Spring’s finally here, and honestly? We’ve earned it. After months of gray skies and chilly weather, Cincinnati and Dayton are showing off with blooming flowers, bright trees, and that fresh, warm air that makes you actually want to be outside. If you’re itching to get out and see some color—maybe snap a few pics, take a walk, or just breathe in that spring vibe—here are some of the best places to check out the blooms around town.
-MORE SPRING FUN-
Cincinnati:
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Throughout April, the zoo hosts “Zoo Blooms,” showcasing one of the Midwest’s largest tulip displays, aptly named “Tulip Mania.” Visitors can admire over 100,000 tulips, along with daffodils, hyacinths, and flowering trees. 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220
Ault Park
Renowned for its stunning cherry blossoms, Ault Park becomes a picturesque setting in late March and early April. The delicate pink and white flowers create a serene atmosphere ideal for walks and photography. 5090 Observatory Circle, Cincinnati, OH 45208
Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum
This historic cemetery features a 733-acre garden with blooming trees and vibrant flower displays. It’s a favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts, especially during the spring months. 4521 Spring Grove Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45232
Smale Riverfront Park
Located along the Ohio River, this park offers beautiful floral arrangements, including daffodils and Virginia bluebells, with scenic views of the Roebling Suspension Bridge. 100 W. Mehring Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Eden Park
At the corner of Eden Park Drive and Martin Drive, across from the Krohn Conservatory, is the Hinkle Gazebo and Magnolia Garden. Early April is peak bloom time for the magnolia trees — don’t miss this once-a-year spectacle. (If you want to catch even more flowers, you can walk up the street to Mirror Lake, where you’ll be treated to the flowering rosebud and cherry trees that line the lake). 950 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45202
California Woods Nature Preserve
Located in California Woods Nature Preserve, the Trillium Trail offers a chance to see a multitude of wildflowers. Now through late April, you can find yellow trout lilies, Dutchman’s breeches, spring beauty and trillium. 5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230
Cincinnati Nature Center
Located in Milford, Ohio, the center spans over 1,800 acres and offers a variety of trails through diverse habitats, showcasing a rich array of native wildflowers during the spring season. One of the highlights is the appearance of Virginia bluebells (Mertensia virginica), which adorn the forest floor with their vibrant blue hues. 4949 Tealtown Rd., Milford, OH 45150
Washington Park
Situated in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, Washington Park features beautifully landscaped flowerbeds that come alive with colorful blooms in spring. The park’s fountains and historic gazebo add to its charm, making it a delightful spot for leisurely walks and photography. 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Lytle Park
Known for its seasonal flower beds, Lytle Park offers a serene urban oasis with vibrant tulip displays in spring. The park’s historical significance and well-maintained gardens provide a picturesque setting for visitors. 501 E. 4th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Mount Airy Arboretum
Part of the larger Mount Airy Forest, this 120-acre arboretum boasts a diverse collection of over 5,000 plants. Springtime brings a variety of blooming trees and flowers, offering a tranquil environment for nature enthusiasts. 5083 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223
Dayton:
Cox Arboretum MetroPark
This 189-acre arboretum features a variety of gardens and walking trails. The Flowering Tree Allée, lined with Kousa dogwood trees, offers beautiful spring blooms. 6733 Springboro Pike, Dayton, OH 45449
Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark
Known for its formal gardens and the Marie Aull Nature Trail, this park showcases a diverse array of spring flowers. The Swamp Forest Boardwalk is also a highlight for nature walks. 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton, OH 45414
Aullwood Garden MetroPark
This park offers a variety of wildflowers and cultivated gardens, providing a peaceful setting to enjoy spring blooms. 955 Aullwood Rd., Dayton, OH 45414
Carillon Historical Park
While better known for its historical exhibits, the grounds come alive in spring with blooming trees and flowers—especially around the Carillon Tower and along the Great Miami River. 1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton, OH 45409
Hills & Dales MetroPark
This Olmsted-designed park is a hidden gem with mature trees, seasonal wildflowers, and tranquil walking paths. Spring ephemerals like bloodroot and trout lily can be spotted in wooded areas. 2655 S. Patterson Blvd., Kettering, OH 45409
Charleston Falls Preserve (Tipp City area)
A bit north of Dayton, this preserve is known for its scenic waterfall and beautiful spring wildflowers that line the trails through woodlands and meadows. 2535 Ross Rd., Tipp City, OH 45371
Sugarcreek MetroPark
Located in Sugarcreek Township, this park features a large wildflower area with trails winding through it, providing a beautiful display of blooms during the spring season. 4178 Conference Rd., Bellbrook, OH 45305
Possum Creek MetroPark
This park offers ephemeral wildflowers, including skunk cabbage, bloodroot, and trout lilies, providing a delightful experience for nature enthusiasts. 4790 Frytown Rd., Dayton, OH 45417
Phillips Park
Situated in Beavercreek, Phillips Park is a favorite spring destination with beautiful flower displays, making it ideal for leisurely walks and picnics. 2132 Dayton Xenia Rd., Beavercreek, OH 45434
Cedar Ridge Trails
Located in Miamisburg, Cedar Ridge Trails offers u-pick lavender and wildflowers, as well as art and wellness events through early October. 8040 Washington Church Rd., Miamisburg, OH 45342
Frost Farmstead
Situated in Xenia, Frost Farmstead provides u-pick flowers, sunset yoga, farm-to-table dinners, and farmstead glamping, offering a unique experience amidst blooming flowers. 4885 US-68, Xenia, OH 45385
