It’s no doubt that summertime in the city is a sea of possibilities; the world is truly your oyster. Cincinnati in particular is full of both hidden gems and (rightfully) popular sites alike, waiting to be explored. Having lived in Cincinnati for nearly two years now, I’ve had my fair share of side quests- but I intend to keep them coming throughout the summer. The top 5 on my bucket list consists of a mix of places I hold dear and plan to revisit, as well as some new adventures calling my name.
Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum
Starting off a bit unconventional, Cincinnati is home to the Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum– 733 acres of lakes, gardens, trees, historic monuments, and walking routes, in addition to functioning as a cemetery. It’s open to the public, and they welcome visitors to enjoy its picturesque, outdoor features. It’s the perfect place to have a picnic, take scenic walks, and soak up the perfect weather. In the summer, they have extended hours, open daily from 8am6pm, and until 8pm on Mondays and Thursdays. This is definitely a location that I’m shocked I haven’t visited yet but would make for such a unique (and undoubtedly aesthetic) picnic, perfect for enjoying the summer sun and heat within one of the many gardens or by the ponds.
The Southgate House Revival
Located in an old historic church, the Southgate House Revival is an alternative venue with an intimate atmosphere. Their events often place emphasis on locality, hosting local musicians, open-mics, and art, also including small indie tours, as well. Personally, my favorite kinds of venues to attend concerts at are the small eccentric ones, so the Southgate House Revival is 100% on my radar this summer. It’s the perfect place to gather a small group of friends to have a night out and go support local shows, as well as discover some new artists to fill your summer soundtrack.
Eden Park
Eden Park is one of my favorite locations in Cinci, particularly in the summertime. Eden Park is equipped with scenic overlooks of the city and river, grassy areas for a relaxing picnic, gardens, and walking trails. In addition to this, the Cincinnati Art Museum and Krohn Conservatory are both located within Eden Park, making for a perfect day of walkable summer activities. The Cincinnati Art Museum reminds me of a smaller version of art museums that you may find throughout Europe, and it makes for such an ornate, thought-provoking walk-through. As for the Krohn Conservatory, I have also paid my fair share of visits there, as I love its charming atmosphere. It’s home to a butterfly sanctuary in which you can watch the butterflies fly about the room, and hope (or maybe not) that they take to landing on you. Additionally, it has a plethora of themed rooms and botanical gardens, allowing you to walk through immersive green spaces. I love that these locations are all housed within Eden Park, making it a large area to explore, and I look forward to returning to.
Mac’s Pizza Pub
A classic college students’ third space, Mac’s is one of my favorite places to frequent on weeknights, particularly in the summer. It’s the perfect place to split a pizza with friends, play cards, and bump into familiar faces. In the summer months, the back patio is open, where people can mingle with friends and enjoy the summer night breeze. Local bands play frequently on the patio, as well. The Clifton location is walking distance from UC’s campus and much of the student housing in the area, making it the kind of place you can visit spontaneously. You can almost always count on recognizing someone there that you know. It’s one of those places that makes you nostalgic in the moment, as I know I’ll miss the communal feeling it brings once I graduate.
Kentucky Highland Renaissance Festival
Although the Kentucky Highland Renaissance Festival is located in Eminence, Ky, about an hour outside of Cincinnati, it’s most definitely an honorable mention, in my opinion. The festival runs every Saturday and Sunday from May 30 to July 19, making for a unique, weekend summer road trip. The farmland is transformed into a 14th-century Scottish Village, embellished with local merchants and artisans, performances like jousting, live music, sword fighting, and comedy shows, and actors that interact with visitors. I can’t say that I have been to a Renaissance fair myself, but it’s a great excuse to dust off your old prom dress and splurge on some good eats and
hand-made trinkets, as well as watch some entertaining shows that you surely won’t find elsewhere.
Cinci Recap
All that said, there’s hardly an excuse to find yourself bored in Cincinnati this summer! Cinci is one of the best cities to discover new places and do some exploring, especially when the weather is nice. There’s something here for everyone; whether you’re looking for alternative hidden gems, spots to unplug and enjoy the outdoors, third spaces to incorporate into your social circle, or random eccentric events, the Cincinnati area has it all. I’m looking forward to keeping my summer exciting by completing my bucket list and expanding my appreciation for the city.