The Queen City: How To Spend Two Days In Cincinnati, Ohio
Oct 25, 2023 By Sean William

Welcome to Cincinnati, Ohio, a city with a rich history and a thriving arts, culture, and food scene. Located in the state's southwestern region, Cincinnati is known as the "Queen City" and has something for everyone. If you're planning a trip to Cincinnati and only have two days to spend, this guide will help you make the most of your time in the city. Cincinnati has plenty to offer, from exploring cultural and historical attractions to enjoying sporting and outdoor activities. So come and experience all that Queen City has to offer!

Day 1: Cincinnati's Cultural And Historical Attractions

Start your first day in Cincinnati by visiting some of the city's top cultural and historical attractions. One option is to visit the Cincinnati Art Museum, which houses a collection of over 67,000 works of art, ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary pieces. The museum's collection includes works by artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Rembrandt and a significant collection of Native American and African art. After exploring the art museum, consider a trip to the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, which features three museums in one location: the Cincinnati History Museum, the Duke Energy Children's Museum, and the Museum of Natural History & Science. The Cincinnati History Museum explores the city's rich history through various exhibits and interactive displays, from its founding in 1788 to the present day.

The Duke Energy Children's Museum is a hands-on museum designed for children and families, with exhibits on science, technology, engineering, and math. The Museum of Natural History & Science features exhibits on dinosaurs, fossils, and the natural world and an OMNIMAX theater showing documentaries on various scientific topics. After a full day of museum-hopping, take a stroll through the beautiful Eden Park, which features gardens, a lake, and scenic views of the city. You can also visit the Cincinnati Observatory, the oldest professional observatory in the United States, which offers public stargazing sessions. Try one of Cincinnati's famous chili parlors for dinner, such as Skyline Chili or Gold Star Chili. Both serve Cincinnati-style chili, a unique variation of chili con Carne served over spaghetti and topped with cheese and onions. This local delicacy is a must-try for any visitor to the city.

Day 2: Enjoy The City's Sporting And Outdoor Activities

Your second day in town should be spent at Great American Ball Park, the stadium for the Cincinnati Reds, this same city's Major League Baseball franchise. Paul Brown Stadium is where the Cincinnati Bengals of the NFL play, so if baseball isn't your thing you can still catch a game there. Both stadiums offer tours that give you an inside look at the facilities and the history of the teams. If you prefer outdoor activities, take a stroll or bike ride along the Ohio River on the city's riverfront trails. The city's riverfront area has undergone significant redevelopment recently and features several parks, restaurants, and attractions along the river. You can also visit the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, home to over 500 animal species and 3,000 plant species. The zoo is home to various animals, including gorillas, lions, and polar bears, as well as several conservation and education programs.

In the evening, check out some of Cincinnati's live music scene. The city is home to several music venues, such as the iconic Bogart's and the newly renovated Music Hall. These venues host a variety of musical acts, from local bands to national touring acts.

Other Things To Do In Cincinnati

If you have extra time during your visit to Cincinnati and are looking for other things to do, here are a few more ideas:

  • Visit the Cincinnati Art Underground, a contemporary art gallery in the city's historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood.
  • Take a tour of the historic Findlay Market, Ohio's oldest public market, featuring local food vendors and artisans.
  • Explore the Cincinnati Music Hall, a National Historic Landmark and home to the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, and Cincinnati Ballet.
  • Visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, a museum dedicated to the history of the underground railroad and the struggle for freedom and equality.
  • Go shopping at the Cincinnati Premium Outlets, a large outdoor shopping mall with over 100 stores.
  • Take a scenic drive along the Ohio River Scenic Byway, a designated National Scenic Byway that offers beautiful views of the river and surrounding countryside.

Conclusion

Cincinnati has a rich history and a thriving arts, culture, and food scene. Whether interested in art, history, sports, or the outdoors, you can find plenty of activities to keep you entertained during your two-day visit. So come to Queen City and experience all it has to offer!

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