I have lived in Cincinnati for almost 7  years now and I can confidently say this city is the best it’s ever been! I came here somewhat unenthused and can now say I mostly love it! I think for a city of its size, it offers a remarkable breadth of diverse activities. The downtown portion of the city is revitalizing quickly and new restaurants and boutiques pop up frequently. 

EXPERIENCE

While in Cincinnati be sure to get the lay of the land with a trip up to Mt. Adams, drinks at the Rookwood, Blind Lemon or City Tavern provide a nice view of the historically significant Ohio River, and Kentucky. Places to check out while in town are the Contemporary Art Center, go to a Reds Game, and visit Over the Rhine for promising eats and a lively atmosphere. The city has great parks including Eden Park, Alms Park and the new Washington Park downtown. Fountain Square is at the city’s heart and offers free entertainment most weekends and ice skating in the winter months. Take a trip to Findlay Market to visit one of the countries longest operating year old markets. Findlay goes beyond selling food to offer dining, entertainment, and live music. While there check out Eli’s BBQ, Pho Lang Tang, and the new Maverick Local Chocolatier. 

Great day trips from Cincinnati include Nashville, Kentucky Bourbon Trail (and winery hopping), Red River Gorge, Hocking Hills, Yellow Springs and portions of the Appalachian Trail and Smokies make for great weekend hiking trips. 

STAY

Your best bet here is the Westin or 21C which just opened: http://www.21cmuseumhotels.com/cincinnati/

EAT

Favorite food venues include A Tavola, Nicolas, The Eagle, Pontiac, Bakersfield, Mazunte, Terry’s Turf Club, Eli’s BBQ, Abigail Street, Green Papaya, Wild Ginger, La Mexicana, Django Tacos, Le Poste, Melt, Riverside Korean, Swad Indian, The Rookwood, Boca, Nada, Sotto, Quan Hapa + Pho Lang Thang. Skyline Chili is a classic and local favorite, unique, but worth trying if you are passing through!

Best places to enjoy a good drink are Liberty’s, the Rhinegiest Brewery, Madtree Brewery, Taft Brewery, Northside Tavern, Neons, Japps, MOTR, Hofbräuhaus, Ludlow Bromely Yacht Club, Abigail Street, Blind Lemon, The Comet + Lackman.