35 Fun Things To Do In Cincinnati Ohio With Kids

The queen city sits majestically along the banks of the Ohio River, offering families a diverse selection of activities. The number of things to do in Cincinnati, Ohio, with kids, will have you creating a bucket list in no time. 

Home to the award-winning Cincinnati Zoo, the Midwest’s largest amusement park, intriguing museums, and more, it is easy to spend a long weekend or even a week discovering all that the city has to offer.

Whether you are planning a family vacation or a local looking for outing ideas or a list of family-friendly attractions in Cincinnati is bound to keep your crew busy.

How To Get To Cincinnati

Cincinnati is located in the southwestern corner of Ohio. It welcomes travelers from all over the United States and the world. The best highways to utilize to get to Cincinnati include Interstate 75 and 71.

They merge at the Ohio River and split off once you cross the bridge into downtown Cincinnati.

For those flying to Cincinnati, you will fly into the Cincinnati/ Northern Kentucky International Airport. Lovingly known as CVG, which stands for Covington, KY. Car rental is available at the airport.

Keep in mind the airport is roughly 15 minutes from Cincinnati. There is often heavy traffic in the “cut-in-the-hill” on Interstate 75 leading into the city, extending your travel time. However, it is one of the prettiest views of the city.

Cincinnati is home to an Amtrak station in the Cincinnati Museum Center, Union Terminal.

The Top Cincinnati Attractions

Are you planning a weekend getaway or a quick stop in Cincinnati? Locals will all agree that these are a few of the must-see attractions while visiting.

Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden

Cincinnati’s most famous celebrity resides at the Cincinnati Zoo. If you are lucky, you may even be able to snag a quick photo with her! Fiona took to national news as the smallest premie hippo to survive.

Millions cheered the little hippo on to wellness as we waited with bated breath for the next zoo update to be released.

Now Fiona is a superstar, showing off for her adoring fans at Hippo Cove. The Cincinnati Zoo has been named one of the best zoos in the country. Along with being one of the top attractions in the city. With a sprawling African Savannah, Cat Canyon, and exciting animal encounters.

Feed the giraffes at Giraffe Ridge, walk with the kangaroos in Roo Valley, or brush the goats at the Petting Zoo.

The Children’s Zoo leaves a lot to be desired. There is a small play structure, a few animals in the pens, and the goats. Petting and brushing the goats is the highlight of the Children’s Zoo.

During the wintertime, the zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with its Festival of Lights. The Festival of Lights is a busy time at the zoo, so I recommend visiting during the week and arriving early.

Local Tips

• The best times to visit the zoo are when they first open or two hours before closing for lower crowds.
• Buy your tickets ahead of time. This way, you don’t have to wait in line to buy tickets, then wait again to have your ticket scanned to enter the zoo.
• The zoo does allow you to bring coolers, so feel free to pack lunch, snacks, and drinks. They have picnic tables throughout the zoo.
• There is a train, a carousel, and a ropes course. Each which cost extra.
• Parking at the zoo is $10; however, there are two additional zoo parking lots if the lot is full. I do not recommend parking on the street.
• There are a lot of hills. Pushing a stroller or wheelchair up “Big Bear Hill” is a workout!
• If you pass the zoo’s entrance (near the pedestrian bridge), turn around as soon as possible. If not, you could follow the road for a long way down, making it easy to get lost.
• The zoo offers an assortment of unique behind-the-scenes experiences.

Kings Island

Step into the Midwest’s largest amusement park with a visit to Kings Island and Soak City. Known for its record-breaking roller coasters, the iconic Eiffel Tower, and the little thrills in Planet Snoopy, Kings Island offers something for all ages.

Planet Snoopy is the kid’s area, which is quite lovely—offering a wide variety of rides for kids 36 inches and taller. Planet Snoopy is where you will live with kids 3-6 years old. As they get taller and braver, they can venture into the park for some more thrilling rides.

I have my full guide to Planet Snoopy, so parents know what they are getting into before they even step foot inside the park.

The Beast and Orion are two bucket-list coasters for enthusiasts, while others enjoy the classic rides like the Old Time Cars and The Scrambler.

Dining options at the park range from Cincinnati staples like LaRosa’s Pizza and Skyline Chili to traditional burgers and chicken sandwiches. Throughout the year, Kings Island does offer unique tasting options for special events such as Grand Carnival.

Soak City Waterpark

A quick train ride from the main park will transport guests to Soak City Waterpark. Each admission to the park includes the waterpark. There are over 50 water activities for families to explore.

There are plenty of ways to beat the heat, from a massive wave pool to plunging waterslides at Castaway Cove.

Local Tips

• One of the best restaurants in the entire park is the Island Smokehouse in Soak City. Great mouth-watering BBQ options.
• Soak City is open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
• Take a look at the different dining plans offered for season passes holders and daily visitors. The daily all-day dining lets guests choose an entree and side every 90 minutes. Be sure to read the fine details as they do change.
• If you know someone with a season pass, they can get you discounted tickets.
• In Planet Snoopy, have your child measured before venturing around the park. They will receive a colored wristband indicating what rides they can ride. That way, there will be no surprises of them not being tall enough for a ride.
• The best days to visit are Tuesday-Thursday for fewer crowds.
• Kings Island offers a Fall Fest and Winterfest. Both are included for season pass holders.
• Fast Passes are available for purchase which are not included in the price of admission.
• If you plan to visit Kings Island more than once a year, a season pass is your best option. The pass will give you access to the park during the Halloween Haunt and Winter Wonderland.

Jungle Jim’s International Market

You typically wouldn’t put a grocery store on your itinerary when visiting a new city. However, a visit to Jungle Jims offers far more. Aisles upon aisles of unique international foods are found throughout the entire store, scattered in with random memorabilia and animatronic figurines.

For example, the monorail you see at the entrance to Jungle Jims once belonged to Kings Island from when they offered a safari ride. Seats from the old Riverfront stadium can be found at the entrance as well. Once inside, it is a feast for the eyes.

There is a bar to grab a shopping beer or kombucha, along with a restaurant or two if you build up an appetite. Be sure to check out their award-winning port-o-potties and browse the international aisles for foodie heaven.

There are two locations: The original location is in Fairfield and another in Eastgate.

Local Tips

• Bring a cooler. Even if you say you aren’t going to buy anything, you will.
• For a rainy day idea, pick a country and pick out a variety of food to sample. We try to cook a traditional meal and learn about the traditions and customs of a culture.
• The original location has many more novelty items and eye-catching displays, while the Eastgate location is often less crowded.
• Jungle Jim’s offers a variety of foodie events throughout the year.

Smale Riverfront Park

Stroll along the Ohio River at one of Cincinnati’s premier parks, Smale Riverfront Park. With sweeping views of the Roebling Suspension Bridge and the Ohio River, this park is a favorite among kids of all ages.

Families will fall in love with multiple playgrounds and splash areas. It even contains one of the largest outdoor chime foot pianos in the world.

The park is built on different terraces because of seasonal flooding, and the crown jewel on top is the Carol Ann Carousel. This carousel consists of 44 Cincinnati-themed characters and panels celebrating many historic Cincinnati landmarks.

Local Tips

• There is a parking garage directly across from the park under Moerlien House. Typically it is only a few bucks, but if there is a Reds game or a Bengals game, the cost goes up drastically. In addition, the area is overly crowded during game times.
• Splash areas are available throughout the park during warm-weather months. Come prepared for kids to want to get wet.
• The cost to ride the Carol Ann’s Carousel is $2.00.
• Smale Park connects to two other riverfront parks; Sawyer and the International Friendship Park.
• Bike and scooter rentals are available.

Fun Outdoor Things To Do In Cincinnati With Kids

Explore Downtown Cincinnati Via Streetcar

Hop aboard the Cincinnati Bell Connector for a tour of downtown Cincinnati. A family favorite is honestly riding the streetcar itself! There is currently no fare to ride the streetcar, which takes you through the city center and to many of downtown’s most popular spots.

Start at Smale Riverfront Park, grab lunch at Fountain Square, visit the Contemporary Arts Center, play at Washington Park, then nosh your way through Findlay Market.

Each family is different; create the ideal tour for you, whether it is a progressive food tour, a scenic tour, or simply riding the streetcar for fun.

Explore Cincinnati’s Riverfront Parks and Splash Pads

Cincinnati sits along the Ohio River and is home to three great riverfront parks: Smale Riverfront Park, Sawyer Point Park, and Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park.

Strolling along the Cincinnati Riverfront has never been more appealing since all three parks connect, making it a prime spot to explore.

The Cincinnati riverfront parks are full of playgrounds, splash pads, gardens, stadiums, restaurants, and more. Our guide to the riverfront parks in Cincinnati, Ohio, will help you make the most of your next visit.

Local Tips

• Splash pads are typically open Memorial Day through Labor Day.
• The riverfront is a popular place for festivals and events. Do a little research before heading down if you don’t want to visit when it is crowded.

Catch a Reds Game at the Great American Ballpark

Many families go to catch a Cincinnati Reds baseball game at Great American Ball Park. The Cincinnati Reds became baseball’s first professional team in 1869, and Cincinnati won’t let you forget it.

Opening Day is practically a National Holiday in Cincinnati. Fans line the streets for the big parade cheering on the home team, while tickets for the opening day game are a hot commodity. After the season opener, tickets are easier to obtain with fun themed nights, family days, and more.

Sports fans will enjoy a visit to the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame & Museum to highlight the history and accomplishments of this major league team.

Once inside the stadium, you can find Cincinnati classics such as Skyline Chili, LaRosa’s Pizza, Graeter’s Ice Cream, and local beers. Two playgrounds at Great American Ball Park help parents with young kids get through those nine innings.

Local Tips

• Soft coolers are allowed inside the stadium, which will enable you to bring food and any unopened non-alcoholic beverages.
• Backpacks are not allowed unless it is a diaper bag for an infant.
• If it’s your child’s first game, go to guest services to receive a memorable first game certificate.

Cincinnati Nature Center

Get outdoors with a visit to the Cincinnati Nature Center. One of Cincinnati’s top outdoor adventures, the Nature Center is home to over 14 miles of hiking trails through the Eastern deciduous forest. Hike past ponds and wetlands, then venture to the Nature Playscape afterward.

The Nature Playscape is an experience that utilizes things found in nature to engage children. Go for a long explore in the creek, build a tower with fallen branches or dig in the sand. It is best for kids 11 and under. The nature center does charge admission into the park, and children under 3 are free.

Local Tips:

• Cincinnati Nature Center is one of the best spots to hike to see the changing leaves in the fall. It is gorgeous.
• Pets are not allowed in the Nature Scape.
• Plan a visit when the park has an activity. The Cincinnati Nature Center’s website is a great resource.

Alm’s Park

A hidden gem in Cincinnati is Alm’s Park. You get not one but two gorgeous scenic overlooks. The first overlook is of the Ohio River, and the other is of Lunken Airport. It is the perfect spot to pack a lunch and watch the airplanes come and go.

Alm’s Park is home to a playground and the popular cement slide! If the beautiful pavilion is not in use, venture up the stairs for another great overlook. Alm’s Park does offer hiking trails and picnic areas. It might sound crazy, but I personally like coming to this park with kids over Ault Park.

Ault Park

Another must-see park in Cincinnati is the iconic Ault Park. Ault Park is great for hiking, offering a variety of trails. The Pavilion is a prime photo spot, along with the well-manicured gardens. It has a standard playground and picnic area.

The park yields beautiful overlooks with scenic views that are hard to beat. A large grassy green space in front of the pavilion is ideal for picnics.

Local Tips:

• The trails are not well marked. Download the AllTrails App before hiking, or snap a photo of the trail maps because service isn’t good in the woods.
• Ault Park is a popular wedding location, which means the Pavilion is often reserved.

Eden Park

Another one of my favorite parks with a sweeping view of the Ohio River and downtown Cincinnati is Eden Park. Eden Park is located near downtown Cincinnati and is home to Krohn Conservatory and the Cincinnati Art Museum.

The park offers scenic hiking trails, the Twin Lakes Overlook, and Mirror Lake. A fun playground is also near the Twin Lakes Overlook.

Krohn Conservatory

Krohn’s Conservatory is a great spot to visit during the Annual Butterfly Show or during the holidays with kids in tow. Unless your children are very interested in gardens and plants, this might not be a top priority outside of special events.

Local Tips: 

• We often try to include a visit to the Art Museum or the Conservatory during our visit to Eden Park. It’s a great way to see two fantastic sites at once.
• Pack a picnic to enjoy at the Twin Lakes Overlook.
• The hiking trails can be pretty challenging with lots of steep hills. Review the trail guides before tackling.

Little Miami Bike Trail

A great way to spend a morning or afternoon is hitting the Little Miami Bike Trail. Start your biking adventure near Nisbet Park in downtown Loveland.

The little town of Loveland is full of charm and character. The city is a central hub for those looking to access the Loveland Bike Trail/ Little Miami State Park.

The trail used to be the old Pennsylvania Railroad, and dedicated bikers can follow the path up to Lake Erie! Since that lifestyle isn’t for me, I rent a bike and go for about an hour and break for ice cream. Loveland Bike Rental offers bike rentals.

There are tons of cute shops, restaurants, and things to do around off the bike trail. Check out the Bike Trail Map and plan your trip today!

Trammel Fossil Park

Trammel Fossil Park in Sharonville, Ohio, is a park that the whole family will dig. This 10-acre fossil park is one of the few places in Cincinnati where visitors can safely dig for fossils and keep what they find.

Admission to the park is free, giving little archeologists opportunities to return again and again.

Before you pack up the family to come to find fossils that date back millions of years, check out A Guide To Trammel Fossil Park In Ohio. 

Local Tips:

• There is little to no shade at the park. It is best to come when it is cooler or overcast.
• You get to keep what you find! FOR FREE!
• Bring a few “tools” such as a water sprayer, paintbrush, bucket, and towel to keep little ones interested.
• The terrain is rocky and steep. Wear closed-toe shoes.

Fun Indoor Things To Do in Cincinnati With Kids

Cincinnati Museum Center

The Cincinnati Museum Center is home to three different museums: the Museum of Natural History, the Duke Energy Children’s Museum, and the Cincinnati History Museum. Admission includes visits to all three museums.

The Robert D. Linder Family OMNIMAX Theater, the Nancy and David Wolf Holocaust and Humanity Center, the Cincinnati History Library, and featured exhibits can also be found at the Museum Center.

The Cincinnati Museum Center is also known as Union Terminal, as it was once Cincinnati’s premier train stain. The magnificent rotunda with beautiful mosaics still greets guests as they visit.

Fun fact: The train station is still in operation with service from Amtrak. 

The Duke Energy Children’s Museum is something to do on a rainy day. In my opinion, it leaves a lot to be desired, especially when Cincinnati locals have the Indianapolis Children’s Museum and COSI at only a day trip away.

However, I recommend visiting the Museum of Natural History as it is home to a unique cave and an Ice Age experience. The Cincinnati History Museum is fascinating as well, with a full-size replica of a side-wheel steamboat you can climb in and a recreated public landing so guests can see how much the city has changed.

Local Tips:

• Check the museum site for changes in pandemic protocols, hours, and days of operation.
• The Museum Center does have restaurants available onsite.
• Guests will have to pay for parking.
• If you only want to pop in to see the rotunda. Park in one of the 15-minute parking spots towards the entrance of the museum.
• Holiday Junction is one of Cincinnati’s most beloved holiday traditions featuring impressive electronic train displays.

Cincinnati Art Museum

The Cincinnati Art Museum is a great place to visit with the family. The museum offers the Rosenthal Education Center (REC), where kids can make art in person. The museum offers a variety of art projects for families to create.

Admission to the Cincinnati Art Museum is free. It offers a variety of family-friendly programs, including Baby Art Tours, Family Art Tours, and Sensory Saturdays.

Tour the galleries and art exhibits, then venture outside for the new Art Climb. The Art Climb takes visitors on an art experience as they ascend or descend the stairs leading to the museum. The stairs can be found at the corner of Gilbert and Eden Park Dr.

Local Tips: 

• Many of the events and activities are canceled or limited due to the ongoing pandemic. Check the events page on their website for updated information.
• The Cincinnati Art Museum is closed on Mondays.
• If your family enjoys art, be sure to check out the Taft Museum of Art.

Cincinnati Fire Museum

Sound the alarm! The Cincinnati Fire Museum is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Housed in the historic City Firehouse, Engine House #45, the museum is home to one of the country’s best collections of firefighting artifacts.

The Cincinnati Fire Museum is listed on the National Historic Registry as a National Historic Landmark, letting visitors experience everyday life in the firehouse in 1906. Take a guided tour or stroll through the museum at your leisure and take in the deep-rooted history of firefighting in our city.

Catch a show at the Children’s Theatre

Cincinnati loves the arts, especially when the whole family can attend. The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati has entertained, taught, and engaged audiences for over 100 years. The shows are perfect for younger theatre-goers, giving them a chance to experience live theatre.

Head over to The Children’s Theatre to check out what shows are coming this season and next!

Urban Air Adventure Park

This indoor fun zone is way more than a trampoline park! Kids can go through ninja courses, ropes courses, sky rider, climbing walls, the leap of faith, and more.

Wipeout is always a fan favorite as kids try to avoid being knocked over by a moving arm all while on trampolines! Urban Air is the perfect spot for kids to burn off some of that pent-up energy that rainy or snowy days bring.

Jumperoo At Urban Air In Cincinnati

Urban Air opens up exclusively on Tuesday and Thursday from 10:30-12:30 pm for kids five years old and younger during the school months. While the bigger attractions are not open, kids and parents have access to the trampolines, a big play structure, dodgeball court, ninja course, and more.

Wonderland Play

One of the newest indoor play areas to hit Cincinnati is Wonderland Play. For parents who can remember, think back to the old Discovery Zones or Leaps and Bounds.

This new indoor play area is located in Anderson with three fun areas for kids to play with, including an area designated for toddlers! My daughter particularly loved the Ninja Course and the obstacle course at the soft play area!

Playtime is in two-hour time slots. Reservations are required and are easy to make online. Socks are necessary; however, bring your own from home or purchase them there.

Local Tips:

• Wonderland Play has one of the nicest toddler/baby areas we have seen. Plenty for them to climb on and explore.
• There is a snack bar inside that sells coffee.

Altitude Trampoline Park

Burn off that extra energy by letting the kids get their jumps in at Altitude Trampoline Park. With tons of trampolines, a dodgeball arena, and a battle beam, kids can easily spend a few hours here. There is even a soft play area for little ones who might not be ready to tackle the big trampolines or foam pits.

King Arthur’s Toys + Dungeon

Kids will rejoice when you make a pit stop at King Arthur’s Toys in Oakely! Not only is this toy store out of this world, but it is also home to a FREE indoor play area called the dungeon. The Dungeon is in the basement and offers a zipline, climbing structures, and an opportunity to slay a dragon with a bow + arrow.

Have a birthday? Be sure to let the staff know so Artie the dragon can leave a special treat in his castle for the guest of honor to take home! It’s seriously the cutest!

The Loveland Castle

The Loveland Castle near downtown Loveland, Ohio, has a remarkable history and is also said to be haunted. As one of the many castles to visit in Ohio, the Loveland Castle makes a fun stop in the Cincinnati area or a unique adventure for locals.

The Loveland Castle, also known as Château Laroche, is on the banks of the Little Miami River. Nearby signs can help guide visitors to the castle, and our guide to visiting the Loveland Castle will help plan your fun adventure.

Kenwood Cinema

Relax and enjoy your next movie in heated seats, reclining chairs, and food you can order directly from your seat. The new Kenwood Cinemas in Kenwood are upping the movie game by letting families order dinner delivered directly to you while you watch your next movie.

In addition to the latest movie releases, Kenwood Cinemas features a variety of independent films, along with throwbacks to popular blockbusters.

Local Tip

• You can pick your seats when you buy your tickets.
• Soft drinks and popcorn are unlimited.
• They have a full bar with an incredible local beer selection.

Fun Things To Do In Cincinnati With Small Kids

Highfield Discovery Garden

Step into the enchanting world of Highfield Discovery Garden in Glenwood Gardens. This whimsical Cincinnati park is that is geared for sparking imaginations while celebrating nature. This charming and imaginative park is full of surprises and appears to have popped right out of a fairy tale.

The Highfield Discovery Garden is located inside Glenwood Gardens. This means that to visit the park, you will need an annual Great Parks yearly permit or pay for the day to enter Glenwood Gardens.

The permit will get you into other great Cincinnati parks such as Sharon Woods (home to the Heritage Village Museum), Miami Whitewater Forest, Woodland Mound, and more. You will then need to pay an additional fee to enter the Discovery Garden.

The Gardens of Discovery offer plenty of curiosities and activities to spark the imagination. It is hard to miss the most notable feature of the park, the 25-foot tall Discovery Tree. There is even an accessibility ramp to access the tree from behind.

They also offer a variety of educational events and programs that take place throughout the week.

Local Tips

• A paved walkway makes this park very stroller-friendly. Be sure to check out the walking trails in Glenwood Gardens for more paved and serene options
• Hours do vary month to month, so be sure to check their schedule before loading the kids up! They are always closed on Mondays.

Lily Pad Play

One of the top places to bring young kids to in Cincinnati is Lily Pad Play. Lily Pad offers a small play structure and plenty of imagination stations such as a kitchen, store, train area, etc.

What makes them unique is that they also offer an art area where children can paint, color, and draw freely.

The area is smaller than the other play areas, but it is best suited for kids four and under. Older kids may find it challenging to keep busy or become bored. Lily Pad does offer a variety of classes such as Zumbini, music classes, and more.

Dig N Play

Dig N Play is one of the best places to bring younger kids when the weather is terrible. My four-year-old says it’s her favorite place for several reasons.

Not only is there a fun play structure, inflatables, and dress-up, but there is a massive sand table full of sand. Dig N Play is aimed at kids seven and under.

Kids can run from one activity to the next. Play in the kitchen, build with Legos, bounce in the bounce house, then dig in the sand. Dig N Play does have a concession area offering wine, beer, coffee, and plenty of snacks and kid entree options.

Local Tips

• Outside food is not allowed. However, Dig N Play does let you leave and come back.

Venture Across The River To Northern Kentucky For More Adventures

Newport Aquarium

One of the best things to do with kids in Cincinnati is to cross the river to visit the Newport Aquarium. The aquarium is at Newport on the Levee, which has plenty of restaurants and additional entertainment.

The aquarium offers guests hands-on experiences such as touching stingrays, sharks, and tide pool creatures. Walk through the underwater tunnels, getting you up close with sharks, stingrays, and a sea turtle.

A visit to the Newport Aquarium is never complete without a visit to the penguins or white alligators. For the brave, try crossing Shark Bridge. Shark Bridge is the world’s first suspended rope bridge where guests can walk just inches above various sharks, rays, and more than 300 fish.

Local Tips

• If you’re local, it may be best financially to invest in a season pass. The pass typically pays for itself after two visits.
• Sharky’s Cafe offers a variety of meals, snacks, and drinks. My advice: Better food options are available throughout Newport on Levee.

DeVou Park

Get the cameras out because DeVou Park offers some of, if not the best, views of downtown Cincinnati. DeVou Park is one of the most beautiful parks in the area, offering a variety of outdoor activities.

Enjoy a lovely hike, hop on a mountain bike trail or enjoy one of the many playgrounds found throughout the 700-acre park.

High atop Devou Park in Covington, Kentucky, sits a small museum that celebrates Kentucky heritage and features a unique outdoor NaturePlay park.

The Behringer Crawford Museum is home to the famous two-headed calf, an impressive train display, and interactive multicultural exhibits.

Pack a picnic and plan on spending a reasonable amount of time exploring this wonderful park.

I hope that this guide helps inspire you to plan a few fun family adventures in Cincinnati.

Things To Do With Tweens and Teens In Cincinnati

Archery Arena

Gear up for an epic battle of archery dodgeball at the Archery Arena. Players compete in an indoor arena in archery dodgeball, trying to shoot padded arrows at their opponents skillfully. Each session is typically 60 minutes with 10 minutes of instruction.

In addition to archery dodgeball, they always offer Nerf Wars! Players choose their signature Nerf Guns for a full-out battle to see which team will reign supreme.

Tips For Visiting The Archery Arena

• Guests can choose to join a public game or reserve a private session.
• A public game is best for kids 10+ while a private game can be ages 7+. This is because adults can join public games, which could discourage younger players.
• The arrows are padded, so they don’t leave a bruise or mark if you get hit.
• Wear workout clothes and gym shoes.
• Bring a water bottle.

Slick City Action Park

Kids who love a little thrill will not want to skip Slick City Action Park! Zip down a dozen exhilarating, unique indoor slides, including the Wave! Race a group of friends down the Fast Lane or take a slide down the Royal Flush. Slides aren’t the only draw to this action park; guests can enjoy air courts and an arcade.

• Parent Tip: An hour is plenty of time. I noticed the kids started getting bored after an hour. There are only so many times you can go down the same slide.
• Little Sliders Club is for kids ages 4-7, where they can enjoy the Junior Jungle, music, crafts, and even character visits. Check their calendar for event dates.

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

For older children and teens, don’t miss out on this unique museum in Cincinnati. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. The Freedom Center is rooted in the stories of the Underground Railroad; they illuminate the true meaning of inclusive freedom by presenting permanent and special exhibits that inspire public programming that provokes dialogue and action and educational resources that equip modern abolitionists.

Fowling Warehouse

What do you get when you cross football with bowling? At Fowling Warehouse, teams compete to knock down as many bowling pins as possible with footballs! Younger kids may get discouraged and wear out quickly, so I would put this at ages 8+. Or ensure you have another activity available for smaller children.

IFLY

Thrill-seeking kids will love to experience indoor skydiving at IFLY. Step into the indoor wind tunnel and float on a powerful cushion of air while trained instructors guide you through the experience. It’s a fun, family-friendly adventure and a great option for anyone who wants to try something totally different.

Tip: The wind tunnel is very loud, so be sure to wear earplugs.

Stay at Great Wolf Lodge

Booking a stay at Great Wolf Lodge is not just a quick overnight; it is an experience. Parents should expect it to be pricey; kids will be overstimulated and get overly tired, but they’ll have the best time of their lives (according to the kids).

Great Wolf Lodge offers admission to their indoor waterpark with every stay. That includes countless slides, a wave pool, lazy river, toddler areas, and so much more. Guests can add in extras like Magi Quest, bowling, mini golf, and the arcade. I have a full Wolf Lodge guide on what to expect and bring.

Tip: Great Wolf Lodge also offers Day Passes for families who only want to enjoy the indoor waterpark.

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