Childhood flies by in a flash, but luckily Cincinnati is packed with magical moments that will stick with your kids long after they’ve grown out of car seats and sippy cups. Whether you’re a first-time parent or have a full minivan, here are 10 must-do local experiences to check off your list before your child hits double digits.
1. Ride the Carol Ann Carousel at Smale Riverfront Park
Make a day of it at Smale Riverfront Park. Let the kids run through the splash fountains, explore the playgrounds, and top it all off with a whimsical ride on the Carol Ann Carousel—an iconic Queen City childhood moment.
2. See a Reds Game at Great American Ball Park
Even if baseball isn’t their thing, the family-friendly atmosphere (and that amazing ballpark view of the river) makes this a Cincinnati rite of passage. Don’t forget the Kid Zone and the free bobblehead giveaways on select dates!
3. Spend a Day at the Cincinnati Zoo
Home to fan favorites like Fiona the hippo, the Cincinnati Zoo is one of the best in the country. From Zoo Babies in the spring to Festival of Lights in the winter, there’s always something special going on.
4. All Aboard a Scenic Train Ride
Swap screen time for train time with a ride on the Lebanon Mason Monroe (LM&M) Railroad or the Cincinnati Dinner Train (for older kids). Themed rides like the Princess Express, Day Out with Thomas, or Pumpkin Patch Express make this experience extra magical and totally unforgettable.
5. Dig for Fossils at Trammel Fossil Park
Located in Sharonville, Trammel Fossil Park is one of the few places in Ohio where kids can dig for real 450-million-year-old fossils—and keep what they find! It’s a hands-on, totally free adventure that sparks curiosity and connects kids with the region’s ancient history in the most exciting way.
6. Have a Cone from the Original Graeter’s
There’s just something magical about a childhood trip to Graeter’s. Treat your kids to a scoop of Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip and let them see what all the hype is about.
7. Run the Bases at a Florence Y’alls or Dayton Dragons Game
Smaller stadiums, more kid-friendly vibes. These minor league games are packed with fun promotions, mascot races, and the chance for kids to run the bases after the game.
8. Explore the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
From the hands-on fun at the Children’s Museum to the awe-inspiring domed ceiling in the rotunda, Union Terminal is a spot every Cincinnati kid should explore at least once.
9. Cross the Purple People Bridge
Let your kids walk across state lines! The Purple People Bridge connects Cincinnati to Northern Kentucky and offers sweeping river views, padlock love traditions, and the thrill of “walking to another state.” Make a stop for ice cream at Newport on the Levee and turn it into a mini adventure.
10. Celebrate a Birthday at Kings Island
Whether they’re tall enough for The Beast or happy with Planet Snoopy, Kings Island is the ultimate birthday bucket list experience for Cincinnati-area kids.
Want more ideas for family fun in the Queen City? Check out ohparent.com for playground reviews, seasonal events, and hidden gems around Southwest Ohio.
