4 Days of Fun and Flavor in Cincinnati

Discover Cincinnati's hidden gems without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A limited budget trip to Cincinnati, United States can be a fun and affordable experience. Travelers can visit attractions like the Cincinnati Art Museum, Findlay Market, and the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden without breaking the bank. Staying in affordable hotels or hostels, and exploring local food trucks and cafes can also help to save money on the trip.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Cincinnati!

  • Check in at Hotel Covington, a trendy and affordable boutique hotel with charming decor and friendly staff
  • Visit Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, a stunning Art Deco building that houses museums dedicated to history, science, and children
  • Explore Findlay Market, an iconic indoor-outdoor market that sells fresh produce, artisanal foods, and souvenirs
  • Indulge in Skyline Chili, a local institution that serves spaghetti topped with zesty chili, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced onions
  • Catch a movie at Esquire Theatre, a retro cinema that screens independent and foreign films
Day 2

Art, Nature, and Beer

  • Start the day at ArtWorks Cincinnati, a nonprofit that commissions public murals and enlivens the city with colorful street art
  • Walk or bike along the Ohio River Trail, a scenic path that offers views of the river and downtown skyline
  • Visit the Cincinnati Art Museum, a world-class museum that showcases art from ancient Egypt to contemporary America
  • Have lunch at Rhinegeist Brewery, a hip brewery that serves craft beer and pub fare in a lively atmosphere
  • Take a tour of Over-the-Rhine, a historic neighborhood with vibrant architecture and multicultural heritage
Day 3

Playtime in Cincinnati

  • Go to Kings Island, a popular theme park that features roller coasters, water rides, and live shows
  • Have lunch at Holtman's Donuts, a beloved bakery that offers a variety of delicious donuts in creative flavors
  • Visit Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, a top-rated zoo that houses over 500 animal species and picturesque gardens
  • Shop at Kenwood Towne Centre, a upscale shopping mall that features designer brands and trendy eateries
  • Watch a Cincinnati Reds baseball game at Great American Ball Park, a modern stadium that offers panoramic views of the river and skyline
Day 4

Farewell, Cincinnati!

  • Have breakfast at Taste of Belgium, a charming cafe that serves authentic Belgian waffles and coffee
  • Visit National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, a museum that tells the story of slavery, abolition, and civil rights
  • Take a ferry to Newport Aquarium, a marine attraction that displays sharks, rays, penguins, and other aquatic life
  • Enjoy lunch at Eli's BBQ, a rustic joint that serves mouth-watering barbecue and sides in a casual setting
  • Say goodbye to Cincinnati with a view from Carew Tower, a skyscraper that offers a panoramic observation deck and a historic arcade.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Cincinnati by plane is to fly to Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). There are direct flights from major cities in the US, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Atlanta.

Car

Driving to Cincinnati is a good option as it allows for flexibility and can be more cost-effective than flying. The best route is via interstate highways 75 and 71. The drive is approximately 9 hours from New York and 6 hours from Chicago.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct train routes to Cincinnati, so taking a train is not the best option.

Boat

Since Cincinnati is not located near any major bodies of water, taking a boat is not a viable option for reaching the city.

Bus

Taking a bus to Cincinnati is a convenient option. Greyhound bus lines offer several routes to Cincinnati, with buses arriving at the Cincinnati Greyhound Station located at 1005 Gilbert Ave.

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