Cincy Visitors Guide 2022 by greatlakespublishing

OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE

WHERE

CULTURE REIGNS Find artsy inspiration 43

Follow The B-Line 32

FIND YOUR WAY

GreatMiamiRiverway.com

Sidney Visito Photos court esy of

The Great Miami Riverway includes more than 99 miles of river, paved trails and connected communities. Surf or paddle the river. Cycle the bike trail. Find your way through historic downtowns filled with local shops, award-winning restaurants, and some of the most unique experiences in the nation.

r’s Bureau

OHIO’S ONLY NATIONAL WATER TRAIL NATION’S LARGEST PAVED TRAIL NETWORK BIRTHPLACE OF AVIATION

OUR CULTURE. YOUR CINCY. It’s a region full of extraordinarily diverse and deep cultural assets — the more vibrant, passionate and unique the better. In Cincy, cultures collide, creating experiences that are wildly different yet easily accessible around every corner and over every hill. When it all comes together, you get an irresistible collection of ideas, experiences and peoples. That’s who we are. That’s what we elevate, prioritize and immortalize.

THAT’S ON THE COVER

CULTURE

Official 2022 Cincy Region Visitors Guide. Copyright © 2022 by Visit Cincy and meetNKY. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means without permission of Visit Cincy and meetNKY. All rights reserved. Visit Cincy, meetNKY and the publisher are not responsible for errors or omissions. All information is subject to change.

525 Vine St., Ste. 1200, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 800-543-2613, visitcincy.com CINCY REGION

Navigate the Cincy region with these handy maps and transportation tips.

8 BE A PART OF CINCY’S STORY Find the best spots to snap an Insta-worthy photo and share your adventures.

10 THIS IS CINCY CULTURE

Cincinnati Skyline: Colin Peterman, Armstrong Mural: J. Miles Wolf, Smoke Justis: Matthew Allen. THIS PAGE: Nada: Louis Armstrong

Visit Cincy

6 FIND YOUR WAY

meetNKY 50 E. RiverCenter Blvd., Ste. 200, Covington, KY 41011 877-NKY-VISIT (659-8474), meetnky.com 1

o matter how you define yourself, N find a signature Cincy experience that suits your personality.

18 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Keep up with what’s happening in Cincy all year long.

64 SLEEP TIGHT

urn inspiration into plans using these T helpful lodging and travel resources. 2022

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22 MUSIC CULTURE

Whether it’s cultivating legendary musicians or hosting unforgettable live shows and events, Cincy makes its own kind of music. 22 Where Live Music Reigns

Beer? Check. Bourbon? Yep. Chili? You bet. Restaurants to die for? So many. Savor the irresistible flavors that define Cincy’s food and drink scene. Where Foodie Culture Reigns All Hopped Up Where Will the Night Take You? For the Love of Bourbon Sugar, Spice and Everything Chili

27 CINCY REGION

With us, against us? It doesn’t matter. We’re all fans here. Whether on the field or off, get in touch with your competitive side in Cincy. 36 Root for the Home Team

38 CREATIVE CULTURE

26 FOOD AND DRINK CULTURE

26 28 31 32 34

36 SPORTS CULTURE

Life’s a little more colorful here, with inspiration found everywhere from one-of-a-kind local galleries to world-class museums. 38 Ask Cincy Artists 40 If … then, Cincy Style 42 City of Color

45 OUTDOOR CULTURE

Nestled near the foothills of Appalachia along the Ohio River, the Cincinnati region has an all-access pass to Mother Nature’s best assets. 45 Flow Through the Seasons 48 Call of the Wild 50 Cruise, Ride, Pedal, Paddle, Zip

52 HISTORY CULTURE

Resilient communities, iconic architecture, pre-prohibition breweries — Cincy’s roots run deep and offer opportunities for learning and growth. 52 The Stories that Shape Us

56 COMMUNITY CULTURE

Get to know the people and places that make up Cincy’s diverse community — each with their own story to tell. 56 59 60 62

Welcome to the Neighborhood Crowning Locals Support Minority-Owned Businesses Celebrate Community 2022

History, science and more. All under one roof. Your next great discovery awaits.

cincymuseum.org

Inspiring a more equitable future.

freedomcenter.org

Take the same steps Holocaust survivors took to rebuild their lives in Cincinnati. Visit historic Union Terminal to explore the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center, Ohio’s award-winning Holocaust museum.

www.holocaustandhumanity.org

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While you’re here, stop in the Cincy Visitor Center on Fountain Square for resources to help you make the most of your time in Cincy.

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Thanks to a plethora of ways to get around, it’s easier to explore the Queen City than ever before. Grab lunch with a friend at Fountain Square, take a ride along the riverfront, shop at Findlay Market, catch a Reds game — the possibilities are endless.

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Download the Transit app to ride Metro buses, TANK (Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky) and the Cincinnati Bell Connector — a free electric streetcar connecting Cincy’s most popular destinations on a 3.6-mile loop. With their zeroemission electric vehicles, GEST and Oggo offer an eco-friendly way to navigate downtown Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky at night. Just download the app, wait for your driver and ride for free!

For a bit more adventure, hop on a Bird or Lime scooter or rent a Red Bike to explore Cincinnati on two wheels. For a guided experience, check out a Segway tour from The Garage in OTR or book a walking tour from a local company such as American Legacy Tours or Mainstrasse Village Food Tour.

2022

SUMMIT PARK @theoffmarket

CINCINNATI ART MUSEUM @sutherland_photography

HILTON CINCINNATI AIRPORT

21C MUSEUM HOTEL CINCINNATI

CINCINNATI MUSIC HALL

@hiltoncincinnatiairport

@thecheerfulcow

@mysokol

SMALE RIVERFRONT PARK @wanderinginsolitude

OKTOBERFEST ZINZINNATI

STATE LINE PURPLE PEOPLE BRIDGE

@shaemphoto

@cincyshark79

GRAETER’S

AMERICAN SIGN MUSEUM

@jcleedy

@mack.models

BE A PART OF CINCY’S STORY #visitcincy #visitNKY CINCY REGION

2022

NEWPORT ON THE LEVEE @newportonthelevee

AULT PARK @milyushas

FINDLAY MARKET @at_home_in_otr

STATE LINE @girlaboutohio

THREE SPIRITS TAVERN @threespiritstavern

Katalina’s in Columbus @foodsofjane, Lake Alma State Park in Wellston @ohiojourneys, Circleville Pumpkin Show in Circleville @sarah_startmiller, Shawnee State Park Lodge in Portsmouth @dave_dotson, Rennick Meat Market in Ashtabula @ohio_wine_country SECOND ROW: A.W. Marion State Park in Circleville , and the Cincy region offers plenty ofCounty picture-perfect @mark.funkhouser, Ohio State Fair in Columbus @_snapshawt_ , Toledo Zoo & Aquarium in Toledo @alexa_sheree.m THIRD ROW: Holmes @behetler, Otherworld Tickle in Columbus Meltin BarSmale and Grilled in LakewoodPark @b.kulkin, Railroad Brewing Company in AvonPeople @keg_and_camera scenery. the@hollyhobby_photography, oversized piano keys Riverfront before crossing the Purple Bridge FOURTH into ROW: Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park in Hamilton @1sharpanna, Ohio Renaissance Festival in Harveysburg @katibestphotos, Winterfest at Kings Island in Mason @singcinnati FIRST ROW:

THERE’S NO BETTER WAY TO PRESERVE A MEMORY THAN WITH A PHOTO

Northern Kentucky, where you can explore Covington’s charming Old-World vibe and The B-Line bourbon trail. Other Instagram-worthy backdrops include Cincy’s underground brewery tours; Bellevue Park, Devou Park and the city’s rooftop bar scene for stunning skyline views; and funky street art murals in the Over-the-Rhine (OTR) district. Strike a pose against the centerpiece of Fountain Square or Art Deco landmarks like Union Terminal and the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza; scale the Art Climb staircase at the handsome Cincinnati Art Museum; and conclude your photo safari with Fiona the hippo at the Cincinnati Zoo and a steaming bowl of classic Cincinnati-style chili. Don’t forget to tag #VisitCincy or #VisitNKY when posting! CINCY REGION

2022

THIS IS CULTURE BY MADELINE ANDERSON

spanning across Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. With so many different neighborhoods, people and institutions, it’s a city of many personalities. Choose your own Cincinnati adventure. CINCY REGION

BLINK: ARAM BOGHOSIAN, UNION TERMINAL, CONEY ISLAND: MATTHEW ALLEN, ARK ENCOUNTER: ARK ENCOUNTER

Welcome to Cincy — a region of rich, diverse history

2022

CURIOUS Discover dinosaur bones, a historic Cincinnati street and hands-on fun for kids all in one place — the breathtaking Union Terminal of the Cincinnati Museum Center (ABOVE). This Art Deco train station-turned-museum is an epicenter of learning that houses a number of opportunities to broaden your mind: the Cincinnati History Museum, Museum of Natural History & Science, Holocaust & Humanity Center, The Children’s Museum and the Robert D. Lindner Family OMNIMAX® Theater. A recent expansive renovation will also make way for all-new permanent and rotating exhibitions.

ADVENTUROUS

Coney Island (ABOVE) has been a Queen City staple since 1886. Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, this icon now operates as a water park for all ages. Slide down the Silver Bullet waterslide into Sunlite Pool or adventure into the floating obstacle course, splash ground, dive pool, paddle boats, mini-golf and more, turning moments into memories all summer long. Kings Island, a cultural icon of the Midwest, has been racking up world records since its founding in 1972. From famous wooden roller coaster The Beast and brand-new “giga coaster” Orion to kid-friendly Planet Snoopy and water park Soak City, Kings Island is still serving up thrills to visitors from around the globe. Keep an eye out for special events throughout the year to celebrate the theme park’s 50th anniversary!

BY THE NUMBERS

Inclusion Matters

Find a different perspective a short drive away in Kentucky at the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter (ABOVE). These sister museums breathe life into the Bible story. Discover the culture and life of people in Jesus’ time and explore the zoo, zip lines, playgrounds, planetarium and botanical gardens. At Ark Encounter, learn about the flood in Noah’s time and step inside the great ship itself — the largest timber-frame structure in the world!

CINCY REGION

As a kid-centered place to explore, the Cincinnati Museum Center (CMC) offers “quiet zones” to soothe children, equipped with weighted blankets, earmuffs, fidget toys, first aid and more. Caregivers enter free, and those with SNAP or Medicaid receive reduced admission. At the CMC, the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter, closed captions are available for films and exhibits, as well as a variety of physical accessibility features, stroller and wheelchair rentals and ASL interpreters.

Coney Island:

150

Kings Island:

+ FEET OF OBSTACLES

1 OF 7 GIGA COASTERS ORION: IN THE WORLD: 300-FOOT DROP, 5,321 FEET OF TRACK,

73 INTERACTIVE WATER PLAY STATIONS

THE BEAST: THE LONGEST WOODEN ROLLER COASTER IN

GALLONS OF CASCADING WATER FROM A 33-FOOT TOWER

1,300

70-FOOT CYCLONE WATERSLIDE 1

SUNLITE POOL, NORTH AMERICA’S LARGEST RECIRCULATING POOL 11

SPEEDS UP TO 91 MPH

THE WORLD: 110 FEET TALL, 8 BANKED TURNS, 7,359 FEET OF TRACK, SPEEDS UP TO 65 MPH

WATER SLIDES

2 WAVE POOLS

2022

Newport on the Levee is a total entertainment destination for everyone, from catching a movie at AMC Theatres to grabbing dinner at one of several restaurants to watching the jellyfish at Newport Aquarium. Now after a major renovation, visit even more spots like TRADE, a revolving artisan shopping market, or Bridgeview Box Park, an outdoor taproom and bar area with spectacular city views. Hop across the river to the heart of downtown at Fountain Square (ABOVE), a district featuring some of Cincinnati’s best restaurants. Live music and food trucks are also scheduled throughout the week. A few blocks north in the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood is Findlay Market (RIGHT), Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market. This colorful block is a bustling center of fresh, locally sourced foods with over 50 merchants. CINCY REGION

FOUNTAIN SQUARE: LOUIS RIDEOUT, FINDLAY MARKET: CULT MARKETING, NATIONAL UNDERGROUND RAILROAD FREEDOM CENTER: JENNIE KAY, GRAETER’S ICE CREAM: GRAETER’S ICE CREAM, KATIE BRAMELL: LEIGH TAYLOR, QUEEN CITY SIGN: LAURA WATILO BLAKE, KROHN CONSERVATORY: @ABBEYELIZABETHFORD

TRENDSETTING

2022

READY

CAMERA

Nestled in the hilltop area of Eden Park is Krohn Conservatory (TOP LEFT), a botanical oasis to wander through orchids, cactuses, palm trees and more in each of its six houses and galleries. Snap a photo in front of the Palm House’s indoor waterfall or among many seasonal rotating exhibits in the Floral Show Room.

Snap a Selfie

Capture your best side in front of the “Sing the Queen City” sign (BOTTOM LEFT) in the Banks Entertainment District, then walk across the state line on the Purple People Bridge to find breathtaking views of the Cincy skyline.

PASSIONATE

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (ABOVE) reminds visitors of those stories of courage, cooperation and perseverance. Reflect on more than three centuries of slavery and abolition through the present in permanent and rotating exhibits, and learn from your biases at the Open Your Mind learning lab.

Three Must-Have Souvenirs

Step into Cincy-famous Graeter’s Ice Cream at Fountain Square to build your own pint gift pack and ship it anywhere in the country. At the Levee, pick up store-made buckeyes at Sweet Dreams Candy Company. Colonel De Gourmet Herbs & Spices, a Findlay Market staple, features the Cincy Pride Sampler with a custom spice blend for Cincinnati-style chili! CINCY REGION

What does the Freedom Center mean to the community?

Our goal is to be a safe space to come and learn about these really difficult and, at times, uncomfortable topics. We are an education center first and then a museum.

What are some notable exhibits or experiences at the Freedom Center?

INSIDE LOOK

WITH DIRECTOR OF MUSEUM EXPERIENCES KATIE BRAMELL 13

Our “From Slavery to Freedom” exhibit sets up the timeline for U.S. history and helps visitors understand what the past looks like, and how we can have conversations about why we’re still facing these issues of injustice today. And, of course, our implicit bias learning lab.

How does the Freedom Center contribute to the culture in Cincinnati? We contribute a great deal to Cincinnati’s conscience. This rich history has always been here — this heart of abolition, fighting for things that we believe are right, harboring people in safe houses, and fighting against slavery. That is Cincinnati. We reflect that voice.

2022

CREATIVE

With 20,000 square feet and over 100 years of American signage, the American Sign Museum (PICTURED) is one of a kind. See early painted signs, gold leaf signs or the neon signs of “Main Street.” The past is present at Neonworks of Cincinnati, a full-time neon workshop inside the museum where you can watch tube-benders shape their craft.

INSIDE LOOK WITH FOUNDER TOD SWORMSTEDT Why do you love signage and its history?

I’ve always been interested in history. My family even published a magazine of sign history called Sign of the Times going back to May 1906. I’m also into collecting, so put those things together and you end up with the Sign Museum.

CINCY REGION

What are your favorite pieces in the museum?

As I get more signs, my favorites change. But I typically like the early lightbulb period — 1900 to the late ’20s. I also like the funkier, midcentury modern stuff and gold leaf glass signs!

PROUD You’ve seen baseball pennants before, but have you ever wondered where they came from? Learn answers to this and more at the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum (BELOW), a center dedicated to the history and preservation of America’s oldest professional baseball team. Discover the “First Nine,” broadcasting, Reds all-stars and much more.

DARING

AMERICAN SIGN MUSEUM: LAURA WATILO BLAKE, TOD SWORMSTEDT: LIZ DUFOUR, REDS HALL OF FAME: CINCINNATI REDS HALL OF FAME, BELTERRA PARK: BELTERRA PARK, HARD ROCK CASINO: HARD ROCK CASINO

Kick off your Vegas-inspired weekend in the heart of downtown at Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati. The casino’s 2021 grand re-opening features 100,000 square feet of action-packed games, restaurants and live music. Next, head over to Belterra Park (ABOVE) to play the slots on the gaming terrace overlooking the historic River Downs Racetrack. The racing spirit continues across the river in its Kentucky birthplace. Newport Racing & Gaming features the latest slot games as well as a simulcast wagering area to catch horse racing in action from all over the country. Don’t miss this summer’s grand re-opening of another Kentucky favorite, Turfway Park Racing & Gaming. Its brand-new renovations feature over 1,300 historical racing games, a members’ clubhouse, simulcast wagering area, event center, live entertainment and live racing.

I think the sign museum certainly fits Cincinnati as a sincerely unique asset. When you go to the museum, it’s obviously the history of signs, but it’s also the history of America as told through the history of signs. It’s a fun way to tour American history. CINCY REGION

Make any baseball fanatic’s dreams come true with a Great American Ball Park Tour. Highlights include Crosley Terrace, the Press Box, Bally Sports Club, Lexus Diamond Club and visitor/home dugouts. Schedule a tour for your school group or private event.

Snack Bar

How do you believe the American Sign Museum contributes to Cincinnati culture?

Field of Dreams

A night out means a VIP experience at Belterra’s Chef’s Table or Club 38 restaurants. For casual and classic, the sports bars at Turfway, Newport Racing & Gaming and Belterra — as well as the Hard Rock Café (PICTURED) at Hard Rock Casino — offer that hitsthe-spot burger you’ve been craving. Find plenty more dining options from around the world at Hard Rock Casino. 2022

Join In

NEWPORT AQUARIUM: NEWPORT AQUARIUM, CINCINNATI ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDEN: LISA HUBBARD

At the Newport Aquarium (ABOVE AND BELOW), creatures of the sea don’t just live behind glass. Touch the textures of sea urchins and feel the fins of stingrays and even sharks! Behind-the-scenes experiences at the Cincinnati Zoo provide opportunities to meet giraffes, penguins, wallabies, elephants, red pandas, kangaroos and hippos. There’s also a virtual option: invite an animal ambassador to your next online meeting!

OUTGOING

Dive into a million gallons of water at the Newport Aquarium to find aquatic creatures, penguins and rare white alligators. At one of the aquarium’s newer exhibits, Shipwreck: Realm of the Eels, you’ll discover how a sunken ship becomes a colorful reef with eels, fish and hundreds of other creatures. Expand your animal exploration at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, one of the top zoos in America for setting the standard of conservation, education and preservation. Travel around the world to see over 3,000 plant species and meet 500 species of new animal friends — including the zoo’s most famous resident, Fiona the hippo (ABOVE)! CINCY REGION

2022

Train Journey

● Neil Young’s Lionel Layout ● American Railroad Museum: ● Largest Collection of Marbles/Games World’s Largest Model Train Display ● Kid’s Outdoor Train Rides: ( Seasonally ) ● A Charming 1930’s Café 25,000 Sq. Ft. Traveling Through 3 Distinct Periods of Time ● Miniature Replica of Coney Island ● Junction Hobbies/Toys plus ● Imagination Junction

I-75 Exit 22, Just Off Tylersvill e Rd

AMERICA’S MOST AMAZING FAMILY ATTRACTION! ● “Certificate of Excellence” - Trip Advisor ● “Travel Gem” AAA

● “Standout in Ohio Tourism” - Ohio Traveler ● “Best Family Fun Day” - Best of Ohio

7379 Squire Court Cincinnati, OH 45 069 20 Minutes North of Cincinnati 20 Minutes South of Dayton 12 Minutes West of Kings Island

Phone Numbe (513) 89 8– 80 00 r

Website

EnterTRA INmentJun ctio

A-Maze-N Funhouse Greatest Fun House On Earth

Marble Museum

● Clown College With Tilt Room and Ames Room ● Mirror Maze ● Curtain Chaos

n.com

● Crazy Caper ● Outer Limits With Vortex Tunnel and Claustrophobic Hall ● Miniature Circus

● The Largest, Most Comprehensive Marble Collection in the U.S.A.

PNC Festival of Lights PRIDE Month

Cincinnati Music Festival Cincinnati Restaurant Week

CALENDAR OF

EVENTS

Riverfest

BY AMY LYNCH

CINCY REGION

2022

Ohio Renaissance Festival

No matter the time of year, Cincinnati knows how to throw a great party. Don’t miss a second of the fun in 2022 — mark your calendar now to attend these signature events. MAY 1

Flying Pig Marathon

A few days of quirky pre-game events build up to the Flying Pig Marathon.

Asian Food Fest

MAY 7–8

Experience Asian cultures and customs like never before through the delicious flavors of the region.

MAY 28–30 CINCINNATI MUSIC FESTIVAL: VISIT CINCY, PNC FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS: LISA HUBBARD, CINCINNATI RESTAURANT WEEK: HAILEY BOLLINGER, PRIDE MONTH: LOUIS RIDEOUT, RIVERFEST: AMANDA DAVIDSON, OHIO RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL: OHIO RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL, OHIO RIVER PADDLEFEST: RAINER ZHIEM

African Food Festival

From sambusa to koshari, take a tour of the delicious and diverse flavors of Africa at the inaugural African Food Festival.

Cincinnati Music Festival

The Cincinnati Music Festival electrifies the riverfront with smooth soul, R&B and hip-hop.

JULY 28–AUG. 7

Glier’s Goettafest

Taste traditional sausage made with steel-cut oats — a regional delicacy — at Glier’s Goettafest.

40 Days & Nights of Gospel Music AUG. 2–SEPT. 10

Take part in the world’s largest Christian music festival featuring over 120 praise-and-worship concerts at the Ark Encounter.

CINCY REGION

Black Family Reunion

MID AUG.

The Black Family Reunion draws crowds to celebrate Black culture with food, music, vendors and community.

SEPT. 3–OCT. 30 Ohio Renaissance Festival

PRIDE Month

Summerfair

JULY 21–23

Tennis, anyone? The nation’s oldest pro tennis tournament has been a Cincy fixture for more than a century.

A beloved local tradition, Riverfest culminates with a huge fireworks display on Labor Day weekend.

Summerfair magnifies Cincinnati’s fine arts community through scholarships, awards and exhibitions.

JUNE 12

Western & Southern Cincinnati Open AUG. 13–21

Taste of Cincinnati

Say it loud! PRIDE rolls into town to celebrate Cincy’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community.

JUNE 3–5

Ohio River Paddlefest

Don your best costume and turn back the clock to experience 16th century England through games, food and lively entertainment.

Sample the best food and drink the region has to offer at Taste of Cincinnati.

JUNE 1–30

AUG. 6

The Ohio River Paddlefest keeps water-based adventures moving right along at the nation’s largest paddling celebration.

SEPT. 4

Riverfest

LPGA Queen City Championship SEPT. 5–11

The inaugural Queen City Championship brings the best women in pro golf to Cincinnati to compete for the top prize.

Oktoberfest Zinzinnati

SEPT. 16–19

Held each September, Zinzinnati is the largest annual German Oktoberfest event in the U.S.

OCT. 13–16

Keep up with the latest details and find more events around the region. visitcincy.com

BLINK

One of the largest light, art and projection mapping events in the nation lights up the city with largescale art installations spanning dozens of city blocks.

NOV.–JAN. 2023

PNC Festival of Lights

See the Cincinnati Zoo all dressed up for the Holidays and marvel at 4 million twinkling lights during the 40th annual PNC Festival of Lights.

MARCH 2023

Bockfest

Raise a glass and “Prost!” to this celebration of Cincy’s brewery heritage.

Ohio River Paddlefest 19

2022

PLAY ENTERTRAINMENT JUNCTION 7379 Squire Ct. 513-898-8000 entertrainmentjunction.com See the world’s largest indoor train display and the world’s most complete collection of marbles all in one place. Plus check out the funhouse and the kids play area!

BB RIVERBOATS 101 Riverboat Row 800-261-8586 bbriverboats.com Cincinnati never looked better than aboard BB Riverboats. Take a cruise along the Ohio River and experience sightseeing tours, live entertainment, great food and more fun for the whole family.

CINCINNATI MUSEUM CENTER 1301 Western Ave. 513-287-7000 cincymuseum.org Learn. Explore. Play. All under one roof. Your next great discovery awaits at Cincinnati Museum Center.

GREAT PARKS OF HAMILTON COUNTY 513-521-7275 greatparks.org With 22 parks and preserves spanning 17,700-plus acres across Hamilton County, Great Parks strives to build strong and healthy communities through nature-based experiences and celebrating cultural heritage.

KENTUCKY STATE PARKS

GREAT MIAMI RIVERWAY

Across Kentucky 502-564-2172 parks.ky.gov Nestled in beautiful surroundings, 45 Kentucky State Parks offer outdoor recreation, relaxation, golf and diverse accommodations — from rustic campsites and cozy cabins to 17 full-service resort parks.

38 E. Monument Ave. 937-223-1271 mcdwater.org We’re more than just a river. Find your way along 99 miles of charming downtowns to eat, drink and shop local, surf the river and cycle the bike trail.

HARRIET BEECHER STOWE HOUSE

SPOOKY NOOK CHAMPION MILL

2950 Gilbert Ave. 800-847-6507 stowehousecincy.org Learn how abolitionist author Harriet Beecher Stowe was changed by 18 years living in Cincinnati. Be inspired to use the power of your own voice to make a difference.

611 N. B St. 513-273-8160 nooksports.com/hamilton Spooky Nook welcomes visitors of all ages to over 690,000 square feet of sport and fitness courts, turf fields, a climbing center, an arcade and more.

REST

WAREHOUSE HOTEL AT CHAMPION MILL 611 N. B St. 513-273-8160 warehousehotel.com/hamilton Located in the renovated Champion Paper Mill, the Warehouse offers cozy amenities, historical architecture and access to one of the nation’s largest sports complexes.

WILDWOOD INN TROPICAL DOME & THEME SUITES

THE SUMMIT HOTEL 5345 Medpace Way 513-527-9900 thesummithotel.com Designed to engage, enlighten and inspire, The Summit promises a transformative journey from everyday to extraordinary. From thought-provoking art to chef-curated dining, spark your sense of creativity discovery at every turn.

MOERLEIN LAGER HOUSE 115 Joe Nuxhall Way 513-421-2337 moerleinlagerhouse.com

Cincinnati’s premier restaurant and brewery is located on the Ohio River next to Great American Ballpark, Paul Brown Stadium and adjacent to the Banks featuring a scratch kitchen with delectable fare.

BREWING HERITAGE TRAIL

1939 Race St. 513-604-9812 brewingheritagetrail.org The Brewing Heritage Trail is a walking trail and series of guided tours that celebrates Cincinnati’s brewing heritage with embedded trail markers, public art, informational signage and knowledgeable tour guides.

CINCINNATI SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AND CINCINNATI POPS AT MUSIC HALL 1241 Elm St. 513-381-3300 cincinnatisymphony.org

Spark joy, inspiration and fun — you’ll find music for any mood at historic Music Hall. Tickets start at $15 and groups of 10+ save up to 25% on most concerts!

7809 U.S. Rte. 42 859-371-6300 wildwoodinnky.com Enjoy family fun and entertainment at our Florence/Cincinnati area hotel, with easy access to key attractions including Turfway Park, Newport Aquarium and the Creation Museum.

SAVOR KNOW THEATRE OF CINCINNATI

IDLEWILD

1120 Jackson St. 513-300-5669 knowtheatre.com

1230 Vine St. 513-381-4059 idlewildwoman.com

Know Theatre of Cincinnati is your Theatrical Playground. If you hunger for unforgettable storytelling, indelible imagery and inspiring voices, look no further. Let’s Play. Find out more at knowtheatre.com

Located in the heart of OTR, Idlewild designer clothing and shoe store offers inclusive shopping and styling services, with a selection of ethically and sustainably produced brands. Casual, travel and occasion wear. Clothing sizes 0–18 Shoe sizes 5–11.

WHERE

LIVE MUSIC REIGNS

BY ANN FAZZINI

Cincinnati may be known as the Queen City, but King Records truly crowned the town as a notable nurturer of the original rock ‘n’ roll sound. That legacy lives on in the city where, on any given night , you can catch live music of all genres at a number of venues around town.

CINCINNATI MUSIC FESTIVAL: PHOTOGRAPHER LOUIS RIDEOUT | VISIT CINCY

Soothe your melodic soul at concerts and venues around the region. visitcincy.com CINCY REGION

2022

CINCY MUSIC FEST IS BACK After a two-year hiatus, the Cincinnati Music Festival (LEFT AND FAR LEFT) is back to celebrate the return of live music in style. One of the largest music festivals in the country, the three-day event spotlights some of the biggest names in R&B, soul, hip-hop and jazz — over the years legends like Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Duke Ellington and B.B. King have graced the stage. More recently, charttoppers Mary J. Blige, Jill Scott, Maxwell, Usher and many more have delighted crowds at Paul Brown Stadium on the shore of the Ohio River. Tickets are on sale now for the July 21–23 event. Need a bite between acts? Savor a wide variety of mouthwatering flavors from Blackowned restaurants, caterers and food trucks at Cincy Soul: The Black Taste, happening the same weekend.

FACE THE

MUSIC FOUR PLACES TO LISTEN LIVE

The Riverbend Music Center outdoor amphitheater hosts top performers from the worlds of rock, country, soul, pop and more from the bank of the Ohio River — it’s also the summer home of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.

On the other side of the river, PromoWest Pavilion at OVATION hosts indoor and outdoor shows on a smaller scale, and is soon getting an upgrade, thanks to Newport’s riverside renovation project.

The Andrew J. Brady Music Center is the area’s newest indoor/ outdoor venue. It opened its doors in 2021 and plays host to some of music’s most notable talents as well as summer festivals.

If a smaller crowd is more your speed, head to intimate concert venues and live music joints like Ludlow Garage, Southgate House Revival, Bogart’s and many more. Get some fresh air at Fountain Square’s weekly concert series.

EXPLORE | DISCOVER | CREATE

cincinnatiartmuseum.org CINCY REGION

taftmuseum.org 23

2022

Local Legends in the Limelight Cincy’s biggest music hitmakers get their own shining stars on the new-in-2022 Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame outside the Andrew J. Brady Music Center. The first sidewalk stars will honor funk legend Bootsy Collins, The Charms’ Otis Williams, the Grammy-winning Isley Brothers and late gospel great Dr. Charles Fold.

Your WOF Soundtrack Cue up our playlist selects from the Walk of Fame’s first inductees:

“Little Turtle Dove” by Otis Williams & His Charms “So Good” by Charles Fold & the Charles Fold Singers “Shout” by The Isley Brothers

! o gNew s t' e l

CINCINNATI MUSIC FESTIVAL: PHOTOGRAPHER LOUIS RIDEOUT | VISIT CINCY

“Bootzilla” by Bootsy Collins

Discoveries GeoTour

Middletown, OH

www.itsmiddletown.org CINCY REGION

2022

WHERE

FOODIE CULTURE REIGNS

WITH CHEF CHRISTIAN GILL

Chef Christian Gill (RIGHT) is the personality behind Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey (ABOVE). We asked Chef Gill, who’s made multiple appearances on the Food Network, for some of his Cincy favorites and inspirations. Gill recommends KungFood Chu’s AmerAsia in Covington. “I’m always down for the chicken mixed vegetables at a seven for heat and two extra sides of fly rice to soak up that sweet delicious capsaicin pain,” he laughs. He also suggests Pearlstar in Over-theRhine for their oyster selection and a dish called the Wood-Fired TX Redfish. “Slap me twice and call me Frankie,” Gill says. “It’s one of the best dishes in Cincy.”

day or a cold day, or any day really, I might be making enough red beans and rice to feed my whole crew,” he says. Gill counts Bobby Flay amongst his culinary influences: “He came up in the industry from nothing and has created numerous concepts that represented his passion for food and expressing that love with anyone who has a curiosity for food and flavor.”

Personally, he loves cooking red beans and rice with andouille sausage and heirloom popcorn rice from Louisiana. “If it’s a bad CINCY REGION

BOOMTOWN BISCUITS & WHISKEY: HAILEY BOLLINGER, CHRISTIAN GILL: LAURA WATILO BLAKE, COVINGTON YARD: COVINGTON YARD, QUARTER BISTRO: RVP PHOTOGRAPHY, THE GOLDEN LAMB: THE GOLDEN LAMB

TASTE TEST

BY NICHOLAS DEKKER

2022

MIX &

MATCH

COVINGTON YARD

Whether you’ve got something to celebrate or not, Cincy’s fine dining scene gives you the excuse you’ve been looking for to dress up and hit the town. Head to Quarter Bistro (ABOVE) on the east side for modern yet approachable takes on Latin and French dishes including steak frites, 18-hour short ribs and ahi tuna tacos. Across the river, Covington’s Lisse breaks from the pack with its own spin on Dutch (and little-known, highly delicious Indo Dutch) classics such as bitterballen, hutspot and even babi panggang. In the heart of downtown Cincinnati, step through Boca’s big red door to experience expertly conceived classical French and Italian flavors from pommes souffles to gnocchi con fonduta.

Satisfy any craving at restaurants and bars around the region. visitcincy.com

CINCY REGION

OAKLEY KITCHEN FOOD HALL

PLAN AHEAD. COME HUNGRY. HISTORIC BITES

Cloth Napkin Club

Modern food halls are the ideal spot to taste a diverse mix of food and drink in one relaxing destination. Constructed from shipping containers, Bridgeview Box Park offers an unparalleled view of the Cincinnati skyline from the Newport riverfront. Indulge in a banana Nutella crepe or a pepperoni pizza crepe from the CrepeGuys while you sip a pineapple mai tai from Kon Tiki. Oakley Kitchen Food Hall’s goal is to “make local reachable” by featuring seven local kitchens dishing out everything from gourmet Indian fare to New Orleans comfort food to newschool barbecue. Olive Tree focuses on traditional Syrian dishes; you’ll feel welcomed like family as you feast on rich Damascus tasqia hummus, pumpkin kibbeh, falafel and Syrian spiced chicken. Covington Yard is the spot to socialize in the city, a family and dogfriendly gathering place for live music, games, local food and drink. Feed your crew with a tofu bowl from Mr. Bulgogi or a trio of sliders from Hangry Omar’s.

Cincy Sabroso is coming Oct. 2–9, 2022! Celebrate the assortment of Latin dishes and flavors offered across the city. Think Venezuelan arepas, Puerto Rican mofongo, Mexican tortas and Argentinian empanadas. Taste of Cincinnati returns Memorial Day weekend, spanning five city blocks and featuring over 40 local restaurants, with hundreds of dishes to sample!

It’s hard to beat dinner and drinks in an historic setting. Take a step back in time at The Golden Lamb (LEFT) in Lebanon, a destination since 1803. Arnold’s Bar & Grill is said to be Cincinnati’s oldest continually operating tavern. The Original Montgomery Inn is a north-side institution, serving smoky barbecue, seafood and steaks. For over 150 years Mecklenburg Gardens has featured traditional German food and beer. 2022

Braxton Brewing

Fretboard Brewing Company

Fifty West Brewing Company

Rhinegeist Rebel Mettle Brewery

In every corner of the Cincinnati region, you’ll find unique breweries serving IPAs to sours and stouts to crisp lagers. Visiting the area? Start with these 12! Rhinegeist

Braxton Brewing

Esoteric Brewing Company

Christian Moerlein Brewing Company

Rhinegeist’s home is a historic Over-the-Rhine brewery packaging hall. The massive space is perfect for sipping a Truth IPA, playing cornhole and eating Cincinnati chili. A newer outpost in Walnut Hills, Esoteric is Cincinnati’s first minority-owned brewery. Pair a Chrysalis Cream Ale with Korean fried chicken from next-door eatery Decibel.

Listermann Brewing Company

Follow the colorful Super Mario Bros. mural outside to find eclectic brews like sours, stouts, IPAs and lagers. Indulge in a Nutcase Porter (with real peanut butter) during weekly trivia games. CINCY REGION

Braxton got its start in Covington as a garage-turned-brewery, taproom and workspace. Try the limited-release Graeter’s Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip Stout for a double dose of local flavor!

Dead Low Brewing

Dead Low Brewing’s bright and open taproom features large outdoor patios, perfect for sipping a Lagom Scandinavian Farmhouse Ale while noshing on pizzas and beer-battered onion rings.

West Side Brewing

Fifty West Brewing Company

Fifty West indeed sits on Route 50, an expansive space with plenty of al fresco seating, beach volleyball, cornhole and more. Order from their burger bar to pair with a Main Street Amber.

Rebel Mettle Brewery

One of Cincinnati’s remaining heritage brands maintains a proud tradition of brewing lagers, IPAs and pale ales. Sample the popular Barbarossa Double Dark Lager at the Lager House at The Banks.

West Side Brewing in Westwood features a brightly lit, modern taproom, where they serve a wide variety of traditional beer styles. Taste the ESB, Imperial Stout, Red IPA and other hits.

This newer downtown brewery features two levels of seating in the taproom. Their focus is reinvigorating the lager, so start with a Stubentiger Session Lager or Mettle Mayhem India Pale Lager.

Third Eye Brewing Company

Fretboard Brewing Company

Fretboard in Blue Ash doubles as a live music venue. Catch the latest local bands Fridays and Saturdays while you sip a Vlad Pilsner and taste pulled pork from Smoked Out Cincy.

MadTree Brewing Company

Located in Sharonville, Third Eye’s industrial taproom has plenty of space to stretch out. Relax on the patio with a refreshing blood orange wheat Enlightenment.

MadTree Brewing Company supports sustainable efforts from its Oakley taproom and new Over-the-Rhine beer garden. Visit for a pint of Psychopathy IPA and a wood-fired pizza.

BRAXTON BREWING: BRAXTON BREWING, RHINEGEIST: RHINEGEIST, FIFTY WEST BREWING COMPANY: CHRIS HUGHES, FRETBOARD BREWING COMPANY: FRETBOARD BREWING COMPANY, REBEL METTLE BREWERY: JILLIAN HOCKER

ALL HOPPED UP

BY NICHOLAS DEKKER

2022

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

LAGER HOUSE

RESTAURANT

BREWERY

OPEN TABLE DINER’S CHOICE AWARD 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021

115 JOE NUXHALL WAY, CINCINNATI, OH 45202 | 513.421.2337 MOERLEINLAGERHOUSE

MOERLEINLH

MAKE YOUR RESERVATION • MOERLEINLAGERHOUSE.COM

ASK & ANSWER:

2. Why do you travel? a. For adventure and to try new things. b. To learn about the world and myself. c. To see beautiful sights and eat beautiful food. d. For a colorful escape from everyday life. e. To make memories with family and friends. 3. What brought you to the area? a. I’m here for a concert. b. The vibrant culture drew me in. c. I love history and architecture. d. The arts scene is amazing. e. There’s something for everyone in my family to enjoy. 4. What’s on your to-do list while you’re here? a. Buying a locally made keepsake. b. Visiting Krohn Conservatory. c. Checking off a few stops on The B-Line. d. Seeing the American Sign Museum. e. Getting tickets to a local game.

So many cool bars, so little time. Not sure where to go for your night out? Answer a few questions and we’ll recommend the perfect bar for you. BY ALEXIA KEMERLING

5. Pick an alcoholic beverage. a. Vodka b. Gin c. Wine d. Tequila e. Beer

RESULTS:

SOTTO: SOTTO, SOMERSET: SOMERSET, PEDAL WAGON: PEDAL WAGON

WHERE WILL THE NIGHT TAKE YOU?

1. What genre of music do you listen to while traveling? a. Indie rock or punk b. Folk c. Classical d. Latin e. Pop

CINCY REGION

Mostly a’s… It takes

a lot to impress you, but that’s not a bad thing. For your night out, visit Ghost Baby, a fun and mysterious bar you won’t find anywhere else.

Mostly b’s… The

jungle-esque patio of Somerset is the perfect spot for you to bask in your wanderlust. Sip on a Tokyo Toddy and admire the global decorations.

Mostly c’s… For you,

it’s about quality over quantity. If you only have time for one night out, make a reservation at Sotto (PICTURED). From the unique underground setting to the impressive wine selection, it’s sure to be memorable.

Mostly d’s… Your

creative personality leads you to exciting places like … Frida 602. This tequila and mezcal bar located in historic Mainstrasse serves colorful tacos and delicious drinks in an artistic atmosphere.

Mostly e’s… When in a new

place, you like to experience as much of the area as you can. That’s why we recommend booking a ride on the Pedal Wagon or visiting one of Cincinnati’s DORAs (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Areas), so you can enjoy adult beverages outside while exploring.

2022

FOR THE LOVE OF

BOURBON Finding your sipping point for tasty bourbon in Northern Kentucky has never been easier.

Just head for The B-Line.

The B-Line bourbon trail, that is — a set of eight bars, five craft distilleries and several restaurants that offers top-shelf bourbon collections appealing to novice and serious sippers alike. Grab a B-Line Guide and collect points to redeem for merchandise after visiting these mouthwatering joints, many of which are just across the Ohio River. CINCY REGION

SMOKE JUSTIS: MATTHEW ALLEN, THE GLOBE: THE GLOBE, NEELEY FAMILY DISTILLERY: BO CUMBERLAND, BOURBON HAUS: BOURBON HAUS

BY MICHAEL PRAMIK

2022

Neeley Family Distillery Neeley Family Distillery

Bourbon Haus

CROWN-WORTHY COCKTAILS

Balance out a fine, 2-ounce spirits pour with a craft cocktail at these area sipping spots. Enjoy expertly made drinks at The Globe, a fashionable hangout on E. 5th Street in Covington that once was a gentleman’s club. Waft into the past at Wiseguy Lounge, a speakeasy in Over-the-Rhine offering cocktails with house-made syrups and hand-pressed juices. Three Spirits Tavern in Bellevue expertly combines specialty cocktails, craft beers, bourbon and wine with tempting, gastro-lounge bites. Make rum and bourbon cocktails disappear at Second Sight Spirits in Ludlow, a distillery featuring a curious pot still that’s part turban and part crystal ball.

ENDLESS OPTIONS

Don’t forget about these two awesome bars. Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar in Covington offers hundreds of labels from which to choose. Prohibition Bourbon Bar, at Newberry Bros. Coffee in Newport, has thousands of spirits on its menu to pair with espresso and scones.

The Globe

CINCY REGION

TASTE OF HISTORY

The Northern Kentucky region has a long connection to bourbon history. Boone County traces its distilling roots to 1833. Boone County Distilling Company, near Florence, revived that tradition in 2015 with bourbon, rye, rum, gin and other spirits. The Old Pogue Distillery in Maysville dates to 1876. Today, fifth- and sixth-generation Pogues produce bourbon using the original family recipes. Neeley Family Distillery in Sparta has been distilling (and bootlegging) for 11 generations. It now makes bourbon, specialty whiskeys and a line of flavored moonshine.

SIP AND SIGHTSEE

Sipping while staring at a brick wall isn’t much fun. These cozy stops offer great views and back stories to drink in. Bourbon Haus 1841, along the historic Mainstrasse Village in Covington, is a top-shelf bar with a treeladen patio where you can sip to classic rock. Smoke Justis (FAR LEFT), also in Covington, is a multilevel sports bar featuring smoked meats and a sizzling selection of bourbons and ryes. Learn all about starting up a new distillery at the ultra-modern New Riff Distilling in Bellevue. Take in a taste of history (and some killer Southern cuisine) at Tousey House Tavern in Burlington. The site has been in operation as a tavern, livery, hotel or boarding house since 1817. The Beehive Augusta Tavern in Augusta offers a fine farm-to-table menu, featuring luscious Buckner’s bourbon.

PERFECT PAIRINGS

These trail stops combine fine bourbons and just-as-fine food. Bouquet in Covington embraces local and sustainable farmers while offering dozens of whiskey selections ready to be flighted. Dine on a selection of fine meats, seafood and artisan cheeses at Coppin’s Restaurant & Bar at Hotel Covington, where you’ll also find adventuresome cocktails and a long bourbon list. Nearby, you’ll find Rich’s Proper Food and Drink, which combines comfort dishes such as fried chicken and burgers with an eye-popping list of private barrel bourbon selections. Wash down fried green tomatoes or fried chicken with a Cheerwine Bourbon Slush at Libby’s Southern Comfort, also in Covington.

2022

POT STIRRERS Expert Dann Woellert’s recommendations on where to get your fill of Cincinnati chili.

POT

STIRRERS GOURMET CHILI in Newport One of the oldest continually operating chili parlors in greater Cincinnati. Woellert suggests a plain bowl of chili with cheese and onions. DIXIE CHILI in Newport Try the alligator coney! CHILI TIME in St. Bernard Woellert recommends the coney dogs. SKYLINE CHILI in Clifton A local favorite near University of Cincinnati on Ludlow Avenue. BLUE ASH CHILI in Blue Ash Serving chili, burgers and coneys since 1969!

EVERYTHING CHILI

CAMP WASHINGTON CHILI in Camp Washington Offering chili 24/6: 24 hours a day, six days a week.

2022 marks 100 years of the Queen City’s most iconic offering: Cincinnati-style chili. We asked food etymologist Dann Woellert, author of The Authentic History of Cincinnati Chili , about how the regional staple came to be. The chili’s centennial is based on the 1922 founding of Empress Chili, Woellert says, opened by three Macedonian immigrant brothers from the Kiradjieff family. “They called it a chili parlor inside the Empress burlesque theater,” Woellert says. “That defined the location strategy for chili parlors in Cincinnati. All of the first parlors were located near a theater, many named after the theater. In Northside there used to be Park Chili. In Newport you had Strand Chili across from The Strand. Most chili parlors, Skyline included, were founded by immigrants who had worked at one of the Empress locations.” So what defines Cincinnati chili? “Cincinnati chili is Greek-influenced,” Woellert says. “It’s basically like coney sauce.” The chili was modeled on a Greek dish called saltsa kima, a thin meat sauce over noodles, known as a “chili spaghetti.” Creative customers in the 1930s asked for cheddar cheese as a topping, which led to the fabled “three-way.” Most Cincy chilis feature between 16 and 18 different spices, including black pepper, paprika, ginger, cardamom and nutmeg. “A lot of people taste cinnamon because it’s one of the strongest seasonings,” Woellert says. But, he points out, the addition of chocolate is a myth, proliferated by a mistaken local food writer in the 1970s.

CINCY REGION

TRY ‘EM ALL Book a seat on American Legacy Tours’ Cincinnati Chili Tour, set to launch in June 2022. The bus tour will visit Empress, Dixie and Camp Washington chili parlors, and include loads of local history along the way.

EMPRESS CHILI: MATTHEW ALLEN, CAMP WASHINGTON CHILI: TERI STUDIOS

BY NICHOLAS DEKKER

SUGAR, SPICE AND

2022

611 N. B Street Hamilton Ohio 45013 513-273-8160 spookynooksports.com/Hamilton

ROOT FOR THE

HOME TEAM CINCY REGION

Cincinnati hosted its first Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) event in 1963, when Kenwood Country Club hosted the Women’s Open. The LPGA returns this fall with the Kroger Queen City Championship, also at Kenwood, from Sept. 5–11. The Western & Southern Open has been a part of Cincinnati since 1899, when it started as the Cincinnati Open. It’s one of the oldest tournaments in America, second only to the U.S. Open. This year’s event will take place from Aug. 13–21 at the Lindner Family Tennis Center.

CINCINNATI BENGALS: GETTY IMAGES, LPGA: SHAE COMBS, BECKHAM SUNDERLAND: FC CINCINNATI, CINCINNATI REDS: CINCINNATI REDS, CINCINNATI CYCLONES: TONY BAILEY/ CINCINNATI CYCLONES

TOURNEY TIME

BY VINCE GUERRIERI

2022

ON THE FIELD

ON THE DIAMOND

Founded by football visionary Paul Brown in 1968, the Cincinnati Bengals now play in a stadium named for him, not far from where their former home, Riverfront Stadium, stood. As this year’s defending AFC champions, the Bengals have brought with them the crazed environment known as “The Jungle” in their 1980s heyday.

Opening Day is festive in every major league city, but nobody does it up like the Reds, the oldest professional baseball team in America. Cincinnati turns out to celebrate at the Findlay Market Opening Day Parade, a tradition since 1920 (the year after the Reds won their first World Series). And whether the Reds are in town or not, the team’s Hall of Fame and Museum is open to the public year-round. Make it a doubleheader when you catch a Florence Y’alls game just a short drive away. The three-time Frontier League champions play at Y’alls Ballpark in Florence. A family-friendly atmosphere draws in fans from miles around with game-day activities including live entertainment and fireworks shows.

ON THE ICE

As the city’s only professional hockey team and member of the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL), the Cincinnati Cyclones have been tearing up the ice since 1990. October through April, fans bundle up and head to Heritage Bank Center, situated downtown along the banks of the Ohio River, to watch the Cyclones face off with other ECHL teams.

PLAYING FOR KEEPS CINCY REGION

ON THE PITCH

FC Cincinnati (FCC) was founded in 2015 and officially joined Major League Soccer in 2019. One grand tradition of soccer teams around the world is fan chants, and from the far corners of TQL Stadium — the team’s West End socceronly facility, which opened in 2021 — calls ring out, proclaiming, “Win or lose, we’re forever orange and blue!”

FC Cincinnati Academy product Beckham Sunderland grew up with soccer. His father Larry is a seasoned MLS coach and FCC executive. His brother Lawson plays for Inter Miami CF. And Beckham’s a goalkeeper for FC Cincinnati, signed as a homegrown player in 2020.

Were you named for soccer player David Beckham? Yes, but I had to go and mess it up and become a goalkeeper.

Where are your favorite Cincy places to go?

I like to walk around Findlay Market or downtown. Over-the-Rhine is really nice, too. Whenever we have family come from out of town, we take them to the zoo.

Cincinnati chili — yes or no? I enjoy a bowl here and there. I’ll sit down with a coney on occasion. 37

2022

BY ANN FAZZINI

ASK CINCY ARTISTS

With inspiration around every corner, artists of all mediums and backgrounds have found a creative haven in the Cincinnati region.

Join us during our landmark anniversary as we celebrate 50 years of fun, memories and traditions.

VisitKingsIsland.com

CINCY REGION

ANNIE RUTH: CARLA OSWLEY, JAMES BILLITER: MELISSA DOSS PHOTOGRAPHY

SPECTACULAR AWAITS

2022

Meet Annie Ruth

Annie Ruth is a visual artist and poet. She was born and raised in Cincinnati and returned to raise her own children in the city.

What’s your vision for your work?

I’ve been described as a Renaissance woman and I think that’s accurate. I am interested in artistic rebirth and being a bridge that connects generations.

How would you describe Cincy’s arts scene?

It’s growing, developing and becoming more equitable and inclusive. There has been a surge of younger artists, and veteran artists are taking on more of a mentoring/teaching role.

What changes have you noticed in and around Cincy? The city has created more targeted grants for a range of cultural representation in the arts. Art centers are also popping up more in non-traditional places like schools and community centers.

What are your favorite Cincy haunts?

Elephant Walk is owned by a husband-and-wife team serving up fantastic Ethiopian and Indian food. The Cincinnati Arts Association also offers an arts and healing program that merges working artists and musicians with healthcare providers, like the VA and hospice care.

Meet James Billiter

Cincinnati native James Billiter is a graphic artist, illustrator and typographer.

How would you describe your work?

I like to merge design with traditional printmaking and explore hand-done methods of producing graphic art.

Where do you find inspiration?

I love the well-rounded nature of the arts and culture scene in Cincinnati. I can go to great museums, operas, ballets and symphonies, enjoy great dining and travel just a short distance to the woods to hike.

Where are your favorite spots in town?

Riverwalk is a great place to see both sides of the river and Cincinnati, Newport and Covington. I’m also loving the Wave Pool gallery in Camp Washington.

What do you define as Cincy style?

There is still a quaint hometown charm to the city and it has a nice pace — it’s not too slow and not too fast.

Personalizing the Right Care for You Whether safely in our clean facilities or virtually from the comfort of your own home, we’re creating the personalized solutions you need, to meet you where you need us. Because no matter how the world around us changes, we believe your health care should always revolve around you. Visit mercy.com/primarycare to connect with a primary care provider today. PRIMARY CARE FOR THE UNIVERSE OF YOU

CINCY REGION

2022

IF ... THEN STYLE

CINCY REGION

IF music touches your soul, THEN …

treat your ears to a concert at Cincinnati Music Hall, home to the Cincinnati Opera and Cincinnati Pops Orchestra. The beautiful Victorian Gothic venue is also a National Historic Landmark.

CINCINNATI MUSIC HALL: LOUIS RIDEOUT, CINCINNATI ART MUSEUM: CINCINNATI ART MUSEUM, CHILDREN’S MUSEUM: MARIA DEHNE, CINCINNATI PLAYHOUSE IN THE PARK: MIKKI SCHAFFNER PHOTOGRAPHY, CINCINNATI BALLET: HIROMI PLATT, TAFT MUSEUM OF ART: TAFT MUSEUM OF ART

Find inspiration at arts institutions and creative spots around the region. visitcincy.com

BY ANN FAZZINI

2022

IF you’re inspired by visual arts, THEN …

pay a visit to the Cincinnati Art Museum (TOP RIGHT), home to more than 67,000 works that span some 6,000 years. Give yourself an extra challenge by taking on the Art Climb, a stairway that leads to a beautiful view of the city.

IF you love to learn, THEN …

spend a day at the Cincinnati Museum Center, a revamped Art Deco train station that’s home to Cincinnati’s Museum of Natural History & Science, Children’s Museum (RIGHT), History Library & Archives and OMNIMAX Theater. Check out rotating, themed exhibits and films throughout the year.

IF you’re a fan of live theater, THEN … catch a performance at the Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park (BOTTOM RIGHT). This year’s performance calendar includes “Steel Magnolias” and the onewoman show, “Becoming Dr. Ruth.”

IF dance moves you, THEN …

grab tickets to a Cincinnati Ballet performance. This year’s family-friendly shows include dance interpretations of “Cinderella” and “Snow White,” and May’s Bold Moves Festival features an immersive experience with six rotating performances.

IF you’re a history buff, THEN …

explore the Taft Museum of Art as the newly renovated historic building celebrates its 200th birthday. The collection includes Chinese porcelains, 19th-century American masterworks and decorative arts from Europe. Coming in June, “Jane Austen: Fashion & Sensibility” exhibits elaborate costumes from popular movies and TV.

CINCY REGION

2022

In 2021, USA Today named the Cincinnati area the second-best city for street art in the U.S. That’s due in part to the nearly 200 colorful public murals found around town. Here are just a few notable ones to check out.

CITY OF

BY ANN FAZZINI

Little Sure Shot by artist Nicole Trimble celebrates the legendary sharpshooter Annie Oakley in the neighborhood where she lived as a child.

CINCY REGION

COLOR

Artist Jenny Ustick’s Mr. Dynamite honors the Hardest Working Man in Show Business James Brown, who recorded many early hits at Cincinnati’s King Records.

Ezzard Charles: The Cincinnati Cobra is artist Jason Snell’s homage to the two-time World Heavyweight Champion boxer, jazz musician and beloved local hero. 42

Designed by legendary caricaturist and area resident C.F. Payne, The Singing Mural depicts some of the Queen City’s most famous faces united in song.

The Newport on the Levee Healthcare Heroes mural, completed in 2021 by local studio BLDG, honors those who have dedicated their lives to helping patients during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. 2022

A Tribute to Newport is a collaboration from local arts organizations that pays homage to people, places and things that shaped the river city of Newport.

CINCINNATI TOY HERITAGE: STEPHANIE PARK, ARMSTRONG, TRIBUTE TO NEWPORT: J. MILES WOLF, BLINK: MACKENZIE FRANK

The Covington Vision collection of murals, created through the collaboration of eight local artists, takes an artistic look at different interpretations of “energy.” CINCY REGION

Artist Jonathan Queen’s Cincinnati Toy Heritage tributes Kenner Toys, founded in the city in 1947, and some of their most famous toys including the Easy-Bake Oven and Care Bears.

A collaboration from local arts organizations, Northern Kentucky Panorama visually travels across the Covington cityscape — from city sights to wide-open farmlands.

LIGHT IT UP

Artist Eduardo Kobra’s Armstrong features an out-ofthis-world tribute to Ohio native and first man on the moon Neil Armstrong.

uly unique BLINK is a tr ing) event at in (and illum interactive that brings res, tu lp light scu mapping n tio ec oj pr c d live musi displays, an t en m n ai rt and ente ty blocks across 30 ci i and at n n in Cinci t Check out ar Covington. it en se ever as you’ve n ng this free before duri er 13–16. event, Octob

2022

SEASONS FLOW THROUGH THE

BY CHEZ CHESAK

Cincinnati’s parks reflect the region’s river heritage and offer a wide variety of escapes. In any season, you can take part in outdoor adventure via dozens of neighborhood, metro and regional parks.

LICKING RIVER: ALLEN MEYER, EAST FORK STATE PARK: @MIKEBAKER76

CINCY REGION

Explore Landscapes in Bloom In the spring, paddle down the Licking

River (ABOVE) or rent a kayak at East Fork State Park (RIGHT) (one of the largest state parks in Ohio) to explore Harsha Lake’s 2,160 acres. Get back in the game at Idlewild’s pro-level disc golf course in Burlington. Sharon Woods also offers paved, fitness and nature trails for various activities and ability levels.

Escape to Mother Nature at parks and waterways found around the region. visitcincy.com 45

2022

Ault Park Ice Rink at Summit Park

Smale Riverfront Park

CINCY REGION

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Seek out the majestic views from Eden Park (PICTURED) (and its art museum, playhouse and conservatory) or the dramatic river valley vistas from Alms Park. In addition to their views, Mt. Echo Park (BELOW) boasts a stunning 1920’s pavilion while Bellevue Park’s own pavilion is a striking concrete-roofed design for outdoor dancing. Across the river, Covington’s Devou Park offers nature and mountain bike trails, a golf course and the absolute best views of the city.

Embrace the Brrr

When temperatures drop, enjoy a warming skate on the Warm 98.5 Ice Rink at Summit Park in Blue Ash, all under a glass canopy and with restaurants nearby. Or head to Winton Woods for brisk hikes on a variety of trails within its 2,555 acres.

Splash into Summertime

Washington Park in Over-the-Rhine has a 7,000-square-foot water feature with 130 jets synchronized to lights and music, all nestled between an outdoor bar, dog park and playground. Explore an 85-acre lake in Miami Whitewater Forest, where you can rent rowboats, hydrobikes, kayaks, motorboats and more.

Find Autumn Adventure

Immerse yourself in autumn colors via 20 miles of trails in the Cincinnati Nature Center’s two locations. Rent a bike in Loveland to cruise the glorious Little Miami Scenic Trail or dig for actual fossils at Trammel Fossil Park. Hit the links at local golf courses or family-favorite Topgolf.

Whatever the Weather

No matter the season, enjoy the porch swings, foot piano, ‘flying’ pig and more at Smale Riverfront Park. Walk the riverfront to nearby Sawyer Point Park for sports courts, a sprayground, bike rentals and other activities.

PERFECT PANORAMAS

AULT PARK: @HAPPYBUBBLESIMAGES, SMALE RIVERFRONT PARK: LAURA WATILO BLAKE, SUMMIT PARK: CITY OF BLUE ASH, EDEN PARK: @CINCYSHARK79, MT. ECHO PARK: MSVACHPHOTOGRAPHY

CINCY REGION

2022

CALL OF THE

WILD

BY ALEXIA KEMERLING

With interactive experiences, rare species and habitats from around the world, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is sure to delight animal lovers of all ages.

Just minutes from downtown Cincinnati Among the lowest airfare airports in the US 50+ nonstop destinations

Home of Miami University

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CVGairport.com

www.thepickleandpig.com | theelmshotel.com

CINCY REGION

2022

KANGAROO WALKABOUT: DJJAM PHOTO, KANGA’ KLIMB: MICHELLE PETERS, THANE MAYNARD: CINCINNATI ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDEN

SERVING THE CINCINNATI REGION AND BEYOND

TO-ZOO LIST With this checklist as your guide, make the most of your zoo adventure.

Create a maaa-sterpiece by purchasing tickets for the “Van Goat” Painting Experience. Hop with the ’roos in the Kangaroo Walkabout.

3 4

See a little blue penguin dive in Roo Valley.

BEHIND THE GATES

Help give a bubble bath to one of the world’s gentlest giants on a behind-the-scenes Elephant Extravaganza.

Navigate swinging logs, a Burma bridge and more on the Dornette Kanga’ Klimb Aerial Adventure Course (BELOW). Parts of the course are even ADA accessible.

conservation and family fun, and are best known for our amazing animals, innovative programs — like the Cheetah Encounter — and our beautiful botanical garden. We’re committed to supporting conservation efforts around the world and in our own backyard. like wolves, leopards and otters. And some are shy and cautious, like cheetahs, orangutans and okapi. But nobody has as big a personality as Fiona, our world-famous hippopotamus. She was raised and held in the arms of her keepers for the first few months of her life, so she is very interested in people, which is not typical for hippos.

Is the aardwolf related to the aardvark? Find out by visiting this unique creature.

What makes Cincinnati’s zoo stand out? We are leaders in animal welfare, wildlife

Which animals have the most surprising personalities? Some animals are bold,

Watch a Florida manatee chomp on lettuce and learn about the zoo’s rescue and rehabilitation program.

Visit one of the rarest rattlesnakes in the world, the Aruba Island rattlesnake, in the Reptile House.

Cincinnati Zoo Director Thane Maynard, who is internationally renowned for his dedication to wildlife preservation, shared a few insights on zoo life.

Why are zoos important? Zoos are the very best at inspiring the general public with wildlife. It’s our responsibility to bring people “close enough to care” about animals and our environments.

Find a plant for every color of the rainbow in the Botanical Garden.

What’s something zoo staff wish visitors knew? An important message we try to

Spot a hummingbird or let a butterfly land on your hand in the pollinator garden.

communicate is that protecting nature = protecting people. It’s not just about saving rhinos and pandas — everything people use, eat, drink and breathe comes from nature and it will take all of us to protect the natural systems that we depend on. Get involved on the zoo’s website at cincinnatizoo.org/conservation.

LAND OF GRANT TRAIL Explore Ohio history on the Land of Grant Trail. Download this free self-guided tour and explore 17 historical sites of President Ulysses S. Grant including his birthplace, boyhood home and more just miles from downtown Cincinnati. Learn how his childhood cultivated the character of young Ulysses that would catapult him to West Point, the Union Army and the White House. CHECK-IN TO ALL 17 STOPS ALONG THE TRAIL AND RECEIVE A SPECIAL BICENTENNIAL GRANT COLLECTABLE COIN.

EXPLORE A NEW TRAIL TODAY!

DISCOVERCLERMONT.COM CLERMONT COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

CINCY REGION

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE TRAIL.

REQUEST YOUR FREE VISITOR’S GUIDE!

2022

C R P P Z

Cruise

For a more leisurely outdoor experience, book passage on a BB Riverboats cruise. Choose from a variety of themed excursions, including sunset, sightseeing, dinner, lunch, jazz and historic cruises. Both vessels, the Belle of Cincinnati and the River Queen, depart from Newport on the Kentucky side of the Ohio River. Got something to celebrate? Don your leis and grass skirts on a Hawaiian-style cruise with SS Tiki Tours.

CINCY REGION

BELLE OF CINCINNATI: BELLE OF CINCINNATI, OHIO RIVER WAY: OHIO RIVER WAY, CAMP CEDAR: CASEY REARICK, SAWYER POINT: ALIAS IMAGING, OZONE ZIPLINE ADVENTURES: WARREN COUNTY CVB

FOLLOW THE TRAIL

Outdoor enthusiasts from all walks can take advantage of the Ohio River Way project — a 274-mile self-guided adventure corridor from Portsmouth, Ohio, through Cincinnati, and on to West Point, Kentucky. The trail, which is being developed in partnership with the National Park Service, can be enjoyed by paddlers or cyclists, as well as motorists, hikers and other trail enthusiasts and connects a myriad of quaint and historic river towns.

2022

CRUISE, RIDE, PEDAL, PADDLE, ZIP

Ride

Easily scoot from park to park via Lime and Bird shared electric scooters. Or hop on the sitdown scooters of Mile 2 Mile in Newport, Kentucky. Be sure to take in the river views from Eden Park or explore the riverfront via Sawyer Point (RIGHT) and Smale Riverfront parks.

Pedal

For great city cruising, The Garage in Cincinnati’s Overthe-Rhine neighborhood offers electric and pedal bike rentals (as well as Segway tours). If you’re looking to hammer down on some long trails, get out to Loveland Bike Rental on the Loveland Bike Trail or Fifty West Cycling Company on Wooster Pike.

If you like more elevated outdoor experiences, take flight on an exhilarating zip line. Soar through the treetops at Ozone Zipline Adventures (LEFT) (part of YMCA Camp Kern), glide over a 3-acre lake at Screaming Raptor Zip Lines at the Creation Museum in Petersburg, Kentucky, or fly above an indoor trampoline park at Sports Plus Cincinnati.

&play

BY CHEZ CHESAK

stay

Float down the Little Miami River via canoe, kayak, tubes or rafts with outfitters like Little Miami Canoe Rental (locations in Oregonia and Morrow), River Dogs Paddlesports in Milford, Thaxton’s Canoe & Paddlers’ Inn near Butler, Kentucky, Loveland Canoe & Kayak in Loveland and Morgan’s Outdoor Adventures (with three local locations).

Zip

Cincinnati has always offered great access to outdoor pursuits, but with people spending more time outside, the opportunities to get back to nature are more plentiful than ever.

CINCY REGION

Paddle

Make your visit a truly immersive outdoor experience by staying at Camp Cedar outdoor luxury resort. The resort, which is just 1 mile from (and includes a shuttle to) Kings Island amusement park, offers RV sites and five varieties of cottages that sleep up to four or eight. There are two pools, one for families and one that’s adults-only. Hornbeam Lodge is open to guests for lounging and dining or stopping in the on-site bar, coffee and gelato shop and camp store.

2022

OVER-THE-RHINE: BEN WRIGHT, RHINEGEIST: RHINEGEIST

2022

CINCY REGION

STORIES THE

One of the Largest Urban Historic Districts in the U.S. Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood (OTR) is one of the best-preserved historic districts in the country — 360 acres of beautiful brick structures that date back to the early 1800s. Sitting just north of downtown, OTR remains vibrant today with parks and fountains, music halls, breweries, restaurants and Findlay Market.

Architecture I Spy

A simple stroll through the brick and cobblestone streets of Cincinnati is a history lesson in itself. Over-the-Rhine features abundant examples of Greek Revival, Italianate and Queen Anne styles. The iconic Music Hall was built in 1878 and hosts the symphony, opera and ballet. Carew Tower downtown is a stunning example of Art Deco work. The Carneal House in Covington, built in 1815, is considered the oldest brick building in northern Kentucky.

Prost!

THAT

SHAPE US BY NICHOLAS DEKKER

CINCY REGION

Continuing the rich brewing history of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, the OTR Brewery District today features the largest number of preprohibition breweries in the U.S. Modern-day breweries like Rhinegeist (ABOVE), Christian Moerlein, Northern Row and many others keep these traditions alive. Raise a glass to this hop-filled history at Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, the largest Oktoberfest celebration in the United States. It spans several days packed with local beers, German food, games and competitions like brateating, stein-hoisting and the hilarious (and adorable) Running of the Wieners.

2022

Stories of Courage and Perseverance

Opened in 2004, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center sits prominently on Cincinnati’s riverfront, symbolically on the historic line that marked freedom for slaves escaping northward. The museum and educational center features rotating and permanent exhibitions that use film, historic artifacts, storytelling, images and hands-on pieces to teach visitors about the history of slavery, abolition and their continued impact today. The Open Your Mind lab even uses interactive activities to help you identify and engage with your unconscious attitudes and stereotypes.

CINCY REGION

2021 marked the bicentennial of Jewish community life in Cincinnati. That date is tied to the founding of the Chestnut Street Cemetery in 1821. The oldest Jewish cemetery west of the Alleghenies, it was rededicated as part of the celebrations. The Skirball Museum is the first formally established Jewish museum in the U.S., featuring artifacts that showcase Jewish history locally and globally. Officially known as the Isaac M. Wise Temple, the Plum Street Temple (LEFT) is an iconic piece of Cincinnati architecture, noted for its role in American Reform Judaism. Celebrate Israeli and Jewish heritage with art, food and music at the annual Ish Festival. 54

NATIONAL UNDERGROUND RAILROAD FREEDOM CENTER: LAURA WATILO BLAKE, PLUM STREET TEMPLE: JUSTIN COHEN PHOTOGRAPHY, BRAD HILL: THE SPANIERS PHOTOGRAPHY, AMERICAN LEGACY TOURS: AMERICAN LEGACY TOURS, JOHN A. ROEBLING SUSPENSION BRIDGE: ROSS VAN PELT

Celebrate Jewish Culture

Learn about Cincy’s deep roots at museums and historical sites around the region. visitcincy.com

2022

ASK A HISTORIAN: BRAD HILL, AMERICAN LEGACY TOURS

Take a Tour In addition to food, architecture and brewery tours, American Legacy Tours’ historical offerings range from haunted tours of spooky locales to the original Newport Gangster Tour revealing the region’s prominent role in the early days of American mobsters. The Over-the-Rhine Foundation also offers specialized tours of the OTR district focused on architecture, history and other themes.

Brad Hill is one of the founders of American Legacy Tours, which offers nearly a dozen tours exploring the region’s rich history, architecture, cuisine — even its haunted past. We asked him about some favorite historic sites and tidbits.

What’s one of the first historic sites you recommend every visitor should explore? Cincinnati is blessed with so much great history.

When people come here, the first thing I always tell them is the Cincinnati Museum Center. It’s such an iconically Cincinnati building; you’re not going to see anything like that anywhere else. And if you’re a total nerd like I am, it’s the Hall of Justice.

Any other favorite sites? I like to take people around Fountain

Square and point out that the fountain is an important piece of Prohibition history. When it was first built, the fountain had bronze cups on chains for people to drink out of. They were trying to give people something fresh to drink, and it was always chilled, which was very unique.

What are some Cincy hidden gems? You can see all the old

brewery tunnels. So many cities had those, and so many were destroyed. But Cincinnati has the largest remaining collection of pre-Prohibition architecture like that.

See You on the

OTHER SIDE

CINCY REGION

Cincinnati is a city of stunning bridges, like the iconic blue John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, first opened in 1867. Take a step through history in the wooden Jediah Hill Covered Bridge dating back to 1850. The C&O Railroad Bridge, a cantilever truss bridge, first connected Cincinnati and Covington by railroad in the 1880s.

2022

WELCOME TO THE

NEIGHBORHOOD The Cincy Region is packed with dozens of extraordinarily diverse neighborhoods that are wildly different yet easily accessible. Wherever you happen to be, it’s just a short trip to a brand-new experience.

BY JILL ROSS

Blue Ash

Twenty minutes north of Cincinnati is Blue Ash, a close-knit community with big-city access. Summit Park, the jewel of Blue Ash, is a hub for year-round events. With annual festivals that attract more than 300,000 people, you will have the time of your life at electrifying music concerts, edgy theater and film festivals, and quirky local events. Experience a breathtaking 360-degree view in the park’s Observation Tower, explore the Children’s Nature Playscape or dine in one of four onsite restaurants. STOP BY: Sleepy Bee Café, Blue Ash Chili, Sharon Woods

Find dozens of neighborhoods and communities to explore throughout the region. visitcincy.com

CINCY REGION

2022

Hyde Park

One of Cincinnati’s oldest and hippest neighborhoods to explore is Hyde Park. The Observatory Historic District, named for its 19th-century hilltop observatory (which is still in use by the general public), features centuries-old homes in eclectic architectural styles. Nearby Ault Park includes walking nature trails and an excellent lookout point. Known for its plethora of coffee shops, restaurants, upscale shops and farmers markets, Hyde Park is one of the most active and trendy neighborhoods in all of Cincy. STOP BY: Hyde Perk, Hyde Park Square, Mushroom House (INSET)

Bellevue

With its charming tree-lined streets, quaint eateries and well-preserved Victorian homes, it’s no wonder historic Bellevue, Kentucky, is considered one of the Cincy region’s hidden gems. Located just minutes from downtown Cincinnati, Bellevue lives up to its French translation of “beautiful view,” granting visitors outstanding views of the Ohio River, Mount Adams and downtown. STOP BY: Bellevue Beach Park, Three Spirits Tavern (INSET), Schneider’s Sweet Shop

Covington

At the confluence of the Ohio and Licking rivers, Covington is filled with one-of-a-kind shopping and eating destinations; it’s also home to nine stops on The B-Line, the northern gateway to Kentucky’s famous Bourbon Trail. The charming MainStrasse Village district features classic pubs and chic eateries, plus Goebel Park’s quirky clock tower. The Cov is also home to both the Esperanza Latino Center and NKY Pride Center. STOP BY: Roebling Point Books and Coffee, Bouquet (INSET), Devou Park

SUMMIT PARK: MARK GARRETT, HYDE PARK SQUARE: STACEY HOFFMAN, NORTHSIDE JULY 4 PARADE: TIM JECKERING, MELT REVIVAL: MELT REVIVAL, COVINGTON: STATE OF KENTUCKY, BOUQUET, THREE SPIRITS TAVERN: MEETNKY, FINDLAY MARKET: CORPORATION FOR FINDLAY MARKET, BELLEVUE

Northside

CINCY REGION

Located just 5 miles from downtown Cincy, Northside is a hotbed of creativity and a popular destination for entertainment, nightlife and shopping. With dozens of independently owned eclectic businesses, the neighborhood is known for its hip dining and drinking scene, gourmet shops and vintage stores. Northside has a long history of activism, harnessing its independent spirit for the community causes and beloved residents. STOP BY: Sidewinder Coffee, Melt Revival (INSET), Buttercup Valley Preserve

Over-the-Rhine

One of the most vibrant neighborhoods in all of Cincinnati is Over-the-Rhine (OTR). Located just north of downtown, this revitalized historic neighborhood is packed with an impressive variety of shops, restaurants, bars and pubs, as well as Findlay Market — Ohio’s oldest farmers market — and historic Music Hall, home to the Cincinnati Ballet, Symphony Orchestra and Opera. Rich in history and bursting with culture, OTR is one of Cincinnati’s liveliest neighborhoods to explore. STOP BY: Iris BookCafé, Pepp & Dolores, Washington Park (INSET) 57

2022

CROWNING LOCALS

ALECIA KINTNER: ODESSA JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY, REGGIE HARRIS: DORISE BILAL, CANDACE MCGRAW: HARRIS MEDIA CO.

CINCY REGION

What makes the Cincinnati region such a great cultural arts area?

We have more than 100 established and new arts organizations that are thriving, collaborating and interested in working with each other to see the community rise with the impact of the arts. ArtsWave — the first and largest community campaign for the arts — began in 1927. There are now 25,000 to 30,000 donors every year. You can’t separate history and quality arts from the support of the community.

What destination is a surprise to many people? The 300-acre

ALECIA KINTNER, President and CEO of ArtsWave

Do you have any favorite events? We have more festivals than

weekends! Oktoberfest Zinzinnati is the largest celebration of its kind outside Munich and is held in September. And BLINK, Cincinnati’s projection mapping light festival that attracted 1.3 million people in 2019, returns in October.

CANDACE MCGRAW,

REGGIE HARRIS,

CEO of Cincinnati/ Northern Kentucky International Airport

Cincinnati City Council Member Where is your favorite place to chill in Cincinnati?

Cincy is a region that dreams big and lives even bigger. Here, you’ll find inspiring individuals led by visionaries with heart. We’ve asked local leaders who know the city best for their top Cincy recs.

BY JILL SELL

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum, north of downtown Cincinnati in Hamilton, has 80 monumental, contemporary and modern outdoor sculptures. It’s a wonderful way to experience the outdoors, nature and art. There’s also Cincinnati Art Museum’s Art Climb with 164 outdoor steps. You get a workout while seeing all the beauty of the landscaping and foliage of the nearby hills, plus three outdoor sculptures.

At Washington Park you see a cross section of the diversity of the city. It’s a green space surrounded by urban density with things to do. You can just sit and look at Music Hall, the most beautiful building, or watch kids play in the fountains. It’s like a magical tableau.

What don’t people realize about Cincinnati? That it is

an old and historic city. It was one of the first settling spots outside of the 13 colonies. And because so much of the old architecture is still intact, not only can the history of the city be told from its story, but you can see history, too.

What destination do you recommend to visitors? I am

a huge fan and supporter of the Contemporary Arts Center. It is one of only a few Zaha Hadiddesigned buildings in North America. There is a delicious restaurant on the ground floor and the exhibits are always changing. It’s a whole sensory experience.

If you could grab a friend and explore someplace in the Cincy region, where would it be? I would head to Ault Park. It’s

a hidden gem and there is always something more to explore, especially now that Wasson Way connects the park to several Cincinnati neighborhoods. I also highly recommend George Rogers Clark Park on the Covington riverfront. The views of the downtown skyline are beautiful. I’ll also be taking as many friends as I can to BLINK (Cincinnati’s downtown light show). There is nothing like BLINK and we will be entertaining many thousands of guests to show off our region for the spectacular displays.

What destination in the Cincy region would you recommend to visitors? I love the Taft Museum, followed by lunch

or drinks at the Lytle Park Hotel. The Taft is a unique and unexpected venue that hosts a number of interesting exhibits. And who doesn’t love relaxing with good food on a rooftop bar?

How do you see Cincinnati? Home. In addition to

Cincinnati being a cultural gem of the Midwest, it is welcoming and comfortable.

2022

MINORITY-OWNED BUSINESSES

BY JILL SELL

Entrepreneurial spirit has found a welcome home in the Cincy region, with minority-owned restaurants, shops and cafes leading the way. And given the immense benefits that come from supporting small, local business — better customer service, improved local economy and more diverse offerings, to name a few — it’s more important than ever to spend your money where it counts. CINCY REGION

BLACK COFFEE LOUNGE: CATHERINE GRACE PHOTO , ORIGINALITEES: ORIGINALITEES, SWEETS & MEATS BBQ: JUST BREATHE PHOTOGRAPHY,THE AREPA PLACE: AMY SMETHURST, SWEET PETIT DESSERTS: AMY ELISABETH PHOTOGRAPHY

SUPPORT

2022

When it comes to comfort food, Cincy delivers. Menu items at Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey live up to that name with the classic American trail food theme — try the Oregon Trail with an order of biscuits. If you grew up on collard greens, Dada Smokes is what you’ve been searching for, with Southern classics like candied yams and smoked meats. What started as a backyard barbecue has evolved into a brick-and-mortar community staple at Sweets and Meats BBQ (BELOW). From pulled pork to baby back ribs, it’s good enough to not mind dripping sauce on your clothes.

No meal is complete without dessert. Sweet Petit Desserts Owner Taren Kinebrew believes you won’t find better red velvet cookies (RIGHT) anywhere, which you can pre-order and pick up at her new endeavor, Cream + Sugar Coffee House. On the other hand, if you’re craving more wholesome fare, Conscious Kitchen is serious about being a sophisticated, Black-owned, American health food restaurant — think heart-healthy salmon egg rolls and Omega-3 burgers.

Dress for distinction and celebrate where you came from (or where you’ve been) with a t-shirt, sweatshirt or the likes from Originalitees. Another clothing line with personality is entrepreneur Means Cameron’s BlaCk OWned Outerwear, a community mainstay since 2011. Next door is BlaCk Coffee Lounge, also owned by Cameron. Lattes, cold-pressed juices and pastries are menu regulars, along with artists’ displays and performances. Visit Muse Café to be immersed in jazz, blues or poetry while taking advantage of the wine and coffee bar.

You don’t have to have a passport to travel the globe. For bold, authentic flavors, look no further than the Columbian and Venezuelan arepas at The Arepa Place (ABOVE) stuffed with chicken, beef, chorizo, black beans, fried plantains and more. Need another Venezuelan fix? Empanadas Aqui food truck serves up traditional Hallaca stuffed with a spicy filling, wrapped in a plantain and broiled. Darou Salam Restaurant, with fresh-made Senegalese cuisine and signature dishes including mechoui (baked lamb shank), is as authentic as it gets. Using family recipes dating back generations, Alfio’s Buon Cibo offers a unique Italian-Argentinian fusion — the duck bacon fettuccine has no enemies. 61

2022

COMMUNITY

CELEBRATE

BY JILL SELL

Cincinnati Pride Month

Celebrate love, inclusion and equality during Pride Month in June, where all are welcome regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. As two of the top-scoring cities in the Human Rights Campaign’s annual Municipal Equality Index (MEI), Cincinnati and Covington educate and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights year-round with organizations like Cincinnati Pride, Cincy Black Pride and NKY Pride at the helm. The celebration peaks in June during annual Pride events, but you can connect with the LGBTQ+ community in Cincy all year long. Take part with these must-dos:

Moon Festival

Experience the beauty of Asian cultures in a new light at Moon Festival in downtown Cincinnati in October. At least 15 different Asian cultures celebrate the Moon Festival, some for more than 3,000 years. Traditionally, it has been a time of reunion and appreciation of friends and relatives. The festival is organized annually by The Greater Cincinnati Cultural Exchange Association, Vibe Cincinnati and local partners. Hundreds of people from all cultures attend to enjoy authentic Asian food, traditional music, dancing, art and other entertainment. Take part with these must-dos:

Hoist the rainbow colors to support and celebrate diversity during Cincinnati Pride. This weeklong festival memorializes the trailblazers who first protested in Cincinnati for LGBTQ+ rights in 1973. Kick off the week at the headlining Pride Parade in Sawyer Point Park.

“Y’all Means All” at NKY Pride in Covington. March your way through the streets to find live music and plenty of LGBTQfriendly places to eat and drink. Stop in at the new NKY Pride Center, which works to provide visibility and build inclusive communities in Northern Kentucky year-round.

4 1 2 3 4 5

Voices of the Black LGBTQ+ community come to life on screen during the annual Black Alphabet Cincy Film Festival, hosted by Cincinnati Black Pride. The festival encourages dialogue and education around contributions of the Black LGBTQ+ community through storytelling and film.

Try mooncakes, pastries originally given out by Asian royal courts — the variety and authenticity is unmatched at the Moon Festival.

CINCY REGION

Mix, mingle and make new friends in the community at monthly Sunday Funday Tea Dances. These turned-up tea lunches hosted by Tea Dance Cincinnati at locations around the city are a great way to work on your dance moves and forge new connections.

Marvel at handmade opera masks used by festival performers. Some are scary, others beautiful, humorous or sad. But all are amazing.

PRIDE PARADE: CHELSIE WALTER PHOTOGRAPHY, MOON FESTIVAL: VISIT CINCY

Pride and Juneteenth celebrations culminate for a party like no other hosted by Cincinnati Black Pride. The organization supports education, awareness, and social and cultural wellness of those in the Black LGBTQ+ community. Keep an eye out for events like art shows, film screenings, town halls and more.

BETTER TOGETHER

Light up your life with lanterns found across Fountain Square. They’re beautiful in the day as works of art, but when the moon comes out, they truly come alive. Appreciate the art of paper cutting. Master paper cutters may capture the most intricate details, but you can try your hand at a simple yet beautiful paper moon.

As the diversity and inclusion engine for Visit Cincy, Vibe Cincinnati connects visitors and residents with opportunities and experiences reflecting a modern region that embraces differences. Vibe events, lectures and resources highlight cultural celebrations, support diverseowned businesses and bring our communities together.

Test your skills at writing Asian alphabets, learn what your translated name might be and admire the many accomplishments of Asian Americans. 62

2022

SLEEP TIGHT The Graduate Cincinnati Hotel

The Lytle Park

Hotel

Know Before You Go During your Cincy visit, keep an eye out for friendly faces wearing a CTA pin! Certified Tourism Ambassadors are trained Cincy tourism advocates located in the Visitor Center and around the community. They can provide information and tips to help you make the most of your visit. Find additional travel resources, such as recommendations for what to see, do, eat and drink (and coupons!), at visitcincy.com. CINCY REGION

THE LYTLE PARK HOTEL: THE LYTLE PARK HOTEL, THE GRADUATE CINCINNATI HOTEL: CHRISTIAN HORAN

BY JILL ROSS Upgrade your Cincy experience by staying in one of the region’s newest hotels. Kinley Cincinnati Downtown is perfectly situated between downtown and Over-the-Rhine. The Lytle Park Hotel, Autograph Collection (PICTURED) honors its refined roots in a historic renovated 1909 building. Hotel Covington, a converted 1910 department store, is conveniently located in the heart of Covington. The Graduate Cincinnati Hotel, in the heart of the University of Cincinnati district, celebrates local lore and architecture. The new Delta Hotels Cincinnati Sharonville, centrally located off the intersection of I-275 and I-75, is just 15 minutes from both downtown and Kings Island. For more lodging ideas, as well as special offers and travel packages, head to visitcincy.com.

NEED A LITTLE EXTRA GUIDANCE? Stop in at the Cincy Visitor Center on Fountain Square for additional resources to make the most of your time in Cincy. Find accommodations to suit your needs all around the region. visitcincy.com 2022

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The Inspired Life

WEDDINGS | MEETINGS | DINING

Designed to engage, inspire, and enlighten our guests, The Summit Hotel promises a transformative journey from everyday to extraordinary. From thought-provoking works of art, to chef-curated dining experiences, we’ll spark your sense of creativity at every turn. Guests will enjoy contemporary, colorful guestrooms that offer relaxed accommodations for both business and leisure guests alike. Extensive indoor and outdoor meeting space, including over 20,000 ft² rooftop terrace and gardens, provide a blank canvas open to infinite possibilities to plan celebrations and unforgettable meetings. Inspiration awaits.

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5345 MEDPACE WAY, CINCINNATI, OH 45227 | (513) 527-9900 | WWW.THESUMMITHOTEL.COM

ADVENTURE AWAITS Our parks. Your parks. Great Parks. Across our 22 parks and preserves, you’ll find more than 17,700 acres of nature’s finest, with year-round activities and community events for all ages and abilities. With a focus on conservation and emphasis on equity and inclusion, we make parks a place for everyone. Plan your visit at greatparks.org.

Cincy Visitors Guide 2022

Articles inside

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

BE A PART OF CINCY’S STORY

HISTORY CULTURE

CREATIVE CULTURE

SLEEP TIGHT

SPORTS CULTURE