This summer you can find lots of activities for the family to enjoy without breaking the bank. Cincinnati has so much to offer and there is a lot you can do even if you have a smaller budget. Here are some Cincinnati staycation ideas that the whole family will enjoy.
FREE
Union Terminal Rotunda Tours at Cincinnati Museum Center
You can learn about the history of the museum center and go to areas of the museum that are not open to the general public. You will learn about what Union Terminal was like when train was a huge part of transportation on this tour that lasts 45 minutes.
Trammel Fossil Park
You can dig for fossils at this free park. Bring an old paint brush and a bucket and see what you can unearth.
This tour takes you up inside the bell tower. You will learn about it’s history and take in a beautiful perspective of the city.
Lawn Bowling at Hamilton County Park
This is the only place that you can try this sport within a 150 mile radius. The first two times you try lawn bowling are free and it will remind you of a combo of bocce ball and bowling.
Free on Sundays! Ask for a guide that will show you popular paintings to look for in the museum.
Cincinnati Art Museum
This free museum has an incredible collection of art that spans the centuries. You can find pieces that range from ancient times to modern art. There are even areas where kids can try hands on activities.
Burnet Woods
Enjoy lots of outdoor activities with hiking trails and this awesome slide built into the side of a staircase!
You can learn about the interesting history of William Howard Taft at this National Historic Site.
One of my absolute favorite places in Cincinnati is Washington Park.
There is a parking garage underneath the park. There is also a great community element there with special events like Easter Egg hunts, City Flea (Urban Flea market), yoga and movie nights.
Eden Park
There are walking trails and you can also visit the nearby Krohn Conservatory.
Sawyer Point
You can ride bikes along the riverfront and kids with love the two playgrounds.
Smale Park
There are fountains for kids to run through and swings along the riverfront that let you take in great views of the city.
This area in the heart of downtown offers lots of activities from free concerts to movie nights on the giant big screen.
Art Walk
We have incredible murals all over the city. Our city boast the skills of international street artist from around the world on the sides of our buildings. Our architecture is also a work of art as well. Our city has one of the largest collections of Italianate style homes still in existence.
Low Cost
$2 for Adults and $1 for kids for an amazing view of the city.
There are beautiful flowers and plants from around the world here.
This is a great stop that is located close to Trammel Fossil Park and Sharon Woods. You can get an incredible root beer float or order other classic diner items off the menu. This is a CASH only establishment so swing by the ATM before you go.
Inexpensive pizza by the slice for a good cause. Help someone get back on their feet and enjoy a great meal at a great price.
This is another CASH only venue but sooo worth it. I highly recommend the jalepeno grits and their bbq is amazing! The prices are very reasonable with dining inside or outside.
Sample foods from varies vendors and learn the history of our city’s longest running public market. You can even take a Taste of the World Food Tour that gives you samples and the story behind the vendors.
Loveland Castle
Discover one man’s labor of love as you explore the castle he built by hand.
I hope these ideas have helped you find adventures that you can enjoy without spending a lot.
There is so much to do here (as you highlight)! Cincinnati has an incredible amount to offer and it is all very doable on a budget.
Love these ideas! We’ll be in Cincy soon and will check out a lot of these places. Really enjoy reading it from a local!
Thanks Adam. Let me know if you need any other ideas for your visit.
What a fun list! My kids would enjoy the slide built into the side of the stairs!!