Cincinnati, along the Ohio River in Southwest Ohio, has a character unlike other Ohio cities. The city has unique, walkable neighborhoods, museums, parks, and bridges.
Founded in 1788, Cincinnati grew quickly, spurred by the trade and traffic along the Ohio River and the Miami-Erie Canal that connected the River to Lake Erie. Examples of those early days can be seen in the city's architecture, monuments, and unique food and customs. Today, the city still relies on the river for trade and entertainment. To sample this fascinating city, consider visiting the following top attractions:
Cincinnati Zoo - The Cincinnati Zoo, located in the city's urban Avondale neighborhood, is the second oldest zoo in the country (after Philadelphia). Founded in 1875, the 75-acre park houses over 500 animal species and over 3000 varieties of plant life.
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center - This unique museum, opened in 2004, traces the story of thousands of slaves that began the road to freedom by crossing the Ohio River at or near Cincinnati. The centerpiece of the 158,000-square foot museum is an authentic slave pen, used to house slaves prior to an auction. It was moved from a farm in Kentucky, just across the Ohio/Kentucky state line.
Findlay Market - Ohio's oldest continuously operating market is located just north of downtown in the city's Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, also known for its many 19th century Italianate homes. The Findlay Market, built in 1852, is open Wednesdays through Sundays and offers a variety of produce, dairy products, and meat. It's a fun place to visit, even if you aren't shopping for food.
Mt. Adams - This colorful neighborhood is located atop one of the seven hills that make up Cincinnati and looks across downtown to the Ohio River beyond. Originally settled by German and Irish immigrants, today Mt. Adams is one of Cincinnati's most sought after addresses. Visitors will find an eclectic mixture of restaurants and boutiques.
John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge - Before Roebling built the Brooklyn Bridge, he practiced in Cincinnati. This striking span across the Ohio River is still in use and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The 1057-foot long bridge connects downtown Cincinnati with Newport, Kentucky. For the best view, walk--don't drive--across this scenic bridge.
Cincinnati Art Museum - Located in the city's Eden Park neighborhood, the Cincinnati Art Museum, founded in 1881, is one of the oldest art museums in the United States. The museum's 60,000 piece permanent collection is open to the public, free of charge. Highlights include the museum's collection of Rookwood Pottery (a Cincinnati firm); its Nabataean art collection, the largest outside of Jordan; and its collection of European and American portraits.
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