Golden Dragon White Oak

Welcome in the spring with the quaint and charming Appalachian Festival, a three-day music and crafts festivals on Coney Island. Begun almost a decade ago in the basement of the Cincinnati Music Hall, this annual festival has grown into the Cincinnati Junior League’s biggest event, drawing in more than 130 crafters, dozens of entertainers and nearly 50,000 people!

Visit the picturesque Caldwell Preserve for the rare chance to hike a well-paved trail while still getting up close and personal with Mother Nature and her creatures. This nature preserve features 3.5 miles of level, wheelchair accessible nature and recreational trails that wind through the woods and gardens, bringing you directly into the wildlife’s home.

Cross the state lines for a short trip to the Newport Aquarium in Kentucky. Immerse yourself in the aquatic realm when you explore the 14 individually themed galleries and attractions. Walk through five seamless acrylic tunnels that make you feel like you are swimming with the fishes; see dozens of endangered species; watch the penguins on parade; and much, much more!

Another major player in Cincy’s cultural scene is the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, or CSO. The fifth oldest orchestra in the US, the CSO is well known throughout the world for its recordings and tours. For over 200 years, the CSO has brought evolutionary music to Ohio and continues to do so with its year-round performances. Hear them play in the historic Music Hall!