9 Family-Friendly Hidden Gems in Northern Kentucky

A quick swim (okay- don’t actually swim) across the river and you’re surrounded by fun Northern Kentucky activities and hidden gems. Explore a new-to-you NKY spot at one of these top 9 places:

Benton Farm

Meet the 3rd, 4th, and 5th generations still involved in the goal of teaching Agricultural Education to children and families on this non-profit 501-C3 working farm. There are many activities for all ages like the Little Farmers toddler/preschool program, Adventure Days on the Farm, Goat Yoga and school field trips. 11946 Old Lexington Pike, Walton, KY 41094

Florence Family Aquatic Center

This premier facility contains a lazy river, competition pool, zero depth pool that is accessible, two spray grounds, a spiral and a speed slides, sunbathing areas, shelters, funbrellas, bathhouse (including family restrooms), concessions area and a paved path surrounding the outside of the facility. There is a charge for daily admission to enter the facility. Swim lessons are offered for an additional charge. 8200 Ewing Boulevard, Florence, KY 41042

CVG Viewing Playground

Aviation-loving kiddos will be thrilled to watch airplanes land and take off at CVG from the viewing area playground. The fenced in area is in the full sun so don’t forget your sunscreen! Located on Donaldson Road east of the airport, open from 8a-10p.

Velocity Esports Newport

Velocity offers a vast selection of arcade games, premier esports lounges, bowling, social gaming, esports tournaments and other in person entertainment features. Velocity is the ultimate entertainment destination. Our locations feature state-of-the-art esports lounges with the latest technology and professional level gaming chairs, a vast selection of arcade games, prizes and 100+ esports titles. Riverwalk Level inside the Gallery, 1 Levee Wy Suite #2130, Newport, KY 41071

Behringer Crawford Museum Nature Play | Devou Park

NaturePlay is exactly what its name suggests – playing in nature. Traditional playground equipment – a slide and a swing – is given a new twist to make it even more fun. The tall slide follows the side of the hill and instead of a ladder, you climb up a rock formed stairwell to get back to the top.

The museum has evolved into an interactive, multi-dimensional cultural center offering education, art, music and history to generations of visitors and schoolchildren. Take a stroll through Behringer-Crawford Museum and you’ll discover interesting facts and fascinating exhibits that tell the story of Northern Kentucky’s history from prehistoric times to the present. 1600 Montague Road, Covington, KY 41011

Rabbit Hash General Store

The town’s name “Rabbit Hash” is said to have originated during the flood of 1847 when the abundant local rabbit population was driven to higher ground and became a food staple in a special stew called “hash.”The Rabbit Hash General Store looks untouched by both time and river waters. Its large front porch with roof overhang is the town’s social focal point. As a major tourist attraction, the Rabbit Hash General Store features historic antiques and collectibles. 10021 Lower River Rd, Rabbit Hash, KY 41005

rabbit hash
Photo courtesy of Kentucky Living

Vent Haven Museum

If you love massive collections, or unique museums, or off-the-beaten-path places, Vent Haven is a must see attraction for you.Ventriloquism is a cornerstone of entertainment history and only one place in the world is dedicated to this centuries old performance art…Vent Haven Museum! 33 West Maple Ave. Fort Mitchell, KY 41011

Schneider’s Sweet Shop

Known for their famous ice balls (shaved ice over ice cream), Schneider’s Sweet Shop brings back the memories of the old time corner ice cream and candy store you remember from years ago. Schneider’s has been serving the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area since 1939. Still using the same equipment, methods and time-tested recipes used by Robert Schneider Sr. handed down to his son Jack. Schneider’s makes all of their own chocolates and cream candies right on the premises, using only the freshest and purest ingredients. 420 Fairfield Ave, Bellevue, KY 41073

Schneider’s famous Ice Balls

Defy Florence

Better for big kids and teens, Defy is an absolute blast for kids AND adults! Play alongside your child as you bounce to the sky on trampolines, practice trapeze and aeriel silks, stunt fall, zip through zip lines, run through the ninja course and more! 4999 Houston Rd, Florence, KY 41042

defy in florence ky


The fun doesn’t stop here! Visit one of these top NKY playgrounds!

 

Southwest Ohio Parent
Southwest Ohio Parent
Midwest Parenting Publications published Cincinnati Parent for over 35 years and Dayton Parent for over 7 years. In 2021, the two merged to become Southwest Ohio Parent, expanding our reach into the growing Southwest Ohio market. At SW Ohio Parent, we proudly serve as the top parenting resource magazine and website for Cincinnati, Dayton, and the surrounding communities. Every day, we strive to deliver exactly what our readers need and are 100% dedicated to providing parents with the most trusted resources to find local events for every day of the week, community service organizations, and businesses that cater to the family market.

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