Cincinnati is divided into 52 neighborhoods, plus many surrounding townships, villages and cities that make up Greater Cincinnati, that all add their own special charm to the Queen City. Whether it’s a park, museum, coffee shop, vintage store or something else, citizens of Greater Cincinnati all have their signature spot or favorite thing to do, and their favorite neighborhood to do it in.
Keep scrolling to see the neighborhoods CityBeat readers voted as the best of the best.
No. 10 Best Neighborhood: College Hill
College Hill is a great neighborhood for dining and shopping. Bacall’s Cafe, Brink Brewing Co. and Luminary are all local favorites and make College Hill the special neighborhood it is. If you are looking for something to do outside, College Hill also has LaBoiteaux Woods with over two miles of great hiking trails. This diverse neighborhood brings in eats from all over the world, from Mexican, Italian to Southern cooking, Japanese and more.
No. 9 Best Neighborhood: Mt. Adams
Calling all lovers of the arts: Mt. Adams is home to some of the most beloved attractions in the city, like Eden Park, the Cincinnati Art Museum and Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. Seen as you drive across the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge from Northern Kentucky, you may spot Mt. Adams’ Church of the Immaculata poking up through the trees, making the view that much more beautiful. Mt. Adams also does not lack in the restaurant and bar scene with Mt. Adams Bar & Grill, Blind Lemon, City View Tavern, El Barril, Crowley’s Highland House Cafe and Luca Bistro.
No. 8 Best Neighborhood: Pleasant Ridge
Pleasant Ridge is full of nightlife, fun and shopping. The bar scene has unique restaurants like Nine Giant Brewing and Overlook Lodge and the shopping is perfect for a music connoisseur with shops such as Everybody’s Records.
No. 7 Best Neighborhood: Westwood
Westwood is the largest and most diverse neighborhood in Cincinnati, according to the 2020 census. The neighborhood also has beautiful parks and is home to some of Cincinnati’s most beautiful and historic architecture. The neighborhood often has fun activities going on at the Westwood Town Hall, West Side Brewing and the Westwood Branch of the Cincinnati Public Library.
No. 6 Best Neighborhood: Oakley
Oakley is another neighborhood in Cincinnati with a lot of shopping and exciting things to do. Oakley offers you unique stores and restaurants like Legacies Upscale Resale, Redtree Coffee & Art and King Arthur’s Court. It also has Wasson Way for cyclists, walkers and runners to add a touch of outdoor fun to the neighborhood. Above all else, don’t miss your opportunity to go to MadTree Brewing while you’re here.
No. 5 Best Neighborhood: Clifton
Clifton is one of Cincinnati’s most lively and eclectic neighborhoods. Along Ludlow Avenue, you’ll find local gems like Ludlow Garage, a historic live music venue; Feel It Records, a haven for vinyl lovers; and the iconic Esquire Theatre, which screens independent and international films. Grab a coffee or catch a show at Sitwell’s Coffeehouse Act II, or spot the neighborhood Skyline Chili by its signature rotating neon sign.
No. 4 Best Neighborhood: Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of the most gorgeous neighborhoods in Cincinnati, with the beautiful Hyde Park Square and many fun things surrounding it. Residents and visitors have plenty of places to visit in this neighborhood like Wasson Way Trail, Coffee Emporium, Al-Posto and not to mention the longest-running Graeter’s location.
No. 3 Best Neighborhood: Over-the-Rhine
Over-the-Rhine is the nightlife hub of the city. Bars like Rosedale, Somerset, Alice and more will give you and your friends the best night out. Between restaurants like Wildweed, Safi, Bakersfield and many others, you’ll be tasting cuisines from all over the world. There are also plenty of stores to shop from, like the Native One, Sloane Boutique and more. If you have the time to sit down and relax, you can enjoy a show at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company or lie a blanket down in Washington Park right in front of Music Hall.
No. 2 Best Neighborhood: Northside
Northside is special due to its short distance from Downtown Cincinnati, but it’s full of liveliness all its own. Northside has a rockin’ music scene that never slows down; you can visit venues like Northside Tavern, The Comet, Junkers Tavern, The Loon and more. You can also check out amazing brunch spots, such as Blue Jay Restaurant or Northside Yacht Club, or shop ‘til you drop at stores such as Shake It Records and Hi-Bred. Northside is vibrant with bars, breweries, vintage shops and more.
No. 1 Best Neighborhood: Norwood
Norwood is a vibrant Cincinnati neighborhood home to attractions like the Drake Planetarium & Science Center and Factory 52 — an entertainment district filled with bars, restaurants, shops, and more. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy a variety of dining options, including Fretboard Brewing Company, Starlight Doughnut Lab, Quatman Café and several other neighborhood favorites.