The fourth largest park in Cincinnati, Ault Park transforms during the summer into a colorful outdoor wonderland. The beautiful Summer Dance Series gardens bring a splash of bright flowers not seen in any other park. Enjoy this floral explosion as you walk along the paths, or join in on one of the many festivities in the large pavilion.
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.
Follow the Boy Scout guide, available for free printing on the website, for the Dan Beard Riverwalk. This simple, 5-mile recreational trail follows the riverfront starting from the famous Newport Southbank Bridge, originally known as the L&N Bridge and popularly dubbed the Purple People Bridge. Just follow the inset Riverwalk logos and read through the guide to discover some interesting history along the trail.
Aptly named, Eden Park closely resembles a paradise in your own backyard. This large park houses a number of popular attractions, including the Cincinnati Art Museum, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, Hinkle Magnolia Garden and the Krohn Conservatory. Explore these venues as you meander through the park’s groves, gardens and gazebos.
Learn how to cast a reel at Folz Fishing Lakes. These catch and release lakes are stuffed with all kinds of enormous fish: carps, bluecats, shovelheads, bass, bluegill and more. Rent a fishing pole and some live bait to take out onto the two beautifully maintained, tree-lined lakes for a great way to unwind.
Enter into a whole new world at the Krohn Conservatory, an architecturally impressive Art Deco greenhouse. Inside this immense glass and aluminum construction is a wide variety of constantly changing horticultural exhibits and attractions. See plants from all over the world up close, and plan your visit right to see the popular "Butterfly Show" in the spring.
Down by the Lunken Airport Playfield is the Lunken Playfield Loop, a 5-mile paved recreation trail that can be found behind the airport. Get some fresh air in the city and enjoy the wide-open views, and the spectacular sight of airplanes taking off and landing nearby, as you hike, jog, bike or skate in this large loop.
The largest park in Cincy, Mount Airy Forest offers visitors an impressive 1,471 acres of natural and planned landscapes to explore at their leisure. Walk through miles of scenic hiking and recreational trails or even bring out a horse for the bridle trails off Diehl Road. Sneak in a bit more walking when you wander through the giant public treehouse.
Roam the 84 acres of Mt. Echo and explore the area’s rolling hills, outdoor beauty, challenging hiking trails and historic sites. Well known for its spectacular view of downtown Cincinnati, this park is famous for its scenic outlooks and picturesque picnic areas, so be sure to bring your camera!
During the snowy winter months, head up to the Perfect North Slopes. Whether you are new to the world of skiing or have mastered the art of flying down the slopes, you’ll be sure to find a wintery sports and recreation adventure in store for you at this ski resort. Not willing to strap on skis or a snowboard? Try snow tubing—safe and fun for all ages!
Near the banks of the Ohio River you’ll find Sawyer Point. This large segment of Cincinnati’s Central Riverfront is filled to the brim with fun activities. The meticulously kept landscape draws in those who want a bit of green in the midst of the concrete jungle. Listen to a band playing on the pavilion or take advantage of the outdoor skating rink, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, playground and water features.
Join the aptly named Scenic River Canoe Excursions for an unforgettable water recreation trip down the breathtaking Little Miami River. One of the best places to canoe or kayak in the Cincinnati area, this tranquil little river is a bit out of the way, so you won’t be fighting high-volumes of traffic and will have more time to concentrate on the beauty of the waterway.
Named in honor of Cincinnati’s first African American mayor, the Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park acts as a permanent outdoor tribute of the city’s dedication to world unity and global understanding. Designed to resemble a friendship bracelet, this sumptuous park features intertwining walkways, gardens bursting with flowers and several sculptures dotting the landscape.
Head to the best wakeboarding spot in the Tri-State area to put your water sports abilities to the test. Wake Nation Cincinnati is the first and only cable wake park in the area, suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. Use the 10-acre lake to wakeboard, kneeboard, wake skate and water ski without the use of a boat!