Planning a trip to Cincinnati with your kiddos? This vibrant city offers a wide range of family-friendly activities that are sure to keep your little ones entertained. From museums to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a list of the top fun things to do in Cincinnati with kids.
1. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
- Location: 3400 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH
- Ticket Price: Adults (13-61): $11-$24 | Kids (Ages 3-12): $8-$18 | Seniors (Ages 62+): $8-$18
- Hours: Monday-Sunday: 10am-5pm
As the second oldest zoo in the United States, the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is home to over 500 animal species and 3,000 plant varieties. Kids will particularly enjoy the Africa exhibit, where they can feed giraffes and observe lions. Along with the beautiful botanical gardens to explore, it’s a great place for kids to learn about nature and conservation while having fun.
2. ‘UnMuseum’ at the Cincinnati Contemporary Arts Center
- Location: 44 E. 6th Street, Cincinnati, OH
- Ticket Price: Free to Ohio & Kentucky Residents | General: $12 | Seniors & Students: $10 | Children 6 & Under: Free
- Hours: Mon: 10am-9pm | Wed-Fri: 10am-6pm | Sat-Sun: 11am-6pm
Founded in 1939, the Cincinnati Contemporary Arts Center offers rotating exhibitions of modern art that are engaging for visitors of all ages. However, those visiting with kids will want to visit the museum’s 6th floor called the ‘UnMuseum’. The Unmuseum is a dynamic, interactive space designed specifically for kids and families that allows them to engage with art in a fun and educational way. With hands-on exhibits that encourage creativity, it’s the perfect place for children to explore, play, and connect with art.
3. Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
- Location: 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH
- Ticket Price: Adults (13+): $19.50 | Child (3-12): $12.50 | Senior (60+): $12:50
- Hours: Thursday-Monday: 10am-5pm
Housed in a beautifully restored 1930s train station, this family-friendly destination features several museums in one including the Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History & Science, and the Children’s Museum. Kids can explore hands-on exhibits, dinosaur displays, and learn about the region’s history through interactive displays. With so much to see and do, you could easily spend an entire day there.
4. Smale Riverfront Park
- Location: 166 W Mehring Way, Cincinnati, OH
- Price: FREE
- Hours: Monday-Sunday: 6am-11pm
Located along the Ohio River, Smale Riverfront Park is the perfect sport for families to enjoy the outdoors. The park has plenty of activities to keep kids entertained including Carol Ann’s carousel, a flying pig sculpture play area (a nod to Cincinnati’s famous flying pig mascot), rock climbing, giant foot piano keys, splash pads, and lots more. It’s also a great spot to enjoy a picnic or a bike ride.
5. American Sign Museum
- Location: 1330 Monmouth Ave, Cincinnati, OH
- Price: Adults: $20 | Children (12 & Under): FREE | Seniors (65+): $15 | Students/Youth: $10
- Hours: Wednesday-Sunday: 10am-4pm
The American Sign Museum is a quirky and fun stop for families that features a vast collection of vintage signs from the 19th and 20th centuries. With vibrant neon lights and eye-catching colorful displays, the museum offers an entertaining and educational journey through the history of signage. Plus, kids under 12 get free admission!
No matter what your family enjoys, Cincinnati, Ohio has plenty of memorable experiences to offer, making it a great destination for your next adventure with the kids!
Looking for an off the beaten path adventure near Cincinnati? Our Cascades and Colors and Storybook Strolls mystery road trips are both kid friendly!
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