Tag: things to do in Cincinnati

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

Cincy Shirts

Pride apparel

Ellebrux

Confetti Cat Earrings – $16

Multicolor Girl Power Earrings – $28

Handzy Shop + Studio

Maldivas Shirt Dress – $88

Rainbow Arch Earrings – $26

Rainbow Bamboo Hoop Earrings – $16

Rainbow Bead Drop Earrings – $14

Rainbow Reusable Sponge Cloth – $6.50

HOMAGE

Pride apparel

lemon lee

Rainbow Blend Earrings – $28

Rainbow Dangle Earrings – $26

Rainbow Flower Earrings – $28

Originalitees*

Pride apparel

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.

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

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.

Savings & Deals in the City (4/4)

Shiners on the Levee
.75 Wings Every Monday
Ault Park
Ault Vines Fine Wines $10 Off Tickets
Aruna Project
Buy 3 Headbands, Get 1 Free!
Fowling Warehouse
$12 Unlimited Play
Restore Hyper Wellness
Student Athlete Discounts!
Logan A/C and Heat Services
Early Bird Savings
The Plant Dads
$5 Off Your Purchase
Pampas Argentine Gastropub
Saturday Night Deal
LouVino OTR Restaurant and Winery
1/2 Prices Bottles of Wine
The Blind Pig
$10 Lunch Specials

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

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.

Things to do Tuesdays; Solo in the City with Tiff in the Morning

Hi I’m Tiff of Tiff in the Morning on Kiss 1071 (heard weekdays 6-10a on iHeartRadio)


I do a lot of things alone…As someone who lived solo in city of Cincy for 4 years I’ve got this down to a science. Join me for tips on how to enjoy experiences alone during various activities…


Tonight I went to a comedy show/dinner at OTR eatery at the DT Kroger. Its centrally located in the city and the atmosphere lends itself to causal conversation, good food, and… grocery shopping if needed.


*Bonus Tiff tip: grocery shopping is a great conversation starter.


For this type of setting my number one recommendation is to sit and chat with the bartender, it’s not groundbreaking, but it’s a great start. Bartender who are not busy are often open to chatting, sharing recommendations, and will often bridge the gap to other people solo in the bar.

Easy questions to start:

  • “What do you recommend on tap?”
  • “What’s a typical night here look like?”
  • “ What else happens at this place, that I might like?”

My second recommendation is; If you find common ground with someone, exchange Instagram handles. This eliminated having to exchanges numbers with someone who don’t really care about (yet.)


*Bonus Tiff tip: FOLLOW UP! That’s my secret sauce, if I meet you and we hit it off, I will reach out and
DM within a day or two. I never wait for someone to come to me, its nothing personal, but people get
caught in their busy schedules.

  1. My final recommendation is… just do it. You usually wont regret the experience, but it’s natural for your mind to talk you out of it… hell! Our body literally protects us from things that are uncomfortable.

*bonus Tiff tip: I usually tell myself “Stay for 30 mins Tiff, then you can decide.”


Everything Cincy has loads of things to get you started … she does all the research, so you don’t have too, then stop by Tiff in the Morning Tuesday 9:20 for tips of the week.

Follow @thetiffpotter & @everythingcincy for more.

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.

Savings & Deals in The City (3/21)

21c Museum Hotel
I Spy A Little Penguin
Savannah’s Hyde Away
Spring Break Special
Cincinnati Cyclones
Family Fun Pack
Butcher and Barrel
Burger night: $15 Burger and Beer
Hotel Covington
Winter Staycation
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company
Super Shakespeare Package
Woodhouse Day Spa
Spring Seasonal Mani + Pedi: Fresh Cut Greens…
Rhinegeist Brewery
Mystery Bag $30
Happy Hangout
Free Build Friday

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.
facebook.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

The Art of Shopping

Cincinnati has many wonderful artisan shops and boutiques throughout the area that feature unique handcrafted pieces that are decorative and functional. Support local artists and small businesses by shopping at thoughtfully crafted stores that highlight creativity in the community.

Peddler’s Mall

This impressive store is the perfect place to take a step into nostalgia with its wide variety of items that make you feel like you’re on an adventure discovering rare and beautiful pieces that are from the past.


“Whether you are looking for retro clothing, repurposed furniture, antique decor, vintage memorabilia… Peddlers Mall has it all, y’all.”

Enchanted Moments

Explore everything that magic and mystery have to offer with this metaphysical gift shop that offers educational workshops located in downtown Milford!

“We are more than just a brick-and-mortar gift shop. We are a community of like-minded individuals sharing our collective gifts and experiences with our growing family. We have a shared belief centered around the natural world and the Divine Feminine. We know that everyone has their own path to enlightenment, and we welcome and encourage individuals from all paths of lives.”

Lucky Cat Museum and Gift Shop

Make an appointment to visit this delightful Japanese influenced gallery and store in the Essex Studios.

“Why? Because cats. That’s why.”

Indigo Hippo

This creative gem is an amazing nonprofit that sells artwork and secondhand art supplies that is affordable. You can find all the materials you need for your next project at this influential store in the art district of OTR on Main St.

“We aim to make creativity accessible to everyone by offering creative materials to the community with pay-what-you-can pricing.”

Jet Black Vintage

Sustainable fashion has been elevated to a new meaning with the way Jet Black Vintage curates the looks they put together to create a clothing line that’s a vibe.

“Exploring our connection to fashion and comfort.”


https://www.everythingcincy.com/listings/jet-black-vintage-shopping-cincinnati-oh

Little Mahatma

“The Little Great One” is a mesmerizing international that sells one-of-a-kind pieces and artifacts from all around the world. Each item tells a story and gives insight to different places and customs. Located near Washington Park, the Art Academy of Cincinnati, and tons of restaurants and shops to enjoy.

Kismet

Kismet is a travel inspired retail store that celebrates the life on earth. This whimsical boutique is nestled in O’Bryonville in addition to other locations throughout Ohio.

“Our vision is to bring locally sourced and worldly inspired products to our community through a unique shopping experience.”

Align Retro Furniture

This funky furniture store is a fabulous spot to check out vintage and local inspired pieces that have a modern flair. They are partnered with Urban Timber Cincinnati and even offer design consulting for the space you’d like to style. Located right down the street from the famous Arnold’s Bar and Grill, which is known for showcasing creatives of all kinds.

Vada Gallery

This special gallery makes an incredible effort to support and uplift the creative community. They are collaborating with local artists to sell and showcase their work in a welcoming environment. The owners are a friendly and enthusiastic family that is embracing and sharing their love for art and people.

“Let us connect you to local artists to bring the magic of the arts to you.”

Hail

If you’re looking for something quirky and a little out of this world you should go to this fascinating oddities and record store located in the historical Mainstrasse Village in Covington, Ky. The shop is humorous and educational, you’ll be sure to laugh and discover something new each and every time.


“You just gotta hop over the river and you’ll be right here! Don’t worry. We heard you’re big jumper.”

Article & Photos by:
@christencc