Family Living


Cincinnati’s Top 10 Summer Bucket List

Family Living | May 11, 2023
families enjoy the Cincinnati Newport Aquarium

Did you know Cincinnati was once called the “Paris of America” because of its gorgeous architecture? Today, the Queen City is also known for museums, theaters, and nationally recognized colleges and universities. These features also confirm what we already know—that Cincinnati is a wonderful place to raise a family and make some great memories along the way.  If you’re looking for local family adventures this summer, check out The Gardner School’s bucket list of attractions and places of interest in and around Cincinnati.

Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati introduces even the youngest patrons to the variety of art forms that come together to create the magic of theater. In addition to a variety of stage productions, the Children’s Theatre’s TCT Academy offers arts training to children in a variety of formats, including weekly classes and a two-week summer camp.

Cincinnati Nature Center

The Cincinnati Nature Center enriches lives by inspiring passion for nature through experience, education, and stewardship. Just minutes from downtown, this tranquil and enchanting spot is a great place for a summer family outing to explore the outdoors. Special children’s programs are offered on Saturdays, and admission is free for ages three and under.

kids at Cincinnati Nature Center
Photo courtesy of Cincinnati Nature Center

Cincinnati Reds Baseball Game

Baseball is among summer’s greatest sports, so why not take the family to a Cincinnati Reds baseball game? Cincinnati’s Major League team plays at Great American Ball Park and offers special programs for children, including educational online activities, and Reds Kids and Red Babies (fan clubs for ages 12 and under) featuring jerseys, tickets, and access to member-only activities.

family attending Cincinnati Reds baseball game
Photo courtesy of the Cincinnati Reds

Coney Island Amusement Park

Not to be confused with the famous park just outside New York City, Cincinnati’s own Coney Island Amusement Park is a small amusement park and waterpark located on the banks of the Ohio River. The park offers something for every member of the family to enjoy including classic rides, live shows, miniature golf, and more. 

Hocking Hills State Park

Packed with family-friendly fun and outdoor adventure, Ohio’s scenic wonderland known as Hocking Hills State Park offers towering cliffs, waterfalls, and deep gorges for families to explore. Families can picnic, hike a trail, and attend one of the many educational programs featuring lessons on Hocking Hills’ insect and animal life.

Hocking Hills State Park in Columbus
Photo courtesy of Ohio State Parks & Watercraft

Cincinnati Parks

Cincinnati is home to 78 parks, including Krohn Conservatory in Eden Park and Smale Riverfront Park’s scenic riverside venue. At the conservatory, families can experience a rainforest or a desert right in the heart of the city. On the riverfront, children can splash in the water play area, or take a ride on Carol Ann’s Carousel.

kids playing in Smale Riverfront Park in Cincinnati
Photo courtesy of Cincinnati Parks

LM&M Railroad

A unique and fun adventure for the family, the Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad (LM&M Railroad) offers scenic train rides through Southwestern Ohio. There are always special events aboard the train for children, so make sure to check the summer schedule for the most up-to-date opportunities.

kids visiting Cincinnati LM&M Railroad
Photo courtesy of Cincinnati Railway Company (LM&M Railroad)

Newport Aquarium

Located in Newport, Kentucky, this family-friendly attraction within minutes of Cincinnati features 60 exhibits, with five specially designed underwater tunnels. Open 365 days a year, the Newport Aquarium showcases thousands of the world’s most exotic aquatic creatures. Children will be amazed at all there is to see and do, including meeting baby animals at the new Hatchling Harbor exhibit.

families enjoy the Cincinnati Newport Aquarium
Photo courtesy of Newport Aquarium

Winton Woods

Looking for a weekend outdoor getaway? Consider a camping trip to Winton Woods Campground. From bicycling to boating to fishing to horseback riding, the recreational activities are endless at Winton Woods. Special activities are also available for children as well as an adventure outpost for ages eight and up.

The Gardner School Encourages Learning All Year

The Gardner School provides an engaging curriculum, caring teachers, and beautiful play spaces for children and infants. To learn more about our schools in Cincinnati and Blue Ash, contact us to set up a tour. 

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