It’s February, which means you’re likely scattering to plan that perfect Valentine’s Day date with your partner. And we’ve got lots of ideas to suit your mood! But what if your favorite babysitter has plans?
We’re sharing our favorite places to plan a date – whether it’s a party of 2, 4 or more! So no worries if Grandma cancels at the last minute: we have lots of date nights in Cincinnati for both parents and families.
If you’re feeling adventurous…
Looking for a little adrenaline rush? If so, sign 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.
Meanwhile, The Beach is our go-to spot for family fun – and in winter, trade water slides for snow tubing at Beach Mountain! Kids over 42 inches can slide down the snowy, 400-foot long runs at Beach Mountain, and we have on good authority that this sledding hill is also loads of fun for parents!
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. (We recommend burgers at Mt. Adams Bar & Grill, followed by drinks at Blind Lemon.)
Brazee Street Studios is one of the most unique 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. If you get a little scared, just grab onto your partner. Your kids won’t be around to be grossed out.
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 are 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.
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. If you prefer a sit-down breakfast with the family, have a waffle at Taste of Belgium – they have a Banana Nutella Waffle. Yes. Please.
If you’re feeling “blah”
Winter got you down? Some endorphins might do the trick! Lace up your roller skates for some good, old-fashioned fun at Castle Skate Land in Loveland. We recommend going on a Wednesday for Blasts! From the Past Open Skate: from 6:30-8:30 p.m., you can roll around the rink jamming to tunes from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s (side note: when did the 90’s become “the past?”).
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 new 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 we are told the veggie wraps at Totter’s Otterville are worth the trip alone! Sit back with your beau while the kids run out their crazies.
For more date night fun, be sure to check out our Kids’ Night Out guide!
