs, a fireplace, a full bar and free Wi-Fi overlooks the 2∕3 -regulation turf soccer field and the four NCAA volleyball courts. Glendower Historic Mansion 513-932-1817, wchmuseum.org One of the finest examples of residential northern antebellum Greek Revival 84 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
architecture in the Midwest, Glendower is furnished circa 1845 to 1865. Costumed interpreters lead tours of the mansion. Go Bananas Comedy Club 513-984-9288, gobananascomedy.com Providing comedy in Cincinnati since 1990 and 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. Houdini’s Room Escape* 513-549-5419, houdinisroomescape.com Uniquely designed escape rooms that put you in the game with your friends, family or fellow puzzle-lovers. Hueston Woods 513-523-6347, parks.ohiodnr.gov/huestonwoods Nearly 3,000 acres for hiking, fishing, canoeing and fossil hunting. Kenwood Theatre* 513-984-4488, kenwoodtheatre.com The locally owned Kenwood Theatre, located across from the Kenwood Towne Centre, provides mainstream films, unique concession fare and a selection of fine wine and craft beer. Kings Island 513-754-5700, visitkingsisland.com A Cedar Fair amusement park featuring thrill rides, family rides, seasonal events, an animatronic Dinosaurs Alive! exhibit and Soak City Waterpark. Learn more on pages 33, 43, 83. 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.
est and largest winery, and it features a tasting room and wine store, winemaking supplies and gifts. MetroParks of Butler County 513-867-5835, yourmetroparks.net 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 Enjoy 1,600 gaming machines, four great restaurants and live harness racing. 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. Ozone Zipline Adventures* 513-932-3756, campkern.org/ozone 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 1 to 200 feet. Parky’s Farm at Winton Woods 513-521-3276, greatparks.org/learn/parkys-farm A 100-acre farm featuring indoor and outdoor playgrounds, a garden, an orchard and live animals. Learn more on page 82. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum 513-868-8336, pyramidhill.org A display of appreciation for monumental pieces of sculpture in nature. SkyZone 513-671-1333, skyzone.com Indoor Trampoline Park with a SkySlam court, SkyRobics fitness classes and the Foam Zone.
Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad 513-933-8022, lebanonrr.com Learn about local history on a scenic train ride through Southwestern Ohio.
Splash Cincinnati Water Resort 513-841-1515, splashcincinnati.com 50,000-square-foot indoor water park, complete with palm trees and a yearround 84-degree temperature.
Main Event Entertainment* 513-421-1294, mainevent.com A huge entertainment destination with laser tag, bowling and more than 100 interactive games. Food, drinks and craft beer are also available.
Summit Park Blue Ash 513-745-8570, blueash.com/summitpark One of the newest parks in the region, with innovative play areas, a lawn and concert stage, and a dog park.
Meier’s Wine Cellars 513-891-2900, meierswinecellars.com Founded in 1895, Meier’s is Ohio’s old-
Swing 365 513-609-1160, swing365.com Book a tee time with some friends to SPRING/SUMMER 2017
*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Things to Do
experience one of 10 high-definition golf simulators and a beverage from the inhouse bar. Trammel Fossil Park sharonville.org One of the few safe and accessible places to dig for fossils in the area. Topgolf* 513-342-6249, topgolf.com A 65,000-square-foot golf facility with more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays, plus lessons, games and full food and beverage menu. 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 and a comprehensive collection of artifacts from the 19th and 20th centuries. 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 Veteran’s Memorial 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. ZipCity USA 513-632-5261, zipcityusa.com ZipCity provides all the fun you can have on trampolines, with the added excitement of being the only indoor zip line park and rock wall facility on Earth.
Shopping Bass Pro Shops 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 SPRING/SUMMER 2017
Township in Butler County. Includes Target, Best Buy and JCPenney. Cabela’s 513-342-5300, cabelas.com This outdoor retailer offers a huge inventory of hunting, fishing and camping supplies, plus boats and ATVs. 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 air-conditioning and heat for year-round shopping. Cincinnati Premium Outlets* 513-539-0710, premiumoutlets.com/cincinnati Features 100 outlet stores including Coach Outlet, Cole Haan Outlet, J. Crew Factory, Under Armour and more. 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 The outlet store features luxurious indoor and outdoor furniture as well as home goods and gifts. IKEA* 513-779-7100, ikea-usa.com/westchester An iconic furniture retailer that aims to provide affordable and stylish home furnishings. Learn more on page 82. 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. Two locations. 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. Liberty Center 513-644-0900, liberty-center.com Over 100 acres of shopping, dining and recreation. Shops include Banana Republic and Homage. Learn more on page 83.
Northgate Mall 513-385-7065, mynorthgatemall.com Shopping center in Colerain Township with 100 specialty shops, three department stores and tenants such as DSW, ULTA Beauty and Marshalls. Ohio Valley Antique Mall 513-874-7855, ohiovalleyantiques.com One of the largest multi-dealer antique malls in the region, with 85,000 square feet of antiques and collectibles. Stone Creek Towne Center stonecreektownecenter.com Major tenants in this 540,000square-foot 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 foods and wines. Trader’s World 513-424-5708, tradersworld.info Enjoy shopping values on antiques and collectibles, new and used merchandise, tools, fruits and vegetables and pet supplies at this market. 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. Tri-County Mall 513-671-0120, tricountymall.com Features department stores including Macy’s and Sears and many specialty retailers. Venice Pavilion Antiques* 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 Aroma Restaurant & Sushi 513-791-0950, aromacincinnati.com Upscale Asian-inspired restaurant serving fresh fish and more than 50 sushi rolls. Barresi’s Italian Restaurant 513-793-2540, barresis.com Beloved by its patrons for its authentic CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 85
North Italian cuisine, which is a blend of tastes 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. Also in Florence, Kentucky. Blue Ash Chili 513-984-6107, blueashchili.com Serves family-recipe Cincinnati chili, plus favorites like double-decker sandwiches and hearty breakfast items. Multiple locations. Bombay Brazier 513-794-0000, bombaybraziercincy.com The only four-star Indian restaurant in Cincinnati. Full bar and large wine selection. Reservations recommended. Brixx Wood Fired Pizza 513-486-1805, brixxpizza.com Pizzas from a wood-fired brick oven, sandwiches and craft beers. Try the new Bourbon Chicken or Cubano pizzas. Brown Dog Café* 513-794-1610, browndogcafe.com An ever-changing, eclectic menu
featuring sustainable fish, locally sourced greens, asparagus, meats and eggs. This café also makes its own pates, stocks, preserves and jams. Learn more on page 45. Cantina Laredo 513-755-2901, cantinalaredo.com A modern Mexican eatery that gives you a taste of true Mexican cooking by using fresh ingredients and preparing everything by hand. 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. Cincinnati Dinner Train 513-791-7245, cincinnatirailway.com/dinnertrain Four-course dining on restored 1950sera train cars while watching the scenery slowly pass by. Cinque Ristorante by Nicola’s 513-231-5555, cinquerestaurant.com Meaning “five” in Italian, Cinque is the fifth restaurant opened by Nicola and
Maureen Pietoso of Nicola’s Ristorante Italiano. An urban Italian bistro. Cobb Liberty Luxury 15 & Cinebistro 513-463-0470, cobbtheatres.com Movie watching on a whole new level. At Cinebistro, enjoy a chef-created dinner as you watch the show. Cock & Bull (Glendale) 513-771-4253, candbpublichouse.com Featuring award-winning fish and chips, 24 craft beers on tap and a weekend Bloody Mary bar, Cock & Bull is a place to watch the game and enjoy a brew. Multiple locations. 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. 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. Two locations.
RECENTLY RENOVATED
DRURY INN & SUITES CINCINNATI - SHARONVILLE 2265 East Sharon Road | Cincinnati, OH 45241 I-75 & Sharon Road | Exit 15
• • • • • • • •
*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
The Extras Aren’t Extra!® Free Hot Breakfast Free Hot Food & Cold Beverages at the 5:30 Kickback® Free Wifi Throughout the Hotel 24-Hour Business & Fitness Centers Indoor/Outdoor Pool with Whirlpool Microwaves & Refrigerators in Every Room
1-800-DRURYINN DruryHotels.com 86 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
SPRING/SUMMER 2017
deSha’s 513-247-9933, deshas.com Savory American entrĂŠes 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 An American steakhouse showcasing prime aged beef and seafood as well as unique dishes like its filet mignon pot stickers. 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. Emanu 513-351-7686, emanuea.com Share Ethiopian food on a common plate and break “injeraâ€? (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. Flip Side Burgers 513-777-6238, ipsideburger.com Flip Side’s burgers are made exclusively from Ohio-raised, grass-fed beef. At Liberty Center. Fond: Lunch & Deli fondlunchdeli.com Chef-inspired, locally sourced and organic lunches. The Friendly Stop 513-771-7427, friendlystop.com 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 of Cincinnati’s best burgers and much more. Draft beer, wine and full bar. Gigi’s Cupcakes* 513-985-4440, gigiscupcakesusa.com More than 100 varieties of cupcakes, cheesecake and cookies weekly. Multiple locations.
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 Ways, coneys, burritos and burrito bowls made with Cincinnati flavor. Finish your meal with a premium ice cream shake. Multiple locations. Grand Finale 513-771-5925, grandďŹ nale.info A romantic restaurant in an elegant Victorian home with decadent dishes and divine, over-the-top desserts. The Grill at the Ramada Plaza Cincinnati* 513-771-2080, ramadaplazacincy.com Upscale casual restaurant and bar open for lunch and dinner, featuring pizza, steaks, hamburgers, salads and full bar with extensive wine list. Half Day CafĂŠ 513-821-2323, halfdaycafe.org A neighborhood family operating a neighborhood restaurant. The menu at Half
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HD Beans & Brew Café 513-793-6036, hdbeans.com Spot where you can get everything from coffee to spirits and football to jazz. Free Wi-Fi and open-mic nights. 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, Ahi 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 a historic mansion that was once a casino and gangster hideout, this award-winning steakhouse oozes intimacy and character. Kona Grill 513-322-5860, konagrill.com Modern American cuisine, award-winning sushi bar, shaded patio and excellent happy hours. At Liberty Center. 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. La Petite Pierre* 513-527-4909, lapetitepierre.com La Petite Pierre is a French-inspired restaurant in downtown Madeira that has also been rated as the No. 1 and No. 2 caterer in Cincinnati for more than 25 years. Maggiano’s Little Italy* 513-794-0670, maggianos.com 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 513-737-7717, maxandermas.com Relaxed and contemporary, offering generous salads, stacked deli sandwiches, fresh pastas and delicious hand-cut 88 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
steaks. Daily seafood specials and luncheon buffet. Melting Pot 513-530-5501, meltingpot.com Melting Pot is a restaurant specializing in all things fondue. From cheese to chocolate, it serves most dishes with a dipping sauce for an interactive food experience. MVP Sports Bar & Grille 513-794-1400, mvpbarandgrille.com MVP is a family-owned sports bar, grille and live music venue, offering a family atmosphere for lunch and dinner and sports on flat-screen TVs. Northstar Café 513-759-0033, thenorthstarcafe.com Serves imaginative New American cuisine with an emphasis on organic ingredients. Also has an in-house bakery, fresh juice bar and lineup of local beers. Pappadeaux 513-671-4473, pappadeaux.com This seafood kitchen features dishes like shrimp creole and grits and Moroccan salmon and shrimp. 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. Pies & Pints 513-755-7437, piesandpints.net Unique hand-stretched pizza pies baked directly on stone hearths and a hearty selection of beers on tap. At Liberty Center and The Banks downtown. Quatman Cafe 513-731-4370, quatmancafe.com Known for its award-winning cheeseburgers and casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Also serves chili, homemade soups and cold brews. Two locations. Romano’s Macaroni Grill* 513-671-2747, macaronigrill.com Inspired by Italian trattoria cuisine, the menu features expertly handcrafted rustic dishes and Italian classics.
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. Red Squirrel 513-741-4800 Family-owned chain serving its original double-decker sandwiches using only the finest quality products. Rodizio Grill 513-777-4777, rodiziogrill.com America’s first Brazilian steakhouse restaurant known for its authentic and traditional recipes, handcrafted daily. At Liberty Center. 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. Towne Square Atrium Restaurant* 513-793-4500, crowneplaza.com/blueash Located in the Crowne Plaza Hotel of Blue Ash. Serves breakfast and lunch. Trio Bistro 513-984-1905, triobistro.com Trio’s casual dining menu offers delicious steaks, fresh seafood, specialty pizza and creative daily chef specials. 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.
The Root Beer Stand 513-769-4349, therootbeerstand.com Classic American fare and old-fashioned charm. This place signifies summertime.
Vinoklet Winery, Restaurant & Vineyard 513-385-9309, vinokletwines.com The only working winery with a vineyard in Hamilton County, with scenic rolling hills and eight award-winning labels.
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.
The Wildflower Café & Coffee House 513-492-7514, wildflowergourmetcafe.com American cuisine that is locally sourced and seasonal. Learn more on page 45. SPRING/SUMMER 2017
*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Day reflects the seasonal—and sometimes daily—availability of fresh and local ingredients.
Nightlife
Blue Ash, OH 45242
Municipal Brew Works 513-642-2424, municipalbrewworks.com A new craft brewery in Hamilton. Try the Approachable Blonde or the Courageous White IPA. Nine Giant 513-366-4550, ninegiant.com Founders of this establishment brought their dream brewpub experience to life with handcrafted brews, eats made from scratch and a token wall of blue subway tile. The Overlook Lodge 513-351-0035, thatshiningbar.com A themed bar based off of the mysterious hotel in the film The Shining. This rustic watering hole specializes in simple craft cocktails and bluegrass music. Rivertown Brewery and Barrel House 513-827-9280, rivertownbrewery.com A brewery and taproom serving handcrafted beers in the village of Lockland. New location also open in Monroe.
Hotels Free Breakfast Fitness Room Internet Restaurant Indoor Pool
Free Parking Pet Friendly Airport Transportation Business Center Room Service
Outdoor Pool Baymont Inn & Suites Sharonville 513-771-6888, baymontinns.com 10900 Crowne Point Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45241 Best Western Plus Hannaford Inn & Suites 513-936-0525, bestwestern.com 5900 E. Galbraith Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45236 The Blu Hotel* 513-530-5999, choicehotels.com/oh074 11349 Reed Hartman Hwy., Blue Ash, OH 45241 Clarion Hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Cincinnati North* 513-563-8330, choicehotels.com 3855 Hauck Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241 Comfort Inn Blue Ash* 513-791-3156, choicehotels.com 4640 Creek Rd., SPRING/SUMMER 2017
Comfort Inn Northeast 513-683-9700, choicehotels.com 9011 Fields Ertel Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45249 Comfort Suites Forest Park 513-551-5028, choicehotels.com 1234 Omniplex Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45240 Courtyard by Marriott Blue Ash* 513-733-4334, marriott.com/cvgba 4625 Lake Forest Dr., Blue Ash, OH 45242 Crossland Economy Studios Cincinnati Springdale Tri-County Mall 513-771-2457, crosslandstudios.com 11645 Chesterdale Rd., Springdale, OH 45246 Crossland Studios Cincinnati Sharonville 513-771-7829, crosslandstudios.com 11457 Chester Rd., Sharonville, OH 45246 Crowne Plaza Cincinnati Blue Ash* 513-793-4500, crowneplaza.com/blueash 5901 Pfeiffer Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45242 Days Inn & Suites Cincinnati 513-631-8500, daysinn.com 5410 Ridge Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45213 Days Inn Sharonville 513-554-1400, daysinn.com 11775 Lebanon Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241 Doubletree Suites by Hilton Cincinnati Blue Ash* 513-489-3636, cincinnatiblueashdoubletree.com 6300 E. Kemper Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241 Drury Inn & Suites Cincinnati North* 513-771-5601, druryhotels.com 2265 E. Sharon Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241
Econo Lodge Sharonville 513-771-0370, econolodge.com 11620 Chester Rd., Sharonville, OH 45246 Embassy Suites Cincinnati Northeast* 513-733-8900, embassysuitesblueash.com 4554 Lake Forest Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45242 Extended Stay America Cincinnati Blue Ash-Kenwood Road 513-469-8900, extendedstayamerica.com 11145 Kenwood Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242 Extended Stay America Cincinnati Blue Ash-Reagan Highway 513-793-6750, extendedstayamerica.com 4260 Hunt Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242 Extended Stay America Cincinnati Blue Ash-Reed Hartman 513-985-9992, extendedstayamerica.com 4630 Creek Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242 Extended Stay America Cincinnati Springdale I-275 513-671-4900, extendedstayamerica.com 320 Glensprings Dr., Springdale, OH 45246 FairďŹ eld Inn & Suites by Marriott North Sharonville* 513-842-9112, marriott.com/cvgsn 11440 Chester Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45246 Glendalia Boutique Hotel and Culinary Studio 513-376-9645, theglendalia.com 11 Village Square, Cincinnati, OH 45246 Hampton Inn Blue Ash* 513-791-2822, hamptoninn.com 4761 Creek Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45242 Hampton Inn & Suites Cincinnati Kenwood* 513-794-0700, hamptoninn.com 2000 Ronald Reagan Dr., CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 89
North Cincinnati, OH 45236 Hawthorn Suites Blue Ash* 513-733-0100, hawthorn.com 10665 Techwoods Circle, Blue Ash, OH 45242 Hawthorn Suites Cincinnati* 513-354-1000, hawthorn.com 11180 Dowlin Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45241 Hilton Garden Inn Blue Ash* 513-469-6900, cincinnatiblueash.stayhgi.com 5300 Cornell Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242 Hilton Garden Inn Cincinnati Sharonville* 513-772-2837, cincinnatisharonville.hgi.com 11149 Dowlin Dr., Sharonville, OH 45241
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Sharonville* 513-771-9080, hiexpress.com 11160 Dowlin Dr., Sharonville, OH 45241
Hyatt Place Blue Ash* 513-489-3666, blueash.place.hyatt.com 11435 Reed Hartman Hwy., Cincinnati, OH 45241
Hyatt Place Sharonville 513-771-1718, place.hyatt.com 11355 Chester Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45246 Opening May 2017
La Quinta Inn & Suites Sharonville* 513-771-0300, lq.com 11029 Dowlin Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45241
La Quinta Inn Cincinnati North 513-671-2300, lq.com 12150 Springfield Pike, Springdale, OH 45246 Livinn Hotels* 513-772-7877, livinn.com 11385 Chester Rd., Sharonville, OH 45246 Motel 6 Cincinnati Norwood 513-531-6589, motel6.com 5300 Kennedy Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45213 Quality Inn & Suites 513-825-9600, choicehotels.com 11967 Chase Plaza Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45240 Quality Inn & Suites Sharonville 513-771-9309, choicehotels.com 2463 E. Sharon Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241 Ramada Plaza Cincinnati* 513-771-2080,
*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Blue Ash* 513-985-9035, hiexpress.com
4660 Creek Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242
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ramadaplazacincy.com 11320 Chester Rd., Sharonville, OH 45246
Red Roof Inn Blue Ash 513-793-8811, redroof.com 5900 Pfeiffer Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242
Red Roof Inn Cincinnati North-Mason 513-683-3086, redroof.com 8870 Governors Hill Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45249
Red Roof Inn Sharonville 513-771-5552, redroof.com 2301 E. Sharon Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241
Residence Inn by Marriott Blue Ash* 513-530-5060, marriott.com/cvgri 11401 Reed Hartman Hwy., Cincinnati, OH 45241
Residence Inn by Marriott Sharonville* 513-771-2525, marriott.com/cvgnn
11689 Chester Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45246
12001 Chase Plaza Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45240
Rodeway Inn Sharonville 513-954-0701, choicehotels.com 3850 Hauck Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241
Super 8 Motel 513-671-0556, super8.com 330 Glensprings Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45246
Six Acres Bed and Breakfast 513-541-0873, sixacresbb.com 5350 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45224
Towneplace Suites Blue Ash* 513-469-8222, marriott.com/cvgts 4650 Cornell Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241
Sonesta ES Suites* 513-772-8888, sonesta.com 2670 E. Kemper Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241 Springdale Inn & Suites 513-825-3129 400 Glensprings Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45246
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Cincinnati North/Forest Park 513-825-9035, marriott.com/cvgfp
PIZZAS SALADS PASTAS WRAPS 24 CRAFT DRAFTS 14 WINES BY THE GLASS DAILY SPECIALS LUNCH, DINNER, & LATE NIGHT
9640 Mason Montgomery Rd brixxpizza.com
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WoodSpring Suites Cincinnati Sharonville 513-769-9500, woodspring.com 4020 Hauck Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241 Wingate by Wyndham Cincinnati Blue Ash* 513-733-1142, wingatecinci.com 4320 Glendale-Milford Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242
9640 Mason Montgomery Road â&#x20AC;¢ Mason, OH 45040
513.486.1805
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5 SPOTS Must-See
4 Loveland
1 Coney Island In addition to classic amusement rides and North America’s largest flat-surface swimming 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 live horse racing at Belterra Park Gaming & Entertainment Center on the grounds of the historic River Downs Racetrack. Visitors can also enjoy gaming and dining at one of several restaurants including Market Buffet. 513-232-8000, belterrapark.com
Milford
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 following an old railway line. Riders and walkers can take in stunning views of the Little Miami River and spot Canada geese, ducks and deer along the way. 513-293-8254, lovelandbiketrail.com
4 Loveland Castle 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 “over knights,” weddings and paranormal investigations. 513-683-4686, lovelandcastle.com
5 Jungle Jim’s Eastgate
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With more than 200,000 square feet of shopping space and 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. The flagship store is located in Fairfield. 513-674-6000, junglejims.com
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East Belterra Park Gaming & Entertainment Center 513-232-8000, belterrapark.com A unique entertainment complex featuring an expansive gaming facility and horse track on 122 acres. Learn more on page 93. Blooms & Berries Farm Market* 513-697-9173, bloomsandberries.com Open mid-April through October, the farm market offers seasonal experiences including a garden center, pick your own fruit and fresh produce. Offerings change daily. Cardboard Boat Museum 513-553-4146 Dozens of cardboard boats that have taken part in the Cardboard Boat Race on the Ohio River. Chateau Laroche Loveland Castle & Museum 513-683-4686, lovelandcastle.com Visit the world headquarters and residence of the Knights of the Golden Trail. Learn more on page 93. Cincinnati Nature Center— Rowe Woods 513-831-1711, cincynature.org Find tranquility and solace in 1,600 acres of forests, fields, streams and ponds. Coney Island* 513-232-8230, coneyislandpark.com Home to the world’s largest recirculating swimming pool, thrilling waterslides and classic amusement park rides. Learn more on pages 43, 93. East Fork State Park 513-734-4323, parks.ohiodnr.gov/eastfork One of Ohio’s largest state parks at 4,870 acres. Eastgate Brew and View* 513-947-2739, egbrewview.com Locally owned Eastgate Brew and View is a full bar and dine-in movie theater featuring more than 30 beers on tap, all brought directly to your seat. Loveland Bike Trail 513-683-0468, lovelandbiketrail.com Seventy miles of scenic paved trail along the Little Miami River. Learn more on pages 45, 93. Mariemont Theatre* 513-272-2002, mariemonttheatre.com 94 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
The historic locally owned Mariemont Theatre provides a selection of foreign, independent and mainstream films. Unique concessions, fine wine and craft beer available. Riverbend Music Center 513-232-6220, riverbend.org Popular outdoor concert venue near the Ohio River that hosts many big acts during the summer months. Scene 75 Entertainment Center* 513-965-4050, scene75.com 90,000-square-foot entertainment center featuring a full-service restaurant, two bars, indoor go-karts, laser tag, arcade, bouncing inflatables, mini golf and more. 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.
Shopping Anderson Towne Center 513-232-2075, atcstores.com Home to favorites such as Carrabba’s, Top Nails, Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt, Chico’s, Macy’s and more. Coolest Toys on Earth 513-831-8697, coolesttoysonearth.com Extraordinary toys from around the world, for all ages and all budgets. Eastgate Mall 513-752-2294, shopeastgate-mall.com Eastgate Mall houses Dillard’s, Sears, JCPenney, Kohl’s, Yankee Candle Company, H&M, Bath & Body Works and more. Eisele Gallery 513-791-7717, eiselefineart.com One of Cincinnati’s oldest and most respected fine art galleries, specializing in original paintings by noted 18th, 19th and 20th century American/European artists and recognized living artists. Jungle Jim’s International Market Eastgate* 513-674-6000, junglejims.com There are over 150,000 different exotic products to browse within this grocery store’s 200,000-plus square feet. Learn more on page 93.
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.
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. 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 Housed in a renovated farmhouse, Fifty West sells brews—Punch You in the EyePA is popular—and has an extensive menu. Across the street, Production Works is a family-friendly production facility and taproom for Fifty West with sand volleyball, TVs and 16 brews on tap. 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. Pirate’s Cove 513-871-1820, piratescovecincy.com A tropical bar and grill that overlooks the water. Offers live entertainment, fun cocktails and kid-friendly sand pits. Quarter Bistro 513-271-5400, qbcincy.com In historic Mariemont Square, Quarter Bistro offers a comfortable setting for both a night on the town or a relaxing afternoon on an enchanting patio. SPRING/SUMMER 2017
*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Things to Do
Sky Galley 513-871-7400, skygalley.net Restaurant at Lunken Airport with plenty of windows for viewing airplanes, a wide variety of menu choices and a large selection of beer. Taglio 513-321-0454, facebook.com/eattaglio A pizza, beer and wine delivery/carry out concept from the folks behind A Tavola. Tano Bistro & Catering 513-683-8266, foodbytano.com Contemporary bistro highlighting fresh ingredients with a menu that changes with the seasons. Terryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Turf Club 513-533-4222 Guy Fieri, host of the Food Networkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, came here to taste the over-the-top, awardwinning burgers at this retro-styled restaurant. The Works Brick Oven Restaurant 513-697-8408, theworkspizza.com Housed in a landmark Loveland
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building, 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 Clement and Old Abe American Ale, an American-style ale based on English beers with a dark amber color. Blank Slate Brewing Company 513-979-4540, blankslatebeer.com Fork in the Road is a favorite, but this brewery also creates selections outside the range of standard German styles. 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. The Sandbar 513-533-3810, thesandbarcincinnati.com
Outdoor cabana bar, seven volleyball courts, a large grass area for cornhole, cozy indoor bar with five flat-screen TVs and a pool table, and an awningcovered deck overlooking the marina. Streetside Brewery 513-615-5877, streetsidebrewery.com IPAs, wheats, lagers, stouts and seasonal beers all have a place on tap here, thanks to the Columbia-Tusculum residents behind the operation.
Hotels Free Breakfast
Free Parking
Fitness Room
Pet Friendly
Internet Restaurant
Airport Transportation
Indoor Pool
Business Center
Outdoor Pool
Room Service
Best Western Premier Mariemont Inn 513-271-2100, mariemontinn.com 6880 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45227
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5 SPOTS Must-See
1 Metamora Visit Indiana’s only functioning canal town, historic Metamora, and experience life as it was in the 1800s. Stop by the gristmill and pick up a bag of stone-ground flour before taking a ride in a canal boat through the only wooden aqueduct in the country. Other attractions include a gem mine, carriage rides and the Metamora Museum of Oddities. metamoraindiana.com
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With miles of hiking trails, boating, fishing, two beaches and more than 400 campsites, Brookville Lake is ideal for nature lovers. Historical bonus: traces of prehistoric Native American mounds and 450 millionyear-old Ordovician fossils can still be seen around the giant lake, which is 17 miles from north to south. 765-647-2657, brookvillelake.com
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Overlooking the Ohio River, this Italian Renaissance–style mansion and National Historic Landmark was built for industrialist and financier Thomas Gaff and his family. Check out the home’s broad overhangs, arched windows and balconies via individual or group tours, group luncheons and tea times. 812-9260087, hillforest.org
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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).
5 Miami Whitewater Forest Miami Whitewater Forest’s 4,438 acres are home to hiking and horseback riding trails, a 46-site wooded campground, shelters and picnic areas, golf and disc golf courses, the Shaker Trace Nursery and the Miami Whitewater Forest Soccer Complex. 513-3674774, greatparks.org/parks/ miami-whitewater-forest CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 97
West Belterra Casino Resort 812-427-7777, belterracasino.com An exhilarating escape, with slot machines, table games and dining and entertainment, in southeastern Indiana. Learn more on page 97. Brookville Lake 765-647-2657, brookvillelake.com Miles of hiking trails, boating, nationally known fishing and more than 400 campsites. Learn more on page 97. Cincinnati Escape Room* 513-432-4263, cincinnatiescaperoom.com Completing the escape room requires communication, teamwork and curiosity from all players. Covedale Center for the Performing Arts 513-241-6550, cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com/ccpa Regional performing arts theater in a former cinema hosting musicals, plays and events for children. Dagaz Acres 812-594-2727, dagazacres.com Outdoor zipline adventures and teambuilding leadership center in Rising Sun, Indiana. Great Parks of Hamilton County 513-521-7275, greatparks.org Inspiring nature-based experiences and education in Hamilton County. Learn more on pages 43, 82, 97. Hillforest Mansion 812-926-0087, hillforest.org A historic mansion, the former home of industrialist and financier Thomas Gaff, on 10 acres of land overlooking the Ohio River. Guided tours available. Learn more on page 97.
A Cincinnati landmark since 1958, 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, black-light miniature golf and arcades.
Great Crescent Brewing 812-655-9079, gcbeer.com 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.
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.
Henke Winery* 513-662-9463, henkewine.com Award-winning wine and eclectic American cuisine.
Whitewater Valley Railroad 765-825-2054, whitewatervalleyrr.org A 19-mile scenic railroad stretching from Connersville to Metamora, Indiana. Special events like Easter Bunny Express and The Polar Express throughout the year.
Shopping Bargains and Buyouts 513-823-4021, bargainsandbuyouts.com Closeout and liquidation retail outlet with everything for your home. Multiple locations. Dillard’s West Town Clearance Center 513-244-3489, dillards.com Dillard’s branded and private label merchandise at 50–60 percent off original prices. Multiple locations. Metamora, Indiana metamoraindiana.com A quaint town full of history and scenic beauty. Indiana’s only functioning canal town. Learn more on page 97.
Perfect North Slopes 812-537-3754, perfectnorth.com Snowboarding, skiing and tubing in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. Offers Mud-Stash races during the summer.
Dining
Strike & Spare Western Bowl 513-574-2222, westernbowl.com 98 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
Dean’s Hops and Vines 513-515-3215 A warm neighborhood bar that offers a wide selection of craft beers, unique whiskeys and finger foods.
Warsaw Federal Incline Theater 513-241-6550, cincinnatilandmark productions.com/incline New contemporary venue for plays and musicals staged by Cincinnati Landmark Productions in East Price Hill.
Hollywood Casino 888-274-6797, hollywoodindiana.com Play the slot machines and table games and enjoy fine dining and entertainment. Learn more on page 97.
Rising Star Casino Resort 812-438-1234, risingstarcasino.com Receive the star treatment at this resort and casino in Rising Sun, Indiana. Learn more on page 97.
Bloc Coffee 513-429-4548, bloccoffeecompany.com An art-filled coffee shop with seasonal beverage, breakfast and sandwich options.
Barnesburg Tavern & Grille 513-741-1200, barnesburgtavernandgrille.com American-style menu and 13 huge flatscreen TVs. BIERmarkt Taproom & Wine Cellar 513-941-2437, biermarktusa.com Local market specializing in craft, imported and specialty beer and wine. Also offers beer and wine tastings.
Hops House 99 888-274-6797, hollywoodindiana.com A selection of 99 beers, including more than 30 local and regional brews, and 31 HDTVs. Incline Public House 513-251-3000, inclinepublichouse.com A hilltop restaurant with sweeping views of downtown Cincinnati and dishes prepared in a wood-fired oven. Learn more on page 44. Kreimer’s Bier Haus 513-353-2168, bierhauswest.net Kreimer’s has served authentic German dishes for more than 30 years. Enjoy a glass of Kreimer’s own brew on its expansive outdoor patio. LaRosa’s Pizzeria 513-347-1111, larosas.com What started as a small pizzeria on the Westside is now a go-to for pizza night, serving pizza, pasta, calzones and hoagies. Multiple locations. Learn more on page 18. 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 The oldest steakhouse on the Westside of Cincinnati. Low lights, deep reds and dark woods evoke the feeling of a bygone era. Nick & Tom’s Restaurant & Bar 513-574-4242, nickandtoms.com SPRING/SUMMER 2017
*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Things to Do
Enjoy a casual roadhouse atmosphere at this local favorite.
noodle dishes. Also has a sushi bar. Two locations.
Price Hill Chili 513-471-9507, pricehillchili.com A family-owned-and-operated restaurant that has become a Cincinnati legend. Serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks.
Third and Main 812-655-9727, thirdandmain.com Family-owned restaurant and tavern with a beautiful, historic atmosphere. Known for its locally-sourced food and mouth-watering burgers.
Primavista* 513-251-6467, pvista.com Romantic Italian restaurant with beautiful views and classic fare, from pasta e fagioli to carpaccio.
Veracruz Mexican Grill 513-244-1757 This little Mexican grill offers authentic ingredients and generous portions.
Putz’s Creamy Whip 513-681-8668, putzscreamywhip.com This family-owned establishment has been serving up tasty treats every summer since 1938. Somm Wine Bar 513-244-5843, sommwinebarcincinnati.com Choose from more than 80 selections of wine and have a bite to eat at this laid-back wine bar, which has a large patio with a fountain and fire pits. Thai Taste Cuisine and Sushi Bar 513-421-6151, thaitastecincinnati.com Hidden gem specializing in authentic Thai cuisine, including Thai curries and
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Whisky’s Restaurant 812-537-4239 Laid-back, family-style restaurant in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, serving ribs, surf ‘n’ turf and pasta.
Hotels Free Breakfast Fitness Room Internet Restaurant Indoor Pool Outdoor Pool
Free Parking Pet Friendly Airport Transportation Business Center Room Service
Best Western Plus Whitewater Inn 513-845-4970, bestwestern.com 391 Comfort Dr., Harrison, OH 45030 Holiday Inn Express Cincinnati West 513-574-6000, hiecincinnatihotel.com 5505 Rybolt Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45248
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.
Holiday Inn Express Harrison 513-367-1111, hiexpress.com 10906 New Haven Rd., Harrison, OH 45030
Wing Stop 513-481-9464 (Glenway location), wingstop.com Fresh wings with a variety of sauces, from mango habanero to Louisiana rub to garlic parmesan. Multiple locations.
Super 8 Harrison* 513-367-5200, super8.com 10900 New Haven Rd., Harrison, OH 45030
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Sightseeing & Tours Discover what’s unique around the region. Scotts Ballpark Tours at Great American Ball Park BB Riverboats
TOURS ON WHEELS
AFK Geocaching*
Chainging Gears
513-235-2436, AFKgeocaching.com Explore art, history and culture through geocaching. Geocaching is an anywhere, anytime scavenger hunt that uses your smartphone to find hidden containers at selected locations.
513-428-2453, chainginggears.com From arts and crafts to a picnic in the park, Chainging Gears has a bike tour for everyone.
American Legacy Tours* 859-951-8560, americanlegacytours.com Tours exploring many aspects of Cincinnati’s and Northern Kentucky’s heritage, like the Queen City Underground Tour and the Newport Gangster Tour.
ArtWorks Mural Tours 513-333-0388, artworkscincinnati.org/muraltours Traverse Cincinnati through the artist’s eyes; stroll through downtown to experience the towering murals and how they came to be. Learn more on page 29.
Betts Longworth Historic District (BLHD) Walking Tours 513-651-0734, thebettshouse.org Relish the unique architecture and history of the Longworth neighborhood, which has stood for more than 200 years.
Beyond the Bricks 513-744-3293, spmhcincinnati.org Learn about the history behind the architecture, design and construction of historic Music Hall on an outdoor tour.
Mt. Adams Walks 513-235-3957, mtadamstoday.com Learn about historic sites in Mt. Adams through this guided walking tour.
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Cincinnati Bike Center 513-282-4260, bikeandpark.com/city/cincinnati Queen City and riverfront bike tours offered. Segway tours for sightseeing on the riverfront.
Cycling Backroads 513-279-2452, cyclingbackroads.com Tours on two wheels are available at the Spring Grove Cemetery to see park settings and plant species, or Overthe-Rhine to see why this urban district is one of Cincinnati’s most popular destinations.
Elegant Carriage 937-903-5156, elegantcarriage.com Horse-drawn carriage rides in downtown Cincinnati, Newport and Covington.
Pedego Cincinnati 513-206-8891, pedegoelectricbikes.com Pedego sells, rents and provides electric bikes for guided tours of Cincinnati. Leave a smaller carbon footprint and get there faster.
The Garage OTR*
TOURS BY AIR Bella Balloons Hot Air Balloon Rides* 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 required.
Flamingo Air Sightseeing Tours 513-321-7465, flamingoair.net Soar over the river region of Cincinnati USA and experience the skyline from an airplane.
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.
Stratus Helicopters 513-533-4354, stratushelicopters.com Get a birds-eye view of the city with scenic helicopter tours of Cincinnati.
513-225-1583, thegarageotr.com Segway tours of downtown Cincinnati, the riverfront and Eden Park on a Segway Personal Transporter.
Wheel Fun Rentals 513-658-4161, wheelfunrentals.com Offering a unique variety of two-, threeand four-wheel bikes. Self-guided bike tours of the riverfront and downtown Cincinnati.
SPRING/SUMMER 2017
PHOTOGRAPHS (LEFT TO RIGHT) COURTESY CINCINNATIUSA.COM; COURTESY THE CINCINNATI REDS; BY J. MILES WOLF; BY GARY KESSLER
WALKING TOURS
ArtWorks Mural Tours
The Garage OTR Cincy Brew Bus*
TOURS BY SEA
TOUR PROFESSIONAL SPORTS VENUES
BB Riverboats* 859-261-8500, bbriverboats.com Lunch, dinner, sightseeing and specialty cruises (for adults and kids) aboard an authentic riverboat. Learn more on pages 49, 71.
Queen City Riverboats and Destiny Yacht 859-292-8687, queencityriverboats.com Custom cruises for groups from 30 to 325; sightseeing, lunch, dinner, appetizer and cocktail cruises.
Scotts Ballpark Tours at Great American Ball Park* 513-765-7923, redsmuseum.org Get a behind-the-scenes look at the home of the Cincinnati Reds. Includes admission to Reds Hall of Fame & Museum.
Paul Brown Stadium Tour* 513-455-4805, bengals.com Come see the home of the Cincinnati Bengals! Reservation required.
513-258-7909, cincybrewbus.com Cincinnati’s original and premier craft brewery taproom tasting tours. Private and public tours available. Experience the tristate’s brewing renaissance. Also offers a bourbon bus and wine wagon.
Craft Connection Brewery Tours* 937-367-8054, craftconnectiontours.com Using the Hop On tour bus, you will visit your choice of three or four local craft breweries in Cincinnati. Transportation, tours and tastings are all included in pricing.
Night Shift Limousine 513-658-5466, nightshiftlimousine.com Limousine service and guide to all that is unique in Cincinnati USA. Wineries, distilleries, microbreweries; standard or custom tours. Offers a tour of the Northern Kentucky Wine Trail.
Pedal Wagon*
STEP-ON GUIDES
*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
Accent on Cincinnati* 513-721-8687, accentcinti.com Destination management services include sightseeing tours, event decor, entertainment and coordination, airport meet and greet and citywide shuttle management.
Cincinnati Heritage Programs Tours 513-287-7031, cincymuseum.org/ programs/heritage Offers historical, cultural and architectural tours around Greater Cincinnati.
See the Sights of Cincy & NKY 859-384-4010, seethesights.net Fully experienced step-on guides for groups and the motor-coach market covering 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, history and haunted places. SPRING/SUMMER 2017
FOOD & BEVERAGE TOURS
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 cruises.
Riverside Food Tours
513-604-9812, cincinnatibrewerytours.com Tours of Cincinnati’s rich brewing heritage, both above and below the ground.
859-289-0035, riversidefoodtours.com Choose from various tours including the Street Car Food Tour and MainStrasse Village Food Tour. Immerse yourself into the food and culture of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
Cincinnati Food Tours
Urban Adventures
Cincinnati Brewery Tours
513-602-5602, cincinnatifoodtours.com Escorted walking tour of Findlay Market or its neighborhood of Over-theRhine, or Walnut Hills. Streetcar tours are now available too. Sample small bites at each stop.
513-612-8755, urbanadventures.com The Porkopolis BBQ & Brew tour shares the Cincinnati staples, beer and barbeque. Choose from other tours, Cincy Uncorked and The Nati in a Nutshell.
For more information and a complete list of tours, visit CincinnatiUSA.com CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 101
Getting Around So many ways to see the sights!
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.
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. Learn more in “Cross That Bridge” on page 16.
Ì Explore an entire urban neighborhood or entertainment district by foot. Each one—including Over-the-Rhine, 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. Learn more in “Neighborhood Spotlight” on page 14. 102 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
WAYS TO RIDE Ì Cincinnati Bell Connector. Running up to 18 hours a day and 365 days a year, the streetcar operates on a 3.6 mile loop from The Banks and up to the brewery district in Over-the-Rhine. Learn more on page 47. $1/two hours, $2/day pass. 513-621-4455, cincinnatibellconnector.com
Ì Southbank Shuttle. 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. Learn more on page 47. 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. Elite Taxi, 859-630-6948; Towne Taxi, 513-761-7700
Ì Metro. Offers nearly 50 local service routes throughout Greater Cincinnati starting at $1.75 per ride. 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–$2 per ride. 859-331-8265, tankbus.org
WAYS TO BIKE Ì Cincy Red Bike. More than 50 stations are located downtown, uptown and in Northern Kentucky to conveniently rent your ride. An $8 day pass offers unlimited 60-minute rides. Learn more on pages 45, 47. cincyredbike.org
SPRING/SUMMER 2017
PHOTOGRAPHS (LEFT TO RIGHT) COURTESY CINCINNATI USA CVB; BY RICK LOHRE
WAYS TO WALK
PACKAGES AND OFFERS Ã&#x152; Book, Save, Enjoy! Find exclusive hotel packages
and discounted offers at CincinnatiUSA.com.
SPRING/SUMMER 2017
CINCINNATIUSA.COM \\\ 103
20
To Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Ohio
58
28
Over-the-Rhine
16
39 38 64
1
33 JACK Cincinnati Casino
27 To 32 T En 55 o IK terT
To EA RA IN To Sha m Am ron en tJ er vill un ica e C cti n S on on ign ve M ntio us eu n Ce m nt er
29
15 50
Mount
57 19
Downtown
3 22 Aronoff Center
for the Arts
25 30 60 10
59
Taft Theatre 37
54
National Underground R ailroad Freedom Center
41
31 4
18
Great American Ball Park Home of the Reds
ll Wa ne nti rpe Se
63
47
Cincinnati
To Indiana 48 Perfect North Slopes 12 Casinos
Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum
Carol Annâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Carousel
40
BB Riverboats 5 Row oat erb Riv
Newport Aquarium
Newport on the Levee 44
43
53 52
65 Newpor World Peace Bell
17
To Behringer-Crawford Museum
45
Northern Kentucky Convention Center
Covington
Newport
To Ark Encounter To Creation Museum To Kentucky Speedway To Turfway Park
8
24
MainStrasse
104 /// OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
2 23 34 62
*= Member of the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitors Bureau
56
11 The 13 Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption
Carnegie
SPRING/SUMMER 2017
To T he To Be Kin gs Is ach lan d
7
35
Cincinnati USA Regional Map 9
Cincinnati USA Visitor Center
ark 21 aP d err lan elt ey Is d51 B To Con ben er To iver ent R C To usic M
36 14 26
1. American Sign Museum 2. Ark Encounter 3. Aronoff Center for the Arts
49
4. The Banks 5. BB Riverboats 6. BB&T Arena 7. The Beach Waterpark 8. Behringer-Crawford Museum 9. Belterra Park Gaming and Entertainment Center
Adams 61
43. Newport Aquarium 44. Newport on the Levee
48. Perfect North Slopes
18. Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame & Museum
49. Playhouse in the Park 50. Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County 51. Riverbend Music Center 52. Riverwalk Statues 53. Roebling Murals 54. Sawyer Point & Yeatman’s Cove 55. Sharonville Convention Center 56. Smale Riverfront Park
20. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
57. St. Peter in Chains Cathedral
21. Coney Island
58. Taft Historic Site
22. Contemporary Arts Center
59. Taft Museum of Art
To a en Ar &T BB
24. Devou Park 25. Duke Energy Convention Center
60. Taft Theatre 61. Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park 62. Turfway Park
26. Eden Park
63. U.S. Bank Arena
27. EnterTRAINment Junction
64. Washington Park 65. World Peace Bell
29. Fire Museum of Greater Cincinnati 30. Fountain Square 31. Great American Ball Park 32. IKEA 33. Jack Cincinnati Casino
SPRING / SUMMER 2016
42. New Riff Distilling
47. Paul Brown Stadium
23. Creation Museum
Cincinnati Streetcar Southbank Shuttle Pedestrian-friendly
41. National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
13. Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption
28. Findlay Market
Parking Garages Parking Lots 66 Points of Interest
40. National Steamboat Monument
46. Party Source
19. Cincinnati Shakespeare Company
Kentucky
39. Music Hall
12. Casinos (Indiana)
17. Cincinnati/ Northern Kentucky International Airport
6
38. Memorial Hall
11. The Carnegie
16. Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
Bellevue
37. Lytle Park
45. Northern Kentucky Convention Center
15. Cincinnati City Hall
46
36. Krohn Conservatory
10. Carew Tower
14. Cincinnati Art Museum
New Riff Distilling 42
35. Kings Island
34. Kentucky Speedway
Visit CincinnatiUSA.com/maps to find printable maps for the entire Cincinnati USA region.
CINCINNATIUSA.COM
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LOV E C I N CY. Downtown Cincy will never be the same. One visit and neither will you.
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