Things To DoThings To Do
Cincinnati Nature CenterCincinnati Nature Center
Of course, we have to start with the beautiful Cincinnati Nature Center, our wedding venue! There are miles of trails, stunning gardens, and an abundance of wildlife. The visitor center is perfect for families with children. Joanna’s favorite hikes: Edge trail, Lookout trail, and Upland Trail Nathan’s favorite spot: Powel Crosby Lake (great for pictures!)
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical GardenCincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
We are so lucky to live right near one of the oldest and highest-rated zoos in the country (in fact, it’s ranked the second best in the country and one of the 20 best zoos in the world!). It’s a great outing for families, animal lovers, or anyone looking to enjoy nature in the city. Plus – you can see the viral sensation, Fiona the hippo! Joanna’s favorite exhibit: Roo Valley – you can walk right through a free-roaming kangaroo enclosure 🦘 Nathan’s favorite exhibit: Reptile House – they have Komodo dragons, need we say more?
Findlay MarketFindlay Market
Right in the middle of the city is the oldest public market in Ohio, founded in 1852. We love exploring the market stalls for new things to try. Joanna’s recommendation: Sen by Kiki has the most amazing, fresh oysters that they will shuck for you to eat right at their bar. Nathan’s recommendation: We have yet to find a bad baked good at the Market 🥐
Krohn ConservatoryKrohn Conservatory
Known for its stunning collection of plants from around the world, we love this peaceful escape with jaw-dropping views and seasonal floral displays. Plus, the Art Deco architecture is incredible! Joanna’s favorite section: The Orchid House, for the rare exotic orchids and the scent of all the varieties mixed together. Heavenly 🌸 Nathan’s favorite section: The Seasonal Floral Room, especially during the yearly Butterfly Show.
The BanksThe Banks
Located right on the river between Paycor Stadium, home of the Bengals (WHO DEY! 🐅), and Great American Ballpark, home of the Reds, we love spending the afternoon in this revitalized part of town. Joanna’s recommendation: Catch a Bengals game at Paycor Stadium if they’re playing. Nathan’s recommendation: Smale Riverside Park has great views of the Ohio River.
Cincinnati Art MuseumCincinnati Art Museum
When we’re in the mood for some culture, the Cincinnati Art Museum is our go-to afternoon activity. It houses an incredible collection spanning thousands of years, and the outdoor sculpture garden is the perfect place for a peaceful walk. Joanna’s favorite gallery: The Middle Ages and Renaissance sections of the European Paintings, Sculpture and Drawings Collection Nathan’s favorite gallery: East Asian Art Collection & a once-in-a lifetime visit to the Stacks
Cincinnati Museum CenterCincinnati Museum Center
The Museum Center is housed in the iconic art deco Union Terminal (for our fellow comic-book enthusiasts, this was the inspiration for DC’s Hall of Justice!). We’re obsessed with the grand rotunda’s mosaics and dramatic 1930s design. Joanna’s favorite museum: The Natural History Museum – for the dinos! Nathan’s favorite museum: The Natural History Museum – also for the dinos! (What can we say, we are meant to be.)
Kings IslandKings Island
We would be remiss if we didn't mention that there's a large amusement park just a short drive from the city. The world's longest wooden roller coaster, The Beast, is practically next door to Nathan's high school! Our favorite ride: The Beast.
SottoSotto
f you're in the mood for incredible Italian food, Sotto is the place to be. Their handmade pasta cozy atmosphere make it one of our go-to date night spots. Reserve a table early; they book up fast! Joanna’s favorite dish: It’s a tie between the short rib capellaci and the grilled octopus Nathan’s favorite dish: It’s a tie between the goat cheese hazelnut honey bread and the ricotta donuts
Montgomery Inn The BoathouseMontgomery Inn The Boathouse
Nathan took Joanna to Montgomery Inn early in their relationship. It’s a classic Cincinnati rib spot and one of Nathan’s childhood favorites. This location is right on the waterfront and has great views. Cincinnati might not be known for barbecue, but Montgomery Inn Barbecue Sauce is absolutely phenomenal. Our favorite dish: Ribs, ribs, and ribs!
Café AlmaCafé Alma
Our favorite Jewish-owned restaurant in town. Joanna loves to get brunch there when she’s feeling a little homesick. Joanna’s favorite dish: NJB(enedict) – a benedict with a bagel and lox! Nathan’s favorite dish: Max’s Challah French Toast
Hofbräuhaus - NewportHofbräuhaus - Newport
Hofbräuhaus is an authentic German beer hall right across the river in Newport, KY and near Mainstrausse in Covington, KY. As you might be able to tell, Cincinnati has a ton of German roots. We like grabbing a beer here with friends, and hey, who doesn’t like to do the chicken dance on a Saturday night? Prost! Joanna’s favorite dish: Wurstplatte with spaetzle Nathan’s favorite dish: Pretzels and bier cheese
Skyline Chili and/or Goldstar Chili (Multiple Locations)Skyline Chili and/or Goldstar Chili (Multiple Locations)
No trip to Cincinnati would be complete without trying some “Cincinnati Style Chili." It’s more like a Bolognese sauce, to be honest, but trust us. Try it. Seriously. Cincinnatians tend to be fiercely loyal to one of two restaurants that specialize in Cincinnati Style Chili. Unfortunately, Joanna favors Goldstar and Nathan prefers Skyline. Truly, a house divided. Joanna’s favorite dish: Greek Salad with oyster crackers Nathan’s favorite dish: Cheese coney (chili-covered hot dog topped with an unholy amount of cheese)
Pepp & DoloresPepp & Dolores
Another of our favorite date nights and definitely our favorite pasta in the city – Pepp & Delores is an artsy spot with a fun vibe and a creative menu. Joanna’s favorite dish: Pasta Limone Nathan’s favorite dish: Pasta Gricia
Incline Public HouseIncline Public House
Our favorite spot for when we want the best view of the city. We tend to stop here for lunch after an afternoon at one of our favorite museums. Make sure to get an outside seat for the panoramic view. Joanna’s favorite: Elberon salad Nathan’s favorite: Prosciutto and fig pizza
Graeter's Ice Cream (Multiple Locations)Graeter's Ice Cream (Multiple Locations)
Another Cincinnati staple! On our 4th date, we went here to try the iconic Black Raspberry Chip ice cream. Joanna’s favorite: Cookies and cream Nathan’s favorite: Chocolate malt (it’s a Midwest thing)
