Residents of Cincinnati know there's no better place to call home. From the friendly people and great food to the deep-seated character that unveils itself in our historic neighborhoods, there is just so much to love about this town.
There are a number of things every Queen City resident should try at least once in his or her lifetime. We rounded up the ultimate bucket list for you, which includes activities for foodies, art lovers and adventurers alike. How many can you check off?
Jump Ahead:
For the Explorer | For the Foodie | For the Adventurer | For the Thrill Seeker | For the Sports Enthusiast | For Those Hungry for Knowledge | For the Child at Heart | For the Lover of the Arts

Photo courtesy of Loveland Castle
Conquer a Nearby Castle Interestingly enough, Ohio is home to a large number of castles. Some are haunted and some are just enchanting! Read up on our state's coolest castles and the fascinating stories behind them. Ride the Elevator Up 49 Floors to the Carew Tower Observation Deck Completed in 1930, Carew Tower stands tall in the heart of downtown Cincinnati. Head up to the top to witness one of the city's best views! Visit the Cincinnati Union Terminal Undoubtedly, the architecture of the Union Terminal is a sight in itself — you might have to pick your jaw up off of the floor after witnessing the largest half-dome structure in the western hemisphere — but don't miss out on the special exhibits and the OMNIMAX Theater held within. Stay a Night at The Golden Lamb in Lebanon Located in the heart of downtown Lebanon, The Golden Lamb has stood as a community gathering place since 1803, making it the oldest continuously operating business in Ohio. Dine like royalty at the restaurant, and stay a night in the historic rooms.
Go Camping
S'mores and a night under the stars — it doesn't get better than that! There are plenty of incredible camping destinations within easy reach of Cincinnati.
Explore all of Cincinnati's Coolest Neighborhoods
From Over the Rhine to the Incline District, our town is filled to the brim with up-and-coming neighborhoods — all of which are perfect for spending the afternoon. Challenge yourself to visit them all!
See the Butterfly Show at the Krohn Conservatory
Open year round, the Krohn Conservatory is a nationally recognized collection of more than 3,500 plant species from all over the world, but it also boasts a vibrant butterfly show every year!
Drive Across the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge
This iconic bridge spans the Ohio River between Cincinnati and Covington, and was the longest in the world when it opened in 1867.
Party on the Purple People Bridge
Don't worry — the bridge is not guarded by a purple people eater. This stunning piece of architecture is actually named for its unique hue. Every Wednesday night during the summer, enjoy a weekly "Party on the Purple" with the residents of the Queen City, which will feature live music and refreshments.

Photos courtesy of Urbana Cafe
Find the World's Best Cup of Coffee Cincinnati is home to some of the best coffee shops in the Midwest! Start your day off right and grab a cup of java from one of these nine hot spots. They are all worth a visit. Soak in the Atmosphere at Sotto The atmosphere, just as much as the food, has made Sotto a Cincinnati staple. Stop in to witness the understated romance, rustic charm and unparalleled authentic Italian cuisine. Taste the Difference at Graeter's Ice Cream With more than 145 years of experience under its belt, we believe Graeter's Ice Cream is the ultimate authority on handcrafted French pot ice cream. Enjoy a Pint at Mt. Carmel Brewing Company Set in the cellar of a 1924 farmhouse, Mt. Carmel Brewing Company pioneered the craft beer scene in Cincinnati. Stop by for a pint or growler fill with loved ones, and be sure to ask about the history! Indulge in an Authentic German Brew from the Hofbrauhaus in Newport This spectacular beer hall is modeled to be almost identical to its sister location in Munich! A beer here is about as close to the authentic German experience as you can get. Split a Bottle at Moyer's Winery Stop in at this local favorite beside the Ohio River for upscale American fare and locally produced wines. Grab a Bite at the Findlay Market This market, which has graced Cincinnati since the mid-1800s, is filled to the brim with energetic merchants, artisanal cheeses, fresh produce, warm baked goods and more!
Photo courtesy of Queen City Radio
Sit on the Patio at Queen City Radio Located in the historic Over The Rhine neighborhood, Queen City Radio offers up craft cocktails, beer on draft and tasty burgers — all served with a side of Cincinnati culture. Take a Riverside Food Tour Taste the city's best bites (including some hidden gems) and learn all about the history of Cincinnati! That's what we call food for thought.
Kayak on the Little Miami River
In Cincinnati, we are lucky to have access to the Little Miami River, which provides a haven for river rats and adventure seekers. There are a plethora of local rental companies that can outfit you with gear and point you in the right direction if you're looking to test your skills on the river, or simply enjoy a leisurely excursion. Our favorites include Little Miami Canoe, Scenic River Canoe Excursions, Morgan's Outdoor Adventures and Whitewater Canoe Rental.
Go Swimming at Caesar Creek State Park
Caesar Creek is one of Cincinnati's most beloved hidden gems! Hike, bike, boat or ride around the park before hitting the beach — such an oasis so close to home.
Go Fishing
There's nothing quite as satisfying as a calm morning on the water. The Great Miami River offers so many awesome fishing holes perfect for catching bluegills, bass, carp and channel catfish via fly fishing or lures, and the Mad River is one of the best trout streams in the state. Gear up at On the Way Bait & Tackle.
Photo courtesy of Alex Perfect via Perfect North Slopes
Ski at Perfect North Slopes We aren't known for our powder days here in Ohio, but you can catch a little bit of wintery paradise at the nearby Perfect North Slopes, just half an hour away. And Complete the Mud Stash When Perfect North isn't covered in snow, it's the perfect destination for summer activities! Each year in early September, the venue hosts a muddy, obstacle-filled race to the finish called the Mud Stash. It's known to be one of the most entertaining competitions in the region! Compete in the Flying Pig Marathon The Flying Pig Marathon celebrated its 20th anniversary in May 2017, and remains one of the biggest party weekends in the city! Register for next year's race here.
Photo courtesy of SkyDive Cincinnati
Leap from the Skies at SkyDive Cincinnati Skydiving is perhaps the ultimate bucket list item, so you might as well check it off now. SkyDive Cincinnati offers tandem jumps with an instructor, as well as full courses to help you earn your skydiving certification. Sure, you think you're tough now. Just wait until the plane door opens at 16,000 feet! Take a Dip at Sunlite Pool in Coney Island Sunlite Pool is the largest, flat-surface swimming pool in North America — perfect for cooling off after exploring the park's many attractions! Tour the Spring Grove Cemetery Craving a spooky encounter? The Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum is the fourth largest cemetery in the United States, and boasts gorgeous scenery, iconic Gothic-style architecture, and lots of history.
Photo courtesy of the The Cincinnati Reds
See the Reds Win at the Great American Ball Park The Great American Ball Park is a sight at any time of day, but when the stadium is filled from end to end with that signature scarlet hue and thousands of cheering fans, there is no place we would rather be. Root, root, root for the home team — and make sure you enjoy a coney in the stands! Engage in a Years-Long Rivalry in the Crosstown Shootout When the Cincinnati Bearcats and the Xavier Musketeers face off in their annual showdown, which side will you be on? Camp on the Infield at the Kentucky Speedway Yes, there is a way to be closer to the action! Get into the thick of it by camping on the infield at the Kentucky Speedway. Witness a Cincinnati Cyclones Victory at the Kelly Cup This could be their year! Whether you're a hockey fan or not, you had best be cheering for the correct team when the season starts.
Photo courtesy of 16-Bit
Play at 16-Bit This arcade-style bar redefined the Cincinnati nightlife experience! Enjoy more than 50 classic arcade games alongside bar bites and adult bevvies.
Photo courtesy of Brian Douglas via Oktoberfest Zinzinnati
Join in the Giant Chicken Dance at Oktoberfest Zinzinnati You don't want to be a chicken, you don't want to be a duck, but you definitely want to be at this fun-filled event, which is the second largest Oktoberfest celebration worldwide (upstaged only by the original in Munich). Visit Washington Park in Over the Rhine Let your children splash through the fountains, or bring a picnic and simply soak in the beautiful Ohio sunshine. A visit to Washington Park is the perfect way to spend any leisurely afternoon.
Photo courtesy of Funky Sunshine
Take a Turn Around Funky Sunshine This quirky shop has a serious passion for color, good vibes and laughter. Poke around the shop, and maybe take a piece of tie-dye artwork or apparel home with you! Peruse the Cincinnati Art Museum The Cincinnati Art Museum houses a collection of more than 65,000 works spanning six centuries. Come marvel at the works of Picasso, Botticelli, Monet and more. Shop Around at Black Plastic Records Black Plastic Records houses one of the most impressive music collections in the state! Even if you don't have a record player, you will enjoy perusing the shelves.