Things are about to get hot, Cincinnati, because summer in the Queen City is never boring. Ready to ditch the cabin fever? From cooling off in the pool to diving into art and culture, getting out in nature and eating so much delicious food, here’s your can’t-miss guide to summer in Cincy.
Have a Wild Time at the Cincinnati Zoo
A stroll through the zoo grounds may be the perfect thing to do this summer in Cincinnati. Kids, teens and adults alike can enjoy viewing all the many animals and botanicals throughout the facility. You can see some of the newest additions to the zoo, like Juno the Linnaeus’s two-toed sloth; cheetah cubs Zola, Lulu and Kiara; and Daisy the bonobo. Plus, check out the new exhibits like Elephant Trek, which is the biggest habitat in the zoo’s nearly 150-year history. Elephant Trek features Asian-themed landscaping that’s designed to mimic the natural environment found in Southeast Asian forests and provides the herd access to multiple spaces inside the Farmer Family Foundation Elephant Center, as well as three outdoor yards. The exhibit isn’t just home to elephants, though. Siamang Point is also located within Elephant Trek and offers guests the chance to get up close with other species like siamang gibbons, Asian small-clawed otters and rhinoceros hornbills. 3400 Vine St., Avondale.
Check out the New Dual-Racer Waterslide at Kings Island’s Soak City
Kings Island in the summer is always a good idea: blue ice cream, screaming your head off on The Beast and cooling off at Soak City. And we think you might want to spend some extra time at Soak City this year to try out the new waterslide, RiverRacers, the first and currently only dual-racing water coaster in Ohio. On RiverRacers, riders will board side-by-side rafts at the starting line before being launched 30 mph down the first drop. Then, water jets will propel the racers upward, where they’ll then split off and enter a tunnel featuring special lighting effects. Riders will face more twists and turns as they move toward the open-air, high-banking slingshot, which will turn them 180 degrees into a final mega drop to see who will cross the finish line first. And Splash River Junction, the riverside-themed kids’ play area in Soak City, also has seven new kids’ waterslides. 6300 Kings Island Drive, Mason.
Take Part in Cincinnati Pride’s Festival and Parade
Whether you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, you can have a great time and support inclusion and acceptance at Cincinnati’s annual Pride Parade and Festival on June 28. Don your rainbow colors and line the parade route between Seventh and Plum streets and Sawyer Point, starting at 11 a.m. After that, check out all the family-friendly fun from noon to 9 p.m. at Sawyer Point for the festival, including shopping, plenty of food and drinks and live music and entertainment. This year is extra exciting as Cincinnati Pride has cut back on corporate sponsors and has instead rallied the community to help raise money for the event, but they are still looking for volunteers. Sign up here. Sawyer Point & Yeatman’s Cove.
Catch a Flick at Ziegler Park Pool’s “Dive-In” Movie Nights
Pool days are essential to any summer bucket list, but Ziegler Park Pool is extending those pool days into pool nights with its “Dive-In Movies.” Sure, drive-in movies are fun, but there’s something magical-sounding about floating in the water while enjoying a classic movie. Once a month, Ziegler will open late to screen a fan-favorite movie. In June, you can catch Barbie, Finding Nemo in July, Mama Mia! in August and Shark Tales in September. 216 Woodward St., Over-the-Rhine.
Watch a Dazzling Display on the Fourth of July or at the WEBN / Western & Southern’s Fireworks
It wouldn’t be summer if you didn’t take the time to watch at least one fireworks show. Cincinnati’s skies will be decked out in all kinds of colors as Fourth of July celebrations take place. Some of the most popular include Red, White & Blue Ash (also featuring concert headliner Billy F Gibbons and the BFGs); Star-Spangled Nights at Kings Island; Red, White and BOOM with Cincinnati Pops at Riverbend and numerous community events. And if you just can’t get enough fireworks, don’t forget about Cincinnati’s big end-of-summer bash Riverfest and the WEBN / Western & Southern Fireworks. Just make sure you grab your spot early and respect the blanket-claiming process. Various locations.
Rock Out at a Concert or Music Festival
Cincinnati summers are always jam-packed with fantastic music lineups, whether you’re looking forward to a full-blown, world-tour concert at Riverbend Music Center or MegaCorp Pavilion; a music festival full of great hits and chill vibes like the Cincinnati Music Festival; or just a free concert in the park, like Rockin’ the Roebling on the Schmidlapp Event Lawn at Moerlein Lager House, Friday Flow at Washington Park; Live on the Levee in Newport; or Kentucky Sympony Orchestra’s concerts in Devou and Tower parks. Some big names coming to Cincinnati this summer include Teddy Swims (Andrew J Brady), Luke Bryan (Riverbend) and the Outlaw Music Festival at Riverbend, featuring Willy Nelson and Bob Dylan. Various locations.
Savor Some Cold Ice Cream on a Hot Day
To say Cincinnati is a mecca of creamy whips would be an understatement. From neighborhood staples that have been serving ice cream and smiles for generations to the newer shops inspired by their memories made at the nostalgic awnings and picnic tables of the OG whips, there are plenty of places across the city for the young and young-at-heart to grab a shake, sundae or just a classic cone. Try Bellevue’s Schneider’s Sweet Shop’s quintessential summer treat the Ice Balls, a combination of finely ground ice with rich, flavored syrup generously poured on top; the orange-vanilla twist from Zip Dip on the West Side, an adorable animal cone from the Mason Whippy Dip or just anything in general from The Cone in West Chester. These creamy whips will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Hit Up All the Vendors and Stalls at Findlay Market
A stop at the historic Findlay Market makes for the perfect Cincinnati summer morning. More than 50 full-time merchants at the 19th-century landmark sell everything from meat, cheese and fresh-baked bread to produce, flowers and chocolate. Stop by for a pint at Jane’s bar or browse a local farmers market and a wide array of arts and crafts vendors. And when you need to cool off, make sure to swing by uGOgelato for gelato made by a second-generation gelatiere. You can also check out the market’s newest merchant, Yee Mama, for some delicious handmade wontons. 1801 Race St., Over-the-Rhine.
Spread Your Wings at the Krohn Conservatory’s Butterfly Show
The Krohn Conservatory’s annual butterfly show, “Gothica Botanica,” is running daily from now until Aug. 10. At Gothica Botanica, guests can step into the world of mystery and enchantment of the conservatory’s gothic-themed butterfly garden, replete with shadowy black foliage and deep-hued plants. Watch and marvel as the iridescent butterflies float amongst gothic architecture in a show that is almost as much about the fusion of light and shadow as it is about the butterflies themselves. 1501 Eden Park Drive, Mt. Auburn.
Explore the Newly Reopened Tunnels Beneath a Historic Brewery
Bruckmann Brewery brewed beer in what’s now South Cumminsville for about 100 years before ceasing operations. The complex, however, remains one of the most complete 19th-century brewery sites in the country, and Brewing Heritage Trail recently put in a ton of work to repair the site and open it to visitors. Starting in June, you can book a tour to see several of the historic buildings and the underground lagering cellars, plus enjoy some craft beer along the way. 1297 Streng St., South Cumminsville.
Shop Local at a Craft Market
City Flea is a “curated urban flea market” that pops up in Washington Park monthly from May to October — with a special winter holiday market. Expect to find everything from plants and screen-printed t-shirts to vintage treasures, pet products and apothecary items from local and indie vendors. Food and drink vendors and food trucks will be parked on-site. And the monthly Art on Vine will be in Washington Park this June and then on Fountain Square in July and August. This local art show features everything from fine art to handcrafted goods from over 80 artists throughout the Ohio region. On the West Side, don’t miss out on the popular, monthly WestSide Market in front of historic Westwood Town Hall, which features over 100 local vendors, food trucks, live music with DJ JonJon and plenty of family-friendly activities. See the best craft markets here.
Take a Journey Downriver in a Kayak or Canoe
The Queen City boasts many canoeing and kayaking spots, plus some road trip-worthy locations within a few hours’ drive – all perfect for floating a weekend away. Check with each business about reservations, specific rental fees and what you can and can’t bring with you. (We’re looking at you, ca-brewers). If you’re searching for a little more of an aquatic adventure, the 24th annual Paddlefest on the Ohio River is happening Aug. 2. Paddlefest is open to kayaks, canoes and standup paddleboards, as well as participants of all paddling experience levels. Motorized boat traffic will be prohibited on the river during this time, making for smooth paddling, and you can choose between the full 9-mile route or a 4.5-mile route. Check out some fun kayaking spots.
Catch the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park and Enjoy the New Menu Items
Great American Ball Park debuted a slate of new snacks for the 2025 season, including The Reds Island Griller (Hempler’s sausage, pineapple salsa and Kogi sweet garlic BBQ sauce, served on a hoagie roll); Redlegs BBQ Walking Taco (Saratoga-style chips, pulled pork, BBQ sauce and coleslaw); and the Glier’s Goetta Reuben Sliders (Glier’s Goetta patty, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and thousand island dressing, served on slider buns). See all the new menu items here, and eat up; because if the Reds are losing, you’ll at least leave the ball park with a full stomach. 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, The Banks.
Say “Hi, Barbie!” at Cincinnati Museum Center’s Newest Exhibit
There are so many cool things to check out at Cincinnati Museum Center in Union Terminal, from its collection of fossils and the rare skeleton of a Daspletosaurus dinosaur in the Museum of Natural History & Science to the displays and immersive features that tell the story of Cincinnati in the Cincinnati History Museum. However, the museum is also going to be shining in a bright shade of pink this summer as it hosts its new temporary exhibit, Barbie™: A Cultural Icon. The exhibit, on display until Sept. 1, celebrates 60 years of Mattel’s beloved doll and icon, from Barbie’s fashion to the inspiration she gave millions of girls all over the world.
Featuring a collection of over 300 Barbie artifacts, the exhibit will challenge audiences to rethink what they thought they knew about the doll and how society evolved from generation to generation, with Barbie serving as a reflection of change. Among the artifacts are 150 vintage dolls and life-sized fashion pieces that come to life through custom-themed displays, with video and media interviews with Barbie designers expanding the narrative. 1301 Western Ave., West End.
Connect with Art, History and Nature at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum
Art appreciation and fresh air aren’t mutually exclusive, at least at Hamilton’s Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum. Since 1997, the 300-acre nonprofit outdoor art park has featured more than 80 gargantuan sculptures displayed among rolling hills, lakes and hiking trails. If the weather’s not to your taste, head indoors to explore the ancient sculpture museum, which houses Greek, Roman, Syrian and Egyptian art, as well as rotating exhibitions of more modern work. This summer is packed with fun programming, including the Summer Series of Art: Recycled Masterpieces event happening the last Friday of May, June and July, where kids and adults can craft art using upcycled materials. You can also bring your pup to the park for Dogs & Donuts the first Saturday in July, August and September; take part in an art workshop, like making fused-glass floral suncatchers; or enjoy a relaxing Friday night at Pyramid Hill with specialty drinks, art demonstrations, music and more for Ink & Drink. See the park and museum’s full programming schedule here. 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton.
Go on an All-You-Can-Eat Adventure at a Cincinnati Food Festival
Cincinnati’s food festivals are top-notch in any season, but there’s just something about having a goetta burger in July that really hits all the notes. Kicking off the summer food festival scene is Taste of Cincinnati over Memorial Day weekend, where you’ll be able to try menu items from nearly 80 vendors across the Tri-State. Then in June, you can take a bite out of Italy at Newport’s Italianfest where you can sample pizza, pasta, cannolis and gelato, or, if you’re vegan or vegetarian, visit the annual Cincy VegFest at Burnet Woods for the vegan chili cook-off. Then over the course of two weekends in July and August, it’s all about Goettafest and the wacky concoctions vendors whip up (goetta brownie, anyone?). But don’t sleep on the smaller festivals: the Great Inland Seafood Festival, Rockin’ Taco Festival, Panegyri and more all offer delicious menus to keep you full all summer. These are our readers’ favorite food festivals.
Lace Up Your Boots for a Hike
Greater Cincinnati is home to a myriad of parks offering diverse hiking trails perfect for every sort of hiker. As the temperatures climb, Cincinnatians should take advantage of the many benefits the outdoors offers. The outdoors increases serotonin levels and gives your immune system a boost — it’s a natural energizer. Got a dog? Walk it. Have kids? Tire them out. An old friend? Reconnect with them. Or, go Walden-style and wander alone to your heart’s content. Greater Cincinnati trails that will make you feel one with nature.
Experience A Midsummer Night’s Dream at a Shakespeare in the Park Performance
This summer, the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is once again bringing its popular, free Shakespeare in the Park series to public spots across the Tri-State. This summer’s production is A Midsummer Night’s Dream, one of Shakespeare’s most beloved plays featuring a comedic mix-up and misunderstanding between two couples brought on by mischievous and meddling fairies, a ragtag troupe of laborers moonlighting (literally) as actors and a wedding. “With a playful spirit and whimsical surprises around every corner, A Midsummer Night’s Dream promises laughter, wonder, and memorable moments under the stars,” says CSC. The season runs from July 11 to Aug. 31. Various locations.
Cycle Thru! at the Cincinnati Art Museum
The Cincinnati Art Museum features a diverse, encyclopedic art collection with more than 67,000 works that span from the ancient world to modern times. Walk through time to examine artifacts and artwork from thousands of years ago, browse locally crafted paintings and furniture or think about the symbolism and colors in an Impressionist piece. The museum is also currently hosting the exhibit Cycle Thru! The Art of the Bike, which take visitors through the rich creative history of the bicycle, from Pee-Wee Herman’s classic customized 1953 Schwinn DX Cruiser to a seafoam green 1950s Huffy Radiobike. Contemporary artwork by Jarbas Lopes, Bas Jan Ader and Bari Kumar, along with photographs from CAM’s collection, 1900s female bike wear and artifacts ranging from the 1860s to today are also on display. Cycle Thru! runs until Aug. 24. While you’re at the museum, be sure to also check out Tintoretto’s Genesis, a collection of 16th-century Italian painter Jacopo Tintoretto’s works depicting scenes from the Book of Genesis, which he made for the Scuola della Trinità, a charitable organization in Venice. Those paintings are on display until Aug. 31. 953 Eden Park Drive, Mt. Adams.
Browse the Shelves on a Crawl of all Cincinnati’s Indie Bookstores
Skip Amazon. You can find your next beach or poolside read at one of Cincinnati’s many excellent independent bookstores. And the best way to experience the full scope of literary offerings is to go on a bookstore crawl. Cincinnati’s bookstores all offer different vibes and selections based on what readers are looking for. Joseph-Beth has classic bookstore vibes and damn near everything you could want to read, plus fun Cincinnati-centric gifts and goods and an attached restaurant, Brontë Bistro. Friends of the Public Library offers stacks and stacks of secondhand books in a warehouse that you can spend all day exploring. Joy and Matt’s Books is small, but mighty, with a selection of books specially curated by its owners. For some dark academic vibes, visit The Hidden Chapter in Ft. Thomas, or visit Milford to step into the bright and airy, cottage-esque The Bookmatters. And for a blind date with a book, Enchanted Novelties in Harrison offers shelves of paper-wrapped reads to delight and surprise you. Map out your journey with our readers’ favorite spots.
Visit the Jellyfish and Mermaids at the Newport Aquarium
When the summer heat gets too oppressive, dip inside the Newport Aquarium to cool off and get a look at life under the sea. The mermaids have returned to the aquarium to make waves and share the stories they’ve collected from their adventures among the world’s coral reefs until June 22. The aquarium also has an all-new permanent exhibit. Jellies: Go With the Flow immerses guests in the ethereal world of the jellyfish. Surrounded by glowing bioluminescence and stunning, trailing tentacles, guests will get to learn more about how jellyfish move, adapt, survive and influence ocean ecosystems. 1 Levee Way, Newport.
Try a New Greater Cincinnati Bar or Restaurant
Cincinnati has been lucky to gain some pretty amazing new bars and restaurants over the past year. If you haven’t had the chance to dine or drink at these spots yet, summer is the perfect time to try something new. For restaurants, Carmelo’s in Covington offers delicious Italian fare, or you can try out the much-lauded Wildweed, with its contemporary pasta dishes and chef’s counter menu that will take you on a culinary journey. For some refreshing drinks after a long day out in the sun, try a signature highball at Highball Cincy or a German-style beer or IPA at Mellotone Beer Project. Check out these favorite new spots.
Hit the Road for a Weekend Vacation
When you’re in need of a little escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, a weekend getaway to a charming small town is just what the doctor ordered. There are several destinations within driving distance of the Queen City to explore, like Yellow Springs, Ohio, for nature and arts and culture; Nashville, Indiana, for outdoor activities and live music; Frankenmuth, Michigan, for a Bavarian-esque good time or Christmas in July shopping; and Maysville, Kentucky, for a little art and history. Visit the link above for some road trip inspiration. See some road trip-worth ideas here.
Browse Local Artwork and Handmade Goods at a Final Friday
Traditionally held every last Friday of the month at the Pendleton Art Center, Final Friday has now branched out into the surrounding neighborhoods. The event is still artist-centric, with the center’s 200 in-house artists showcasing their work to attendees, but it also now includes participating businesses on Main and 13th streets and activations happening at Ziegler Park and Imagination Alley. There will also be pink balloons outside these businesses to help Final Friday-goers identify them. In addition to shopping, there will be music and food at Ziegler Park. 1310 Pendleton St., Pendleton.
Enter Your Regency Era at the Jane Austen Festival at Heritage Village Museum
You can step into Regency-era Great Britain and celebrate the legacy of one of the most famous authors of the time at the annual Jane Austen Festival — now in Sharonville — this June. After enchanting guests in Louisville for years, the festival will now be hosted at Sharon Woods’ Heritage Village Museum June 28-29. The weekend will feature talks, demonstrations, workshops and merriment in honor of Austen’s 250th birthday this year. Attendees can expect music by the Drewry’s and historical dance performances from the Forget-Me-Nots and Flying Cloud dance troupes. There will also be dramatic duels playing out, as well as a costume promenade, horseback riding demonstrations by the American Sidesaddle Association and garden tours and a story walk on the grounds of the museum. 11500 Lebanon Road, Sharonville.