How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Cincinnati, United States
1. Fountain Square
Central park with a large fountain and surrounded by shops and restaurants. Avoid high prices by dining at nearby local eateries.
- Local Eateries Nearby: Discover affordable food options within walking distance.
- Food Trucks: Take advantage of diverse and budget-friendly street food vendors in the area.
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowded restaurants and higher prices.
2. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Home of the first gorilla born in human care, Fiona. Avoid long lines and prices by purchasing tickets online ahead of time.
- Online Ticketing: Secure your admission to skip the ticket line and save time.
- Bring a Picnic: Save money by bringing your own lunch instead of dining at the zoo's restaurants.
- Early or Late Visit: Visit during off-peak hours to enjoy a less crowded experience.
3. BrewRiver Queen City Bike Rental
Explore the city on two wheels with BrewRiver's bike rentals. Avoid touristy routes by asking for recommendations from the staff.
- Staff Recommendations: Gain insider knowledge of the best routes to explore Cincinnati.
- Group Discounts: Save money by renting bikes in groups or taking advantage of daily specials.
- Bike Tour Options: Join a guided tour to discover hidden gems and lesser-known areas of the city.
4. Findlay Market
A historic public market offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and food stalls. Avoid tourist prices by shopping at local vendors.
- Local Vendors: Discover authentic products made by local artisans.
- Market Tours: Join a guided tour to learn about the market's history and gain tips for finding the best deals.
- Asking for Samples: Taste food samples before making a purchase to ensure you get the best quality products.
5. Cincinnati Music Hall
Iconic performance venue hosting orchestras and shows. Save money by checking for student discounts or last-minute ticket deals.
- Student Discounts: Take advantage of reduced prices if you're a student with a valid ID.
- Last-Minute Deals: Save money by purchasing tickets closer to the event date.
- Group Discounts: Join a group or gather friends for group discounts on tickets.
6. Cincinnati Art Museum
One of the oldest and most renowned art museums in the United States. Save money by visiting during free admission days.
- Free Admission Days: Plan your visit around free admission days to save on entry fees.
- Membership Discounts: Consider purchasing a membership for unlimited, discounted access.
- Temporary Exhibits: Check the museum's website for upcoming temporary exhibitions and plan your visit accordingly.
7. National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
Museum dedicated to the history of slavery and the Underground Railroad. Save money by purchasing a combination ticket with other museums.
- Combination Tickets: Save on admission fees by purchasing combination tickets for multiple attractions.
- Group Discounts: Join a group or gather friends for group discounts on tickets.
- Guided Tours: Learn more about the exhibits with a guided tour led by knowledgeable museum staff.
8. Cincinnati Observatory
Historic astronomical observatory offering telescope viewing and exhibits. Save money by checking for deals on their website.
- Website Deals: Find discounted tickets or special offers on the observatory's website.
- Group Discounts: Join a group for group discounts on admission fees.
- Astronomy Lectures: Attend free public lectures or events for a more affordable way to learn about astronomy.
9. Cincinnati Reds Game
Cheer on the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park. Save money by purchasing tickets in advance or for select games.
- Advance Purchase Discounts: Purchase tickets ahead of time to secure lower prices.
- Promotional Games: Take advantage of special promotions, like dollar dog nights or fireworks shows.
- Group Discounts: Join a group for group discounts on tickets and enjoy the game with friends.
10. Over-the-Rhine Neighborhood
Vibrant historic neighborhood filled with unique shops, bars, and restaurants. Save money by exploring off the beaten path.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Exploration: Discover hidden gems by venturing away from popular tourist areas.
- Local Shops: Find affordable, unique items at locally owned shops.
- Street Food Vendors: Sample street food from a variety of cultures for an affordable meal.
11. Cincinnati Art Museum Rookwood Pottery
Exhibition featuring the historic Rookwood Pottery company's work. Save money by shopping at the gift shop for discounted items.
- Gift Shop Discounts: Find affordable, unique souvenirs at the museum's gift shop.
- Membership Discounts: Consider purchasing a membership for unlimited, discounted access to the museum and its gift shop.
- Artist Talks: Attend free artist talks or demonstrations to learn more about the Rookwood Pottery process.
12. Cincinnati Nature Center
Preserve with hiking trails, wildlife exhibits, and education programs. Save money by visiting during free admission days or purchasing a membership.
- Free Admission Days: Plan your visit around free admission days to save on entry fees.
- Membership Discounts: Consider purchasing a membership for unlimited, discounted access.
- Group Discounts: Join a group or gather friends for group discounts on admission fees.
13. Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra
World-class orchestra performing at Music Hall. Save money by checking for student discounts or last-minute ticket deals.
- Student Discounts: Take advantage of reduced prices if you're a student with a valid ID.
- Last-Minute Deals: Save money by purchasing tickets closer to the event date.
- Group Discounts: Join a group or gather friends for group discounts on tickets.
14. Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
Comprehensive museum complex with exhibits on science, history, and culture. Save money by visiting during free admission days or purchasing a membership.
- Free Admission Days: Plan your visit around free admission days to save on entry fees.
- Membership Discounts: Consider purchasing a membership for unlimited, discounted access.
- Group Discounts: Join a group or gather friends for group discounts on admission fees.
15. Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum
Museum dedicated to the history and legacy of the Cincinnati Reds. Save money by purchasing tickets in advance or for select games.
- Advance Purchase Discounts: Purchase tickets ahead of time to secure lower prices.
- Promotional Games: Take advantage of special promotions, like dollar dog nights or fireworks shows.
- Group Discounts: Join a group for group discounts on tickets and enjoy the museum with friends.