Things to do in Cincinnati

Cincinnati is brimming with attractions that are suitable for all members of the family. You can spend a day at the theme park, visit the abundant museums or gaze at the stars from the old Observatory. Those into culture and the arts will find many notable churches, in particular the St Mary's Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, as well as galleries, museums and historic monuments.

Carew Tower

Carew Tower is the tallest building in Cincinnati as well as being one of the city's most recognised and important landmarks. Built in the Art Deco style in 1931, the breathtaking views from the observation deck are highly impressive and well worth the journey up to the top. Phone: +1 513 241 3888.

Cincinnati Observatory Centre

This impressive observatory is the oldest professional observatory in the country.  There are two historic telescopes, which date back to the years 1843 and 1904. It is an excellent place to learn about astronomy and discover the world as you would never imagine. There are artefacts and photographs dating back to the 19th century as well as information about the world and beyond. Phone: +1 513 321 5186.

Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Cincinnati Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the US. First opened in 1875 with just a handful of animals; today, the zoo is home to 700 species as well as thousands of varieties of plants. Other attractions at the Cincinnati Zoo include the Children's Zoo, Gorilla World, Nocturnal House and landscaped gardens. Phone: +1 513 281 4700.

Coney Island

Coney Island is a traditional theme park, located just outside of the main city. It has been a popular family attraction for over 100 years and features over 50 classic rides such as Ferris wheels, merry-go-rounds, dodgems and waltzers as well as an enormous pool with exciting waterslides and live stage shows. Phone: +1 513 232 8230.

Eden Park

This park is the fourth oldest and fourth largest of more than 100 city parks in Cincinnati, and it is also the most popular. It is very popular with walkers, runners, exercise fanatics and those looking to relax. Mirror Lake can be found in the middle of the park and is used for ice skating in the winter. There are many cultural landmarks within the grounds. These include Playhouse in the Park, Cincinnati Art Museum and the Murray Seasongood Pavilion.

Fountain square

This locally famed square can be found in the middle of downtown Cincinnati. It has been a popular meeting point for locals since 1871, and it boasts lively entertainment every day during the summer. It is a great place to catch up with friends or to sit and partake in a spot of people-watching.

National Steamboat Monument

This monument is topped by the original paddlewheel of the American Queen, the largest overnight passenger steamboat to be built in America. The paddlewheel was given to the City of Cincinnati when the steamboat was refitted with a slightly smaller one. Beneath the bright red wheel, you will see two dozen stainless steel columns, which were built to represent smokestacks. Photo sensors on the monument set off steam jets that whistle and hiss through these stacks when a person passes them. This monument acts as a reminder of the steamboat heritage of the city. In the mid-1800s, 8,000 riverboats annually docked near this spot

Newport Aquarium

This popular aquarium can be found on the bank of the Ohio River, just along the road from the city centre. Many impressive and well-presented exhibits can be seen here such as tropical fish, sea mammals and stingrays. Other features include glass tunnels and floors that afford unique views of over 11,000 marine and freshwater animals. Phone: +1 606 491 3467.

St Mary's Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption

This is a truly magnificent cathedral which resembles the famous Notre Dame cathedral in Paris, although on a smaller scale. It is most famous for its enormous stained-glass window, which is the largest of its kind in the entire world. Other highlights include numerous stone gargoyles, large oil paintings depicting religious scenes, over 80 stained-glass windows and a stunning interior. St Mary's Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption was built in the late 19th century, although was not completed until 1910. Phone: +1 859 431 2060.

Museums
Cincinnati is home to dozens of museums which are worth a visit. Among the most popular is the Cincinnati Museum Centre (tel: +1 513 287 7000), which houses three museums in total: Museum of Natural History and Science; Cincinnati Historical Society and Cinergy Children's Museum. The vast complex also houses the Robert D Lindner Family Omnimax Theater.

Another notable museum is the National Underground Railroad Freedom Centre (tel: +1 513 333 7500), which focuses on the history of oppression and the struggle for freedom, highlighting in detail the plight of the African slaves. Meanwhile, the Skirball Museum (tel: +1 513 221 7444) documents the history and culture of Jewish people. Other interesting museums include the Harriet Beecher Stowe Museum (tel: +1 513 632 5120), which details upper class life in the 19th century, and the Hauck House Museum (tel: +1 513 721 3570).