- The WEB
136 Things to Do with Kids in Cincinnati
The Greater Cincinnati area is so rich in indoor and outdoor attractions that, on any given day, there’s always a list of great things to pick from when looking for things to do with kids. No matter the age, kid-friendly entertainment is within 30 miles of your home, providing a combination of fun and stimulating activities.
This list of 136 things to do with kids in Cincinnati serves as a resource guide for parents looking to plan a day with the family, or for caregivers taking care of children, no matter the day or time.
From indoor entertainment centers with numerous attractions under one roof to outdoor activities, this list runs the gamut from fun and recreational to cultural and educational.
Plus, you’ll find traditional seasonal events held annually in Cincinnati to help you plan your spring, summer, fall, and holiday events.
Indoor Entertainment Centers
1. The Web Extreme Entertainment
With our four attractions and gigantic arcade all under one roof, we just had to put The WEB at the top of our list for things to do with kids in Cincinnati. We have something for kids of all ages, plus adults will have great fun, too.
Take a look at all we have: Laser WEB laser tag in an eight-level arena, Inside Track go-karts for racing on over 500 feet of grand prix style track, Jurassic Par miniature golf set in a prehistoric jungle, Hang Ten miniature bowling with a Hawaiian theme, and one of the largest arcades in the Cincinnati area.
And if you need to refuel between attractions, our Winners Cafe serves up some delicious and affordable food options, or have an ice cream treat in our Sweet Shop.
The WEB Extreme Entertainment is open year-round. Hours are Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to midnight.
The WEB is an awesome deal, too, with single passes at $4 and $8 per person, depending on your attraction choices, a family fun package at $49, or a family frenzy package at $89, all designed to fit your budget.
Details: 7172 Cincinnati-Dayton Road, West Chester, Ohio 45069; Phone: 513-860-2882.
2. Parkland Theatre and Entertainment Center
Originally a vaudeville house before motion pictures were even invented, this historic theatre dates back to 1881, but has been restored and transformed into a movie theatre and entertainment center.
Entertainment includes custom laser light shows, live performances, family oriented entertainment, and live sporting events on the big screen.
Hours of operation vary, depending on event or show times. There are generally two movie times during the week and four on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and school vacation weeks.
Known as the least expensive theatre in the Cincinnati tri-state area, the movie theatre shows first-run movies for only $6. Plus, you can order and receive your hot concession foods, some only $1, without leaving your seat.
Details: 6550 Parkland Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45233; Phone: 513-600-7900.
3. Mason Community Center
The family recreation and entertainment facility offers a multipurpose area for gymnastics, tumbling and cheerleading, a field house and gymnasium for your sports of choice, and a Kids Korner featuring fun activities.
Popular attractions at the community center for kids and families are the leisure pool, complete with a water playground, lazy river, and body flume slide, and the 35-foot natural rock surface climbing wall.
There’s also exercise equipment with a cardio theatre system, a competition pool with diving boards, and numerous exergaming units, and an indoor walking track.
Day pass hours of operation are Monday through Thursday, 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Day passes are $10 for youth ages 4 to 11, $20 for adults ages 12-59, and $100 for seniors ages 60 and older. Basic and premier membership plans are available for families of up to four.
Details: 6050 Mason-Montgomery Road, Mason, OH 45040; Phone: 513-229-8555.
4. University of Cincinnati Campus Recreation Center
Located on the campus of the University of Cincinnati, but open to the public, this recreation center offers lots of entertaining activities for families.
Play in the recreation swimming pool or check out the shallow water leisure pool with its waterfall, vortex, current channel, and bubble couch. For the more adventurous, try the two climbing walls.
Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Daily rates are $20, with several types of membership plans available for yearly and monthly plans.
Details: 2820 Bearcat Way, Cincinnati, Ohio 45221; Phone: 513-556-0604.
Outdoor Entertainment Centers
5. Fountain Square
Whenever you’re looking for something to do with kids, head to Fountain Square, where there’s sure to be something going on year-round, such as special events, family movie nights, free concerts, festivals, arts and cultural events, and family games and activities.
During the summer, there’s the Water Wall, where kids can make patterns on sheets of water or jump around the water streams coming from the pop-jets in the granite floor. In the winter, there’s family skate at the outdoor U.S. Bank Skate Rink.
Fountain Square is open daily, year-round. Free admission to most events and activities.
Details: 520 Vine Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202; Phone: 513-534-5877.
6. Lunken Playfield
This playfield packs in a lot of activities for kids, including play equipment and the Land of Make Believe Playground.
Next to the playfield is Reeves Golf Course, offering miniature golf, an 18-hole regulation golf course, a 9-hole, par-3 golf course, and a driving range. Tennis courts and 6.5 miles of trails are also available.
Hours of operation are daily, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., from late May to early October.
Admission to the playground is $1 for children ages 2 through 12 and Free for anyone younger than 2 or older than 12. Miniature golf is $3 per person.
Details: 4740 Playfield Lane, Cincinnati, Ohio 45226; Phone: 513-321-7333.
7. Washington Park
Located in the heart of Cincinnati, Washington Park holds a bunch of entertainment options to do with kids all year-round, including a 49,000 square foot civic lawn for recreational play.
A popular spot with kids is the playground, which is like no other. There are climbing walls reflecting Cincinnati’s historic architecture, a boardwalk and stage, and a canal boat in a water channel.
In the warm weather, get wet in the interactive fountains and water jet groupings. There’s also music on the bandstand in the heart of the park, festivals, and arts, cultural and dance performances planned nearly every day. There’s even a dog park, so bring the family dog along.
Washington Park is open daily, year-round. Admission is free, but some events may charge a fee.
Details: 1230 Elm Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202; Phone: 513-621-4400.
8. Newport on the Levee
This multi-level entertainment center situated on the south bank of the Ohio River offers a wide range of entertainment options for families with kids of all ages.
You can take a train ride on the Newport Express, play arcade games, bowl, or take in a movie.
Hours are Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, Noon to 6 p.m.
Admission to the complex is free, but some attractions have fees.
Details: 1 Levee Way, Newport, Kentucky 41071; Phone: 1-866-538-3359.
Hands-On Activities
9. Cincinnati Union Terminal House Detective Agency
Kids and adults alike will love this hands-on Whodunit game as they become detectives to solve mysteries. Clues lie in your knowledge of Cincinnati’s history plus observations about the Cincinnati Union Terminal.
The detective agency pays you for your services, so you can use your earnings to buy some great prizes.
Hours are Wednesday, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The fee is $5 per person (agent).
Details: 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45203; Phone: 513-287-7000.
10. Michael’s
The Kids Club at Michael’s offers some great craft projects to do with the kids ages 3 and older. Simply drop in, enjoy 30 minutes of creative craft fun, and take home the completed project.
The cost is $2 per child, with supplies included.
Call ahead for Kids Club hours.
Details: 7624 Voice of America Centre Drive, West Chester, OH 45069; Phone: 513-759-9410.
11. Mad Potter
Here’s a fun activity to do with kids. Create a lasting keepsake out of pottery. Choose from picture frames, mugs, banks, and much more to design and paint.
You can even accent your piece with stencils, stamps, or other painting tips provided by the Mad Potter staff. Mad Potter will then glaze and fire your creation for pick up in a week.
Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The studio fee is $8 for adults and $6 for children ages 12 and under. Pottery pieces are priced separately, ranging from $5 to $40.
Details: 6680 Tri-Way Drive, Mason, OH 45040; Phone: 513-770-5585.
12. My Little Red Haus
Get creative with your kids at the creative arts studio located in a little red house. Open Studio features unstructured fun, where kids can stretch their imagination and let their creative juices flow.
Participants will have access to a wide range of materials to make their creations. The sessions are open to children ages four and older.
Open Studio hours vary throughout the week, so call for times.
The fee is $10 per hour, per person.
Details: 9429 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45242; Phone: 513-827-9110.
13. Home Depot
Work on a small project together with your kids at the Home Depot Kids Workshops. Designed for all ages and experience levels, the workshops feature a different project each month.
Workshops are held at all Home Depot stores every first Saturday of the month from 9 a.m. to Noon. All kids’ workshops are free and include supplies.
Details: 3400 Highland Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45213; Phone: 513-631-1705; 6300 Glenway Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45211; Phone: 513-661-2413; 3461 Joseph Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45251; Phone: 513-923-9157; 1266 Omniplex Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45240; 513-671-6012; 520 Ohio Pike, Cincinnati, Ohio 45255; Phone: 513-688-1654.
14. Lowe’s
Build a wooden project with your child at the Kids Clinics offered by Lowe’s. A different project is featured at each Build and Grow Clinic.
Kids Clinics are held on select Saturdays at 10 a.m. Registration, which opens a few weeks before the date of the clinic, is required.
All Kids Clinics are free and include supplies.
Details: 5385 Ridge Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45213; Phone: 513-731-6127; 10235 Colerain Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45251; Phone: 513-741-0585; 6150 Harrison Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45247; Phone: 513-598-7050; 618 Mount Moriah Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45245; Phone: 513-753-5094; 505 East Kemper Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45246; Phone: 513-671-2093.
Indoor Museums
15. Duke Energy Children’s Museum
Tons of things to do with kids of all ages await at the Duke Energy Children’s Museum. With eight exhibit areas, there’s something of interest for everyone, plus lots of hands-on action.
Exhibits range from arts to science and encourage exploring, touching, climbing and crawling. Also featured each day is a schedule of children’s programs and activities.
The children’s museum is open daily except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
A single museum admission pass is $10.50 for adults, $8.50 for children ages 3-12, $5.50 for toddlers ages 1-2, and Free for infants under age 1. Parking is $6 per vehicle.
Details: 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45203; Phone: 513-287-7000.
16. Fire Museum of Greater Cincinnati
What kid doesn’t love climbing on a fire engine or sliding down a real fire pole? These are just some of the activities in store at the fire museum.
Dedicated to all things related to firefighting, kids will get to see how fire equipment and trucks changed from Cincinnati’s early firefighting days to now.
Kids will learn about fire safety in the Safe House Display, plus they’ll get to ring the fire bell, sound the siren on a modern fire engine, and more.
Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for children ages 7-17, Free for children ages 6 and younger with an adult.
Details: 315 West Court Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202; Phone: 513-621-5553.
17. Museum of Natural History & Science
Kids will be in awe when they spot the 20-foot long Allosaurus skeleton. It’s just one of the many exhibits inside the Museum of Natural History & Science that hold many wonders of the Cincinnati area.
A fun time of exploration awaits families, such as the Ice Age Trail, a space exhibit dedicated to Ohio’s own Neil Armstrong featuring actual moon rocks, and a replica of an actual limestone cave discovered in the region.
Stop in the STEM Discovery Lab and play Stranded Island Survivor Challenge for some great family fun.
The museum is open daily except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission is $10.50 for adults, $8.50 for children ages 3-12, $5.50 for toddlers ages 1-2, and Free for infants under age 1. Parking is $6 per vehicle.
Details: 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45203; Phone: 513-287-7000.
18. Creation Museum
The pages of the Bible come to life in his 70,000 square foot museum. Kids will be enthralled with the personal interaction of each of the 160 exhibits.
Walk through the Garden of Eden, see the busy work area for Noah’s Ark, come face-to-face with T.Rex, and see a show in the Stargazers Planetarium or Special Effects Theater, complete with rising mists and rumbling seats.
The museum also includes an outdoor petting zoo, complete with camel rides and botanical gardens.
Museum hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, Noon to 6 p.m.
Tickets, which are valid for two consecutive days, are $29.95 for adults ages 13 to 59, $15.95 for children ages 5-12, $23.95 for seniors ages 60 and older, and Free for children under age 5. Planetarium show tickets are $7.95 per person.
Details: 2800 Bullittsburg Church Road, Petersburg, Kentucky 41080; Phone: 1-888-582-4253.
19. Krohn Conservatory
Kids can explore a rainforest waterfall or a desert within this nationally recognized conservatory. Visit the palm, desert, orchid, and tropical exhibits and view 3,500 exotic plant species from around the world.
In addition to its permanent displays, the Krohn Conservatory offers special programs and exhibits throughout the year that kids will enjoy. Among them are the interactive train display during the holiday floral show, and the butterfly show.
The conservatory is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission is $4 adults, $2 for children ages 5 to 12.
Details: 1501 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202; Phone: 513-421-4086.
20. Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum
Take the kids on a self-guided tour through this 16,000 square foot museum featuring two floors of exhibit galleries. Interactive monitors throughout the museum are a fun way to learn about the history of the Cincinnati Reds, baseball’s oldest professional team.
Also on display are Reds artifacts, spanning the team’s early days to present. And of course, some of the biggest names in Reds history are enshrined in video and audio clips.
Hours during the baseball season are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on non-game days, 10 a.m. to two hours after a day game ends, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. when there are night games.
Off-season hours are Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for students, and Free for children age 4 and younger.
Details: 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202; Phone: 513-765-7923.
21. Cincinnati Art Museum
Who says art museums can’t be fun for kids? Exploring the art collections within the Cincinnati Art Museum becomes a fun adventure with the interactive scavenger hunt. Ask about the activity and special exhibition guides for kids at the visitor’s desk.
The museum displays over 60,000 works that span 6,000 years. Throughout the year are art-related programs and activities, as well as special events designed for families with children of all ages.
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission is free. Parking is $4 per vehicle.
Details: 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202; Phone: 513-721-2787.
22. Loveland Castle
There’s lot of things for kids to do in this castle, hand-built brick by brick by Sir Harry Delos Andrews. Before entering the castle, see if your kids can spot the four different types of towers.
Inside the castle, kids can view actual swords and period weapons, play games and puzzles, and learn about the castle’s ghosts and the Knights’ ghost stories.
The Loveland Castle is open daily April to September from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on weekends from October to March.
Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children ages 12 and younger.
Details: 12025 Shore Road, Loveland, Ohio, 45140; Phone: 513-683-4686.
23. National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
If you want to teach children about the struggles for freedom in the United States, this museum brings stories to life. Not to be missed is the wall of handcrafted quilts depicting the history of African American freedom heroes.
The freedom center is filled with immersive exhibits that share the stories of freedom heroes from the past to present day. Other activities include family programs, gallery talks, films, and lectures.
The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission is $14 for adults, $10 for children ages 3-12, and Free for children under age 3.
Details: 50 East Freedom Way, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202; Phone: 513-333-7500.
24. American Sign Museum
Adults will love a walk down memory lane, while kids will love the colorful display of signs of different shapes, designs, and sizes advertising restaurants and retail businesses.
The museum’s collection offers a fascinating look into America through the years. Plus, kids can see neon signs being made in the museum’s working neon shop.
Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, Noon to 4 p.m.
Admission is $15 for adults, Free for children ages 12 and younger with an accompanying adult, $10 for seniors ages 65 and older, and $10 for students and active duty military with ID.
Details: 1330 Monmouth Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45225; Phone: 513-541-6366.
25. William Howard Taft National Historic Site
History buffs will enjoy exploring the birthplace of America’s 27th president and Chief Justice of the United States. The Greek Revival house is where William Howard Taft was born and grew up.
Throughout the Taft House museum are mementos of Taft’s political career and personal life. Guided tours of the Taft House are given every 30 minutes, starting on the hour and half hour.
During their visit, kids ages 6 through 12 can take part in the Junior Ranger Program by taking the guided tour and answering questions in an activity book. They’ll earn a badge and certificate upon completion.
The museum is open daily, except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission is free.
Details: 2038 Auburn Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45219; Phone: 513-684-3262.
26. Harriet Beecher Stowe House
Honoring the author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, the historical home displays a look at Harriet Beecher Stowe’s family, friends, and colleagues of the family. It’s the perfect activity for kids who are either reading or already read the book.
The home, which can be viewed in a guided tour, includes history about the Underground Railroad, abolitionist, and rights movements that the Beecher-Stowe family and associates participated in from the 1830s to 1860s.
The historic home is open Thursday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. from February 1 through April 30 and Labor Day through November 30; and Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. from May 1 through Labor Day. It is closed from Thanksgiving to January 31 and on all federal holidays.
There is no admission fee.
Details: 2950 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45206; Phone: 513-751-0651.
27. Cincinnati Aviation Heritage Society & Museum
Take kids to view aviation’s past, where they can see all types of restored airplanes and other aviation artifacts connected to the Cincinnati tri-state area and aviation in general.
In addition to exhibits, that include a Stinson SR-10C Reliant NC18496, the museum includes a library with a good collection of resources about aviation.
The museum is open Monday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Donations are requested.
Details: Room 26, Lunken Airport, 262 Wilmer Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45226; Phone: 513-208-8145.
28. UnMuseum at the Contemporary Arts Center
It’s a museum that offers hands-on exhibits, plus family art sessions. There’s the Hypar Room where children and families can investigate a puzzling space, the A-Z Art Lab that explores structures people use in their daily lives, and The Story Tree.
Kids can orchestrate their own thunderstorm, ride in the egg-shaped Rockin Trailer, explore and play in a cocoon-shaped dwelling called Wobble, and check out other exhibits, structures, and installations.
Hours of operation are Monday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission is $7.50 for adults, $5.50 for students, seniors, and educators, and Free for children under age 5.
Details: 44 E. 6th Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202; Phone: 513-345-8400.
29. Behringer-Crawford Museum
Located in the historic 19th century Devou family home and known as the home for northern Kentucky’s heritage, this museum delights kids with its exhibits that focus on the area’s railways, roads, runways and rivers.
A must-do activity is the fossil hunt, where kids can dig in the dirt to find objects reflecting the history of northern Kentucky. After exploring the museum, be sure to visit the Civil War sites in Devou Park and explore the nature trails.
Museum hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission prices are $7 for adults ages 18 to 59, $4 for children ages 3 to 17, and $6 for seniors age 60 and older.
Details: 1600 Montague Road, Devou Park, Covington, Kentucky 41011; Phone: 859-491-4003.
30. Drake Planetarium & Science Center
Discover the wonders of the universe with your kids with programs, labs, and exhibits that develop a love of science. A laser show is a popular summer show.
Hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the Drake Science Center.
For public planetarium shows, hours are select Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and the third Thursday of the month from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Admission to public shows are $10 at the door, $8 in advance, or $30 for a family four-pak.
Details: 2020 Sherman Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45212; Phone: 513-396-5578.
31. Cincinnati History Museum
If your kids love to explore and do hands-on activities, this museum is for them. They can unload cargo with a flatboat man, help a printer in his shop, talk with a street car conductor, and take part in other activities from Cincinnati’s days gone by.
Costumed interpreters complement the exhibits, which include a replica of the Queen of the West steamboat, a recreation of the 1850 Cincinnati Public Landing, and a model of the city from the 1900s to 1940s, including working trains.
The Cincinnati History Museum is open daily except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission is $10.50 for adults, $8.50 for children ages 3-12, $5.50 for toddlers ages 1-2, and Free for infants under age 1. Parking is $6 per vehicle.
Details: 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45203; Phone: 513-287-7000.
32. U.S. Grant Birthplace Historic Site
View the birthplace of Ulysses S. Grant, one of eight U.S. presidents who came from Ohio. The restored, three-room cottage, originally built in 1817, is furnished with period items.
A guided tour provides an interesting history lesson about the Ohio farmer who became president, his parents, the home’s furnishings, including straw beds, and what life was like back then.
Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with an hour closing from Noon to 1 p.m., and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission is $3 for adults, $1.50 for children ages 6 through 12, Free for children ages 5 and younger, and $2.00 for senior citizens.
Details: 1551 State Route 232, Point Pleasant, Ohio 45153; Phone: 1-800-283-8932.
Outdoor Museums
33. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park
This wide open space invites families to explore both nature and art. Large, colorful sculptures are displayed within gardens, meadows and forests, and around lakes.
The sculpture park features four areas: North Woods, Central Valley, Overlook Hill, and East Ridge. Step into the Ancient Sculpture Museum to view Roman, Egyptian, Greek, and Etruscan sculptures that are thousands of years old.
Open year-round, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Admission is $8 adults, $3 children ages 6-12, Free for children ages 5 and younger.
Details: 1763 Hamilton-Cleves Road, State Route 128, Hamilton, Ohio, 45013; Phone: 513-868-1234.
34. Heritage Village Museum
Walk the museum’s grounds and visit historic buildings that reflect life in Ohio during the 1800s. Kids also get a first-hand look at traditional crafts and cooking of 19th-century life through demonstrations.
Be sure to check out the historic Myers Schoolhouse, Fetter General Store, and the Chester Train Station.
Guided tours are available, or explore on your own.
The Heritage Village Museum is open year-round. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with tours at 10:30 a.m., 12: 45 p.m. and 3 p.m., and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., with tours at 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Admission with the guided tour is $5 adults, $3 children ages 5 to 11, and Free for children under 4. Admission for exhibits only is $2 for adults and $1 for children.
Details: Located in Sharon Woods Park, 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville, Ohio 45241; Phone: 513-563-9484.
35. Tower A
Climb the stairs and step back in time when Union Terminal used to be a train yard. With a fantastic overview of Queensgate Freight Yard, where all rail operations were controlled, it’s easy to see why it was among the busiest train yards in the United States.
Kids will love watching training coming and going, while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Greater Cincinnati area.
Hours are Wednesday through Sunday, Noon to 4 p.m.
Admission is free.
Details: 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45203; Phone: 513-287-7000.
Indoor Attractions
36. Newport Aquarium
Amazing thrills await for everyone at the Newport Aquarium, like touching a shark, petting a penguin, or playing in an interactive frog bog.
Check out Mighty Mike, a 14-foot, 800-pound alligator, Thunder, a 118-pound alligator snapping turtle, and Bravo, a 600 pound, 84-year-old Galapagos tortoise.
View rare shark rays or see a dive show, which are scheduled throughout the day.
Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily.
Admission rates are $23 for adults, $15 for children ages 2 to 12, and Free for children under age 2.
Details: 1 Aquarium Way, Newport, Kentucky, 41071; Phone: 1-800-406-3474.
37. EnterTRAINment Junction
This 80,000 square foot entertainment center features two attractions: Train Journey and A-Maze-N Funhouse.
In train journey, more than 90 G-scale trains run along a 25,000 square foot area, featuring handcrafted cities and towns, cascading waterfalls, and forests.
There’s also a replica of the historic Coney Island Amusement Park, an interactive play area for kids, the American Railroad Museum, and a Great Train Expo Center with changing exhibits.
The funhouse features a circus midway with mirror mazes, a tilt room, a curtain maze, a spinning vortex tunnel, and more.
Admission for the Train Journey is $13.95 for adults, $9.95 for children ages 3-12, $11.95 for seniors age 65 and older, and Free for children ages 2 and under.
Admission for the A-Maze-N Funhouse is $9.95.
EnterTRAINment Junction is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, Noon to 6 p.m.
Details: 7379 Squire Court, West Chester, Ohio 45069; Phone: 513-898-8000.
38. Climb Time of Blue Ash
Get ready for some climbing action in this 7,000 square foot climbing facility. There are short climbing walls for bouldering, or higher walls for rope climbing.
There is no minimum age for climbing and no experience necessary.
June 1 to August 31 hours are 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., daily. September 1 to May 31 hours are Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
A daily pass is $10 per person. Sunday is Kids Night after 5 p.m., with a day pass costing $8 for children ages 2 to 13.
Save on the $5 shoe rental by wearing sneakers or closed toed shoes.
Details: 10898 Kenwood Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45242; Phone: 513-891-4850.
39. LazerKraze
Play an exhilarating game of world-class laser tag while competing in a futuristic outpost at some place in the galaxy. Soft celestial sounds and pulsating music add to the excitement.
After the game, head to the trampoline park, or the arcade, with its mix of video and game redemption games, including a time freak arena.
Laser tag pricing is $8 per mission for individuals, with group pricing available for groups of 10 and more.
Trampoline park pricing is $9.50 for a 30-minute jump session and $14 for a 60-minute session.
Hours of operation are Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 4 p.m. to Midnight; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.; and Sunday, Noon to 8 p.m.
Details: 7082 Columbia Road, Maineville, Ohio 45039; Phone: 513-339-1030.
40. Cincinnati Observatory
By day, take a tour of the two national historic landmark buildings and by night, view the stars in the observatory, the birthplace of American astronomy and home to the world’s oldest telescope.
Historic tours are offered the second and fourth Sunday of each month from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
In the observatory, viewings are offered Thursday and Friday nights, with each session focusing on a new planet, nebula, or star cluster.
Admission is $5 per person.
Details: 3489 Observatory Place, Cincinnati, Ohio 45208; Phone: 513-321-5186.
41. Carew Tower Observation Deck
See what you and the kids can spot from the 49th floor of the observation deck of the Carew Tower, the second tallest building in Cincinnati and the highest elevated building in the city.
The panoramic view shows key areas of the greater Cincinnati region. Spend the rest of the day enjoying the shops and restaurants located within the tower.
Hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Admission is $2 for adults, $1 for children.
Details: 441 Vine Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202; Phone: 513-579-9735.
42. Bee Active Adventure Zone
Nine huge inflatables and a gymnastic play center provide the fun in this 16,000 square foot facility for kids of all ages.
Open recreation hours are Monday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, Noon to 9 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Regular admission is $5 per half hour, per child ages 3 to 15, or $10 per hour, per child. Free for children 18 months and younger.
Youngsters 18 months to age 3 receive half off admission Monday through Thursday.
Special promotions include Family Night Mondays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., featuring half price admission for all ages and free popcorn, and Five Dollar Fridays, with the admission price $5 per hour, per child.
Details: Cincinnati Mall, Entry #2, 1050 Cincinnati Mills Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45240; Phone: 513-563-2600.
43. Scallywag Tag
Play laser tag in this high-tech hide-and-seek gaming platform that combines 18th century pirate ships with a Caribbean village.
There’s two locations, both featuring an arcade. The West location also offers blacklight miniature golf with a pirate theme.
Hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 4 p.m. to Midnight; Saturday, Noon to Midnight; and Sunday, Noon to 7 p.m.
Rates are $7 for one game, $13 for two games, and $17 for three games.
Details: West location: 5055 Glencrossing Way, Cincinnati, Ohio 45238; Phone: 513-922-4999; East location: 491 Ohio Pike, Cincinnati, Ohio 45255; Phone: 513-528-3696.
44. Rock Quest Climbing Center
Experience adventure, fitness, and education with rock climbing, ideal for adults and children of all ages. It’s a natural activity with no upper body strength required.
Choose from two types of climbing: bouldering, which is low to the ground and does not use a rope, and rope, where a harness and a rope are used as you climb walls up to 40-feet high.
Climbing hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Rates are $15 for a general climbing day pass, $10 for bouldering only. Rates do not include the $5 harness or shoe rentals.
Details: 3475 East Kemper Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45241; Phone: 513-733-0123.
45. Pump It Up
Jump around with the kids on massive inflatables during open jump sessions. Choose from Open Jump, Glow Jump, or Ice Cream Jump.
Glow Jump features a glow-in-the-dark arena and special effects lighting, with each child receiving a glow-in-the-dark bracelet. Ice Cream Jump includes ice cream after the jumping session.
Inflatables include a bungee jump, a 40-foot obstacle course, a rock wall, a slide, a basketball bouncer, and slippery slope. There are also games, like T-ball.
Glow Jump is Monday 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Tuesday, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Ice Cream Jump is Thursday, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All other times are Open Jump.
Rates are $8 per child, $2 for walking toddlers under age 2. Game tokens are $0.25.
Details: 7724 Service Center Drive, West Chester, OH 45069; Phone: 513-829-7867.
46. Jump & Jack’s
With play areas for kids of all ages and adults who want to join in, this multi-level indoor play area delivers fun.
The main area is Jack’s Playground, with adventure stations featuring lots of climbs, slides, and interactive elements.
There’s also a Toddler Zone and a Jump’s Inflatables attraction, which is every Friday night, Monday holidays, and summer weekdays.
Hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 8 pm.; Friday and Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 9 pm.; and Sunday, Noon to 8 pm.
Walk-in pricing for kids ages 3 and older is $8 weekdays, $10 Friday starting at 5 p.m. For toddlers up to age 2, the price is $4 every day. Free for adults.
Details: 7102 Office Park Drive, West Chester, OH 45069; Phone: 513-779-5867.
47. Sports of All Sorts
It’s all about sports activities at this indoor practice facility. Play a game of air hockey or pool with your kids, or challenge each other in the video arcade area.
The inflatable sports arena is a big draw for kids, as well as the machine batting cages, designed for all ages and abilities.
Summer hours are: Monday through Friday, Noon to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, Noon to 6 p.m.
Fall hours are: Monday through Friday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Noon to 5 p.m.
Winter hours are: Monday through Friday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday, Noon to 6 p.m.
Token prices are 3 for $1, 18 for $5, 50 for $10, and 110 for $20.
Details: 10138 Transportation Way, West Chester, OH 45069; Phone: 513-860-4636.
48. Gym-Nation Go Play Cafe
This four-level playground delivers the fun, with tubes, tunnels, racing slides, and spiral slides, providing the excitement.
Hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Prices, which include tax, are $2.14 for children under age 3, $5.34 for children ages 3 and older, or $16.01 for a 5 play discount pass.
Details: 836 Reading Road, Mason, Ohio 45040; Phone: 513-229-7315.
49. Full Throttle Indoor Karting
Race each other in kid and adult size go-karts on this high speed indoor go-kart track. Racers drive around 14 challenging turns, reaching speeds of 40 mph, as they race against the clock for the fastest lap.
Racing hours are Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to Midnight; and Sunday, noon to 7 p.m.
Rates are $20 for adults for one race and $15 for youth for one race. There is also a $2 fee for a head sock, which is required with loaner helmets.
A family pack is available for $65 that includes 2 adult and 2 youth races and four head socks.
Details: 11725 Commons Drive, Springdale, Ohio 45246; Phone: 513-341-5278.
Outdoor Attractions
50. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens
Visit with the animals in the Cincinnati Zoo and then take a stroll and enjoy the beauty of the botanical gardens.
The zoo features numerous exhibits inhabited by a wide array of animals, including lions, elephants, polar bears, penguins, tigers, giraffes, painted dogs, and manatees, just to name a few.
The botanical gardens bloom with a collection of native plants and flowers, as well as garden exhibits that include rain gardens, butterfly gardens, oriental gardens, and more.
Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, May 24 through September 1; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, September 2 through May 23.
General admission tickets are $15 for adults ages 13 to 61 and $11 for children ages 2 to 12 and senior citizens age 62 and older.
Details: 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45220; Phone: 513-281-4700.
51. Cincinnati Nature Center
A diverse selection of activities await at the Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods. The grounds are rich in heritage, with trails that pass an early 1800s pioneer cabin, a 1918 stone lodge, an herb wall, and oak trees planted in the early 1920s.
Designed especially for kids and accompanying adults, the Marge & Charles Schott Nature PlayScape provides unstructured play in a 1.6 acre natural play area surrounded by forest, fields, wetlands and streams.
The Rowe Visitor Center offers exhibits with interactive touch tables, a children’s play area, and a large viewing window with computers, guidebooks, and binoculars.
Ground hours are November through January, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; February, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; March and September, 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.; April, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; May and August, 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; June and July, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and October, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Admission is $8 for adults, $3 for children ages 4 to 12, and $6 for active military members and seniors age 65 and older.
Details: 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford, Ohio 45150; Phone: 513-831-1711.
52. Woodland Mound
Disc golf is the main attraction at this outdoor park. The 18-hole course is designed for both beginners and experienced players.
After a game of golf, continue the fun at Parky’s Wetland Adventure playground or view the wildlife exhibits in the Visitor’s Center. There’s also biking and hiking on the nature or Parcours trails.
Hours are daily, from dawn to dusk. Parky’s playground is seasonal, open Memorial Day to Labor Day, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Admission is $3 per vehicle, with a separate $3 admission per child to Parky’s Wetland Adventure.
Details: 8250 Old Kellogg Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45255; Phone: 513-521-7275.
53. Big Bone Lick State Park
The birthplace of American paleontology, this state park offers an outdoor discovery area, complete with a Discovery Trail where kids can view a bison herd, part of an effort to reestablish herds that once roamed the area.
The 4.5-mile Discovery Trail leads to a bog diorama and a salt-sulphur spring. The park also features a 7.5-acre lake and two family playgrounds.
Big Bone Lick State Park is open daily, year-round, from dawn to dusk.
Free admission.
Details: 3380 Beaver Road, Union, Kentucky, 41091; Phone: 859-384-3522.
54. Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve
A butterfly garden, a wildflower garden, and a two-story barn round out the outdoor attractions at this nature preserve, where kids will find learning about nature fun and exciting.
The barn features exhibits and is the place where various nature programs and special events are held.
Hours are daily from dawn to dusk.
Park admission is $3 per vehicle.
Details: 3455 Poole Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45251; Phone: 513-521-7275.
55. Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park
Designed like a child’s friendship bracelet, this grand park features a stunning display of sculpture and flora representing five continents and promoting international peace.
While viewing the gardens, kids will learn about Cincinnati’s first African-American mayor, and the importance of global understanding and world unity.
Hours are daily, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Admission is free.
Details: 1101 Riverside Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202; Phone: 513-352-4080.
56. Shawnee Lookout
Kids can explore Ohio’s historic heritage by stopping in at the historic Springhouse School and Log Cabin, or viewing Native American archaeological earthworks.
Other attractions include nature trails and a playground. Not to be missed are the incredible views of the Ohio River and the Great Miami River valleys from the lookout.
Shawnee Lookout is open daily from dawn to dusk.
Admission is $3 per vehicle.
Details: 2008 Lawrenceburg Road, North Bend, Ohio 45052; Phone: 513-521-7275.
57. Cincinnati Golf Center
Fun for the whole family awaits with a 36-hole miniature golf course and three driving ranges to practice your golf swing.
The mini golf course features challenging turns, twists, hills, and water traps. The heated covered range, open air range, and elevated range include new range balls that measure your distance to the flags with laser accuracy.
Hours are daily, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., with miniature golf offered seasonally.
Admission for miniature golf is $10 for ages 11 and older and $8 for children ages 10 and younger.
Driving range rates are $6, $8, $10, and $12, depending on the bucket size of golf balls.
Details: 7630 Columbia Road, Maineville, Ohio 45039; Phone: 513-459-4653.
58. Highfield Discovery Garden at Glenwood Gardens
This 12-acre garden is designed to encourage children and adults to discover and explore the natural world in a fun way. It features seven small gardens, each with engaging features.
Traverse the gardens and spot the Frog and Toad Garden, walk through the forest and across the swinging bridge to the Wizard’s Garden, climb the 25-foot Discovery Tree to the tree house, and enter the Storybook Garden, complete with a Trolley Garden with trains and a trolley.
Kids can also check out what’s growing in the eye-level vegetable garden, sniff and touch the plants in Grandma’s Scent Garden, look for fairies in the Fairy Garden, and walk through the caterpillar tunnel in the Butterfly Garden.
Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, Noon to 5 p.m., January through March and November and December; and Tuesday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, Noon to 5 p.m., April through October, weather permitting.
Admission is $5 for ages 12 and older, $4 for ages 2 to 12, and Free for youngsters under age 2.
A family pass for a family of four can be purchased for $40, with each additional person $5 each at the time of purchase.
Details: 10397 Springfield Pike, Glenwood Gardens, Cincinnati, Ohio 45215; Phone: 513-521-7275.
59. Burnet Woods
This 90-acre park is one of Cincinnati’s oldest and is filled with lots of outdoor activities. There’s a fishing lake, a disc golf course, hiking trails, and playgrounds.
Birdwatching is also a popular activity in the park. Be sure to check out the 84-ton pink granite sculpture positioned in Stonehenge fashion.
Also on-site is a Trailside Nature Center, a children’s museum, and the Wolff Planetarium.
Hours are daily, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission is free.
Details: Burnet Woods Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45220; Phone: 513-751-3679.
Inclusive Playgrounds
60. All Children’s Playground
Located in Beech Acres Park, the playground for children with and without disabilities is designed to encourage imaginative and active play.
There’s a Tot Lot for infants to age 5 featuring a sand play area, a playhouse, a mini mountain for climbing, swings, and a train with a train station.
For older children, there’s a play area with slides, rock climbing, Sasquatch-tall climbing boulders, a large fort-like play unit, and bongos for making music.
For all ages, there’s a seasonal water play area, a Sway Fun® glider, and a riverboat shelter.
Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily.
Admission is free.
Details: 6910 Salem Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45230-2959; Phone: 513-474-0003.
61. Francis RecreAcres
This universally accessible playground includes wide ramps, physical fitness elements, and rubber safety surfaces.
Hours are daily from dawn to dusk.
Admission is $3 per car.
Details: 11982 Conrey Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45249; Phone: 513-742-1091.
62. Every Child’s Playground
Located along the river at Sawyer Point Park and Yeatman’s Cove, the custom playground, designed in the shape of a steamboat, is accessible to all children, including those in wheelchairs or with visual impairments.
The climbing structures includes ramps for access by all. The 10,500 square foot play area also features slides; finger mazes; tactile puzzles; swings, including therapeutic ones; a music area with musical instruments; a play village; and much more.
Hours are daily, dawn to dusk.
There is no admission fee.
Details: 801 East Pete Rose Way, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202; Phone: 352-1616.
63. Clippard Park Playground
The 10,000 square foot playground with a rubber surface for easy maneuvering has a variety of play equipment that is fully accessible to people of all abilities.
The play area includes many climbing features, swings with open, zero-G, or tot seat options, a sandlot with accessible backhoes, a music play area, sand and water tables, and much more
The playground is open daily, from dawn to dusk.
Admission is free.
Details: 3514 Bevis Lane, Cincinnati, Ohio 45251; Phone: 513-385-7500.
64. Boundless Playground
Located in Dudley Memorial Park, the boundless playground is accessible to children and adults of all ages and abilities.
Play equipment includes slides, swings, and play systems that encourage playing and learning in a fun environment.
The playground is open daily from dawn to dusk.
Admission is free.
Details: 5700 Yankee Road, Liberty Township, Ohio 45044; Phone: 513-759-7500.
65. Beckett Park
The 150-acre Beckett Park includes a boundless playground on the park’s east side that provides opportunities for active play for children of all ages and abilities.
A shelter is located next to the playground where families can picnic or take a break from playing.
In the summer, there’s a water feature and in the winter, ice skating on the two ponds.
Park hours are daily, dawn to dusk.
There is no admission fee.
Details: 8682 and 8630 Beckett Road, West Chester, Ohio 45069; Phone: 513-777-5900.
Parks and Recreational Trails
66. Loveland Bike Trail
This bicycle trail is in Little Miami Scenic State Park and is the fourth longest paved rail trail in the United States, following an old railway line.
The scenic bike ride offers views of rivers, woodlands, Indian burial grounds and more. Biking destinations are plentiful.
For a 1.75 mile ride, follow the trail to Riverview Park and its playground. For longer rides of a few hours, bike the trail from Loveland to Milford, Morrow, or Lebanon.
The Loveland Bike Trail is open daily, year-round.
The bike trail is free to use.
Details: 206 Railroad Avenue, Loveland, Ohio 45140; Phone: 513-897-3055.
67. Smale Riverfront Park
Outdoor recreation is the name of the game at this 45-acre park, known for its spectacular view of Cincinnati’s Roebling Suspension Bridge.
Take a bike ride on the park’s trail, walk the promenade along the river, play in the playgrounds, and, in the warm weather, cool off at the interactive fountains, cascades, and water curtains.
The park is open daily, from dawn to dusk.
Admission is free.
Details: West Mehring Way, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202; Phone: 513-352-4079.
68. Mitchell Memorial Forest
If you and the kids enjoy fishing, biking, or hiking, the Mitchell Memorial Forest has it all. There are trails to meet all ages and fitness levels.
The Wood Duck nature trail is a one mile walk or ride, while the mountain bike trail is a more challenging 8.1 mile ride or hike. There’s also a playground and a catch and release fishing pond.
Hours are daily from dawn to dusk.
Park admission is $3 per vehicle.
Details: 5401 Zion Road, Cleves, Ohio 45002; Phone: 513-521-7275.
69. Keehner Park
The 123-acre park along Mill Creek features numerous woodland trails for hiking.
The creek side trails make for a scenic hike with its many wildflowers. In addition, kids can get a glimpse of history with the trails’ collections of fossils and clay deposits.
The park also features tennis courts, playgrounds, catch and release ponds, and the Cabin in the Clearing, which offers numerous programs throughout the year.
Hours are daily, dawn to dusk.
Admission is free.
Details: 7211 and 7411 Barret Road, West Chester, Ohio 45069; Phone: 513-777-5900.
70. Miami Whitewater Forest
The largest of the Great Parks of Hamilton County, the Miami Whitewater Forest offers horseback riding, biking, hiking, fitness and nature trails, and other recreational activities for adults and kids of all ages.
The park features the Shaker Trace Horse Tail, a circular trail of 7.2 miles, and the Wooded Horse Trails with three loop trails totaling 7.74 miles.
Paved trails for walking, biking, and hiking range in length from 0.6 miles to 7.8 miles. There’s also a 1.4 mile Parcours fitness trail and a 1.4 mile Timberlakes nature trail.
Other activities to do with kids include a 9-hole disc golf course and a soccer complex.
Park hours are daily, dawn to dusk.
Admission fee is $3 per vehicle.
Details: 9001 Mt. Hope Road, Crosby Township, Ohio 45030; Phone: 513-367-4774.
71. Little Miami Scenic Trail
This paved recreational trail is open to walkers, cyclists, wheelchair users, and rollerbladers. It’s well shaded and offers lots of interesting attractions along its 330 miles of trail.
The trail begins in Newtown and ends in Springfield. Among the area’s attractions are Fort Ancient, Hartman’s Rock Garden, and John Bryan State Park.
The trail, which winds through the southwestern Ohio countryside, also runs parallel to the river in some sections.
Hours are daily, dawn to dusk.
There is no admission fee.
Details: Start at Avoca Park, 8063 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati, Ohio 45227; Phone: 513-521-7275.
72. Otto Armleder Memorial Park
An assortment of recreational activities for kids can be enjoyed in this park, and bring the family dog along because there’s a 10-acre dog park, complete with a canine shower.
For water recreation, the park includes a river outlook with canoe access to the Little Miami River.
The park itself offers several biking and walking trails, including the five mile Lunken Airfield Loop.
Otto Armleder Memorial Park is open daily from dawn to dusk.
Admission is $3 per vehicle.
Details: 5057 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati, Ohio 45226; Phone: 513-521-7275.
Lake Activities
73. Campbell Lakes Preserve
This is an ideal place to fish with kids. There are four lakes stocked with northern pike, bluefill, bass, and crappie.
You can fish from the bank, a kayak, a canoe, or a jon boat, with no Ohio fishing license required.
Bass and northern pike are catch and release, but you can keep 10 crappie and bluegill per day.
Campbell Lakes Preserve is open daily from dawn to dusk.
Park admission is $3 per vehicle.
Details: 10431 Campbell Road, Harrison, Ohio 45030; Phone: 513-521-7275.
74. Lake Isabella
This former rock quarry is now a 28-acre lake stocked weekly from March to October, so kids are sure to catch a bite.
Fishing is permitted from the bank, dock, or a rental boat. An on-site boathouse offers bait, tackle, and fishing gear, or bring your own.
Lake Isabella is open daily, dawn to dusk.
Admission is $3 daily to enter the park.
Details: 10174 Loveland-Madeira Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45140; Phone: 513-521-7275.
75. Sharon Woods
Lake activities abound at this 730 acre family park. The harbor area offers fishing off the pier, boat rentals of all types, and a playground with water features.
Around the lake is the Gorge nature trail, a one mile Parcours exercise trail, and biking or hiking trails. The Sharon Center offers nature displays and a two-story indoor play area called Adventure Station.
Sharon Woods is open daily, dawn to dusk.
Admission is $3 per vehicle. Boat rental hourly rates range from $10.77 to $40.28.
Details: 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville, Ohio 45241; Phone: 513-563-4513.
76. Pine Hill Lakes Park
Located adjacent to Corwin M. Nixon Park, this 82-acre park features two fishing lakes, stocked several times a year. In the warm weather, fishing by moonlight is offered on selected days.
Surrounding the lakes are two miles of nature trails, wooded areas, open meadows known for their butterflies, and a tree arboretum. When there’s snow, check out the sledding hill.
The area also includes Pine Hill Lodge, where nature activities are conducted. There’s also a wildlife viewing area at the lodge.
Pine Hill Lakes Park is open year-round. Moonlight fishing, with days announced in the spring, is from 6 p.m. to 7:30 a.m.
Admission is free, but a fishing pass is required for anyone over age 10. Daily fishing pass rates are $8.75 for adults, $5.50 for children ages 10 to 12, and seniors age 60 and older.
Details: 211 Kings Mills Road, Mason, Ohio 45040; Phone: 513-229-8550.
Amusement Parks
77. Kings Island
The largest amusement and water park in the Midwest offers a ton of things to do with kids, including thrill rides, family rides, live entertainment, and Planet Snoopy, featuring Peanuts-themed rides and attractions for all ages.
The Soak City waterpark features more than 50 water activities for adults and kids to enjoy, including 30 water slides, surfable waves, tropical lagoons, water rides, rushing rivers, a lazy river, and two giant wave pools.
The 364-acre amusement park also includes Dinosaurs Alive!, the world’s largest animatronic dinosaur park. A separate admission ticket is required for those not purchasing a gold or platinum admission pass.
Kings Island is open from April through November, with hours varying for weekdays and weekends. Soak City is open May through September.
Single day admission is $39.99 per person and $37.99 for children under 48 inches tall and senior citizens age 62 and older. Seasonal and other package options are offered.
Parking is $15 per vehicle.
Details: 6300 Kings Island Drive, Mason, Ohio 45040; Phone: 513-754-5700.
78. Coney Island Park
Classic amusement rides, a sunlite pool with waterslides, live shows, a miniature golf course, a kids-sized version of a western town, and an arcade are the attractions at this amusement park.
Coney Island Park, located on the banks of the Ohio River, is open May through October, with daily hours varying for weekdays and weekends.
Admission prices for both the classic rides and sunlite pool and waterslides is $23.95 for ages 5 and older, and $10.95 for children ages 2 to 4.
Classic rides only prices are $12.95 for ages 5 and older, and $6.95 for ages 2 to 4. Admission to only the sunlite pool and waterslides is $13.95 for ages 5 and older, and $4.95 for ages 2 to 4.
Discounted prices are offered for after 4 p.m. admission and for Print@Home ticket purchases.
Parking is $8 per vehicle.
Details: 6201 Kellogg Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45230; Phone: 513-232-8230.
Waterparks and Spraygrounds
79. Florence Family Aquatic Center
This aquatic center offers plenty of splashing fun for kids and adults of all ages. Among the water attractions are a lazy river, spray grounds, spiral and speed slides, and a competition pool.
Sun and shade options range from sunbathing areas to funbrellas to sun shelters. There is a bathhouse and a concession area.
Open late May to mid-August from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., daily.
Admission is $10 adults ($7 for Florence residents), $7 for children ages 3 to 15 ($5 for Florence residents), and Free for children ages 2 and younger.
Details: 8200 Ewing Boulevard in the Florence Government Center complex, Florence, Kentucky 41042; Phone: 859-647-4619.
80. CoCo Key Water Resort
Located in the Crowne Plaza Cincinnati North, this 50,000 square foot indoor waterpark features lots of water rides for all ages in a balmy year-round temperature of 84 degrees.
The waterpark includes four, 40-foot body and raft waterslides, tube rides, giant whirlpools, slides for tots, an activity pool, a multi-level interactive play island, and an outdoor tanning deck.
CoCo Key Water Resort is open daily, year-round. Hours depend on the day, but are generally 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
General admission is $22.99 for guests over 48 inches, $17.99 for those under 48 inches, and Free for children ages 2.
Twilight pricing, available from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. is $17.99 for guests over 48 inches and $12.99 for guests under 48 inches. Family 4-pack and annual passes are also available.
Details: 11320 Chester Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45246; Phone: 513-771-2080.
81. Great Wolf Lodge
This 79,000 square foot indoor waterpark keeps adults and kids of all ages occupied with its collection of water rides, mega slides, and play areas by age group.
At the center of the waterpark is a four-story interactive tree house, complete with suspension bridges, soaking spray stations, and swinging cargo nets.
Great Wolf Lodge waterpark is open daily, year-round. However, you must be a guest of the resort to use the waterpark. Nightly rates start at $151.99.
Details: 2501 Great Wolf Drive, Mason, OH 45040; Phone: 513-459-8885.
82. Wake Nation
Located on a 10-acre lake, the attraction features the Aqua Glide waterpark and the only full-sized cable wake park in the Midwest.
In the waterpark, fun awaits on giant inflatables for sliding and jumping into the lake. Connecting inflatables create an obstacle course in the lake.