
First settled in 1788, Cincinnati has grown into the largest metropolitan area in Ohio. Cincinnati's story is told through an assortment of remarkable buildings and landmarks that testify to the city's durability. Explore the Queen City by visiting these great attractions.
28 E. 5th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
If you've ever watched the popular sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati, you've seen this iconic fountain during the opening credits. While its official name is "The Genius of Water," most people know it as the Tyler Davidson Fountain after the Cincinnati businessman to whom it was dedicated. Large figures around "The Lady" represent various practical uses of water. The four child figures, representing the pleasures of water, are actually freshwater drinking fountains.
2950 Gilbert Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45206
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You don't have to be a book lover to enjoy a visit to the Harriet Beecher Stowe House. While it was the childhood home of the Uncle Tom's Cabin author, the house offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of Cincinnati. In the 1930s, the home became the Edgemont Inn, listed in the legendary "Green Book" as a safe haven for African-Americans. During spring, summer, and fall, the HBSH also serves as the starting point for various walking tours. Starting February 1, hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and noon - 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for ages 6-17.
315 W. Court St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Firefighters and other first responders are everyday heroes. Learn more about this noble profession at the Cincinnati Fire Museum, listed on the National Historic Registry. Did you know that Cincinnati established the country's first paid fire department in 1853? Museum artifacts include some of the oldest firefighting equipment in existence, such as leather buckets, alarm drums, and an actual steam fire engine. Fire safety education is conducted in the Safe House, an interactive exhibit where visitors take part in a simulated "fire event." Museum hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for ages 7-17.
416 Clark St., Cincinnati, OH 45203
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p>At the turn of the 19th century, William Betts accepted 111 acres of land as payment for a loan. It's doubtful he knew that the Betts House, which he built on that property for his family of nine, would still be standing as his legacy into the 21st century. Incredibly, the house has survived industrial growth, urban decay, and even an earthquake to remain as the oldest brick house in Ohio on its original site. Exhibits and programs are often attended by historians and architects to study building materials and traditions of the past. The Betts House is open Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from noon - 5 p.m.
12075 Shore Dr., Loveland, OH 45140
Travel back to the medieval times of Middle Age Europe without leaving Ohio. Loveland Castle is a faithful, full-scale replica of keeps built by the Roman Empire a thousand years ago. The castle was originally constructed in the late 1920s by Harry Andrews as a getaway for his group of Boy Scouts and Sunday school members. Keep an eye out for ghosts that are reputed to live in the castle and pack a picnic lunch to enjoy afterwards on the scenic grounds. Hours are 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily except November 1 through March 31, when the castle is open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday only. Admission is $5 for ages 5 and up.
650 Walnut St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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From the stunning Victorian-Gothic exterior to the various artistic companies that call the building home, the Cincinnati Music Hall is one of the city's more impressive attractions. Performances are held in Springer Auditorium, the central portion of the building, which features a mural called "Allegory of the Arts" on its domed ceiling. Springer Auditorium has hosted a diverse list of world-famous musical artists, including Frank Sinatra, Prince, and Bob Dylan. Indoor tours are conducted year-round, while outdoor tours are offered during summer months. Visit the website for tour information and calendar of events.
4949 Tealtown Rd., Milford, OH 45150
In 1965, Stanley M. Rowe, Sr.'s long-held dream of an educational outdoor preserve came true. Thanks to the efforts and donations of several prominent Cincinnati residents, the Cincinnati Nature Center opened to the public. Rowe Woods, the center's core property, was once the 175-acre estate of Carl and Mary Krippendorf. Neil McElroy, one-time chairman of Proctor & Gamble, donated Long Branch Farm for use as a green space. Most recently, in 1995, siblings Jim and Dorothy Gorman gifted their family's Gorman Heritage Farm, which provides a valuable look at an actual working farm. Admission is $10 for adults and $6 for ages 4-12. Pets are welcome for a $3 fee. Visit the website for seasonal hours.
230 E. 13th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Dating back to the 19th century, the Over-the-Rhine National Historic District is one of the country's largest and most intact urban historic districts. Unlike most historic districts that feature exquisite mansions and elaborate architecture, the OTR, as it's affectionately known, is notable for its origins as a working-class neighborhood of German immigrants. In the 21st century, the OTR is a vibrant mix of past and present. You can easily spend a day or more visiting attractions such as Findlay Market, the Brewery District, and an eclectic mix of boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment.
Whether you're a lifelong resident or new to the area, what's the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word, "Cincinnati?"