Weekend in Cincinnati: A Guide to the City’s Best Food and Fun

When thinking of the top US cities you want to visit, Cincinnati may not be at the top of your list. However, after visiting for a long visit, I totally think it should be!

My immediate reaction to being in the city was “wait..where is the traffic?” It seemed like everywhere we went, we got a front row parking spot and it took about 5 minutes to get to each destination. Coming from a huge city like Atlanta, that was shocking to me!

Cincinnati is a cool city with so many things to do. While the city is best known for it’s famous chili and the Reds baseball team, you will find that Cincinnati is poppin with amazing restaurants, lots of nightlife, and the nicest people.

Heading to Cincinnati soon? There’s a good chance you are if you find yourself reading this post right now. And if not.. plan a weekend trip! I promise you will be more than glad you visited this underrated US city.

Keep reading for all of my suggestions for things to do, where to eat, and what you must see while in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Weekend in Cincinnati: A Travel Guide

Where to Eat in Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a city that offers a wide variety of dining options for every type of foodie. From casual to boujee, the Queen City has it all. During my long weekend in Cincinnati, I had the opportunity to try some of the best restaurants in the city. Here are some of my top recommendations for your next trip to Cincinnati.

If you are wanting a nice dinner, consider one of these:

Losanti 

This restaurant is a must-visit for anyone who loves truffle-infused dishes. The steak, truffle gnocchi, and truffle mac and cheese were all heavenly. And, if you're a fan of espresso martinis, you won't be disappointed.

Sotto 

This restaurant offers amazing food, wine, and atmosphere. It's the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

Prime 

If you're a seafood lover, you won't want to miss the lobster bisque at Prime. This restaurant offers a fine dining experience that is sure to impress.

Pepp and Delores

Known for their pasta, Pepp and Delores is the perfect spot for a cozy Italian dinner. The restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.

If you are going for a more casual night, any of these restaurants below you will love:

Bakersfield 

For the best tacos and margaritas in town, head to Bakersfield. Don't forget to order the spicy marg pitcher!

Condatos 

Another great taco spot is Condatos. This restaurant offers a wide variety of tacos that are sure to satisfy any craving.

Kanji 

If you're in the mood for sushi, Kanji is the place to go. And, if you go during happy hour, you can enjoy half-price sushi rolls.

Louvino 

This restaurant offers southern-inspired small plates that are perfect for sharing. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a casual night out.

Quan Hapa

For Asian street food and cocktails, head to Quan Hapa. This restaurant offers a unique dining experience that is sure to impress.

Nation 

If you're craving a burger, Nation is the place to go. And, if you go during brunch, you can enjoy super cheap mimosas and good food.

The Eagle

This beer hall offers southern food that is sure to satisfy any craving. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends.

Gomez

For fast-casual Mexican food, head to Gomez. This restaurant offers a wide variety of tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes that are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Maplewood

If you're in the mood for California cuisine, head to Maplewood. This restaurant offers fresh and healthy dishes that are perfect for brunch or lunch.

Love a good brunch? Here are some of the best brunch spots in Cincinnati:

Taste of Belgium

With locations in OTR and the Banks, Taste of Belgium is a must-visit for brunch. The waffles are a must-try, and you can even walk to the stadium after brunch if you're catching a game.

Louvino 

If you're looking for a fancier brunch experience, Louvino offers tapas-style dishes that are perfect for sharing. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a Sunday brunch with friends.

Nation

For super cheap mimosas and good food, head to Nation for brunch. The menu offers a wide variety of breakfast and lunch dishes, so there's something for everyone.

Crown Republic

This restaurant offers a unique brunch experience with dishes like chicken and waffles and shrimp and grits. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a lazy Sunday brunch.

Boomtown Biscuits

If you're in the mood for Southern comfort food, head to Boomtown Biscuits. The biscuits and gravy are a must-try, and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming.

Sugar and Spice

For a classic diner experience with a cool atmosphere, head to Sugar and Spice. The menu offers a wide variety of breakfast dishes, and the milkshakes are a must-try.

Hangover Easy

As the name suggests, Hangover Easy is the perfect spot for a post-party brunch. The menu offers classic breakfast dishes with a twist, and the atmosphere is casual and laid-back.

Sleepy Bee

This restaurant offers healthy and delicious brunch dishes that are perfect for a lazy Sunday morning. The atmosphere is bright and airy, making it the perfect spot for a family brunch.

Mokka

Although it's located in Newport, Mokka is worth the short drive across the bridge. The menu offers a wide variety of breakfast dishes, and the coffee is some of the best in the city.

Nightlife in Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a city that caters to the diverse needs of nightlife enthusiasts. It offers a plethora of bars that are perfect for those who want to watch a game and enjoy a beer or those who are looking for a more vibrant clubbing experience. Here are some of my top recommendations for an unforgettable night out in Cincinnati.

If you are looking for a casual bar, check out one of these bars in Cincinnati below:

The Pitch

Located right across the street from the stadium, The Pitch is the perfect pregame spot for games. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, making it the perfect spot to relax before the big game.

Somerset

This bar offers a chill vibe with a super cool atmosphere. The drinks are delicious, and the bartenders are friendly and welcoming.

Queen City Radio

Another great spot close to the stadium is Queen City Radio. The outdoor patio is perfect for a summer night out, and the drinks are always flowing.

Cobblestone

This bar offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere with a wide variety of drinks to choose from. It's the perfect spot for a date night or a night out with friends.

Rhinehaus

With a wide variety of beers on tap, Rhinehaus is the perfect spot for beer lovers. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a low-key night out.

Pins

This bar offers a unique experience with bowling lanes and great drinks. It's the perfect spot for a night out with friends.

Japps

This bar offers a vintage vibe with delicious cocktails and a cozy atmosphere. It's the perfect spot for a romantic night out or a night out with friends.

Want to get a drink while enjoying  gorgeous views of Cincinnati? Check out one of these bars:

Lytle Rooftop

This rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city with delicious cocktails and a cozy atmosphere. It's the perfect spot for a date night or a night out with friends.

AC Hotel Rooftop

Another great rooftop bar is the AC Hotel Rooftop. The atmosphere is upscale and sophisticated, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion.

If you are into dancing and a lively atmosphere, you will love these bars in Cincinnati:

Ghost Baby

This underground bar offers a super cool vibe with great music and drinks. It's the perfect spot for a night out with friends.

Igby's

If you're looking for a party, Igby's is the place to be. This bar offers a fun and lively atmosphere with great drinks and music.

Drinkery

This bar offers a lively atmosphere with great drinks and music. It's the perfect spot for a night out with friends who love to dance.

Tin Roof

This bar offers live music every night of the week, making it the perfect spot for music lovers. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends.

Galla

This club-type bar offers a fun and lively atmosphere with great drinks and music. It's the perfect spot for a night out with friends who love to dance.

The Stretch

This bar offers a unique experience with a wide variety of drinks and a cozy atmosphere. It's the perfect spot for a low-key night out with friends.

J Social

This club-type bar offers a fun and lively atmosphere with great drinks and music. It's the perfect spot for a night out with friends who love to dance. The atmosphere is upscale and sophisticated, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion.

Things to Do in Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a great destination for travelers of all ages, offering a variety of activities that cater to different interests. Whether you're on a family vacation or a weekend getaway with friends, there are plenty of things to do in Cincinnati that will keep you entertained. Here are some must-do activities and places to visit during your trip to Cincinnati:

Explore the City's Art Scene 

The Cincinnati Art Museum is a great place to start if you're interested in exploring the city's art scene. The museum features a wide variety of art from different periods and cultures, including contemporary and modern art. Another great art destination is the 21c Museum Hotel, which features a rotating collection of contemporary art.

Visit the City's Historic Sites 

Cincinnati has a rich history, and there are several historic sites that are worth visiting. The Underground Railroad Freedom Center is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of slavery and the Underground Railroad. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is located in downtown Cincinnati and offers interactive exhibits and programs that explore the history of slavery and the Underground Railroad.

Take a Walking Tour 

One of the best ways to explore Cincinnati is by taking a walking tour. The Rhine neighborhood is a great place to start, with its historic architecture and charming streets. The walking tour will take you through the neighborhood's history and culture, and you'll get to see some of the city's most iconic landmarks and attractions.

Visit Findlay Market 

Findlay Market is a must-visit for foodies. This historic market is located in the heart of Over-the-Rhine and offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and other specialty foods. It's the perfect place to grab a bite to eat or to stock up on ingredients for a picnic.

Take a Trip to the Cincinnati Zoo 

The Cincinnati Zoo is a great destination for families with kids. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. It's a fun and educational experience for kids and adults alike.

Enjoy a Beer at Rhinegeist Brewery

Rhinegeist Brewery is a popular destination for beer lovers. The brewery offers a wide variety of craft beers, and the atmosphere is relaxed and inviting. It's the perfect place to enjoy a cold beer with friends.

Grab a Bite to Eat at Taft's Ale House

Taft's Ale House is a great place to grab a bite to eat. The restaurant offers a wide variety of pub food, including burgers, sandwiches, and pizzas, and the atmosphere is casual and inviting. The restaurant is located in a historic building that adds to its charm.

Catch a Cincinnati Reds Game 

If you're a sports fan, catching a Cincinnati Reds game is a must-do activity. The team plays at the Great American Ball Park, which is located in downtown Cincinnati. It's a fun and exciting experience for fans of all ages.

Explore the Ohio River 

The Ohio River is a beautiful natural attraction that runs through Cincinnati. There are several ways to explore the river, including taking a riverboat cruise or renting a kayak or paddleboard. It's a great way to enjoy the outdoors and take in the city's beautiful skyline.

Enjoy a Cocktail at Ghost Baby 

Ghost Baby is a popular bar in the city that offers a unique and vibrant atmosphere. The bar is known for its creative cocktails and lively music. It's the perfect place to enjoy a night out with friends.

Other Must-Do Activities in Cincinnati

Other must-do activities in Cincinnati include visiting the Cincinnati Museum Center, exploring downtown Cincinnati, and enjoying some of the city's famous chili. Depending on the season, you may also want to check out Oktoberfest or Kings Island, a popular amusement park. With so many things to do and see, a trip to Cincinnati is sure to be a memorable experience.

In conclusion, Cincinnati is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone. From its rich history and culture to its lively nightlife and outdoor attractions, Cincinnati is a city that is definitely worth the visit. Whether you're enjoying a Reds game or trying all of the different foods the city has to offer, you're sure to have a fun and memorable experience in Cincinnati. So pack your bags and go explore this amazing city for yourself!