As the third-largest city in Ohio, Cincinnati offers many exciting things for residents to do in their spare time. The lifestyle in Cincinnati boasts numerous bars, restaurants, nightclubs, theatre shows and shopping opportunities. With a diverse history, Cincinnati is refreshingly multicultural and offers something for everyone.
Shopping in Cincinnati
Cincinnati features many eccentric markets and shops reflecting the culture of the people. Those seeking a unique experience should head to Jungle Jim’s International Market. Known for its quirky goods, great selection of wine and beer, and international items, this shopper’s paradise is well frequented for its ‘drink as you shop’ policy.
Cincinnati also has several shopping malls for new arrivals to keep up with the latest trends in fashion, including Kenwood Towne Centre, Rookwood Commons & Pavilion and EastGate Mall.
Entertainment and eating out in Cincinnati
Cincinnati has a strong German heritage, influenced by European immigrants who settled in Ohio centuries ago. Street food has a distinctive Germanic flair, and many restaurants specialise in Bavarian cooking.
Two staple dishes in Cincinnati include Cincinnati chili, a Mediterranean spiced meat sauce served over spaghetti or hot dogs, and goetta, a dish composed of ground meat, oats and spices formed into a loaf which is then sliced and fried in butter. There are also many fine dining restaurants throughout Cincinnati known for their quality cuisine.
Cincinnati has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars offering craft beer, happy hour specials and late trading hours. The city has been named one of the best American cities for nightlife, and you can enjoy live music any day of the week or visit a fancy speakeasy.
Cincinnati is also a haven for theatre buffs. The city boasts an engaging community of artists, educators and producers. You’ll be spoilt for choice in terms of professional plays, community theatre and everything in between all year round.
Outdoor activities and sports in Cincinnati
Cincinnati ranks highly nationwide for its active lifestyle, boasting beautiful parks and landmarks like the mile-long Cincinnati Skywalk. There’s also a wide assortment of green spaces for outdoorsy types, whether for a quick run or a simple picnic in the shade of the trees. The city’s iconic Ohio River also offers all sorts of fun water activities, from river boating and kayaking to fishing and more.
See and do in Cincinnati
There’s no better way for new arrivals to discover their new city than by exploring the numerous attractions in Cincinnati. Below is a list of some of the highlights of things to see and do in Cincinnati.
Cincinnati Museum Centre
This centre features three museums in one location at an old converted railway station. These include the Cincinnati History Museum, Duke Energy Children’s Museum, and the Museum of Natural History and Science. The centre is also home to the Robert D. Lindner Family Omnimax Theater and the Cincinnati History Library and Archives.
Irwin M. Krohn Conservatory
The conservatory is the city’s horticultural gem, with more than 3,500 plant species from across the world in themed greenhouses that include a desert garden and a tropical rainforest. The conservatory also houses a collection of bonsai trees.
Taft Museum of Art
Housed in a 200-year-old building, this museum displays a small but impressive collection of artworks. Visitors can enjoy viewing paintings by the likes of Rembrandt, Whistler, and Goya, as well as sculptures and Chinese porcelain.
Carew Tower and Observation Deck
This Art Deco building from the 1930s is one of Cincinnati’s tallest. Classified as a National Historic Landmark, it contains shops, restaurants and offices, but the highlight is the panoramic views over the city from the observatory on the 49th floor at the very top of the building.
American Sign Museum
This unique museum displays all kinds of signs, and the colourful, brightly lit collections are a feast for the eyes. Guided tours are recommended to bring to life the stories behind the signs, and on weekdays, tours include a visit to the on-site neon shop for a demonstration of neon sign-making.
Meeting people and making friends in Cincinnati
You shouldn’t experience any difficulty when it comes to meeting people and making friends in Cincinnati. Cincinnatians are warm and welcoming, and enjoy sports and socialising. Local running, kayaking, and walking clubs connect you with like-minded people, and asking coworkers to a ballgame is a great way to uncover shared interests. Online platforms like Meetup are a good choice when you’re not sure where to start.
If you want to give back to the community and build connections at the same time, then volunteering at a local animal shelter or food bank, or helping during a local park clean-up, might be for you. You’ll make friends with people who share your values and contribute to meaningful causes.