| February 3rd, 2025 | No comments

Summertime is wonderful in Cincinnati! The weather is warm, cold drinks are flowing, and the city truly comes alive. With temperatures hovering in the 70s and 80s, this is the perfect time to enjoy all the outdoor activities Cincinnati has to offer. With so many options, though, you may be wondering about the absolute best things to do in Cincinnati in summer. 

Things to Do in Cincinnati in Summer

Cincinnati has plenty of summertime activities for residents and visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a meal outside, stay active, or cheer on a local sports team, Cincinnati has something for you. These are the best things to do in Cincinnati in summer.  

Eat at The Cabana On The River

The Cabana On The River is Cincinnati’s premier destination for classic American fare enjoyed outdoors. Located on the banks of the Ohio River just outside the downtown area, this is the locals’ favorite summertime watering hole. 

The Cabana only has outdoor seating, and you can choose from covered or uncovered. The menu is extensive, with plenty of options like classic appetizers, seafood, salads, and burgers. There’s also a full-service bar so you’ll never go thirsty. Those interested in some friendly competition can even sign up for the sand volleyball league.

The Cabana On The River is the perfect place to spend a summer afternoon as you relax with friends and family and enjoy the view of the river. It’s the closest thing you’ll get to a tropical vacation in Cincinnati. 

Go Cabrewing on the Little Miami River

Aerial shot of people canoeing down the Little Miami River, with some canoes parked on the river banks.
Canoe down the Little Miami River with a cold drink in hand.

Cabrewing has long been a Cincinnati tradition, so much so that when I say “cabrewing” to people outside of Cincinnati, they don’t know what I’m talking about. But of course, I’m talking about canoeing and drinking beer

There are plenty of places along the Little Miami River where you can rent canoes or kayaks, such as Scenic River Canoe Excursions located near Milford, and head off on your journey. There are some companies situated in Loveland and Kings Mills if you’re starting your trip from a different place.

You can either bring your own brews on board (no glass allowed, though), or take breaks at the breweries and restaurants dotted along the river, such as the Little Miami Brewing Company

Catch a Cincinnati Reds or an FC Cincinnati Game

The Reds' home stadium, Great American Ballpark, filled with spectators during a baseball game.
Cheer on the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ballpark.

Summer is the perfect time to catch a Reds game! The Cincinnati Reds were actually the first MLB team to ever exist, and the fanfare downtown during the games is unmatched. Their home stadium, dubbed Great American Ball Park, is situated downtown with a gorgeous view of the Ohio River. And when they hit a home run, the fireworks display is spectacular. You can also take a tour of the Great American Ballpark and the Reds Hall of Fame.

The nice weather is the perfect excuse to dress up in red, indulge in overpriced beer, coneys, and popcorn, and shout at the top of your lungs. If tickets to the game aren’t in your budget, you can watch from one of the many bars and restaurants located right across the street at The Banks

Not a baseball fan? Not to worry. Cincinnati’s newest professional sports team, FC Cincinnati, has a shiny new soccer stadium that opened in 2021. TQL Stadium is located in the popular Over-The-Rhine neighborhood across the street from Washington Park. You can easily make a day out of exploring the area’s many attractions before heading to the game. If this is your plan, be sure to stop at Findlay Market.

Head to Kings Island

Kings Island is a 30-minute drive north of downtown Cincinnati in Mason, and it’s certainly worth the short trip. This legendary amusement park is home to world-record-holding attractions, such as The Beast – the world’s longest wooden roller coaster at 1.4 miles long and a ride time of just under 5 minutes. Other notable roller coasters include the Diamondback and the Banshee. 

Aside from its incredible coasters, Kings Island is home to other classic rides and games as well as a large kids’ section. If you’re looking to cool off, head to Soak City, the adjacent water park. With 36 water slides and multiple pools to relax in, it’s the perfect place to spend a hot summer day. 

Watch a Movie Outside

People sitting outside during sunset watching a movie at NightLight 513 on the riverbank with the Cincinnati skyline in the background.
Catch a movie and a beautiful view at NightLight 513. Photo credit: Colin Peterman

Take advantage of the warm evenings by indulging in an outdoor movie experience. While drive-in movie theaters are few and far between these days, Cincinnati is one of those lucky cities with several of them located close by. The closest is Starlite Drive-In Theatre in Amelia, only 30 minutes away by car. 

Don’t feel like driving? Check out NightLight 513 just across the river from Cincinnati in Covington. This outdoor cinema is for those aged 21 and up only, and it has food trucks, a bar, and a DJ set you can enjoy during sunset before the movie starts. 

Have a Drink at One of Cincinnati’s Many Outdoor Bars

People on the patio of Rhinegeist Brewery Cincinnati Best breweries
Have a beer on the rooftop at Rhinegeist, one of the best things to do in Cincinnati in summer.

As you may already know, Cincinnati is one of the best cities in the country for craft beer lovers thanks to its many renowned breweries. And lucky you: most of those breweries have outdoor seating or even seasonal rooftops. 

For gorgeous views of the city, head to Rhinegeist’s rooftop. If you want to participate in a sand volleyball game, drive out to Fifty West. Incline Public House and Somerset are also known for their outstanding outdoor seating areas. 

If you don’t want to pick just one, don’t worry. Summer is also the perfect time to hop on a pedal wagon and explore several of the city’s bars by pedaling from place to place on a guided tour. Choose from one of the predetermined routes, or create your own adventure.

Partake in the ArtWorks Mural Scavenger Hunt

Colorful mural commissioned by ArtWorks of Neil Armstrong on the side of a building in downtown Cincinnati.
Discover colorful murals across Cincinnati during the ArtWorks mural scavenger hunt. Credit: J Miles Wolf

Cincinnati is a city full of artists and creatives, and that’s clear from the sheer amount of murals you can find. In fact, Cincinnati currently holds the title of Best City for Street Art as voted by readers of USA Today. Take advantage of the pleasant weather and take a walk around the city gazing in awe at the variety of pieces. 

ArtWorks is an organization committed to protecting the city’s street art and commissioning even more. With murals in virtually every Cincy neighborhood, including Downtown and Over-The-Rhine, you can either take a guided mural tour or download a self-guided map to see them all. For those interested in local art and culture, this is one of the best things to do in Cincinnati in summer.

Hit the Loveland Bike Trail

People riding bikes on the Loveland Bike Trail.
Enjoy a day of cycling along the Loveland Bike Trail.

Those looking to stay active can head to the Loveland Bike Trail for a day of cycling with friends or family. Part of the Little Miami Scenic Trail, it was built along the now abandoned Little Miami Railroad and stretches for 70 miles. You can either bring your own bike, or rent one at the start.

The scenic trail will take you through the forest with views of the river, with shops, restaurants, and playgrounds dotted along the way. There’s also free parking at the start in Loveland, and free picnic tables and restrooms are easily accessible. 

There are several routes available depending on what kind of ride you’re looking for. Those looking for a leisurely experience can bike 25 minutes to Riverview Park. If you’re looking for more of an adventure, you can ride 90 minutes out to Lebanon. But don’t forget–you have to ride back! 

Drink Homemade Root Beer at The Root Beer Stand

Only open seasonally, The Root Beer Stand is a local diner in Sharonville that’s been operating since 1957. It may sound simple, but The Root Beer Stand has received multiple awards over the years recognizing the quality of their root beer. Cozy up to the bar on a stool inside or enjoy your meal from the new full-service outdoor dining area. 

To complement your frosty mug of brew, order some classic American diner food like burgers, chips, and hot dogs. The star of the menu, however, is their footlong (yes, you read that right) hot dog topped with chili and cheese. Don’t forget to order a root beer float for dessert, and you can even take home a gallon of root beer to enjoy later. 

Head to Fountain Square for a Delightful Series of Outdoor Events

People dancing at Fountain Square during Salsa on the Square, a free outdoor event in Cincinnati during summer.
Learn to salsa dance at Salsa on the Square, held weekly at Fountain Square during the summer.

Fountain Square dominates the downtown area of Cincinnati and serves as a gathering place for locals, tourists, and businesspeople. While free events occur on the square all year round, summer is obviously the most desirable season to attend them. 

Fountain Square’s Salsa on the Square is one such event. Occurring weekly from May through September, Salsa on the Square features live bands playing Latin Jazz, Salsa, Merengue, and more. Their sets are accompanied by free dance classes led by experienced instructors. Latin food is also available on site as well as a full bar run by Fountain Square concessions. 

Other weekly summer events on the square include trivia nights and live music. Fountain Square is also the setting for many of the summer festivals that occur in Cincinnati. 

Conquer the Art Climb to the Cincinnati Art Museum

The Cincinnati Art Museum has come up with a creative way to engage with visitors even outside the museum’s walls. The Art Climb, which starts at the corner of Eden Park Drive and Gilbert Avenue, is a series of steps that lead up the hill to the art museum itself. 

But it’s not just a series of steps. This 450-foot climb could be considered a work of art in and of itself based on the design of the steps, landscaping, and landings along the way. There are also outdoor sculptures on display along the staircase for climbers to admire. 

At the top of the Art Climb, you’ll be rewarded with a marvelous view of the city of Cincinnati from above. Once you’ve taken advantage of the photo op, escape into the air conditioning and enjoy the museum’s extensive exhibits.

Cool Off at Aglamesis Brothers, One of Cincinnati’s Many Local Ice Cream Shops

Two ice cream cones at Aglamesis Brothers, one of the best places to cool off during summer in Cincinnati.
Indulge in a sweet treat at Aglamesis Brothers.

After all that exploring, we don’t blame you if you need an ice cream break. Luckily, Cincinnati has plenty of places where you can indulge in this cold sweet treat. Aglamesis Brothers is a local favorite, with its original location from 1908 still operating in Oakley. Serving gourmet chocolates and Italian ice alongside their famous ice cream, Aglamesis has been recognized by multiple national publications. Aside from their Oakley store, they’ve also expanded to Montgomery Square and Hamilton.

Can’t make it to Aglamesis? Graeter’s, a local chain, is another reliable option that you can find almost anywhere around the city. If this is the place you choose, be sure to try their famous Black Raspberry Chip. Pendleton Parlor: Ice Cream & Cookie Dough and Hello Honey are two more local favorites worth visiting.

 

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Cincinnati in summer. This short list of the best things to do in Cincinnati in summer only scratches the surface, so it’s time to start ticking things off the list. 

Brittany Muldoon

Written by Brittany Muldoon

Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Brittany had brief stints in North Carolina and North Dakota before moving to Prague, CZ, where she's been living for the past 7 years. Having traveled most of Europe over the past decade, she loves sharing her experiences through her writing and photography. She's recently started dipping her toes into solo travel and hopes to explore more of Portugal and the Nordic countries in the coming months.

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