The weather is getting warmer and that means more Cincinnati folks are moving outdoors, especially when it comes to enjoying a meal or drink while out on the town. Whether you’re looking for a rooftop to look out over the Queen City, a family-friendly place where the kids can play or just a quiet patio tucked away from the rest of the world, Cincinnati has a number of options for dining and drinking al fresco.
Top of the Park
For a stunning, nearly-360-degree view of downtown Cincinnati and its riverfront, plus some amazing craft cocktails, snag the elevator in the lobby of The Phelps hotel and take it to the very top where you’ll find one of the best rooftop bars in the city. Top of the Park is intimate, with plenty of comfy seating, including a glass bar top where you can sit with your drink and enjoy the bird’s-eye view. Grab a Rooftop Lemonade (Ketel One Citroen, muddled strawberries, fresh lemon juice and wild berry simple syrup) and toast to an amazing summer ahead. 506 E. Fourth St., Downtown.
MadTree’s Parks & Rec
Cincinnati brewery MadTree opened its third location in Blue Ash’s Summit Park this February, and it’s got the perfect summertime patio. MadTree Parks & Rec is continuing the brewery’s creative and sustainable traditions of taking an old space and repurposing it. In this case, the team converted a 15,000-square-foot airplane hangar into an outdoor recreation destination, tying into the park’s green space and offering things like cornhole, plenty of seating outside and walking trails. The taproom has indoor and outdoor areas; a private rental space; and cocktails, food and, of course, MadTree’s specially crafted beer because, in the words of the great Ron Swanson from the other Parks & Rec, “Clear alcohols are for rich women on diets.” 4321 Glendale Milford Road, Blue Ash.
Somerset
Somerset features both an outdoor and indoor bar that’s perfect for events or just relaxing. The bar’s exotic garden gives off a nice feeling of seclusion and you almost forget you’re in a city. For something refreshing that pairs well with a seat on the patio, try the Ube Margarita (pineapple, ginger tequila, ube tincture, lime and agave) or Sundara Spritz (strawberry and rose Aperol, ginger, dragon fruit, lime and Prosecco). 139 E McMicken Ave., Over-the-Rhine.
Kreimer’s Bier Haus
Located in the backyard of Kreimer’s Bier Haus, this Bavarian biergarten on the Great Miami River has three decks, fire pits and a ton of Black Forest-inspired wood features, from picnic seating to a whimsical cuckoo-clock-looking German grill house, which serves snacks like sauerkraut balls, pretzel bread, bier cheese and plenty of juicy metts. 6052 State Route 128, Cleves.
Rhinegeist
The sun feels warmest on the roof at Rhinegeist. Or, at least, it sure seems like it when you have 360-degree unobstructed views of OTR. The brewery has amazing, crushable beers like Bubbles, Cincy Light and Cheetah that are perfect for a warm outdoor happy hour, but Rhinegeist’s cocktails are also surprisingly top-notch. A word of advice: Arrive early on especially gorgeous days if you want to secure your spot on the roof. 1910 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine.
The Monkey Bar & Grille
As a family-owned operation, this place has not allowed any monkey business since its transformation from a biker bar, but it does permit a lot of fun. Weather permitting, enjoy fine bourbon while chatting with friends outside next to one of their outdoor fire pits. The kitchen serves up appetizers like “Spicy Monkey Balls” (a breaded and fried ball made with bacon, jalapenos, corn and cream cheese) and wings, plus specialty and build-your-own pizzas. 7837 Old 3C Highway, Maineville.
Eli’s BBQ
Eli’s has provided over 15 outdoor picnic tables for dining, both in the sun and the shade. Celebrate a spring afternoon with a cold brew (it’s BYOB) and some delicious barbecue, like their pulled pork sandwich with a side of jalapeño cheddar grits and baked beans. Grab your meal and enjoy the warmth by the river. 3313 Riverside Drive, Columbia Tusculum.
Rusk Kitchen + Bar
Rusk Kitchen + Bar serves up eclectic American cuisine and elevated bar food alongside beverage options like beer, wine and housemade cocktails you can enjoy on their rooftop patio, which offers a killer view of East Walnut Hills. With its cozy, welcoming vibes, Rusk aims to become a neighborhood go-to where you can watch the game, enjoy date night or just hang out with friends. The menu features a variety of lunch and dinner dishes, including handhelds like burgers and sandwiches, salads and entrées like fish and chips, Chilean salmon and a cajun chicken and alfredo dish. 2724 Woodburn Ave., East Walnut Hills.
Braxton Brewing Co.
The Rooftop at Braxton Brewing Co. in Covington provides comfortable outdoor seating, shade and greenery. Sip on all of your favorite Braxton drafts, and if you’re hungry, you can grab a pizza from Dewey’s next door. 27 W. Seventh St., Covington.
Queen City Radio
The historic Queen City Radio building has been turned into a well-manicured, full-service bar and outdoor beer garden. The bar serves rotating taps of local, regional and national beer, canned and bottled brews, wine, a small cocktail program and boozy slushies. Tables are available throughout the patio and dogs are always welcome. 222 W. 12th St., Over-the-Rhine.
Bishop’s Quarter
Doesn’t everyone love a good rooftop? Bishop’s Quarter not only offers full service on the rooftop patio, but also regular live musical entertainment. Outdoor seating is also available on the two other patios that wrap around the building (yes, that’s three patios total!). 212 W. Loveland Ave., Loveland.
Cabana on the River
This Margaritaville-esque oasis on the river will make you feel like you’re on vacation with its neon palm trees out front, sand volleyball courts, multiple walk-up bars where you can snag a drink while you wait for a table and just overall Jimmy Buffett vibes. While all the seating is technically outside, the best seats aren’t underneath the awning, but on the lower deck closest to the river. The menu is similar to what you’d find at a beachy restaurant — fish tacos, burgers, chicken sandwiches and shareables — but they also have some great salad options as well as the Cincinnati touch of metts, brats and franks. We also highly recommend a margarita while you’re there to 1) complete the aesthetic and 2) because they’re delicious. 7445 Forbes Road, Sayler Park.
AC Hotel Rooftop
This modern hotel situated right at The Banks is sure to offer perfect views of the city. Enjoy some cocktails from the Upper Deck, one of the largest hotel rooftop bars downtown, or, if you want to stay the night, many of the rooms offer city views with their own balconies. 135 Joe Nuxhall Way, The Banks.
Arnold’s Bar and Grill
Downtown’s Arnold’s Bar & Grill is renowned for being the oldest continuously operating drinking destination in Cincinnati — one of the oldest in America, in fact, at 160 years old. There’s the infamous Arnold’s bathtub, reportedly used to make bootleg gin during Prohibition. While the inside has some history (and spirits – both the alcoholic and dead kind), the walled-in patio is also a big draw, offering a quieter oasis in the middle of the city. 210 E. Eighth St., Downtown.
The National Exemplar
This cozy spot has been a Mariemont staple for over 40 years. Located in the historic, Tudor-style Mariemont Inn, National Exemplar is well known for its American-style cuisine that uses only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. In addition to its spacious main dining room, Southerby’s Pub (found in the inn’s lobby) and the north bar, the restaurant also has a relaxing outdoor patio surrounded by lush greenery in the warmer months. It’s the perfect spot for enjoying a breakfast of their Berry French Toast or their slow-cooked prime rib for dinner, finished with the Exemplar cocktail (prosecco, Chambord, cranberry, pineapple, simple and lemon). 6880 Wooster Pike, Mariemont.
Incline Public House
Named after the Cincinnati inclines that traveled to Price Hill, Incline Public House features a gorgeous view of the city and delicious American food for brunch, lunch and dinner. While you enjoy the view of downtown Cincinnati on their all-season patio, try one of their popular pizzas, like the equal-parts sweet and salty Prosciutto Fig, featuring fig jam, Italian ham, goat cheese, caramelized onions and arugula on top. Or, build your own using the expansive list of sauces, cheeses and toppings. Pair it with one of their local craft brews on tap and their mouthwatering short rib poutine to split with the table to top off the experience. 2601 W. Eighth St., East Price Hill.
Fifty West Burger Bar
There might truly be no better patio in town than what you’ll find at Fifty West. The brewery and burger joint feels like you’ve just arrived at summer camp. Sand volleyball, cornhole, people carrying kayaks down to the water – it’s like you’re at church camp but you can actually drink. Fifty West is also incredibly kid- and dog-friendly; just be sure to bring your sunscreen if all the overhangs are taken on a sunny afternoon. 7605 Wooster Pike, Columbia Township; 5224 District Park Drive, Deerfield Township.
Vista at Lytle Park
Cincinnati’s Lytle Park Hotel features a spectacular rooftop patio named the Vista at Lytle Park. The 5,000-square-foot rooftop lounge offers panoramic views of the Queen City and Ohio River. The space is equipped with an “indoor” lounge (where the bar is located) lined with windows that open up to the outdoor patio with two fireplaces, seating and tables. Choose from a selection of cocktails, wine, beer and spirits. Their food offerings range from hummus and olives to their Vista and Margarita flatbreads and 4YR Cheddar Burger. 311 Pike St., Downtown.
The Blind Lemon
The Blind Lemon has been Mount Adams’ favorite backyard bar since 1963. Walk down a set of stairs to find a secret, little hideaway. Outside, the relaxed garden patio is like a boho blend of Bourbon Street and Paris café life. It’s one of the most romantic drinking destinations in the city, offering a delicious selection of cocktails, beer, wine, bourbon and scotch. 936 Hatch St., Mt. Adams.
Knox Joseph Distillery at the OTR StillHouse
The OTR StillHouse is a distillery, winery and brewery in one. Located in a former 1890s ice manufacturing warehouse, the smaller front facade belies a massive outdoor space. OTR StillHouse says the artificial lawn is eco-friendly and was installed by the same company that installed and maintains the pitch at TQL Stadium. Rainwater goes through the “grass” and collects in the aquifer below. They also host lots of fun events like karaoke, live music, singer-songwriter nights and FC Cincinnati pregame and watch parties. 2017 Branch St., Over-the-Rhine.
Little Miami Brewing Company
Little Miami Brewing Company features a patio that overlooks the scenic namesake river. Stop by the popular Milford brewery to enjoy some of their 16 seasonal craft beers on tap and tacos or hand-tossed pizza, plus some breezy views. For a touch of adventure, you can also rent a kayak from Scenic River Canoe Excursions and roll up on the bank by the brewery for a good time, or hop on the Little Miami Scenic Trail at the nearby Milford trailhead for some strolling or biking. 208 Mill St., #1, Milford.
Covington Yard
Covington Yard is the kind of bar that feels like an “Oops All Berries” cereal – it throws everything at you at once: TVs blaring a local game, music, dogs, games, college kids, actual kids. And yet, Covington Yard’s park-like setting doesn’t make you feel overwhelmed, just at home. The come-as-you-are bar is perfect for those who want the energy of a packed sports bar while still being able to stretch out and sip something crafty. 401 Greenup St., Covington.
Bridgeview Box Park
Bridgeview Box Park, a cluster of small food and drink vendors, is open year-round but the best time to visit is when the weather is nice. The establishments are housed next to each other in shipping-like containers — hence “box park” — and are interspersed among a common outdoor area. The breezy space overlooks the Ohio River and city and features turf lounge areas, string lights and outdoor games like corn hole and giant Jenga. 1 Levee Way, Newport.
Porch at Washington Park
Head over to Washington Park and enjoy a selection of local beer, seasonal cocktails, canned wine and more. The bar offers seating on the porch or on the lawn, so BYOB (bring your own blanket). There are also tables located under the covered patio for when the weather isn’t cooperating. 1230 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine.
Urban Artifact
Located in Northside’s historic St. Patrick’s church, Urban Artifact has plenty of room to enjoy one of their uniquely sour or fruity brews in the breezy courtyard. They call themselves “one of the best places in the city to sit outside with a beer,” with umbrella-ed picnic tables and huge trees to provide shade. 1660 Blue Rock St., Northside.