Call it the Queen City, Swine City, or a chili-crazed city: Cincinnati is known by many names thanks to its many faces. Its German roots brewed up a reputation for beer that’s still thirst-quenching today. Lovers of America’s favorite pastime can follow the baselines to the origin of baseball’s oldest team. Just like its famed Skyline Chili, your time here can be as loaded or traditional as you’d like. From museums and live sports, brewery hopping, and a renowned zoo, there are plenty of things to do in Cincinnati.
Cincinnati is known for its chili and for being chilly, so wrap up warm if you visit between November and March. The best time to visit Queen City is anytime between May and September. The riverfront and Fountain Square are buzzing with events in the summer while early autumn is clutch for catching live MLB baseball, NFL football, and MLS soccer on the same weekend.
Cincinnati’s highlights aren’t limited to the core of downtown, which is why the free Streetcar is the best way to get around Cincinnati. The Streetcar usually runs throughout the day, 7 days a week, and loops from the Central Business District to Over-the-Rhine. If you’re keen to get your steps in, the city is pedestrian-friendly; you can even walk across the Roebling Suspension Bridge to Kentucky.
Under the radar but magical all the same, Cincinnati has an exceptional annual Christmas market. Held at Findlay Market, the oldest public market in Ohio, the German roots of the city are celebrated with outdoor vendors, family-friendly activities, and adult-focused tastings. You can even buy your Christmas tree, wreath, and garlands from this lively holiday market in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood.
