Affordable Weekend Getaways: 12 Free Things to Do in Cincinnati

Cincinnati boasts a hefty lineup of cultural experiences, big-city gathering spots, unique culinary treats and a front-row seat to the Ohio River. And did we mention it can be surprisingly affordable? Browse our list of budget-friendly or free things to do in Cincinnati to see why it makes a fun and affordable weekend getaway.

Rove Along the Riverfront

From the picnic area in Fernbank Park, you can watch riverboats and barges navigate the Ohio River, or you can enjoy the open space to hike, fish or play catch. For views of the river from downtown, visit Smale Riverfront Park. With its splash fountains, unique carousel and view of the Roebling Suspension Bridge, it’s a great place to take photos.

Capture a View from the Carew

Get a birds-eye view of the city from the observation deck of Carew Tower, a stunning example of art deco architecture.

Speaking of photo ops, you can see the entire region from the 49th-floor observation deck of Carew Tower, the city's second-tallest building. It’s an art deco gem and a National Historic Landmark. Rates are $6 for ages 12 and older and $3 for kids 6 to 11 (cash only) – a small price for a big view.

Gather at Fountain Square

The Tyler Davidson Fountain serves as the centerpiece to Cincinnati’s main gathering space, Fountain Square.

Fountain Square is a public space that surrounds the historic Tyler Davidson Fountain at Fifth and Vine Streets, and a great place to satisfy your cravings at one of the many neighboring eateries or simply do a little people-watching. Every summer, the square transforms into a hub for free things to do in Cincinnati as it comes alive with concerts, salsa dancing and a big-screen LED board.

Browse 67,000+ Works of Art at the Cincinnati Art Museum

With its diverse collection of art, free admission and parking, and prime location in Eden Park, the Cincinnati Art Museum is one of the best free things to do in Cincinnati. Founded in 1881, it’s one of the oldest art museums in the U.S., featuring more than 67,000 pieces from as far back as 6,000 years.

Watch a Performance of Shakespeare in the Park

Spread out a blanket and soak in some of history’s greatest prose at a free performance of Shakespeare in the Park.

No list of free things to do in Cincinnati would be complete without Shakespeare in the Park, one of the country's largest free programs for outdoor theatre. Grab a blanket or lawn chair and head out to one of the many area locations to catch productions of A Midsummer Night's Dream, Macbeth or Romeo & Juliet — all guaranteed to provide a superb under-the-stars experience for the entire family.

Rent a Red Bike

See Cincinnati and burn some calories with their affordable Red Bike program.

Thanks to Cincinnati Red Bike, you can spend less on gas and parking and explore the city in a healthy and fun way. A 24-hour pass is only $8, although you'll need to check in every hour by docking your bike at one of the 57 stations located throughout the area.

Eat With the Locals at Camp Washington Chili

Stop by Camp Washington Chili for comfort food you won’t forget.

Since 1940, Camp Washington Chili has been serving a secret chili recipe that Cincinnatians love. It's no wonder Smithsonian Magazine named it one of "The 20 Most Iconic Food Destinations Across America." Order it on its own or with your choice of beans, spaghetti, cheese and bacon. It’s an inexpensive way to get an authentic and satisfying Cincinnati food experience.

Take a Walk on the Purple People Bridge

Stroll from state to state on the Purple People Bridge that connects Cincinnati to Newport, Kentucky.

The Newport Southbank Bridge, more popularly known as the Purple People Bridge, is a pedestrian-only bridge that spans the Ohio River between Cincinnati and Newport, Kentucky. The bridge sometimes hosts parties and events, making it a noteworthy addition to our list of free things to do in Cincinnati.

Unleash Your Inner Foodie at Findlay Market

Findlay Market offers tasty treats, fun culture and more in Ohio’s oldest public market.

Located in Cincinnati's beloved Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, Findlay Market is Ohio's oldest continuously operating public market. Get your fill of ethnic food, shop for fresh fish and poultry or grab a bouquet of flowers to brighten someone's day. Then head over to Findlay Market Biergarten for a refreshing, local craft brew.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Graeter's Ice Cream

Using the centuries-old French pot process, Graeter’s Ice Cream is twice as dense as the average scoop.

In 1870, Louis Graeter opened the first Graeter's Ice Cream shop in Cincinnati's Pendleton neighborhood, developing what later became known as the French pot process. Visit one of the 18 Cincinnati locations, where chocolate lovers go crazy for the enormous chocolate chunks in the signature Black Raspberry Chip.

Relive History at Union Terminal

Originally designed to accommodate 17,000 rail passengers a day, Union Terminal is now home to museums, an Omnimax theatre and more.

After the completion of a full renovation in 2018, Union Terminal is once again ready for visitors. Originally a bustling train station, Union Terminal was completed in 1933 and is home to the largest half-dome in the western hemisphere. Add it to your list of free things to do in Cincinnati and be sure to check out the old railroad tower (Tower A) and tour the rotunda.

Hone Your Music Trivia Skills in Washington Park

The whole family can enjoy the Cincinnati sunshine in Washington Park.

Rounding out our list of the best free things to do in Cincinnati is Washington Park, located across from Music Hall in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. At the park, you can test your knowledge of classical music by strolling through the American Classical Music Walk of Fame, which includes pictures, bios and audio tours. You can also enjoy a variety of free events – from group fitness classes to live storytelling – throughout the year.