There’s something to do for everyone in Queen City, especially for those in the millennial and Gen Z crowds. Abby and Makaela have both called Cincinnati “home” at different points in their lives. . During their time there, they enjoyed showing their families and friends around, and in the process, learned a lot about what the city has to offer. Here are their go-to recommendations if you find yourself in Cincy!
Know Before You Go
Makaela: There’s always something going on — Cincy is hopping with events. From comedy shows to food festivals, “Now in the Nati” (Abby’s a co-host!) will keep you up-to-date on what’s happening next.
Abby: Unlike many other Midwestern cities, Cincinnati’s landscape consists of beautiful rolling hills. You won’t regret taking the scenic route into or out of the area! Also, keep in mind that a five-minute drive across the Ohio River will take you from downtown Cincinnati to Northern Kentucky. There’s lots to check out in Newport, Covington and more!
Take It From a Local
M: MadTree Brewing is the ultimate hotspot. Imagine a warm, summer night surrounded by live music, drinks, and good conversation. Oh, and the most important thing: everyone brings their dogs since there’s a huge outdoor seating area. You can’t go wrong with good vibes.
A: The American Sign Museum is a feast for the eyes! It’s teeming with neon from decades past. From an iconic marker of the Holiday Inn to a classic Cincinnati Frisch’s Big Boy, these bold creations are sure to spark a memory — or inspire you to create a new one!
Must See
M: Hyde Park is just one of the fifty-two neighborhoods that make up Cincy. Within the square vicinity, it includes a plant-based juicery & kitchen, Cincy’s first power yoga studio, and a sushi restaurant open until 2am every day (to name a few).
A: Jungle Jim’s is not just an international grocery store; it’s a gift shop, a food hall, and a repository for every beer and wine you could imagine! Walk through the maze of aisles for hours to scout out foods from different cultures you won’t find anywhere else in the area. (Did I mention there are food-themed animatronics as well?)
Need to Try
M: I remember meeting up with my friends at the Banks after a Reds or Bengals game. It’s a great way to meet new people and get a glimpse of Cincinnati’s nightlife. Tin Roof has live bands on weekends. Moerlein Lager House has beautiful views of the Ohio River and the lit Roebling Suspension Bridge. Or take a walk on the Purple People Bridge to cross state lines and reach Newport, KY.
Taste of Belgium was my go-to breakfast spot when I lived in Cincy. They have multiple locations around town, so you don’t need to worry about driving far. I could daydream all day about their banana and nutella liège waffles.
A: Skyline Chili is a Cincinnati staple. Yes, you CAN combine chili and spaghetti!
M: I just had a flashback of tasting Graeter’s Heartbreaker milkshake — with over 150 years of experience, you can’t go wrong with perfection.
Make the Most of Your Experience
M: If you need to stay at a hotel, stay at The Summit. I stayed here when I was visiting a friend, and it’s located in the heart of Cincy. The hotel has a funky vibe to it, the staff is very friendly, and you get more than what you pay for from my perspective.
A: Cincinnati history is everywhere! It’s not too hard to take a trip back in time. A walk downtown will introduce you to pig sculptures that reference the pork-producing past, well-kept buildings spanning multiple centuries, and even a beautiful bridge that rivals Brooklyn’s.
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We hope you are able to enjoy this beautiful city as much as we have — it’s patiently awaiting your arrival. Are you ready to crown Queen City with your presence?
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