Cincy can be chilly for at least half of the year. So, what do you do when you want to dine outdoors, but it’s just too darn cold outside? Eat in an outdoor igloo!
Many restaurants around Cincinnati are using plastic igloos (or pods, or greenhouses) to give visitors more seating options during the colder months. These cozy, private igloos are certainly cool to dine in. (You’re sitting in a dome outside! How awesome is that?). But also, many of these outdoor igloos are heated and come with bonuses like personal Bluetooth speakers to play your own music.
Things to Know About Outdoor Igloos
Here are some tips for having a great dining experience in an outdoor igloo:
- Most outdoor igloos and personal greenhouses are heated. But remember: They are still located outside, so they can be chilly. Come prepared for the elements! Bringing blankets is usually encouraged.
- Children are typically welcome at outdoor igloos, but very young children might not enjoy the tight, enclosed conditions.
- Outdoor igloos are popular, and most require reservations. Some restaurants will also require a minimum food and beverage purchase, or ask that you do not bring outside food and drinks. Check with the restaurant before visiting.
Where to Find Restaurants with Outdoor Igloos in Cincinnati
Looking for a place around Cincy to eat in an igloo? Check out these places!
Related Article: Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in Cincinnati
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The AC Upper Deck
Address: 135 Joe Nuxhall Way Cincinnati, OH 45202
Time limit: Hour and a half
More info: acupperdeck.com/couch-rental
Book your igloo on the AC Upper Deck! The igloos can fit 8 guests per igloo and are located on the north side of our rooftop bar. You’ll enjoy a cozy warm enclosed space with your guests. Each igloo contains seating for 8 people, a small heater and space to enjoy cocktails and small bites while mixing and mingling with your guests. Igloo rentals require a $32 non-refundable reservation fee at the time of booking. The listed food and beverage minimum for your chosen date and time must be met by the end of your time slot on the night of your reservation.
Braxton Brewing
Address: 27 W. Seventh St. Covington, KY 41011
Time limit: 2.5 Hours
More info: https://store.braxtonbrewing.com/products/igloobar
Each heated igloo can accommodate up to 8 people comfortably and features cushioned seating, a dedicated Bluetooth speaker (upon request), & cozy decor. During your 2.5 hour time slot, you can enjoy food and an array of beverages. If interested, ask your bartender about our drink package upon your arrival. Only 21+
Catch-A-Fire Pizza
Address: 9290 Kenwood Road, Blue Ash, OH 45242
Time limit: 2 Hours
More info: https://www.catchafirepizza.com/igloos
Catch-A-Fire offers 3 small igloos, perfect for couples and 3 large igloos that can accommodate up to 6 people. Igloos are heated and all igloos feature bluetooth speakers so that you can add your favorite tunes to the party. Your group will be served food & drink from the full menu by staff as well as an Igloo only tasting menu. Reservations Required!
Chill Room by Velocity Esports
Address: Aquarium Plaza | One Levee Way, Newport, KY 41071
More info: https://www.newportonthelevee.com/events/chill-room
Open for the Holiday Season (closes March 19, 2024)
Raise a toast to staying toasty! Newport on the Leeve just opened a new Chill Room by Velocity Esports. Guests can chill out in a holiday themed igloo while enjoying the views. Step into this new winter wonderland experience to enjoy food and festive cocktails all provided by Velocity Esports.
DeSha’s American Tavern
Address: 11320 Montgomery Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45249
Time limit: 2 Hours
More info: https://deshas.com/
The igloos at DeSha’s American Tavern is recommended 6 guests or fewer (families with small kids could seat up to 8 max). Each igloo features a heated fireplace, air purifier, festive string lights, lanterns, and plants for a cozy ambiance.
Sunday Afternoon Picnics
Address: Serving the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area
More info: https://www.sundayafternoonpicnics.com/
Picnics aren’t just for warm summer walks by the river anymore. Leave your baskets at home and let Sunday Afternoon Picnics do the work! Prearrange all the details for your proposal, best friend lunch, birthday dinner or date night and simply show up to your fully curated picnic. Location, time, food, guests (up to 10) and themes are fully customizable for an intimate, fun date outdoors.
The View at Shires’ Garden
Address: 309 Vine Street, 10th Floor Cincinnati, OH 45202
Time limit: 2 Hours
More info: https://shiresrooftop.com/igloos/
These Garden Igloo and Terrace Greenhouse experiences at The View at Shires’ Garden provide our guests with a unique setting under the stars, with panoramic views of the riverfront and stadiums from the tenth floor terrace! These Domes and Greenhouses can accommodate a variety of different sized groups and are perfectly suited for a fun night out with family, friends and colleagues, or a romantic date night! The Igloos and Greenhouses come equipped with heat, and a bluetooth speaker.
Special Recognition:
Fifty West Brewing Company
Address: 7605 US-50, Cincinnati, OH 45227
More info: https://fiftywestbrew.com/outdoor-fun/
Although not technically igloos, Fifty West West Brewing Company has created a winter wonderland of family fun including bonfire pits, heated tents, hot chocolate and ice skating that rounds out the wintry experience.
Bridgeview Box Park Newport on the Levee
Address: 1 Levee Way Newport, KY
More info: newportonthelevee.com
There’s no need to hibernate this winter! Grab a drink outdoor at Bridgeview Box Park, minus the frostbite. Visit the Bridgeview Box Park winter tent!
The Blind Lemon
Address: 936 Hatch Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
More info: https://theblindlemon.com/
Situated in the center of Mt. Adams, The Blind Lemon stands as a cherished Cincinnati establishment, shrouded in secrecy for close to 60 years. A sign beckons those passing by with the enticing message, ‘the garden is open,’ guiding them through a pathway to unveil a cozy brick courtyard. This outdoor haven transforms with the seasons, boasting flourishing greenery in spring and summer, while a grandiose fire pit invites guests to gather around and enjoy its warmth during the crisp days of fall and winter.