With Spring here and summer soon coming we thought we would compile a list of free things that are kid-friendly in Cincinnati.
Smale Park
Smale Riverfront Park
Enjoy the sunshine and river breezes at this 45-acre park along the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati. Kids will love all the activities at the playground and go Vibrantscape which includes slides, rock climbing, a giant foot piano and misters and fountains to cool off on a hot summer day.
Fountain Square
From live music to salsa dancing to festivals to markets, there’s always something fun happening in the heart of downtown Cincinnati at the Square! Or just enjoy a leisurely lunch or an ice cream cone in the sunshine during the warmer months.
Washington Park
This park right across the street from historic Music Hall features an event lawn, playground for kids, interactive water features, a bandstand gazebo with live musical acts, a dog park and more. It’s great for hanging out, enjoying a picnic, or participating in any of the free programmings like movie nights, live music, kids activities and special holiday events.
Newport on the Levee
This riverfront destination features shopping, dining and amazing views of the river and Cincinnati skyline. Enjoy live music Thursday evenings in warmer months, and many weekends offer free live entertainment or special events, as well.
Festivals
We love to celebrate – food, seasons, sports, you name it! – and many popular annual festivals offer free admission! Plan to visit Taste of Cincinnati during Memorial Day Weekend or Western & Southern/WEBN Fireworks during Labor Day Weekend. And don’t forget about your local church festival. There is one every weekend starting in June!
Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County
Enjoy a relaxing read in the urban library’s Walnut Street Garden with lush plantings and bubbling fountain walled off from the hustle and bustle of the city. Or view one of its rotating art exhibits or partake in the frequent free programming throughout the year. First Lady Michelle Obama presented the 2013 National Medal for Museum and Library Service to the library so you know it must be good!
Taft Museum of Art (Free on Sundays)
This National Historic Landmark was home to the half-brother of President William Howard Taft. (President Taft accepted the nomination for U. S. president underneath the house’s portico.) It now features works of art by Rembrandt, Goya, Gainsborough, Whistler, Sargent and more, as well as the greatest Gothic ivory sculpture in America.
(Information provided by CincinnatiUSA.com)