It’s February, which means you’re likely trying to plan that perfect Valentine’s Day date. And we’ve got lots of ideas! Whether it’s a night out with girls (or guys!), some couples-only time, or a family adventure, Cincinnati has lots of fun spots for a memorable time.
Here are 20 great dates in Cincinnati:
If you’re feeling adventurous…
Looking for a little adrenaline rush? If so, sign you and your sweetie up for a zip-lining course at Camp Kern, located just north of Cincinnati. They do it year round, weather permitting, and it’s a great way to take your mind off of the stresses of parenthood! Bundle up and zip through the sky with your sweetie.
Head to Perfect North Slopes, where you and your family can ski, snow board and snow tube! Perfect North Slopes covers 220 acres of hills for beginner bunnies and advanced winter sportsmen, and its 26 tubing lanes offer something for everyone — there’s even a lane just for 3-6 year olds!
If you’re feeling musical…
The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra is about as romantic as it gets. Our world-renowned orchestra will give you all the feels, and its return to the newly renovated Music Hall means you’ll enjoy a great date night at one of Cincinnati’s most iconic locations.
For music-loving families, Linton PB&J Concerts are a must. Interactive and fun, kids are encouraged to get up and move during these 35-minute concerts. After the show, kids can enjoy one-on-one time with the musicians and even try out some of their favorite instruments.
If you’re looking for the full “Cincinnati” experience…
You’ll get the Cincinnati version of “dinner and a movie” by heading downtown! First, enjoy a romantic dinner for two at Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse — the ambiance (1940’s-era French Art Deco Steakhouses of New York City), atmosphere (live music and entertainment) and food (award-winning surf n’ turf and a dessert menu that’s to die for), you’re sure to have a night to remember. Afterwards, walk across the street to the Aronoff Center and take in a Broadway in Cincinnati show – this February’s School of Rock will surely be the perfect “encore” to your night!
For families, you can’t get more “Cincinnati” than the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum. This museum offers lots of opportunities for interactive fun — here’s an area to play catcher, a mini playground where kids can climb, slide and sit in giant catcher’s mitts, and a sportscaster booth, where you can do your best Marty by giving the play-by-play for a real game. Afterwards, walk over to Taste of Belgium and let the kids enjoy a Nutella-topped waffle.
ICYMI: Check out our February segment on Channel 12’s Good Morning Cincinnati: Our Top 5 Date Nights!
If you’re feeling artistic…
The Cincinnati Art Museum is one of the most romantic spots in the city. The views, the ambiance, the stunning displays. Enjoy an unhurried date night browsing the great works of art with your significant other. Bonus: admission is always free at the Art Museum! Afterwards, stroll through picturesque Eden Park or head to Mt. Adams for dinner for two.
Brazee Street Studios is one of the most unique art studios in town, and while glasswork doesn’t scream “kid friendly,” rest assured – it is! Kids get to pick their own glass, assemble their craft (classes range from bowls to dream catchers to emoji trivets!) and even bend glass pieces over an open flame. Safety goggles and lots of one-on-one instruction are provided. (Have a younger kid? Try one of Brazee’s Story Times – each craft time is based on a children’s book and geared toward tots 3-6!)
Looking for a fun night out for the kids while you go on an adults-only date? We love Skidaddles — it’s drop-in childcare with two convenient locations in Greater Cincinnati. Your kids will love the change of pace — and you’ll love that Skidaddles is the babysitter that’s always available!
If you’re feeling brave…
Learn about Cincinnati’s secrets during a Queen City Underground Tour. You’ll stroll through Over-the-Rhine and visit buildings in that were home to over 130 saloons, bars, beer gardens and theaters. Then the tour heads underground to visit old brewery tunnels — and a hidden crypt where some of Cincinnati’s first residents were buried. Afterwards, head to one of OTR’s many eateries.
Did you know Cincinnati had a castle? Located on the banks of the Little Miami in Loveland, Cincinnati’s Loveland Castle (“Chateau Laroche”) is an homage to medieval times. This authentic, full-scale castle was built brick by brick by Cincinnati native (Sir) Harry Andrews. Words, flails and all sorts of sharp weaponry decorate the walls — and a real, authentic dungeon awaits the bravest explorers down below. The Loveland Castle is open 7 days a week from April through September. From October through March, the Castle is open weekends only. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for kids.
If you’re feeling outdoorsy…
The Great Parks of Hamilton County is one of Cincinnati’s greatest assets. The parks span across over every corner of the county, so there’s likely a Great Park in your neighborhood. Sharon Woods features some of the most gorgeous walking trails in town, complete with cascading waterfalls, making it a super romantic place to hike with your Valentine.
Imagine a large labyrinth of trails, giant logs, kid-sized creeks, rocks, trees and mud. Everything is connected and contained… and your kids can touch, feel and manipulate to their hearts’ content. That’s the Marge & Charles Schott Cincinnati Nature Center PlayScape. Puddle jump. Build a family log cabin. Make mud pies. Enjoy playing with your kids in this outdoor space!
If you’re feeling hungry…
Oakley’s Red Feather has been on virtually every “top restaurant” list in town since its debut in 2013. This farm-to-table restaurant features local food and flavors that are so beautifully presented, the dishes are almost too gorgeous to eat. Enjoy a kid-free dinner for two at this local gem – afterwards, stop at Aglamesis for a sundae.
We love brunch family brunch dates! Head to OTR for out top picks. If you’re in the walking kind of mood, first, head to Coffee Emporium for your caffeine fix (hot cocoa for the kids); next, stop at Holtman’s Donut Shop for a fresh donut (you can’t go wrong with their classic glazed); finally head up to Findlay Market for browse/taste test time — you’ll never think of toast the same way again after a visit to Blue Oven’s Toast Bar.
If you’re feeling nostalgic…
Lace up your roller skates for some good, old-fashioned fun at Castle Skateland in Loveland. We recommend going on a Wednesday for Blasts! From the Past Open Skate: from 6:30-8:30 pm, you can roll around the rink jamming to tunes from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s — all for just $3/skater.
For families, a day at Scene75 can’t be beat. This indoor recreation outlet has it all: go-karts, laser tag, bumper cars, mini-golf, 4D theaters and an arcade! Every member of your family will be entertained at Scene75. And who doesn’t like bumper cars?
If you’re feeling lazy…
It’s a rare treat as a parent to enjoy a movie from start to finish! The Cobb Theatre in Liberty Township will spoil you with the reclining seats and delicious food. And you won’t even need to see a “G-rated” movie!
So maybe your kids don’t know the definition of lazy. We get it. We recommend heading to an Indoor Playground where you can let your kids run wild! Pogo Play has a café with coffee and wifi – and between its zip lines, trampoline park and rock walls, Zip City is sure to wear our the littles!
If you need a girls’/guys’ night out…
Mamas: gather the girls and head to Clothes Mentor! Have each friend fill out a personal profile ahead of time, and one of the personal shoppers at Clothes Mentor will hand-pick a selection of items that will be ready and waiting when you arrive. For a more formal girls’ night out, call the store ahead of time with your group’s information, and they might even provide wine and cheese for your party!
Dads and golf just go together. At Top Golf West Chester, guys can enjoy perfect golfing conditions year round. There are games are fun for players of any skill level; and targets are set up so even the little ones can compete on equal ground and enjoy all the fun. And if you need a break from golfing? There are pool tables, video games, interactive games and more. Dads can even sign up for golf leagues, for regular QT with his guy friends.
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