Now that both of our kids are getting older, I’ve put together this list of the top 15 things to do in Cincinnati with kids.
There are a lot of things on this list that we haven’t actually done yet, but I want to, so that’s why I’ve put it together. Liam’s definitely old enough for most of these now. London’s so young that she’ll never remember going, but she can come along and I’ll take pictures to prove to her that she did fun things as a baby.
If you’re not from Cincinnati (or even if you are), you may think there’s not a lot to do here. However, you should know that it was very easy coming up with 15 things to put on this list. In fact, I could probably add a lot more.
I’ve divided them into categories. Once we visit each of these places, I’ll try to write a blog post about it, just so you can get a better idea of what the experience is like.
Amusement & Water Parks
Kings Island – I didn’t want to list everything from best to least best, but if I did, Kings Island would still be at the top. As soon as the kids are old enough, I want season passes. There’s a kiddy land, waterpark, and everything else you could ever want in an amusement park.
Coney Island – There’s a huge pool and some rides for kids. I haven’t been since I was very young, so I’ll have to wait until we go before I can talk about it very much.
The Beach Waterpark – Lots of pools and fun water rides here. There’s a Lil’ Kahunas Waterworks for toddlers, too. Also, I just browsed their site for two seconds and saw that they have cabana rentals. I WANT THAT.
Animals
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden – It was voted the best zoo in the nation this year. What else is there to say? Just go. We’re going this month for Zoo Babies! It will be Liam’s second time and London’s first.
Newport Aquarium – There are over 70 exhibits! The best part, to me, is that it’s indoors and we don’t have to stand outside in the sweltering heat or freezing cold.
Sports
Cincinnati Reds – The first MLB team ever! Liam’s been two or three times. London’s also experiencing this for the first time this month! We love the Reds.
FC Cincinnati – I’m trying really hard to make sure we’re the biggest FC fans on our street, but our neighbor is a college soccer coach, so it’s hard. FC games are a blast, though. They will be more fun once I force one of the kids to play soccer… I say that jokingly, but I’m probably not joking.
Cincinnati Bengals – I hadn’t even been to a Bengals game until about three years ago, and they’re much more fun than I thought. Some people take babies there, but I probably wouldn’t. I think Liam will be at a good age to go this season.
Cincinnati Cyclones – Indoor sports! Also keeps us out of heat and cold. My favorite.
Florence Freedom – They’re a baseball team in an independent league. I’ve never actually been to a game yet, but I keep meaning to go. I love minor league games, and I assume these are similar.
University of Cincinnati – My sister went to UC, so I’ve been to a few UC Football games. They are very fun. Mostly because the student section is so rowdy, so this may be better for kids who are a little older. UC Basketball games are also fun – and indoors!
Museums
Duke Energy Children’s Museum – From their website, it looks like there are a lot of things to do here. There’s something called Kid’s Town and even without ever being there, I’m sure Liam will be obsessed with it.
American Sign Museum – I’ve never been here, either, but it looks awesome. I think younger kids would like seeing all the lights, and older kids would think the signs were cool. Plus, it looks like a great place to take photos. They have scavenger hunts, too!
Parks
Smale Riverfront Park – There’s a fountain area, a carousel, swings, playgrounds, and it’s FREE. Why haven’t we gone here yet?
Washington Park – There’s an interactive water park and a playground here, too. They also have a lot of events like movies and youngster yoga.
