Everything Pride Month in Cincinnati

This Pride month it feels particularly important to support the LGBTQ+ community. LGBTQ-owned businesses and LGTBQ-friendly things to do don’t just provide safe spaces for the community—they cultivate inclusion and belonging.

Below is a comprehensive list of several Pride events around Cincinnati, places to get Pride goods and merchandise, and a list of book suggestions* to learn more and to show our support of the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month and beyond. There is even a link to a list of LGBTQ-owned businesses in Greater Cincinnati.

Pride Events

June 1

Inclusive Pride Flag Raising
Hamilton County Courthouse, 11a
Event is coordinated in conjunction with County offices and County Commissioner Denise Driehaus.
facebook.com

Miss Major Release Party
Rhinegeist, 4–7p
Featuring a clothing drive hosted by Transform Cincy. See post for donation requests.
instagram.com

Celebrate Pride With FCC
&Sundries, 5–7p
The organization is promoting locally owned LGBTQ+-owned businesses for Pride month. They will be giving away prizes and a chance to win apparel.

Pride Kickoff Party
Bloom OTR*, 10p–midnight
facebook.com

June 2

Pride Month Storytime
Joseph-Beth Cincinnati, 10:30a
Join us for a special storytime in honor of Pride Month.
facebook.com

Celebrate Pride With FCC
OTR StillHouse*, 6–8p
The organization is promoting locally owned LGBTQ+-owned businesses for Pride month. They will be giving away prizes and a chance to win apparel.

Esoteric Presents: Pride Month Kickoff Drag Show
Esoteric Brewing Company, 9p
Calling all queens, kings, and everyone in between to celebrate love, diversity, and and unity in the most fabulous way possible.
facebook.com

June 3

Hamilton Ohio Pride
Marcum Park, 11a–10p
Celebrate love and diversity through gatherings, support networks, and the arts. Details:
Pride March at Rotary Park – 11am
Pride Festival at Marcum Park – noon to 6pm
Pride Concert at RiversEdge amphitheater – 6 to 10pm
facebook.com

Love Conquers Ale Beer Garden Pride Party
Samuel Adams Cincinnati Taproom, 12–4p
Love Conquers Ale on tap and live music on the patio. Limited edition Love Conquers Ale glasses, shirts, stickers, and koozies will be available.
facebook.com

Pride Night at FC Cincinnati Pre-Match Party
Washington Park, 4:30–7:30p
Cincinnati Pride, Procter & Gamble, and FC Cincinnati partner for pre-match fun featuring community organizations, food trucks, inflatables, and other activities for the whole family, music, and drag performances.
facebook.com

Pride Night at FC Cincinnati
fccincinnati.com

Because of You – Grainworks Celebrates Pride
Brainwork’s Brewing Company, 6p–midnight
Pride Night with drag show, Pride-themed music videos, raffle, and drink specials. Benefiting PFLAG Cincinnati.
facebook.com

June 4

NKY Pride Parade and Festival
Goebel Park, 12p
Parade starts at noon from the Covington Riverfront with the festival beginning at Mainstrasse from 12–5p.
nkypridecenter.org

EPIC Drag Show
Agave & Rye Covington, 3–6p
Celebrate Pride month and an inclusive community.
instagram.com/agaveandrye

June 9

Drag Disco
MadTree Brewing, 8p
Boogie with Cincinnati’s grooviest queens, including The Lady Phaedra, Brock Leah Spears, and Alexander Cameron.
events.humanitix.com

June 10

June Westwood Second Saturdays: Pride
Westwood Town Hall, 5–10p
DJ, drag queens, a special appearance from DanceFix, Make it Take SWAG for kids, local food and drinks (DORA-friendly!), FC Cincinnati, and interactive entertainment that is inclusive and welcome to all.
facebook.com

Pride Stride
Sawyer Point Skating Rink, 7–10p
With Crissy Brollin and DJ Hershe B, featuring skating drag queens.
cincinnatiparksfoundation.org

Pride Night
Cincinnati Observatory, 7–10p
18+ Pride Night to celebrate our local LGBTQ community, featuring self-guided tours of the Observatory and grounds, Pride goodies, and solar viewing during the first hour (weather permitting).
facebook.com
Tickets are on sale for 7pm and 8pm. $20/person

June 11

Second Sunday: Pride on Main
Main Street OTR, 12–5p
Vibrant arts and music programming, diverse vendor market, and biergarten lounge while promoting the small businesses of Main Street.
secondsundayonmain.org

Brunch and Showtunes Sunday
Bloom OTR*

June 15

3rd Annual Pride Happy Hour
The Growler House, 5–7p
Proceeds go to Equality Ohio.
facebook.com

June 17

New Richmond Pride Festival
New Richmond Band Stand, 11a
Celebrate and support the local LGBTQIA+ community.
facebook.com

Pride Drag Brunch
Taft’s Brewpourium, 12–3p
Interactive event featuring brunch buffet, dancing, lip syncing, games, and more. Hosted by Scarlett Moon. Proceeds will benefit Transform Cincy.
Tickets

6th Annual Pride Bar Crawl
Exclusive drink specials, food specials at partner venues, and several participating bars. A portion of process will be donated to local Pride organizations and The Trevor Project.
Tickets

June 22

One-Year Anniversary Floral Party
Bloom OTR*

June 23

5th Annual Middletown Pride Festival
Downtown Middletown, 5–9p
Everyone and everyBODY is welcome to a night full of acceptance, love and celebration.
facebook.com

Dance with Pride
The Studio (Northgate Mall), 6:30–8p
Celebrating individuality, authenticity, and freedom to be who we are and to love who we love. $10 admission at the door.
facebook.com

June 24

Cincinnati Pride Parade and Festival
Parade kicks off at 7th and Plum at 11am, and ends at Sawyer Point Park, where the family friendly festival featuring food, drinks, vendors, and entertainment goes from noon to 9p.
cincinnatipride.org

Pride Sober Zone Drag Show
12:30–6p
Grab a mocktail and enjoy the show. Performances every 30 minutes.
facebook.com

Rainbow Pop Day Party
Bloom OTR*

Pride Roll Out
Riverfront Outdoor Rink, 6–11p
All wheels welcome. Two live DJs, vendors, food trucks. Bring your own skates or borrow. Hosted by the Cincinnati Skate Collective and the Cincinnati Rollergirls.
instagram.com

Pride After Party
Bloom OTR*

June 25

Pride at the Market
Findlay Market, 10a–4p
Get some yummy treats and drinks at the market while celebrating all love here in the heart of Cincinnati.
findlaymarket.org

Pride Brunch
Bloom OTR*
Two shows and Bloom Tea Dance at 3p.

EPIC Drag Show
Agave & Rye Rookwood, 3–6p
Celebrate Pride month and an inclusive community.
instagram.com/agaveandrye

July 8

Cincinnati Opera’s 15th Pride Night
Cincinnati Music Hall, 10:45p–midnight
Celebrate Greater Cincinnati’s LGBTQIA+ community and stand with drag artists.
cincinnatiopera.org

Pride Beverages

Some local breweries, drinkeries, and restaurants will have Pride-inspired beverages and specials for Pride month—many of which will donate proceeds of sales to local LGBTQ+ organizations.

Braxton Brewing Company
Pride Watermelon Raddler
facebook.com

Cafe Alma
Rainbow Mimosa Flights
June 1–30

Hi-Wire Brewing
Hi-Pitch Mosaic IPA Pride Cans
Proceeds from each four pack and Pride merch sales benefiting ACLU of Ohio all month long.
Available June 1

HighGrain Brewing Company
Pride Pop (mango wheat)
Available June 1

Rhinegeist
Miss Major
Berliner style sour with lemon and strawberry. A portion of the proceeds will be benefit Transform Cincy.

Samuel Adams
Love Conquers Ale
Yuzu, hibiscus, and prickly pear ale.

Goods and Apparel

&Sundries*

Can Cover: Choose Love – $8

Can Cover: Rainbow – $8

Pride Box – $34
Six unique [best-selling] bath bombs

Pride Handwash – $9

Rainbow Glass – $16

Books

Reading books about Pride, the Community, and written by LGBTQ+ authors is a great way to support and show solidarity. Here is a shortlist of books available to purchase through local bookstores, as recommended by @woodsomc.

I suggest supporting independent bookstores and our local library (you can download ebooks and audiobooks through the Libby app). You can purchase books through indie bookstores as well as through the Blue Manatee Literacy Project via Bookshop.org.

Blue Manatee Literacy Project

Powered by Bookshop.org

The Hips on the Drag Queen Go Swish, Swish, Swish – $17.99
Lil Miss Hot Mess (children’s Book)

Jack (Not Jackie) – $17.99
Erica Silverman (children’s book)

Bookery

The Celebrants – $28
Steven Rowley (novel)

Love Makes A Family – $11.99
Sophie Beer (children’s book)

Downbound Books

Another Brooklyn – $16.99
Jacqueline Woodson (novel)

Big Gay Wedding – $26.99
Byron Lane (novel)

The Guncle – $17
Steven Rowley (novel)

The Hips on the Drag Queen Go Swish, Swish, Swish – $17.99
Lil Miss Hot Mess (children’s Book)

Julián is a Mermaid – $17.99
Jessica Love (children’s book)

The Prettiest Star – $16
Carter Sickels (novel, local)

Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag – $18.99
Rob Sanders (children’s book)

Small Businesses

The number of LGBTQ-owned businesses is growing and and their impact on our neighborhoods and our local economies is undeniable. And not only are LGBTQ+-owned businesses a safe space for the Community, they foster inclusion and celebrate belonging.

Click here for a list of several places around Cincinnati where we can show our support of the LGBTQ+ community and the small businesses that help make our city unique.

*LGBTQ-owned business

Everything Kid-Friendly Cincy: The Acres Edition

Looking for a fun day out with the littles? Head to The Acres in Evendale. ⛳️ (Yes, you can spend an entire day there!)

Formerly Etter’s Golf Center, which opened in 1950, The Acres is a reimagined 15-acre space (get it?) featuring a driving range, miniature golf, and revitalized midcentury outbuildings and facilities turned Trackman room and Restaurant + Bar. And it is a dang fun way to spend a day or evening with family (or friends).

The onsite restaurant serves really good elevated American classics with locally sourced ingredients, such as a Smashburger-style patties from Avril-Bleh. Also available are shareables, salads, main courses, and a kids menu with dishes starting at $6. There is a full bar with beer, wine, and cocktails, including a good selection of local beer. (I went with a Red Cream Soda Astra Seltzer because of course I did.)

We ordered loaded tots to start (because duh), a burger, chicken Caesar wrap (that day’s special), and a hot dog and cheese quesadilla for the kids. I particularly loved the burger while BK loved the wrap. My kids spotted the Streetpops freezer essentially from the moon (those kids can spot popsicles from anywhere) and loved having that to top off their dinner. That was a nice touch.

The Acres currently features mostly golf activities, but intends to broaden its reach with additional recreation and events. Unlimited miniature golf is $8 per adult and $5 for children ages 4 to 9 (under 3 is free) and they also offer lessons, private events, and a Trackman room, which is simulated 9- or 18-hole rounds of golf, with year-round leagues and a heated room available to rent.

Between unlimited mini golf, driving range, Trackman, and Restaurant + Bar, The Acres is a family friendly day destination. There is not a lot of shade, though, so be sure to bring your SPF.

My kids may be a little young yet to truly appreciate miniature golf (they’re 4 and 2) but they mostly did pretty well. I am already planning a trip back to this charming spot. It is the perfect place to celebrate a birthday or Father’s Day and if I can help it, I will be doing just that.

Tip 👉🏻 They have dozens of two-way putters but if you prefer a left-handed club, I’d suggest bringing your own.

📍 The Acres
9941 Reading Road
Cincinnati, Ohio 45241

⏰ Spring Hours
Driving Range and Mini Golf
9a–9p every day (closes Tuesdays at 8)

Restaurant + Bar
4p–9p Monday–Wednesday
11a–9p Thursday–Saturday
11a–7p Sunday

Written by: Linsey Kraeling – Woman, wife, and mother about town, proud millennial, and lifelong Cincinnatian with an invested interest in community involvement and having a full plate—literally and figuratively. Follow along with and read more about eating like a sophisticated six-year-old, supporting local, and acting like a tourist in her own city at instagram.com/linsinnati and tourdecincinnati.com.

History and Hidden Gems Featuring Molly Wellmann

Brought to you by The BMW Store & Richter & Philips

Richter and Phillips History

Richter & Phillips was started by George Richter and Ferdinand Phillips in 1896. The first store was located on Race St. near 4th. In 1903 they moved to 5th and Main and then to the Temple Bar building on East Court St. across from the courthouse. By 1977, they moved the store to the Gwynne Building on 6th and Main, and, finally, in 2016, across the street where they are today.

George Richter was the son of Norbert Richter, who was also a jeweler. The Richter family moved to Cincinnati from Germany in 1850. Norbert worked for Edward and David Kinsey Jewelers on 5th St. near the 5th St. Market. The store’s balcony is where Abraham Lincoln made his pre-election speech in 1859. Norbert opened his own Jewelry store in 1861 on Vine St. in Over-the-Rhine. All 4 of Norbert Richter’s sons went into the jewelry business. George specialized in jewelry and making spectacles.

Ferdinand Phillips was the brother-in-law and partner to Aaron and Joseph Plaut. They were jewelry wholesalers with a shop in the Emery Arcade. Ferdinand specialized in watchmaking. He was in charge of buying for Richter & Phillips and traveled frequently. Eventually, Ferdinand’s brothers joined the firm.

Richter & Phillips offered their customers catalog shopping. Items were available in the nationwide mail-order catalogs, including jewelry, giftware, luggage, purses, trophies, plaques, clocks, electrical appliances, sporting goods, musical instruments, dolls, and toys. Charles E. Richter, a nephew to George Richter, became Phillips’s partner when George left the firm in 1900. Charles ran the firm until the 1930s. The Great Depression hit Richter & Phillips hard. Frederick W. Fehr, a traveling diamond salesman, purchased the business to keep this Cincinnati institution afloat! Fred Fehr and his right-hand man, Lawrence Fledderman, continued running The Richter & Phillips Company in the same capacity through World War II. Located in the Temple Bar Building. Mr. Fehr handled all diamond and jewelry deals. At the same time, Mr. Fledderman took care of business. In 1946, Fred’s son Fred jr, started to work in the store, eventually taking the reins after his father’s retirement. In 1981, after becoming a Graduate Gemologist, Fred Fehr Jr.’s son, Frederick W. Fehr, III (Rick), joined the staff at The Richter & Phillips Company. Upon hiring, Rick took over all diamond and gemstone purchasing and sales.

In 1990, Fred Fehr, Jr.’s other son, Arthur (Art) Fehr, joined the staff after becoming a Graduate Gemologist. Soon after, Rick & Art’s sister, Christy Vigil, joined the team taking over inventory management and constantly adding new lines to our ever-growing collection.

Rounding out the true feeling of the family-owned business, Rick’s son, Eric (4th generation), has joined the line of Fehr’s at Richter & Phillips Jewelers. After studying and performing law for almost a decade, Eric decided to take a leap of faith and take on his family legacy. As of 2017, Eric is a Graduate Gemologist and serves as Richter & Phillips’ President.

Today at Richter & Phillips Jewelers, you can find Rick, Eric, and Christy busy at their desks or assisting customers in the showroom.

Richter & Phillips specializes in diamonds, watches, and jewelry as they do today. I’m confident that they are the most trustworthy store for buying diamonds. They hold many events at the store, including Drinks & Diamonds, where Eric Fehr teaches you everything you need to know about looking for the perfect diamond! Richter & Phillips are continuing the rich history of Cincinnati jewelers! They are genuinely a Cincinnati gem!

The BMW Store History

The BMW store in Silverton is a special store not only is it a place to purchase a beautiful BMW but it also has a mini BMW museum. It’s really cool.

Cincinnatian’s love their automobiles. BMW a German car company, makes so much sense in our Germantown. Cincinnati has always loved their cars and we had quite a few car manufactures back in the day.

The first recorded auto being made in cincinnati was in 1891 by William George Wagenhals. ( oh my gosh I love his last name! Wagenhals! So cute!) He was the General manager of the Cincinnati Incline Plane Railroad Company. He called his little car “The Flivver” imagine this ….. it’s a usual quiet September Sunday morning in St. Bernard 1891. You are joining your neighbors on your way to church when all of the sudden from down Vine street you hear “BANG !BANG!RICKETY!POP POP! BANG! Coming from a little horseless two seater buggy chugging up the street surrounded in smoke with Mr. Wagenhals at the wheel .what a sight that must have been!

William built his Car in his spare time in the old St. Bernard street car barns.he selected a two setter buggy, cut the shafts, and put in a one cylinder motor in the front part of the buggy there was no reverse and you used a hand brake to stop it.

William Wagenhals went on to become an accomplished mechanical engineer. He moved to St. Louis and then to Detroit and opened his own automobile factory. He was known for making small 3 wheeled delivery cars that made it easy to get around the crowded inner city.

Since Wagenhals bumpy ride in 1891 there have been many automobiles made in Cincinnati in this early days. Most were made by established Carriage builders. Cincinnatis carriage manufacturing industry was one of the largest in the United States.

Emerson &Fischer pivoted from making Carriages in 1896… the company didn’t last long after that. Horace Fischer went on to form his own company a few years later.

Cane and Breed were coffin Makers who got into the automobile business in 1902 they made a horseless hearse.

Jacob Haberer was a successful carriage maker in cincinnati for many years. He and his Five sons owned Haberer co. Jacob Died in 1901 at his Sadamsville’s home. Jacob f. Haberer jr. Became president and started making The 4 cylinder “Cin-o” toeing car. It could drive the furthest then any car at that time. They went out of business in 1913.

Even Shillitos made an Automobile!

By the 1920s, car manufacturers in Detroit and Henry Ford made it hard to compete in the automobile industry and pretty much all the small car company’s in Cincinnati went out of business.

These days there are many car dealerships thru out our city . I had the pleasure of touring the BMW store on Stewart rd. and it was such a treat!

BMW was started in 1916 in Munich when the Rapp Motoren werke company, a struggling aircraft engine manufacture owned by Karl f. Rapp, was taken over by Austrians Frank Popp and Maxx Friz. They merged their company with another aircraft engine manufacture called Gustav Flugmaschinefabin owned by Gustav Otto. They called their new company, Beyersiche Flugzevgwerke. Eventually they change the name to Bayersiche Motoren Werke … Bavarian Motor Works ….. BMW.

The company made aircraft engines, motorcycles and automobiles until most of their factories were bombed during World War One. After the war they were forbidden to make any motor vehicles or air craft in their remaining factory in west Germany. For the company to survive those years , the made pots and pans and bicycles. By 1928 they were back in production, automobiles was now their main business.

Today BMW is one of the top Automobile Brands in the world with an emphasis on class, quality and, performance.

The BMW store is a very special place. They are dedicated to help Cincinnatians continue their passion for Autombils today! Passion loves Company!

Click here to take the tour!

Written by Molly Wellmann

BMW Dealer in Cincinnati | The BMW Store

Richter & Phillips | Engagement Rings, Watches, Custom Jewelry | Online Jewelry Store

Everything Outdoor Fun in Cincinnati

Spring has officially sprung and warm weather is here to stay.

I’m not sure about you, but my favorite thing about the warm season is all of the great things to do outside in our city.

From rooftop drinks with a view and patio dining vibes, to family friendly days out and evenings with friends, there is something for everyone on this list of outdoor dining options and unique activities to do outdoors in Cincinnati.

Sure there are parks, pools, festivals, and sporting events, to attend (you should definitely do those, too!) but these are ways to enjoy time outside this warm season that maybe you hadn’t done or thought about before.

Drinking Al Fresco

Beer Gardens

Hofbräuhaus* Newport
Get in on the Gemütlichkeit with authentic Bavarian food and bier on the biergarten at America’s first authentic Hofbräuhaus.
hofbrauhausnewport.com

MadTree* Oakley
Dog-friendly beer garden at a centrally located brewery perfect for get-togethers, first dates, fun with friends and family, and so much more.
madtree.com

Mecklenburg Gardens Corryville
Historic German restaurant that was voted among the best beer gardens in the US by Thrillist and #1 in America’s Best Beer Gardens by Travel and Leisure Magazine.
mecklenburgs.com

Northern Row* OTR
Brewery and distillery with a historic taproom in the historic OTR Brewery District, serving excellent food with great outdoor seating.
northernrow.com

Narrow Path Brewing Co. Loveland
Craft brewery in the heart of downtown Loveland, enjoying an onsite food truck plus Loveland Bike Trail views and vibes.
narrowpathbrewing.com

OTR Biergarten at Findlay Market OTR
Take a break from market shopping with vendor fare and a beer on Findlay Market’s Biergarten. Beverages (including NA) served by Jane’s outdoor bar.
findlaymarket.org

OTR StillHouse OTR
OTR’s largest indoor/outdoor venue serving house-made brews and wines; complete with a large beer garden and onsite food truck.
otrstillhouse.com

The Porch at Washington Park OTR
Take a break from shopping at a park market or from enjoying the playground or splash pad to kick back and relax with a beverage on The Porch. Bring your own food.
washingtonpark.org

Queen City Radio OTR
For a more authentic biergarten experience, grab Lübecker fare to have with your drink(s). Prost!
QCR Bar and Beer Garden, The Lübecker

Samuel Adams Cincinnati Taproom* OTR
The Samuel Adams Cincinnati Brewery has become Samuel Adams’ main production brewery. Enjoy innovative styles and experimental beers on the beer garden at the Cincy Taproom.
samadamscincy.com

Sonder Brewing Mason
Enjoy excellent brewery fare courtesy of Brewriver at Sonder while taking in the large dog-friendly beer garden.
sonderbrewing.com

Rooftops

21c Museum Hotel* Cocktail Terrace Central Business District (CBD)
Raw bar by Metropole, boozy slushies, and cocktails.
[temporarily closed]
21cmuseumhotels.com

AC Upper Deck at AC Hotel Cincinnati The Banks
Panoramic views of the riverfront, Northern Kentucky, Paycor Stadium, and Great American Ball Park.
Food: Tapas menu onsite
acupperdeck.com

Braxton Brewing Company Covington
5000-square-foot rooftop patio with seating, shade, full bar, and views of Covington and downtown.
Food: Dewey’s Pizza
braxtonbrewing.com

BrewDog Cincinnati Pendleton
Enjoy Mt. Adams and Downtown Cincinnati views from the rooftop just two hours south of BrewDog’s American HQ.
Food: Full menu onsite

Hi-Wire Brewing Norwood
Asheville-based brewery with rooftop views of Factory 52’s grand courtyard where there will be live music performances and movies.
Food: The Gatherall Food Hall is coming soon to Factory 52
hiwirebrewing.com

Pins Mechanical OTR
Take a break from duckpin bowling with a signature cocktail and views of OTR’s historic architecture.
Food: Bring your own
pinsbar.com

Rhinegeist* OTR
Serving up craft beer and spanning vistas of OTR, the Central Business District, and the West End.
Food: Local Cantina in the taproom
rhinegeist.com

The View at Shires Garden* CBD
City views of Northern Kentucky and the Roebling Bridge, as well as Paycor Stadium and more.
Food: Full menu onsite

Patio Dining

Arnold’s Bar & Grill CBD
Cozy patio and courtyard with live music several days a week; serving elevated bar and American food.
arnoldsbarandgrill.com

Arthur’s Hyde Park
Cafe and bar with an urban oasis-like patio area, serving award-winning burgers and so much more.
arthurscincinnati.com

Cabana on the River Sayler Park
Ohio River views, live entertainment, and a menu of American food. (Reservations are not accepted.)
cabanaontheriver.com

Che* OTR
Serving Argentina’s favorite street foods, complete with an Argentinian countryside patio oasis.
checincinnati.com

Element Eatery Madisonville
More than 10 food experiences, 48-tap beer garden, live music, and community events, as well as 250 outdoor seats.
element-eatery.com

Incline Public House Price Hill
Standing atop the former Price Hill Incline, this bar and eatery serves scratch-made fare with panoramic views of downtown and the Ohio River from the 1400-square-foot patio.
inclinepublichouse.com

Kreimer’s Bier Haus Miamitown
A unique German-American cuisine experience, plus a festival-style atmosphere, which enjoys live music and scenic Great Miami River views.
bierhauswest.net

MadTree Alcove* OTR
A nook of nature in the heart of OTR, serving farm-to-table foods, beer, and craft cocktails.
madtreebrewing.com

Moerlein Lager House* CBD
An original and mainstay of the Cincinnati culinary and brewing scene, the Lager House serves German-American fare and enjoys Riverfront and Roebling views. It is conveniently situated amid Smale Park, The Banks, and Great American Ball Park.
moerleinlagerhouse.com

Somm Wine Bar Price Hill
Wine bar and bistro in the Incline District of Price Hill, which enjoys an ambient garden patio and live music on Friday nights.
sommwinebarcincinnati.com

Streateries in OTR
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the “streateries” program was created, which has supported more than 80 businesses downtown and has created 1500 new dining seats spread across parklets, sidewalk expansions, and street closures.
Examples: parklets at Krueger’s, LouVino*, and Taste of Belgium; street closures at 15th between Vine and Republic, and 14th between Republic and Race; plus many more.

Activities

Bark Park + Patio* Florence
Dog park and local craft beer taproom that provides a backyard experience and local food vendors.
barkparkpatio.com

Court Street Plaza* CBD
Enjoy events, food festivals, proximity to On the Rhine Eatery*, and outdoor seating at places such as Pilar and Mid City Restaurant.
courtstreetcincy.com

FC Cincinnati* West End
Cincinnati’s Major League Soccer team, which calls TQL Stadium in the West End home, is one of the most family friendly sports experiences in the area.
fccincinnati.com

Findlay Market OTR
Events, food tours, outdoor market, and vendors as part of Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market and one of Cincinnati’s most cherished institutions.
findlaymarket.org

Florence Y’alls* Florence
The area’s most family friendly sporting event. Every home Sunday game is Family Sunday, where kids can run the bases get autographs from available players after the game.

florenceyalls.com

Fountain Square* CBD
Enjoy events, live music, food trucks, and so much more (including the UC Health Ice Rink in the winter and Frisch’s Roller Rink this warm season) at one of Cincinnati’s most notable landmarks.
myfountainsquare.com

SS Tiki Tours*
Private Ohio River Cruises that are great for sightseeing, events, celebrations, birthdays, and bachelor[ette] parties.
sstikitours.com

Summit Park Blue Ash
130-acre world class park featuring free workouts, markets, year-round events, and several options to Eat at Summit Park.
summitparkblueash.com

Sunday Afternoon Picnics*
Pop-up custom picnics for special occasions like birthday parties, date nights, or just because.
sundayafternoonpicnics.com

Washington Park* OTR
Live music, year-round events, markets, and so much more, as well as snacks at beverages at The Porch and a splash pad in the warm months.
washingtonpark.org

Ziegler Park* Pendleton
Ziegler Park’s unique 4.5-acre footprint features east and west sections separated by Sycamore Street and features a pool, open play areas, workout classes, and summer camps for neighborhood youth.
zieglerpark.org

Be sure to save this post for the next time you are planning an outdoor event—whether it be a family friendly day out or an evening with friends.

Get to any of these by Metro* or the fare free Connector, especially if you want to avoid paying for parking and/or drinking and driving.

Have questions or want a custom recommendation based on event type, party size, and budget? Just ask!

*Everything Cincy partner

Everything Kid-Friendly Cincy: Streetcar Edition

Looking for a fun day out with the littles?

Whether you are hosting family or friends, or have children of your own, let the fare free streetcar connect the dots of your next downtown adventure!

Park in one place for the day—either near Findlay Market or The Banks—or take the Cincinnati Metro* downtown before setting off on your OTR and Central Business District jaunt. There are so many great options to see museums, eat delicious food, take in historic architecture and landmarks, plus explore award-winning parks on the streetcar line** in the basin.

Download the Transit app*** to map your journey and to know when to catch the streetcar in real time.

Findlay Market*

Findlay Market is the oldest continuously operated market in Ohio. It is an award-winning landmark and a must for everyone to see and experience—residents and tourists alike.

From events, live music, and unique vendors to excellent food options, Findlay Market truly has something for everyone. And it is housed in a historic market house with colorful Italianate architecture surrounding.

Grab a treat from Dojo Gelato or Makers Bakers Co. after having a bite from OTR Bagel Bar or one of dozens of food vendors available in and around the market.

Looking for a specific type of cuisine to fit your budget? Just ask!

Findlay Market is sandwiched by two streetcar stations: 10 – Findlay Market (Elm) to its west on Elm Street (northbound) and 12 – Findlay Market (Race) to its east on Race Street (southbound).

Washington Park*

Washington Park was acquired by the city of Cincinnati in 1855 and was expanded and revitalized in 2012. It hosts free events, markets, live music, and other daily programming year round.

Washington Park is anchored in the center of vibrant OTR and is flanked by historic landmarks, and arts venues, as well as Italianate, Gothic, and Beaux Art architecture.

No matter the time of year, there is always something to do at Washington Park. In warm months the fountains are on and used as a splash pad, while the playground entertains the little ones year round. There is also a dog park, bandstand, and Porch where you can buy snacks and beverages. (Check their website for hours depending on the time of year.)

It is serviced by two different streetcar stops: 8 – 14th and Elm going northbound and 14 – Washington Park going southbound.

Fountain Square*

Fountain Square is a public city square in the heart of the Central Business District, and that has served as a symbolic center of the city since 1871. The Tyler Davidson Fountain (“Genius of Water”) is one of The Queen City’s most recognized and visited landmarks.

Fountain Square plays host to events, live music, and other programming throughout the year, including an ice rink in the cold months, fireworks displays, and a roller rink this spring 2023.

Fountain Square is surrounded by historically significant architecture, retail, hotels, and restaurants.

It is serviced by the 18 – Fountain Square streetcar stop, which is located just to the south of the Square on Walnut Street.

Moerlein Lager House*

Lager House opened in 2012 and has been a flagship restaurant in Cincinnati’s culinary resurgence. Christian Moerlein has been brewing beer in Cincinnati since 1853 and is a pillar of our robust brewing heritage.

Lager House hosts events year round, including Brunch, Brews, and Baseball, Rockin’ the Roebling in warm months, and the Everything Cincy Pre-game Fest before all Bengals home games.

Moerlein Lager House is an institution in our great city and it often tops my list of recommendations for visitors to check out while they’re in town. The food is great, they have a microbrewery producing Moerlein craft beers onsite, and the views of the Roebling and surrounding cityscape are hard to top.

Lager House is serviced by streetcar stop 1 – The Banks, which is a short walk from the restaurant.

Click here to view their menu. A kids menu is also available. We like to get an order of Servatii pretzels with house-made beer cheese from their First Base menu and supplement with a side of fruit.

Smale Riverfront Park

The John G. and Phyllis W. Smale Riverfront Park is a public gathering place along the Ohio River featuring multiple splash pads and water features, swings, interactive and imaginative play areas, pollinator gardens, and Carol Ann’s Carousel ($2 per ride). There are several monuments and memorials as well as picturesque views of the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, the Kentucky riverfront, and Downtown Cincinnati.

Smale Riverfront Park enjoys arts programming (such as Blink), Rockin’ the Roebling, live music, and free fitness in warmer months.

Smale Riverfront Park is connected to Yeatman’s Cove Park Sawyer Point Park, and International Friendship Park via the two-mile-long riverwalk boasting scenic river views and spanning vistas of the rolling hills of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.

It is serviced by streetcar stop 1 – The Banks, which is a 1/3-mile walk from the park and includes crossing a busier road and potentially using stairs (though elevators are also available).

There are many options listed above and below, so it would be best to pick your favorite(s) according to what you love to do and choose your own adventure. And your guests are sure to be impressed with your Cincinnati tour guide knowledge.

If you ever have any specific questions or would like a customized recommendation catered to your preferences, all you have to do ask.

Enjoy!

There are so many great options for family friendly things to do downtown. Here are some additional kid-friendly places along the streetcar line:

21c Museum Hotel*
Streetcar stop 17 – Aronoff Center

Central Parkway YMCA*
Streetcar stop 15 – Central Parkway

Cincinnati and Hamilton County Library – Main Branch
Streetcar stop 16 – Public Library

Cincinnati Reds at GABP and Hall of Fame Museum
Streetcar stop 1 – The Banks

Contemporary Arts Center
Streetcar stop 17 – Aronoff Center

Court Street Plaza*
Streetcar stop 15 – Central Parkway

FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium*
Streetcar stop 8 – 14th and Elm or
Streetcar stop 9 – Liberty and Elm

Greater’s
Streetcar stop 18 – Fountain Square

The Play Library
Streetcar stop 6 – 12th and Main (Hanke Exchange)

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
Streetcar stop 1 – The Banks

On the Rhine Eatery*
Streetcar stop 5 –Court and Main
Streetcar stop 15 – Central Parkway

The Children’s Theatre at The Emery (coming 2025)
Streetcar stop 7 – 12th and Vine

*Everything Cincy partner
**Locations within a block or two of the streetcar line
***The Transit app also works for uploading fare and mapping your route on the Cincinnati Metro

Everything Opening Day 2023

Whether or not it is recognized by the government or our employers, Opening Day is a holiday here in Cincinnati. We are the home of baseball’s first professional team and are almost always the home team on Opening Day. (There have been a handful of exceptions since 1869.) As proclaimed by an Enquirer editorial in 1949, “It is well-known fact that Cincinnati unquestionably is the best Opening Day city in either league; that’s why the Reds’ first game perennially is scheduled on the home lot.”

Just like goetta, fish frys, and creamy whips, baseball is part of our culture.

So in honor of Opening Day 2023, here are details of goings-on downtown* for the occasion:

104th Findlay Market Opening Day Parade

Departs Findlay Market at 12p
Grand marshals: Bronson Arroyo and Danny Graves
Route: 1.4 miles—south on Race to east on Fifth; ending at Taft Theatre

Opening Day Party presented by Taft’s

Washington Park, 10a–4p
Food trucks, vendors, and family-friendly activities.

19th Annual Rally on the Square:

Fountain Square Square, 10a–2p
Fountain Bar, parade viewing, and JonJon and Friends recording live from 10 to 1.

Reds Community Fund Charity Block Party

The Banks (Joe Nuxhall Way, Freedom Way and Walnut Street), 11a
Live music, entertainment, and food and drinks available for purchase.

Home Run Opening Day Hang Out:

Moerlein Lager House Schmidlapp Event Lawn, 12–8p
17’ screen, DJs, and JonJon recording his show live.

Reds Opening Day on the Levee:

Newport on the Levee, 3–7p
Watch the game on the big screen and enjoy drink and food specials at Bridgeview Box Park.

My advice? Download the Transit app to plan your trip downtown by Metro. You can also park somewhere north of Findlay Market and make your way down to The Banks by foot or by the fare free @connector_cincy after the parade. (Streetcar service will resume at the conclusion of the parade.)

*All of these Opening Day events are walkable or have close proximity to/from Great American Ball Park. Check with your neighborhood businesses for any festivities they have going on!

Written by: Linsey Kraeling – Woman, wife, and mother about town, proud millennial, and lifelong Cincinnatian with an invested interest in community involvement and having a full plate—literally and figuratively. Follow along with and read more about eating like a sophisticated six-year-old, supporting local, kid-friendly Cincinnati, and acting like a tourist in her own city at instagram.com/linsinnati and tourdecincinnati.com.

Everything St. Paddy’s Day in Cincinnati

As a ‘Major Party Town’, there’s no surprise we Cincinnatians love a good party like St. Patrick’s Day. And, seeing as the holiday falls on a Friday this year AND coincides with the first round of March Madness, it’s sure to be a great time.

To celebrate with all of you, Tour de Cincinnati and Everything Cincy have teamed up again to get you ready for the occasion, complete with things to do and events around the city, live music and performances, food and drink options, Irish pubs to check out, and retail and accessories to outfit you for St. Patrick’s Day.

March 11

Events

St. Patrick’s Day Party
Fountain Square*, 10a–6p
Food trucks, live Irish music, and green beer.
myfountainsquare.com

Cincinnati Saint Patrick’s Parade
The Banks, 12p
55th annual.
facebook.com

Live Music and Performances

Lager House Welcomes The Prodigals
Moerlein Lager House, 12–3p
Complete with Irish whiskey drink features during the Cincinnati Saint Patrick’s Parade at The Banks.
facebook.com

Colleen McKenna St. Patrick’s Day Parade Concert
Irish Heritage Center, 3:30p
colleen-mckenna.com

Erickson Academy of Irish Dance Performance
Irish Heritage Center, 4:30p

March 17

Events

Shamrocks & Shenanigans
Streetside Brewery, 7a
Drink specials, green beer, and a free t-shirt for the first 20 customers to get a Craft Burger Bros breakfast burrito and a pint.
instagram.com

St. Patrick’s Day
Darkness Brewing, 8a
Beer releases, green beer, kegs and eggs at 8am with Live Irish Fiddle, nonstop live music from 3 to 11, and even more to do on the Avenue, including more live music and Irish clog dancing.
facebook.com

St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl
Cheviot, 8a–midnight
Visit 8 bars and receive a t-shirt. Game Time, Skin’s Place, Public House, 2nd Street Saloon, Keller’s, Roswell’s, Dean’s Hops and Vines, Fogarty’s.

St. Paddy’s Day in the Taproom
West Side Brewing, 9a
Complete with Irish beers, treats from Maribelle Bakery, St. Catharine’s Fish Fry from 12 to 9, Irish flights, $5 Jameson, and Westwood’s 1-year DORA anniversary.
facebook.com
WSB also has these shirts available for purchase in the taproom

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
Braxton Brewing Company, 9a
Green Garage Beer, shot specials, rooftop DJ from 3 to 6, and taproom DJ from 7 to 10.
facebook.com

St. Paddy’s at HG
Higher Gravity at Summit Park, 10a
Several Irish drink specials.
facebook.com

St. Patrick’s Day at ABC
Alexandria Brewing Company, 10a–10p
Irish Traveler (dry Irish stout) release, kegs and eggs at 10a, drink specials, live music, and more.
facebook.com

St. Patrick’s Day at The Pub
The Pub Crestview Hills, 10a–11p
Eat, drink, and be Irish for a day! Featuring Irish fare, drink specials, live music, bagpipes, and more.
facebook.com

St. Patrick’s Day at The Pub
The Pub Rookwood, 10a–11p
Eat, drink, and be Irish for a day! Featuring Irish fare, drink specials, live music, bagpipes, and more.
facebook.com

Luck of the Levee
Newport on the Levee, 3–7p
Click here for a full lineup of events, including a performance by Erickson Academy of Irish Dance, free face painting, live music, McGing Irish Dancers, Irish-themed cocktails and specials, plus specials at participating businesses.
newportonthelevee.com

Shamrock N Roll St. Patrick’s Day on the Avenue
Fairfield Avenue Bellevue, 5:30–8p
Shop, sip, dine, and stroll while enjoying live music and the McGing Irish Dancers.
facebook.com

Walnut Hills St. Paddy’s Day Pub Crawl
Peebles Corner Historic District, 6p
Esoteric, Decibel, Tiki Tiki Bang Bang, Gomez Salsa, Comfort Station, Fireside Pizza.
f acebook.com

Live Music and Performances

Easter Rising Live
Molly Malone’s, 12–3p
Nicholson’s, 4:15–6:15p
Fretboard Brewing, 8–11p

Ben Levin on St. Paddy’s Day
Element Eatery, 4–7p
Come for the food, stay for the green beer and blues.
facebook.com

Erickson Academy of Irish Dance Performance
Irish Heritage Center, 5p

Colleen McKenna St. Patrick’s Day Concert
Irish Heritage Center, 6–7p
colleen-mckenna.com

Céad Míle Fáilte
The Dublin Defense at Bircus Brewing Company, 7:30–11:30p
eventbrite.com

Food + Drink

Aglamesis Bros*
Special TBD

Biggby Coffee Cincy Madisonville, Monfort Heights, Mariemont, St. Bernard
Locally owned Biggby Coffee features several St. Patrick’s Day-inspired drinks this month, including:

Mint Chip Cream Freeze
Irish Cream
Lucky Charm (Irish Cream + Mellow)
Chocolate Covered Leprechaun (Irish Cream + Mocha)

instagram.com

Busken Bakery multiple locations
St. Patrick’s Day goodies for in-store pickup, including cakes, breads, cookies, donuts, coffee cakes, and more.
busken.com

Del Gardo’s Cannoli* Covington

Pot of Gold – Baileys and Amaretto
Irish Love – Guinness Chocolate Drizzle with Bailey’s Irish Cream
St. Patrick – Guinness Chocolate Drizzle with Bailey’s and Jameson
Irish Luck – Jameson with Andes Mints

Humble Monk Brewing Co.* Northside
St. Brendan Irish red ale

MadTree* Oakley
Mac the Willis Irish red ale

Samuel Adams Cincinnati Taproom* OTR
Boston Brick Red (classic Irish red)

Servatii multiple locations
Buttercream cookies

West Side Brewing Westwood
Dry Stout
GIL (German-Irish lager), tapping 3/7

Irish Pubs

Crowley’s Irish Pub Mt. Adams
Cincinnati’s oldest Irish pub
facebook.com

Dingle House Irish Pub and Grub West Chester
Open 7a–midnight, featuring live music, Irish dancers, bagpipes. Kegs and eggs from 7 to 11 and $5 door charge starting at 8.
facebook.com

Molly Malones Covington
Kegs and eggs at 7a, free souvenir shirt for first 100 guests, Irish food and drinks, live Irish music all day (two stages), Irish dancers, bagpipes, green beer, and more.
mollymalonesirishpub.com

O’Malley’s in the Alley* Central Business District
omalleyscincy.com

RP McMurphy’s Oakley
rpmcmurphyspub.com

Retail and Accessories

From St. Patrick’s Day-specific duds to everyday green items to wear throughout the year, below are all the local places you need to get outfitted for St. Paddy’s Day.

Cappel’s Downtown, Anderson Twp, Blue Ash
Family-owned party supplies store that is great for accessories and St. Patrick’s Day-specific goods.
cappelsinc.com

Cincy Shirts Hyde Park, Fort Mitchell, online
Check out their entire lineup of St. Patrick’s Day, green, and Celtic tees.
cincyshirts.com

Ellebrux virtual and markets
Jewelry, art, and gifts, featuring some great options for St. Paddy’s Day and beyond.

Gumdrop Covington
Children’s boutique with clothing, gifts, and accessories, featuring green clothing items to outfit the littles on March 17 and always.

gumdroptots.com

Handzy Shop + Studio Covington
Feminine apparel, gifts, and accessories, featuring several great green options for St. Patrick’s Day and beyond.

handzyshopstudio.com

HOMAGE OTR
While they may not have a full collection of St. Paddy’s Day garb, they do have a handful of green and pop culture-inspired duds to outfit you for St. Patrick’s Day. Click here to check them out.
homage.com

Lemons and Limes Boutique Loveland, Mason
Apparel, gifts, and home decor. Check out their St. Patrick’s Day goods here.
lemonslimesboutique.com

Written by: Linsey Kraeling – Woman, wife, and mother about town, proud millennial, and lifelong Cincinnatian with an invested interest in community involvement and having a full plate—literally and figuratively. Follow along with and read more about eating like a sophisticated six-year-old, supporting local, kid-friendly Cincinnati, and acting like a tourist in her own city at instagram.com/linsinnati and tourdecincinnati.com.

*Everything Cincy partner

Things To Do: Everything Kid-friendly Cincy

Looking for a fun day out with the littles?

Head to Happy Hangout on the the westside!

Complete with an indoor playground, toddler play area, miniature city for pretend play, classes, and party rooms, Happy Hangout encourages playing, using your imagination, and finding community in a safe, clean environment.

Happy Hangout is open six days a week from 9am to 3pm (closed on Wednesdays). Two-hour play passes are $10 for ages walking–12 years old and free for adults and babies.

Tickets can be purchased in advance, particularly for peak times, and memberships and gift cards are also available.

[Adults: there’s also a comfy lounge area with outlets to work or to BYO food or coffee. Pro tip 👉🏻 there’s a Servatii right across the street where you can pick up pastries, fresh breads and pretzels, or coffee.]

If you are looking to supplement your day out with additional things to do, here are more kid-friendly ways to spend your time on the westside:

Dewey’s Pizza Green Twp

Assuming you’ve worked up an appetite, head to kid-friendly local chain Dewey’s, where you can create your own or order a specialty pizza, calzone, or salad.

Zip Dip Green Twp

Treat yourself to one of the best creamy whips on the westside, serving up soft serve, yogurt, an assortment of cones and toppings, dip tops, sundaes, flurries, shakes and malts, several food items, and more.

Note: Opens for the season March 3, 2023

Gamble-Nippert YMCA Westwood

Get in some fun or relaxation at Gamble-Nippert YMCA* by enjoying the indoor pool, fitness center, sauna, or steam room. As a member, you even take advantage of school-age childcare*.

Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library – Westwood Branch Westwood

The Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library – Westwood Branch is just a half mile away, where you can use free WiFi, the laptop kiosk, or meeting room, and the little ones can play in the children’s area, featuring the Krayon Kiosk, play area, and books.

If you are around in the morning on Wednesday, the Westwood Branch Library has Movers and Shakers from 10:15–11a. It is recommended for ages 1–4 and the children get to sing, dance, listen to music, stories, and play with toys when the class is over.

West Side Brewing Westwood

If the weather allows, grab a DORA beer from West Side Brewing and head across the street to Westwood Town Hall Park where there is a playground the kids can play on.

Note: DORA beverages are not allowed inside the fencing of the play area

You don’t have to break the bank to spend a kid-friendly day out in our great city. Are you looking for specific recommendations? Just ask!

*Membership required. Gamble-Nippert has before and after school programs for school-age children (ages 5–12), as well as full day childcare for school-aged children on days CPS is closed, and preschool classrooms (ages 3–5).

Everything Black-owned Cincinnati

According to the US Census Bureau, only about 10% of US businesses are Black owned. And, unfortunately, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, minority owned businesses were disproportionately affected, resulting in over 40% of Black-owned businesses closing. Black entrepreneurship in America has a rich history and strong ties to the overall economic impact of African-American communities, and businesses owned by BIPOC are crucial to growing the economy. If you are looking for an impactful way to celebrate Black History Month, show solidarity with Black entrepreneurs by supporting Black-owned businesses this month and beyond.

Supporting Black-owned businesses doesn’t just contribute to creating entrepreneurial opportunities (thus fueling economic prosperity), Black businesses are more likely to hire Black workers, which positively impacts the disparity among broader community wealth and opportunity.

Supporting Black-owned businesses acknowledges the wealth gap by creating a path for establishing sustained, multi-generational wealth in the Black community. It also celebrates Black culture.

Below is a comprehensive list of Black-owned businesses in Greater Cincinnati, including Food + Drink, Retail, and Wellness.

FOOD + DRINK

RESTAURANTS

6 ’N the Mornin’ (Kenwood)
Southern-style breakfast restaurant
6inthemornin.com

221 Restaurant Westwood
Senegalese cuisine
Website

Agape Cafe Madisonville
American cafe serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner
agapecafeoh.com

The Aperture Coming to Walnut Hills in summer 2023
Mediterranean, Levantine, and American south influences
theaperturecinci.com

Big Jay’s Place Finneytown
Catering, soul food, Caribbean
Facebook

Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey Union
Contemporary take on classic American frontier food
boomtownbiscuitsandwhiskey.com

Burnett’s Soul Food Walnut Hills
Soul food
Menu

Conscious Kitchen Corryville [temporarily closed]
Vegan and health food restaurant
consciouskitchen.org

COPA Lounge OTR
Nightclub with Sunday brunch
Facebook

Crown’s Kitchen Cheviot
Wings, sandwiches, soul food
Menu

Darou Salam Northside
African Halal and Senegalese cuisine
Menu

Divine Appetite Cafe West Chester
African food—everything from Waakye to Jollof Rice
Website

Elephant Walk Corryville
Indian and Ethiopian cuisine
elephantwalkcincy.com

Emma’s All In One Occasions Westwood
Soul food, breakfast, and catering
Facebook

Essen Kitchen OTR
Plant-based food, vegan; breakfast, lunch, and dinner
essenkitchen.com

Express Wings Roselawn
Chicken wings, sandwiches, seafood
Menu

Gee’s Caribbean Style Groesbeck
Fresh, authentic Caribbean cuisine
Facebook

Habesha Ethiopian Restaurant Westwood
Ethiopian and Eritrean dishes
Menu

Island Frydays Corryville
Jamaican cuisine
islandfrydays.com
Pickup window available

K&J Seafood Bond Hill
Louisiana-style fresh seafood
kjseafood.com

Katch the Kitchen Northside
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
ktkrestaurant.com

Maize OTR
Venezuelen and Latin American comfort food
maizeotr.com

Mango’s Tropical Oasis Fairfield
Sports bar and grill
Facebook

Millie’s Place Madisonville
Southern, soul food, diner
Menu

Mz. Jade’s Soul Food Middletown
Fresh, homemade southern dishes
mzjadessoulfood.com

Nolia Kitchen OTR
Classic southern flavors and unconventional twists on familiar staples
noliakitchen.com

Ollie’s Trolley West End
Burgers, ribs, and other southern dishes
Facebook

Park Place Restaurant Forest Park
American restaurant and lounge
Facebook

Rasheedah’s Cafe College Hill
Soul food and halal meats since 1993
rasheedahscafe.com

Richie’s Avondale, Bond Hill, Colerain, West End
Soul food featuring spicy fried chicken, deep fried fish, rib tips, and classic soul food sides and desserts
richieschicken.com

SeneGrill West Chester
Senegalese and American fusion
senegrill.com

Teranga Restaurant Hartwell
African and American fusion
terangacinci.com

Wing Champ Sharonville
Wings, ribs, ice cream, and events
originalwingchamp.com

BBQ

Alabama Que Corryville
alabama-q.com

Benin’s BBQ & Steak Westwood
bbqnsteak.com

C&M BBQ Grill Kennedy Heights
Caribbean BBQ
cmbbqgrill.com

Goodies Mt. Healthy
Southern BBQ
Facebook

Ike’s BBQ Evanston, Silverton
Facebook

J & W Bar-B-Que Walnut Hills
Facebook

Just Cooking BBQ Bond Hill
justcookingbbq.com

Just Q’in Walnut Hills
justqin.com
Dine in, carryout, catering

Midwest Best BBQ and Creamery Loveland
midwestbestbbq.com
Lunch, dinner, catering

COFFEE SHOPS

BlaCk Coffee Lounge Central Business District
Coffee, sandwiches, pastries, pressed juice
Facebook

Cream+Sugar Coffeehouse Evanston
Hot and cold coffee drinks, and light bites
creamandsugarcoffeehouse.com
Catering available

Drip Coffee Lounge Camp Washington
Coffee bar serving locally roasted specialty coffee, plus a unique selection of mixed drinks and quick bites
dripcoffeelounge.com

Muse Cafe Westwood
Coffee, fine wine, jazz, sandwiches, cheese plates, and salads
musecafecincy.com

Sunny Blu Coffeehouse OTR
Coffee drinks, light bites, and ice cream
sunnyblucoffee.com

BARS AND DRINKERIES

Danyelle’s Bellevue Tavern Bellevue
Bar and tavern
danyelles.com

Esoteric Brewing Company Walnut Hills
Brewery with Decibel Korean-fried Chicken onsite
esotericbrewing.com

Kombuchinnati
Non-alcoholic, probiotic kombucha
Website and where to buy

Newport Ultra Lounge Newport
Dance club with craft beer and cocktails
Facebook

Nostalgia Wine and Jazz Lounge OTR
Facebook page

Revel OTR Urban Winery OTR
revelotr.com

CATERING AND CHEF SERVICES

Afromeals OTR
Cooking classes and catering services, featuring African and Caribbean cuisine.
afromeals.com

Dada Smokes BBQ
Catering
dadasmokes.com

Eddie’s Southern Style BBQ
eddiesbarbque.com

The Passion Plate
Personal chef and caterer featuring everyday gourmet and boutique catering
thepassionplate.com

Soleil Kitchen
Personal chef and boutique catering company
soleilkitchen.com
Occasional pop-ups

Soul Secrets Catering Findlay Kitchen
Corporate catering
soulsecretscincy.com
Occasional pop-ups

Southern Grace Cincy
Breakfast, catering
southerngracecincy.com

FOOD TRUCKS AND TAKEOUT

AJ’s Cheesesteaks
Cheesesteaks, wings, fries
ajscheesesteak.com
Streetfood Finder

Best Thing Smokin’
BBQ and classic favorites
Facebook

BOL Acai Bowl Bar
bolonline.org
Streetfood Finder
Catering available

Burger World
Facebook
Streetfood Finder

Pata Roja Taqueria OTR
Mexico City-style street tacos
patarojatacos.com
Catering available

Smokin’ Inferno BBQ & Catering
Facebook

Triple J’s BBQ
thetriplejbarbq.com
Catering available

Turkeys R Us
Chicken, Turkey, pork, sandwiches, fries
turkeysrus.net
Catering available

Tip: Follow the truck on social media to get their schedule and to see where they will be next!

SWEETS

A Mother’s Touch Cakes virtual and pop-ups
Vegan, organic, sugar-free, and gluten-free desserts. Can be found weekly at Market Wagon, Black Coffee Lounge, Madeira Farmer’s Market, Ajani’s Gourmet Strawberries Sweet Boutique, and Findlay Market.
amotherstouchcakes.com

Aunt Flora’s Cobbler Pie Co Northbrook
Caterer and bakery specializing in cobbler pies, cakes, and Southern comfort food
aunt-flora.com

Cora’s Cakery online
Cupcakes, meringues, cake pops, sugar cookies, and more
corascakery.org

Davis Cookie Collection Bond Hill
Cookies, brownies, and other desserts
daviscookiecollection.com

Jazzy Sweeties Bakery Walnut Hills
jazzysweetiesbakery.com

Kishia’s Kakes
Website

Keys Cheesecake and Pies online
Facebook

Lala’s Blissful Bites Madisonville
lalasbliss.com

Makers Bakers Co. Findlay Market
Artisan cheesecakes, handmade cakes and pies, and other bakery items
makersbakersco.com

Maya’s Bakes pop-ups, Findlay Market
Cookies and other goodies
mayasbakes.com
Catering available

Sugar OTR
Cookies, cakes, weddings, catering, and more
sugarcincinnati.com

Sweet Jazz Treats Lockland
Cake pops, brownies, cakes, cupcakes, pies, party platters, dessert jars
sweetjazztreats.com

Sweet Mae’s Cookie Co.
Stuffed cookies with a thick southern accent
sweetmaescookies.com
Available at regional Target stores and these locations

Sweet Petit Desserts Evanston
Cookies, cakes and pies, cheesecake, lemon bars, macarons, and more
sweetpetitdesserts.com
Pre-orders only; now available at Cream+Sugar Coffeehouse

Sweets by LaDawn Silverton
Wedding cakes and more
Facebook

RETAIL+

Alexis Nickelle Co
Soy candles
alexisnickelleco.com

All Cheri’s Intriguing Crystals
Accessories, jewelry, and art
allcheri.com
Formerly Art by Autumn M

Alumni Ink virtual
Online apparel company
alumniink.com

am|PM Exchange
Women’s apparel and beauty products
ampm.exchange

Art on Vine
Monthly market featuring fine art and handmade goods from dozens of artists throughout the Ohio region
artonvinecincy.com

Barcode Glam Montgomery
Beauty meets fashion
barcodeglam.com

BlaCk OWned Outerwear Central Business District
Apparel and accessories for men, women, and children
blackowned19xx.com

Blossoms Florist Reading
Full-service florist servicing Cincinnati for over 30 years
blossomsfloristinc.com

Brittney Kelley Brands
apparel and makeup
brittneykelley.com

The Confetti Room OTR
Event venue
confettiroomcincy.com

The Culture Locker
Provide a positive influence and discovery of black-owned businesses
theculturelocker.com

Curious Concoctions
Soaps, scrubs, body butters, candles, and more
curiousconcoctions.net

Detailed Days Events Design
Event planner
detaileddays.com

Diamyn’s Crystal Bar Pause Cincy (Corryville)
Crystals, jewelry, and sage
diamynscrystalbar.com

District 78 Pause Cincy (Corryville)
Luxury candles and lifestyle brand
bydistrict78.com

Everyday Black
Apparel
everydayblack.net

Fill More Waste Less
Refillable soaps, shampoo, cleaning products, and more
fillmorewasteless.com

Flora Lee Naturals
Plant-based skincare
floraleenaturals.com

Fly By Nature OTR
Apparel
flybynatureclothing.com

From the Sidewalk OTR
Creative hub of streetwear and culture; home of Jet Black Vintage
thesidewalkshop.com

Gee Horton
Hyper-realist visual artist
geehorton.com

Gingham & Glam
Fashion, jewelry, accessories
ginghamandglam.com

GO(O)D Co. OTR
Hats, accessories, and apparel for men, women, and children
goodcoapparel.com

Hard Ta Knock Shoppe Camp Washington
Apparel

Heads Up Trading Co. Camp Washington
Fair trade headbands, head wraps, and Guatemalan jewelry
headsuptc.com

HoopNerdz
Apparel for men, women, and children
thenerdzbrand.com

Hutch Baby OTR
Children’s boutique
hutchbaby.com

Jet Black Vintage OTR
Curated sustainable fashion
jetblackvintage.com

Junebug Jewelry Designs
Jewelry design
junebugjewelrydesigns.com

Legacy Genius
Black history trivia
legacygenius.com

Make.Do. Pleasant Ridge
Yarn, fabric, fibers, and classes
heymakedo.com

Matunda Juicery Pause Cincy (Corryville)
Smoothie and juice bar
Facebook

Me by Lee
Formal fashion boutique
mebylee.com

Minor Obsession
Vegan soap
minorobsession.co

Murelle’s Florist Central Business District
Website

Native Moon Apothecary Mt. Healthy
Alternative and holistic health
nativemoonherbals.com

Originalitees
Apparel and accessories for men, women, and children
originalitees.com

OTR Funplex OTR
Entertainment venue
otrfunplex.com

Pause Corryville
Health, wellness, and relaxation, made up of Diamyn’s Crystal Bar, District 78, and Matunda Juicery
Instagram

Peony Jean Boutique
Customizable clothing for the entire family
peonyjeanboutique.com

RaJean Beauty
Shea butter, sugar scrub, and men’s products
rajeanbeauty.com

Red’s Westside VenYou
Event space
redswestsidevenyou.com

RJS Fashion
Accessory design and styling
beyondfreshrjs.com

Ryan Nichole Studios
Visual artist and art educator
ryannicholestudios.com

Switch Central Business District
Lighting, furniture, and design
switchcollection.com

Touch of Heaven Floral Shoppe Mt. Healthy
Website

TIQUE by Victory Lane Boutique Springfield Twp
victorylaneboutique.com

The Voice of Your Customer Walnut Hills
HUBZone, MBE, WBE, DBE, SBE
Marketing consulting firm
thevoiceofyourcustomer.com

WELLNESS + FITNESS

1 More Rep Madisonville
Gym
1-more-rep.com

A Better You Counseling Springdale
Therapy practice specializing in treating individuals, couples, and families.
abetterucounseling.com

A Crystal Mind LLC Sharonville
Psychiatric and mental health practice. In-office and telehealth options available.
acrystalmind.com

A Ruth Creations virtual+
Artist and educator specializing in visual art and poetry.
annieruth.com

A Sound Mind Counseling Hartwell
Behavioral health practice providing therapy to people of all ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
asoundmindcounseling.com

Adrienne’s Love Fairfield
Postpartum products, services, and doulas.
adrienneslove.com

Art of Fitness North College Hill
Facebook

Cincinnati Muscle Therapy College Hill
cincinnatimuscletherapy.com

Curvy Cardio
Fitness
morganaowens.com

Fitness 1o1 Liberty Twp
Personalized group training
fitness1o1.com

Grind Shop Sports Performance Training Lockland
Fitness facility
grindshoptraining.com

If you ever have any questions about any of these businesses or need a custom recommendation specific to what you’re looking for, all you have to do is ask!

I would like to encourage you all to support Black-owned businesses and creators all month long (and beyond).

Go to the link in my bio for a list of Black-owned businesses in Cincinnati, including Food + Drink, Retail, and Wellness.

For more resources for and to support Black Cincinnati, follow:
@blackcincy
@cincy.cocoabloggers
@voiceblackcincy
@thecincinnatiaachamber

Sources: census.gov, nationalgeographic.com

Everything New Year’s Eve in Cincy

From brewery celebrations to family friendly events—casual to swanky, free admission to pricy—there is truly something for everyone to do for New Year’s Eve in Cincinnati this year. We all love new beginnings, so get 2023 started off right by bringing in the New Year with one of these great things to do on Saturday, December 31, broken down by:

For the Family
Free events
Under $50
Live Music
21+

For the Family

Noon Year’s Eve
Happy Hangout, 10a–12p
Children can celebrate an early New Year at the westside’s playspace.
facebook.com
$20 members, $30 nonmembers

BB Riverboats New Year’s Eve Kids Cruise
11:30a–1:30p (boarding at 10:30a)
Lunch buffet, party favors, DJ for entertainment, kids activities, and a noon countdown. Some characters from their Pirate, Princess, and Superhero cruises will be onboard celebrating.
bbriverboats.com
$49 admission ($39 for children ages 4–12)

New Year’s Eve Balloon Drop
GoldFish Swim School West Chester, 1:30–3p
Family-friendly party for $10.
Tickets

New Year’s Eve Splash
GoldFish Swim School Anderson Twp, 2–4p
Family-friendly pool party for $10.
Tickets

Midnight in Munich | NYE Zinzinnati
Mecklenburg Gardens, 4–8p
Celebrate the German new year with authentic food and beer specials.
Tickets

New Year’s Eve at WinterFest
Kings Island, 4p–1a
Celebrate the final night of the year with friends and family. Two countdowns, one in Festhaus at 9:30p and another at midnight complete with fireworks.
visitkingsisland.com

Family New Year’s Eve Party
Ludlow Theatre, 5–7p
Includes Circus Mojo performance and instructional workshop, wood-fired pizza, and a “ball drop” with ginger ale toast.
Tickets
$20-$80

New Years Eve + Indoor Fireworks
Cincinnati Cyclones vs. Toledo Walleye
Heritage Bank Center, 6p
End your 2022 in a family friendly setting with the Cyclones and a 6p start time, then stick around for indoor fireworks.
cycloneshockey.com

Happy Zoo Year
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 8p
“Party Animals” of all ages are invited to celebrate the 14th annual Happy ZOO Year, with a kid-friendly, early countdown at 8p.
cincinnatizoo.org

Free

Your Neighborhood New Year’s Eve
The Lackman, 12p–2:30a
Reverse Happy Hour from 8 to 10p and complimentary party favors.
facebook.com

New Year’s Eve Blast
Fountain Square, 8–12:30a
Ring in the New Year in the heart of downtown—party on the plaza or celebrate on the ice. Ice rink will be open all night and the full-service bar will be serving beverages.
myfountainsquare.com

Bloom NYE Ball 2023
Bloom OTR, 9p–2:30a
Hosted by Jessica Dimon.

No Hassle New Year
Low Spark, 9p–2:30a
Reverse happy hour from 9 to 11, complimentary champagne toast, and complimentary party favors.
facebook.com

Under $50

New Year’s Eve with Rumpke Mountain Boys
Riverfront Live, 7p
Cincinnati’s premier nightlife venue. May contain special surprise guests.
Tickets
All ages

Bollywood New Year’s Eve
Holiday Inn North, 5800 Muhlhauser Road, 8p
DJ Mavi, festive party favors, Champagne toast, multi-course dinner buffet, photobooth, and cash bar until 1:30.
eventbrite.com
$40–$100

NYE Bash
Tin Roof, 8p
Live performances by DJ Kombat and Bluff City Bandits. Fast Pass and VIP tables available. Email will@tinroofbars.com.
facebook.com
$30+

Noah Smith’s Big Ol’ Family New Year’s Eve!
Big Ash Brewing, 8p–12:30a (doors at 7:30)
Private ticketed event. General Admission tickets include champagne toast at midnight. Seating will be first come first served and tables are not guaranteed. VIP packages available.
Tickets

NYE Dance
Mutual Dance Co. 1805 Larch Ave, 8p–1a
Hosted by CincyHop. Glass of Champagne for ages 21-up.
facebook.com
$15 per person at the door

NYE with the Almond Butter Band
Fretboard Brewing Co, 8:30p
Champagne toast at midnight. Ages 21+
cincyticket.com
$25

New Year’s Eve Party
Cincinnati Donauschwaben Society, 8:30p–12:30a
Music by the Rheingold Band; generous buffet included.
Make reservations at 513-385-2098 or at cincydonau.com.

Midnight on Madison NYE Party
Hotel Covington, 9p–2a
Ticket includes one drink ticket, photo booth, DJ Jermal Potter, balloon drop, confetti cannons and more. Light bites available for purchase. General admission $35. $75 Bottomless Bubbles admission includes VIP access, commemorative Champagne glass and raffle ticket for luxury prizes.
eventbrite.com
$35 general admission

Under the Sea 2023
Rhinegeist Brewery, 9p–2a
Under the sea-themed bash featuring DJ + dancing, 360-degree underwater photo booth, midnight bubble balloon drop, and plenty of celebratory beverages. Coat check is available.
rhinegeist.com
Tickets $20 at the door

Dinner Parties

NYE Dinner and Silent Disco
The View at Shires’ Garden, 4p
Party on the rooftop with three-course dinner, sparkling wine toast, and silent disco in the parlor. Book via Open Table.
$99/person

NYE Dinner
Butcher and Barrel, 4p
Three-course prix-fixe menu with sparkling wine toast. Book via Open Table.
$99/person

New Year’s Eve Dinner
Frankie’s Sips & Savories, 5–9p
Five sharable dishes and champagne toast. Reservations available from 5 to 9. Book on OpenTable.
$150/couple

Subito at The Lytle Park Hotel
5–10p
Five-course pre-fixe dinner. $119 per person, $169 per person with wine pairings.

NYE Dinner
Forno Osteria & Bar, 5–11p
Four-course menu, champagne package add-ons available. Book prepaid via Open Table.
$75/person

NYE Dinner
Nicola’s, 5–11p
Pre-fixe dinner celebration. Two-hour time limit. Cuvee and champagne package add-ons available. Prepaid via Tock.
$125/person

Via Vite
5–11:15p
La Notte di San Silvestro two-hour, four-course dinner experience with Roaring ’20s theme. Book prepaid via Open Table.
$85/person

NYE Four-Course Dinner and Drinks
Northern Row Brewery & Distillery, 6:30p
Tickets
$100

NYE Party
Vinoklet Winery, 7p–1a
Two packages available: Grilled to Perfection Dinner with reservation 5–7:30 p.m. at $43–$48 per person, and Dinner & Dancing from 7p–1a at $89.95 per person.
vinokletwines.com

New Year’s Eve Party
The Madison Event Center, 8p
Blink-style party includes upscale dinner, unlimited drinks, Champagne toast, DJ, visuals, and giveaways.
eventbrite.com
$125–$175

NYE
Prime Cincinnati, 8p
Reservations made after 8p are invited to stay and help welcome in the New Year with a toast, DJ, entertainment, and fanfare.
Reservations on OpenTable

Live Music

Arlo McKinley
Bogart’s, 8p
With Buffalo Wabs & The Price Hill Hustle and the Harmed Brothers.
ticketmaster.com

Cincinnati Pops Orchestra: New Year’s Eve Billie Holiday Songbook
Music Hall, 8p
Featuring vocalist Quiana Lynell; Damon Gupton conducts.
cincinnatisymphony.org
$26–$120

New Year’s Celebration Like No Other
featuring The Menus
Receptions Fairfield, 8p–1a
Open well bar, appetizers, buffet dinner, late-night snack bar, champagne toast, and party favors.
Tick ets

New Year’s Celebration of a Lifetime with Naked Karate Girls
Receptions Erlanger, 8p–1a
Tickets
$125–$150

Something Different New Year’s Eve
Woodward Theater, 9p–2a
Featuring DJ Identity and DJ Kay Lyke. Includes open bar, light bite appetizers, live projections, photo booth, and party favors.
cincyticket.com
$75+

Summon the New Year
MOTR, 10p
Live music featured two local bands, Watchfrogs and Happy Tuesday.
motrpub.com

21+

New Year’s Eve Bar Crawl – Cincinnati
5p–2a
Ticket gets you to the welcome party, outstanding drink specials, and the list of bars to visit—to be announced on 12/30.
facebook.com

Q102’s Best of the Best New Year’s Eve
Newport Syndicate, 6:30p
Dancing, drinks, party favors, the Rusty Griswolds, DJ Chandler McFadden, and Gangsters Dueling Piano Bar.
Tickets
Tickets starting at $85

NYE in NKY
Braxton Brewing Company, 7p
DJs all night, photobooth, midnight toast included, and all-you-can-eat buffet catered by Gomez.
Tickets
$100 advance, $125 at the door

Back to the ’90s NYE Bash
Taft’s Ale House, 7p–12:30a
Grab your neon windbreaker and favorite band t-shirt for a night of 90s nostalgia. Includes 3 beer tickets, ’90s snack and candy buffet, champagne toast, and two raffle tickets.
Tickets
$75

New Year’s Eve Bash
16 Lots, 7p–1a
Featuring Mad Monks Pizza and Ashton Wolf Dueling Pianos. Admission includes delicious food, craft beer, cider, and a New Year’s champagne toast.
Tickets

New Year’s Eve at Fueled Collective
7p–1a
DJ and live music, premium prepaid drinks, party favors, and more.
More info

New Year’s Eve Twerk
Arts on the Ave (2141 Central Avenue), 8p
Live dancer, open bar, and full course food menu.
facebook.com
$100

Somerhaus New Year’s Eve Bash
8p–1a
Light bites with international flair, music, and dancing, plus full bar.
Tickets
$120

Black Sheep Black Tie NYE Celebration
Revel OTR Urban Winery, 8p–1:30a
Includes live band, open bar, light bites, and bubbly toast.
Tickets
$85–$100

23 Shades of Galla: Sexy Masquerade NYE Party
Galla Park, 8p–2a
DJ Davey C, Sean Dibert, DJ L-Train. Includes champagne toast, balloon drops, private party spaces; semi-formal attire dress code.
Tickets
$25–$65

The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band
The Southgate House Revival, 9p (doors at 8)
Featuring Joe’s Truck Stop and The Hammer and the Hatchet
southgatehouse.com

BB Riverboats New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise
9p–1a (boarding at 8p)
Ring in the New Year on the river as Cincinnati’s sparkling skyline provides a spectacular backdrop. Includes a special three-entree buffet, entertainment, a split of champagne at midnight, late night snack buffet, and party favors.
bbriverboats.com

Bubbles & Bow Ties
Igby’s, 9p–2a
Includes complimentary champagne upon arrival, party favors, and DJ Simo.
Ti c kets
$50

NYE at QCE
Queen City Exchange, 9p–2a
Includes DJ, heavy appetizers, open bar, and champagne toast at midnight.
Tickets
$100

Celebrate (NYE 2023)
OTR StillHouse, 9p–2a
Tickets include light bites until 11, champagne toast at midnight, photo booth, party favors, red carpet entry, coat check, and free parking. Cocktail attire required.
Tickets

New Year’s Eve Masquerade
Twenties Cocktail Joint, 9p–2:30a
Two levels of entertainment: Johnny B on the main floor spinning Top 40 and dance, and Nautigroove and Brent Roberts in the speakeasy with House and Progressive sets with a laser and light show. Champagne toast and ballon drop at midninght on the main floor.
Tickets

NYE 2022
The Mockbee, 9p–3a
A multi-stage, multi-sensory blowout party at The Mockbee featuring live bands and DJs all night covering Rock, Hip Hop, EDM, and more.
Tickets

NYE Midnight Madness at the Lager House
Moerlein Lager House, 9:30p–1:30a
Hosted by Sara Elyse with DJ PRYMTIME & DJ Maximus and sports celebrity appearances. Tickets include an appetizer buffet and two drink tickets, plus a midnight toast.
moerleinlagerhouse.info

Pride Events

June 1

June 2

June 3

June 4

June 9

June 10

June 11

June 15

June 17

June 22

June 23

June 24

June 25

July 8

Pride Beverages

Goods and Apparel

&Sundries*

Cincy Shirts

Ellebrux

Handzy Shop + Studio

HOMAGE

lemon lee

Originalitees*

Books

Blue Manatee Literacy Project

Bookery

Downbound Books

Small Businesses

Richter and Phillips History

The BMW Store History

Drinking Al Fresco

Beer Gardens

Rooftops

Patio Dining

Activities

Findlay Market*

Washington Park*

Fountain Square*

Moerlein Lager House*

Smale Riverfront Park

104th Findlay Market Opening Day Parade

Opening Day Party presented by Taft’s

19th Annual Rally on the Square:

Reds Community Fund Charity Block Party

Home Run Opening Day Hang Out:

Reds Opening Day on the Levee:

March 11

Events

Live Music and Performances

March 17

Events

Live Music and Performances

Food + Drink

Irish Pubs

Retail and Accessories

FOOD + DRINK

For the Family

Free

Under $50

Dinner Parties

Live Music

21+