Planning a weekend getaway to Cincinnati? This 72-hour itinerary can serve as your guide to experiencing the Queen City through a local lens. It blends iconic landmarks with hidden gems, cultural attractions with scenic views, and beloved bites with vibrant nightlife. Over the course of three carefully curated days, you’ll explore historic downtown, wander through the charming streets of Over-the-Rhine, and unwind in the picturesque beauty of Eden Park and Mount Adams. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler seeking a deeper experience, this itinerary offers a balanced mix of adventure.
Day 1: Exploring Downtown Cincinnati
(Jake Blucker / Unsplash / CC0)
Start: Welcome to Cincinnati, the Queen City! Set alongside the Ohio River, this vibrant city is known for its historic architecture, diverse cultural attractions, and thriving food scene. Since you’ve probably spent the morning traveling to Cincinnati, we’ve started our itinerary at lunchtime on your first day.
Lunch Recommendation: For a classic Cincinnati dining experience, head to Skyline Chili and savor their renowned Cincinnati-style chili piled high on spaghetti or coneys.
Afternoon: After lunch, take a visit to the Cincinnati Art Museum, a world-class collection of over 67,000 pieces spanning 6,000 years. Explore the various galleries, from ancient artifacts to contemporary works.
Evening: As the sun sets, head to The Banks entertainment district situated along the riverfront. Enjoy dinner at Moerlein Lager House, a brewery and restaurant offering scenic views of the Ohio River and Great American Ball Park.
Late Night: For a late-night option, catch a performance at the Aronoff Center for the Arts, known for its diverse array of shows ranging from Broadway productions to concerts.
Tips: The Connector is a convenient way to navigate downtown. Don’t miss capturing the stunning cityscape from the Roebling Suspension Bridge.
Other Recommended Things to Do: Visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center for a compelling dive into the history of slavery, abolition, and modern-day slavery.
Prep for Tomorrow: Get ready to explore the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood tomorrow, approximately a 15-minute drive from downtown.
Day 2: Over-the-Rhine Exploration
(Flor Nájera / Unsplash / CC0)
Start: Today, venture into Over-the-Rhine, a historic neighborhood renowned for its 19th-century architecture, trendy boutiques, and acclaimed dining scene.
Morning: Begin with a visit to the Cincinnati Music Hall, an iconic venue with stunning architecture and a rich history. Take a guided tour to learn about the hall’s famous residents and significant events.
Lunch Recommendation: Enjoy a delightful lunch at Mellotone Beer Project, housed in a historic church. Indulge in their craft beers and gourmet pub fare in a unique and charming setting.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring the lively streets of Over-the-Rhine. Wander along Vine Street and Main Street, popping into eclectic shops, art galleries, and local cafes.
Evening: For dinner, head to Pepp & Dolores, an intimate Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and exceptional handmade pasta. Indulge in a delicious meal accompanied by a fine selection of wine.
Late Night: Complete your evening with a visit to 16-Bit Bar+Arcade, a retro bar offering classic arcade games, cocktails, and a lively ambiance.
Tips: Over-the-Rhine is highly walkable, allowing you to leisurely explore the neighborhood’s charm. Look out for the colorful murals adorning the buildings.
Other Recommended Things to Do: If exploring the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood isn’t for you, check out the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. You could spend a whole day there wandering through the diverse collection of wildlife and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Prep for Tomorrow: Tomorrow, you’ll be exploring the scenic Eden Park and its surrounding attractions.
Day 3: Discovering Eden Park & Mount Adams
(We The Creators / Unsplash / CC0)
Start: Embark on the final day of your Cincinnati adventure by visiting Eden Park, a picturesque green space offering stunning views of the Ohio River and the city skyline.
Morning: Begin your day with a visit to the Krohn Conservatory, a lush and vibrant botanical garden featuring a wide variety of plant species from around the world.
Lunch Recommendation: For a delightful lunch with a view, dine at the scenic Terrace Cafe at the Cincinnati Art Museum, overlooking the scenic grounds. Or put things together to enjoy a picnic in the park.
Afternoon: Unfortunately, after lunch, it’s time to head back home after a lovely weekend of exploring.
Tips: Consider driving to Eden Park for convenience, ensuring you have ample time to explore the various attractions within the park.
Other Recommended Things to Do: Take a scenic drive along the Ohio River Scenic Byway, offering picturesque views and charming riverside towns.
This itinerary was generated using artificial intelligence (AI) technology as the result of reader-submitted parameters and input. A member of the A Weekend In team has reviewed and edited the output for accuracy, clarity, and readability. However, it is still advisable to cross-reference the information before making definitive travel plans. Readers are encouraged to consider this content as a starting point for modifying and/or creating their own personalized itineraries using our free AI-Powered Travel Planner.
