Places to go with Baby in Tow

Summer’s a great time to get out and explore. But what if you want to get out of the house with a baby or toddler? No problem! This handy guide offers plenty of inspiration for your next family adventure in the Cincinnati and Dayton areas. Get out and about with baby:

Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sunday, 12-5 p.m. 

2600 Deweese Pkwy, Dayton

What began as the Dayton Museum of Natural History in 1893, has grown into a hands-on learning center for families as Dayton’s zoo, natural history museum, children’s museum, science and technology center and planetarium. 

Carol Ann’s Carousel

Summer Hours: Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

8 East Mehring Way, Cincinnati

A day along Cincinnati’s Ohio riverfront isn’t complete without a ride on Carol Ann’s Carousel. Located in a glass enclosure, weather isn’t a problem. Take in the delightful panels and colorful characters to ride. Kids less than 42 inches must be accompanied by an adult. 

Cincinnati Museum Center 

Open Thursday through Monday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 

1301 Western Ave. Cincinnati

Conveniently located in one historic location, admission allows entrance into the Cincinnati History Museum, Museum of Natural History and the Children’s Museum. Both the History and Natural History Museums have stroller-friendly access and exhibits that will stimulate even the youngest visitors. The Children’s Museum provides hands-on fun for all ages, including two exhibits designed for babies through preschool ages.

Entertrainment Junction

Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sunday, 12-6 p.m.

7379 Squire Court, West Chester

Discover the world’s largest indoor train display; slide, climb and play in the children’s area; and visit the funhouse. A hand-cranked railroad car ride and a narrow-gauge train ride are available Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Freshwater Farms of Ohio

Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

2624 N U.S. Highway 68, Urbana

This is Ohio’s largest indoor fish hatchery. Exploring this locale is free and fun for all ages. The Sturgeon Petting Zoo offers the chance to touch one of these rare and endangered fish. The Trout Feeding Frenzy delights with lots of splashes as you hand-feed the fish. Educational displays inform during your visit. Mark your calendars for fall fun with the Fish and Shrimp Festival September 9, 16 and 23. 

Hamilton County Parks 

Hamilton County Parks offer lots of kid-friendly activities year-round. Summer highlights include the children’s Highfield Discovery Garden at Glenwood Gardens (separate admission is required). While at Glenwood Gardens, visit the brand-new Music Garden. Wet playgrounds are offered for separate admission at Woodland Mound and Winton Woods. Children must be supervised, and babies and toddlers must wear a swim diaper under a swimsuit. 

Kids First Sports Center

7900 E Kemper Rd., Cincinnati

Kids First Sports Center offers classes and programs for all ages, including babies. The Baby Bees classes (for ages 6 weeks to pre-walking) help babies and parents bond while working on the infant’s social, cognitive and physical development. These 30-45 minute classes create a play outlet to improve the mind-body connection using both fine and gross motor movements.

Music Together of South Dayton

3899 Indian Ripple Rd., Beavercreek

Sing, dance, play and learn at Music Together, which offers classes for babies that nurture a child’s growth and music development within their first months of life. Mixed-age family classes are also available, and include songs, rhythmic rhymes, movement and instrument play for families with kids who are infants to 5 years old.

Storybook Trails at Ohio State Parks

Bring books to life and immerse yourself in these family-friendly trails that offer an opportunity for kids and adults to explore nature and the joy of reading at the same time. Trails are at various locations throughout the state, including parks and libraries. An interactive map allows families to easily plan a visit and view access for strollers and wheelchairs. 

Young’s Dairy

Hours vary

6880 Springfield-Xenia Rd., Springfield

No matter your age, summer isn’t complete without ice cream. Young’s Dairy is a must-stop whether you’re from the area or not. The Dairy Store offers ice cream and full meals. The Farm Animal Petting Area and Barn are always a hit, especially for babies and toddlers, offering them a chance to get up close with cows and other farm animals. 

Related: Best Baby Gifts in Cincinnati

Babies don’t stay babies for very long. Make the most of this special time together by visiting these spots made to go out and about with baby.