From lush parks and cheering on local sports teams to enjoying the thriving arts scene and savoring unique culinary delights, Cincy is brimming with things to do. Choosing a hobby is a great way to unwind after a long day at work, but with so many options, it can be overwhelming to pick the right one.
To help you on your path to relaxation, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 things to do in Cincinnati, OH that are sure to bring joy to your free time.
1. Hiking
If you’re into more adventurous activities, Cincinnati has you covered. The city and surrounding areas boast over 93 scenic trails, with a few standout spots that are especially popular. Mount Airy Forest offers 1,459 acres with 13 miles of trails ranging from easy loops to challenging terrain. Another favorite is the Bender Mountain Loop Trail in the Bender Mountain Nature Preserve, known for its rugged, steep climbs. For a real challenge, venture out to the Red River Gorge in Kentucky or tackle the 45-mile Knobstone Trail in southern Indiana, known for its tough terrain and elevation changes.
2. Ziplining
Ziplining is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the area. Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced, there are options for everyone. Ozone Zipline Adventures offers a beginner-friendly experience with a 120-foot mobile zipline that can be set up at events. For those with a bit more experience, Zip Cincy at Sawyer Point offers a variety of courses and aerial adventures.
3. Urban axe throwing
Looking for something a bit different? Urban axe throwing is a unique and thrilling activity that’s gained popularity in Cincinnati. Check out Urban Axes Cincinnati, America’s premier indoor competitive axe throwing venue, where you can learn and practice in a fun, safe environment.
4. Biking
Cycling is another beloved hobby in Cincinnati, thanks to its extensive network of bike trails. The 23-mile Ohio River Trail and the Loveland Bike Trail are two of the most scenic routes, offering picturesque rides along rivers and green spaces. Plus, the city’s bike-sharing program, Red Bike, makes it easy for both residents and visitors to explore the city on two wheels. Cincinnati also has a vibrant cycling community, with groups organizing regular rides and events.
5. Water sports
If you enjoy being on the water, Cincinnati has plenty to offer. The Ohio River provides ample opportunities for boating, with local marinas offering various types of rentals, from pontoons to motorboats. The area also has several rivers and lakes perfect for kayaking and canoeing, including the Whitewater River, the Ohio River and the lakes at Miami Whitewater Forest. Kayaks and canoes are available for rent from local outfitters.
6. Parks and gardens
Cincinnati is home to a variety of beautiful parks and gardens, perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely stroll. Eden Park is one of the city’s most popular parks, featuring the Cincinnati Art Museum, Playhouse in the Park, and Krohn Conservatory. Krohn Conservatory, a renowned botanical garden in Eden Park, houses over 3,500 plant species from around the world and is one of Cincinnati’s most treasured attractions.
7. Arts and crafts
Cincinnati has a thriving arts and crafts scene with plenty of opportunities to explore your creative side. The Baker Hunt Art Center in Covington offers affordable classes in ceramics, glass, printmaking, fiber arts, and more. You can also check out Final Fridays at the Pendleton Art Center, where local artists showcase their work. For group activities, there are craft meetups focused on embroidery, cross-stitch and other crafts.
8. Historical and educational pastimes
For those interested in history and education, Cincinnati has several attractions worth exploring. The Cincinnati Observatory is a must-visit for astronomy enthusiasts, housing one of the oldest working telescopes in the world. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center offers educational experiences through its exhibits and special events, focusing on the history of the Underground Railroad and the ongoing fight for freedom.
9. Board games
Cincinnati has a thriving board game community, with several notable game stores and venues like Yottaquest, Woodburn Games, and Rockin’ Rooster Comics & Games. These stores often host game nights, tournaments and other events, making it easy to connect with fellow gamers. Cincinnati Arsenal Gaming also organizes demos, tournaments and gaming sessions to bring enthusiasts together.
10. Book Clubs
If reading is more your speed, joining a book club is a great way to expand your social circle and explore different genres. The Cincinnati Public Library is known for hosting book clubs, providing a space for members to engage in discussions about various books’ themes and characters.
But… where do you put all of your hobby gear? Self storage is your best bet in Cincy
Most hobbies require equipment and supplies, which can quickly take up valuable space in your home. This is where self-storage units come in handy for hobbyists. Whether it’s sports gear, musical instruments or craft supplies, self-storage offers a convenient solution to keep your home clutter-free. For example, hiking gear, ziplining equipment and bikes can all be safely stored in a self-storage unit, ready for your next adventure.
The best part? Self-storage in Cincinnati is relatively affordable—cheaper than getting a bigger apartment to fit all your hobby equipment. If you need to store something basic, like hiking or camping gear, a 5’x5′ unit, at around $45 per month, should do the trick.
Another popular size is the 10’x10′ unit, which can fit a variety of belongings, from extra furniture and appliances to home decor, tools you don’t use daily, and so on. The average cost of a 10’ x10’ storage unit in Cincinnati is $94/month. However, if you plan on storing something larger, like a boat, for example, you need to rent – a 10’x 20′ or higher, which can cost up to $214/month.
Whatever hobby you choose, make sure it’s something you love and that brings you happiness. After all, the most important thing is to enjoy your free time doing what makes you happy!
This article was written by Sipos Diana. Diana has been passionate about media since she was in highschool and is now a Marketing Intern at Yardi. Her strong interest in writing led her to study Journalism for her B.A. Currently, she’s pursuing her M.A in Digital Media and Game Studies.
