Ultimate 3-Day Cincinnati Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Begin your Cincinnati adventure at the Findlay Market. Established in 1852, it's Ohio's oldest continuously operated public market, bursting with local produce, artisanal foods, and vibrant energy—grab a coffee and a pastry as you stroll the bustling aisles.

Findlay Market

Head to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center on the riverfront. This moving museum tells the powerful story of the Underground Railroad and Cincinnati's pivotal role in the fight for freedom and civil rights.

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

For lunch, indulge in iconic Cincinnati chili at Camp Washington Chili, a local institution serving up their signature 5-way chili since 1940 in a classic retro setting.

Camp Washington Chili

Stroll through Smale Riverfront Park, enjoying interactive fountains, gardens, and sweeping views of the Ohio River and Roebling Bridge as the city lights begin to twinkle.

Smale Riverfront Park

Cap off your night with a craft cocktail on the rooftop at The Blind Pig, a speakeasy-inspired bar offering panoramic downtown views and a lively local crowd.

The Blind Pig

Start your day at the stunning Cincinnati Art Museum in Eden Park, home to more than 67,000 works covering 6,000 years of world history—admission is free!

Cincinnati Art Museum

For lunch, head to Salazar in the heart of Over-the-Rhine. This farm-to-table bistro by chef Jose Salazar is beloved for its inventive dishes and hip, cozy ambiance.

Salazar

After lunch, wander the historic streets of Over-the-Rhine, with its beautifully restored Italianate buildings, murals, indie boutiques, and vibrant public spaces.

Over-the-Rhine

Experience Cincinnati’s legendary craft beer scene at Rhinegeist Brewery. Set in a historic bottling plant, you’ll find creative beers, a rooftop patio, and fun games like cornhole and ping pong.

Rhinegeist Brewery

Enjoy dinner at Sotto, a romantic, candlelit Italian trattoria tucked in a cozy basement, renowned for its handmade pastas and rustic-chic vibe.

Sotto

Take in panoramic city views from Devou Park (just across the river in Covington, KY). Its scenic overlook is the best place for sunrise over Cincinnati’s skyline and the Ohio River.

Devou Park

Afterward, fuel up with breakfast at Sleepy Bee Cafe, a bright, bee-themed eatery specializing in locally sourced breakfasts, creative pancakes, and fresh juices.

Sleepy Bee Cafe

Spend your afternoon at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, one of the oldest zoos in the country, famed for Fiona the hippo, beautiful gardens, and interactive wildlife exhibits.

Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden

Wrap up your trip with dinner at Boca, an acclaimed, stylish spot in downtown Cincinnati offering contemporary American cuisine with European flair and impeccable service.

Boca

If you have extra energy, grab a sweet treat at Graeter's Ice Cream—a Cincinnati classic since 1870, famous for its rich, hand-churned French pot ice cream and decadent chocolate chips.

Graeter's Ice Cream