What to do in Cincinnati while house and pet sitting

If you ask people what they know about Cincinnati, they’ll probably answer “baseball”, “art” or “chili”. The diversity of these responses really sums up this lively city. There’s something for everyone in Ohio’s “Queen City” and there are simply so many things to see in Cincinnati. 

It’s also a great city for pet sitting, with plenty of parks and trails within easy reach of the center. After your walk, take a break in one of the city’s many restaurants (for a bowl of Cincinnati chili, obviously) before taking in a show or a game at a legendary venue.

Let’s take a closer look at what to do in Cincinnati.

Cincinnati attractions

With so many places to visit, what are the best things to do in Cincinnati, Ohio? We’ve made a list of some of the most popular Cincinnati attractions. Here are the must-see places in the Queen City.

1. National Underground Railroad Freedom Center: the Museum is on the banks of the Ohio River, where thousands crossed from Kentucky as they followed the famous “Underground Railroad”. The Center tells the history of slavery in the US, as well as educating about modern slavery. 

2. Cincinnati Music Hall: this gorgeous venue opened in 1878 (it was built above a cemetery and is rumored to be haunted…). Any performance here is a real treat and you can also book onto a tour of the theater.

3. MainStrasse Village: the German-style district is the perfect place for a stroll, with its stunning architecture and many unique stores. Look out for regular events and make sure you grab a bite to eat at a MainStrasse German restaurant.

4. Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal: there are three museums housed in this impressive old terminal building: Cincinnati History Museum, Duke Energy Children’s Museum and the Museum of Natural History & Science. All are fabulous, so pick up a combined ticket.

Free things to do in Cincinnati

Watching the dollars? Happily, there is plenty of free stuff to do in Cincinnati. As well as a fantastic choice of parks and gardens, the city’s famous Art Museum is also free-of-charge.

1. Eden Park: there are 186 acres of green space, trees and trails in this Mount Adams park. There are wonderful views out across the city and the park is also home to the Cincinnati Art Museum, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park and the Krohn Conservatory.

2. Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum: honestly, there is nothing macabre about hanging out in this beautiful cemetery. It was an early pioneer of landscaped cemeteries, with trees, ponds and sculptures. Come here for a touch of tranquility during a busy day.

3. Cincinnati Art Museum: discover more than 6,000 years of art at the gallery in Eden Park. There are over 60,000 works of art in this historic building and look out for its program of exciting temporary exhibitions. 

4. SawyerPoint Park & Yeatman’s Grove: these side-by-side parks are by the river and have lovely waterfront views. They’re best known for the landmark Serpentine Wall, which descends in steps down to the river.

Fun things to do in Cincinnati

What’s cool to do in Cincinnati? If you’re looking for fun things to do in Cincinnati, make sure you visit these unique places.

1. Great American Ball Park: this iconic stadium is home to the Cincinnati Reds, the oldest professional baseball team in the US. If you can’t catch a game, you can still book a tour of the stadium.

2. Findlay Market: this popular market is one of the oldest in Ohio. It has indoor and outdoor stalls selling local food, drink, crafts and flowers. 

3. Picnic at Smale Riverfront Park: after picking up treats at Findlay Market, head for the city’s best picnic spot. The riverside park is the perfect place to chill out on a warm, sunny day.

4. Carew Tower: fancy a great view of the city and beyond? Take a trip up to the Observation Deck of the Carew Tower. At 574 feet and 49 storeys, it’s not a place for the faint-hearted, but if you love a cityscape, there’s nowhere like it.

If you want to get to know your new neighbors in Cincinnati during your visit, read our article on how to connect with local people.

What to do in Cincinnati with pets?

What are the best things to do in Cincinnati with pets? Honestly, this city is the best place for well-appointed dog parks and many of the outdoor restaurants and cafes are delighted to welcome your pooch. You and your four-footed charge are going to have a great time in Cincinnati.

1. Otto Armleder Dog Park: this is an incredible dog park, and at 10 acres, it’s one of the largest we’ve encountered. There are separate sections for large and small dogs, as well as water spouts for warmer days.

2. Sharon Woods Park: if you’re looking for somewhere to walk together, there are lots of lovely woodland trails in Sharon Woods Park. Dogs need to be on the leash.

3. Washington Park Dog Park: if your pup fancies a dip in the water, this fabulous dog park has its own creek especially for canine splashing. There are plenty of benches for the human visitors.

4. Simmonds Family Dog Park: this is another super-sized dog park, with no fewer than four fields and a fun agility course. Cincinnati definitely leads the way when it comes to dedicated dog playgrounds.

5. Enjoy a snack together: there are a lot of patio restaurants, bars and cafes in Cincinnati, and most of these welcome well-behaved dogs. Enjoy hanging out together at 13 Below Brewery, Coffee Emporium or A Tavola, to name just three.

Best restaurants in Cincinnati: Food and drink

Now you’re talking: Cincinnati has developed a reputation as a top dining spot and not just for its famous chili. Here are a few of the best restaurants in Cincinnati. 

Best restaurants in Cincinnati for lunch

Eating well is definitely one of the top Cincinnati activities! If you’re looking for a good place to grab a snack for lunch or sit down for a chilled-out, mid-day meal, try one of these favorites.

1. Camp Washington Chili: you simply must have a chili while you’re in Cincinnati. This legendary spot has been serving the city’s most famous dish since 1940. We love its vintage style and the fact that it’s open 24/7.

2. Hyde Park Farmers’ Market: if you’re here in the warmer months, this is where you pick up your lunch on a Sunday. This legendary market runs every week and is packed with stalls selling the finest produce. Pick up a pastry or some fantastic cheese for your picnic lunch. A Cincinnati institution.  

3. Fireside Pizza: this friendly pizzeria serves wood-fired pizza and a selection of local beers. The outside seating area is a great lunch spot on a sunny day.

4. Mazunte Taqueria: a popular Downtown Mexican restaurant, offering a fantastic range of tacos and burritos. You’ll need to visit more than once…

5. Mecklenburg Restaurant and Bier Garten: celebrate the city’s German heritage with a hearty lunch of wurst and sauerkraut, washed down with a stein of beer at this iconic location.

Best restaurants in Cincinnati for dinner

If you still have space after your chili or wurst lunch, it’s time to choose a place for dinner. Where are the top spots for eating out in Cincinnati?

1. Via Vite: delicious modern Italian cuisine in the heart of Cincinnati. Don’t miss Lasagne Friday to tuck into their awesome, five-layer lasagne. The Fountain Square restaurant has a large and lively al fresco dining area.

2. Eagle Food & Beer Hall: there’s a great atmosphere in this former post office. Try the house specialty, which is fried chicken with a spiced honey sauce. Add a blues soundtrack and a craft beer and you have the recipe for an excellent evening.

3. Salazar: this popular restaurant is small and chic, and serves delicious dishes made from exceptional local ingredients. It’s the perfect balance of fine dining and a relaxed setting.

4. Jeff Ruby's Precinct: it wouldn’t be a Cincinnati restaurant list without mentioning this institution. The former Police Patrol House is now home to a formal restaurant and a more casual bar. Both serve the establishment’s famous steaks.

5. Orchids at Palm Court: treat yourself to fresh, local food served in unique Art Deco surroundings. It’s like stepping into Cincinnati’s elegant past.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our guide to the best things to do in Cincinnati. This Ohio city is a friendly and welcoming place to visit, and if you love art, food and beautiful green spaces, it’s definitely a good choice for you.

House and pet sitting in Cincinnati

Does the Queen City sound like your kind of place? Take a look at our latest house and pet sitting assignments to see what’s coming up in Cincinnati and Ohio. If you’re new to the world of pet sitting, visit our friendly and helpful Community Forum.