Cincinnati Guide

Cincinnati Ohio Riverfront Tours: Explore the Waterfront

Discover Cincinnati's vibrant riverfront through guided tours and boat excursions, uncovering history, culture, and stunning city views.

12+ tours
From $$30
1.5-4 hours
Cincinnati Ohio Riverfront Tours: Explore the Waterfront

Cincinnati's Ohio Riverfront has transformed from an industrial artery into a dynamic hub for recreation, culture, and entertainment. For visitors, understanding this evolution and appreciating its scenic beauty is best achieved through dedicated riverfront exploration tours. These excursions offer a unique perspective, allowing you to experience the city from its historic waterway, a defining feature that has shaped Cincinnati's past and present. From the bustling banks of Newport Aquarium and the Great American Ball Park on the Kentucky side, to the picturesque Smale Riverfront Park and the iconic Roebling Suspension Bridge on the Ohio side, the riverfront is alive with activity. Tours often focus on the rich maritime history, the architectural marvels that span the river, and the modern developments that have revitalized the urban landscape. Whether you're drawn to the stories of early settlers, the vibrant nightlife, or simply the panoramic vistas of the skyline, a riverfront tour provides an insightful and enjoyable way to connect with Cincinnati.

Featured Ohio Riverfront Exploration Tours

Discover our top picks for ohio riverfront exploration in Cincinnati

Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati with Beer Tasting
From $49
Free Cancellation

Join American Legacy Tours as we take you back Underground on our newest tour. The Hidden Caverns tour will go underground to explore the Linck brewery tunnels. Next we will visit the site where Johnny Cash filmed a movie. After that we will visit the site of one of Cincinnati's most important inclines. Exclusively for the Hidden Caverns Tour we will have a beer tasting for tour guests 21 and over at the Northern Row Taproom 111 W McMicken Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Tours will go on rain or shine!

5.0(1,748)
2h
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Phantoms of the Pig Iron Past: Cursed Cincinnati Ghost Tours
From $32
Free Cancellation

Discover Cincinnati’s haunting history on our captivating ghost tour. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this mile-long walk through the historic district takes you to some of the city’s most eerie locations. Hear spine-chilling stories of the spirits that linger in iconic buildings, from Memorial Hall’s echoes to Washington Park’s eerie gazebo. While we won't enter privately owned buildings, the thrill of standing where ghostly encounters have been reported will send shivers down your spine. Visit haunted spots like Taft’s Ale House and Wooden Nickel Antiques, where the past might still be present. Prepare for an evening of laughter, gasps, and ghostly surprises as you uncover Cincinnati’s darker side. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of the Queen City’s haunted heritage.

4.1(122)
1h
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Top 10 Sites + Bites of Cincinnati Tour with Riverside Food Tours
From $79
Free Cancellation

Discover Cincinnati on a 3-hour adventure through the heart of the Queen City! This fast-paced tour features 6 mouthwatering food stops, Cincinnati’s Top 10 must-see sights, and a fun ride on the modern streetcar — all led by a friendly, local guide who knows the city inside and out. Along the way, savor Cincinnati icons like a Belgian waffle, a chili cheese dog, Graeter’s raspberry chocolate chip ice cream, German goetta, a French macaron or Market cookie, and more sweet & savory bites. (Findlay Market is closed Mondays — but don’t worry, we’ve got delicious alternatives!) Come hungry and wear comfy shoes — we’ll cover about 45 minutes of walking as we explore stunning architecture, colorful murals, and sweeping riverfront views. Whether it’s your first time here or you’re a local looking for something new, this tour is a hit with all ages — yes, even kids love it! Your guide will share the hidden stories, history, and insider tips. You might just fall in love and want to stay!

5.0(497)
3h
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 Haunted Cincinnati Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour
From $35.57
Free Cancellation

Experience Cincinnati like you never have before by hearing unsettling stories from the past, learning about ghosts that still haunt the streets, & daring to explore the Queen City of the West. Your costumed tour guide will lead you past the most haunted spots in the Over-The-Rhine area. Tours last about 2.5 hours so there will be plenty of time to be spooked and grab some spirits along the way. The purchase of drinks is not included or required, however, even without any alcoholic spirits, our guides will keep you plenty entertained with expert knowledge of otherworldly spirits! Whether you’re a fan of the paranormal, a fan of history, or just a fan of drinking, come join us on the best ghost tour in Cincinnati & the most unique way to explore this inspiring city! *Tour route and drink stops are subject to availability. *All guests must be 21+ with Valid ID. Alcohol is not included.

4.8(43)
2h 30m
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Cincinnati Brewing & Distilling Tasting Tour
From $59
Free Cancellation

Join the Brewing Heritage Trail on this mostly indoor tour to learn about modern and historic brewing and distilling, but that’s not all, we’ll get to sample beverages and visit a 19th century underground lagering cellar along the way! The first stop on the tour is Northern Row Brewery and Distillery, where we’ll get a close-up look at their distilling process, followed by a spirit sampling. Next stop are the lagering cellars of the historic Jackson Brewery, where beer was fermented and cold stored dating back to the 1850s! We then head to the Rhinegeist Brewery, located inside a pre-Prohibition brewing structure, where we’ll take a behind the scenes tour of their modern and historic facility (stairs are required for part of the tour), concluding with a flight of their seasonal beverages. No other tour in the city offers historic and modern brewing and distilling, with an underground cellar exploration, so don’t miss out on this unique tour offered only by the Brewing Heritage Trail!

4.6(31)
2h 30m
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The Escape Game Cincinnati: 60-Minute Adventures at The Banks
From $42.09
Free Cancellation

Our Cincinnati location is on Freedom Way at The Banks, right by the Bengals and Red stadiums. Popular nearby dining options include Yard House, Taste of Belgium, and Condado Tacos, perfect if you want a family-friendly time out in downtown Cincinnati. Catch a game, grab a bite, play an escape room, then recap your adventure with a walk along the river. The Escape Game Cincinnati has 5 interactive adventures, including our most challenging escape game, Prison Break. Each escape room holds up to 8 players except Playground, which can host up to 12 players. These adventures offer a one-of-a-kind premium experience. Follow clues and solve puzzles to complete your mission together. We offer the best escape rooms and the fastest customer support. Come see why our escape rooms win awards.

5.0(536)
1h 15m
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Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cincinnati Sights & Stories
From $27.5
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Our smartphone-guided tour brings the facts and stories behind Cincinnati to life because we've taken the same stops and sights we share with our friends and families when they come to town and created an interactive web-based tour for you! Read the stories behind the city, answer questions to reveal fun facts, and experience what makes Downtown Cincinnati incredible! Purchase your tour and then navigate to our website to enter your access code and launch the tour. You can either start immediately or create an account and come back when you are ready to explore. Please note that you and your group read the tour aloud - there is no audio functionality at this time.

4.1(25)
1h 30m
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Outdoor Escape Room in Cincinnati - The Banks
From $75
👤Private Tour

An immersive clue-solving adventure around The Banks in Cincinnati. Search for real-world clues, solve puzzles, and discover the neighborhood with an experience you'll never forget! Reschedule anytime with no fees. It's a scavenger hunt, escape room, and urban crawl all-in-one. Follow the storyline around town as you find clues and use them to crack codes. Then enter solutions on the app to find out where to go next. Clues can be anywhere - murals, statues, landmarks, and more! Plan on about two hours of playtime, depending on your experience level and how much time you spend exploring along the way. Difficulty level is adjustable - take as many or as few hints as you’d like! Bookings made a week or more in advance receive their kit in the mail. Bookings made less than a week in advance will pick up their kit at the start point on the day of the adventure - exact pickup location is sent after booking.

4.6(16)
2h
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Self Guided Walking Tour of Cincinnati
From $14.99
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Are you looking for a way to see Cincinnati without joining a tour group? Explore Cincinnati - otherwise known as Queen City, Queen of the West, and Porkopolis - at your own pace with this self-guided walking tour. Cincinnati was one of the first frontier towns in America‘s west. It claims to have had the first professional baseball team, the First professional fire fighting brigade, the first reinforced steel skyscraper. On this walking tour, you‘ll be introduced to this city of firsts and its rich history by Phil, an experienced tour producer and working actor. Stroll through the city‘s revitalized downtown area, taking in the beautiful sprawling Smale Riverfront Park, the glorious John A Roebling Suspension Bridge, and the newly developed Banks area. From there, it's onto exploring more of the urban core of the town. Take this self-guided audio tour to explore what makes Cincinnati an early frontier city still steeped in history today.

3.0(1)
2h
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Amazing Scavenger Hunt: Cin-sational Cincinnati Bar Crawl
From $12.31
👤Private Tour

Let’s Roam leads the charge as the top app-guided adventure hunt company! Embark on foot to discover the finest landmarks and uncover hidden gems, tackling trivia questions and overcoming challenges. Whether you're collaborating with your team or engaging in friendly competition, get ready to absorb fascinating facts and craft unforgettable memories. Let’s Roam Adventure Hunts are perfect for any occasion—from everyday adventures to epic bachelorette blowouts, birthday celebrations, dynamic corporate team-building events, and beyond! Each participant selects a unique interactive role, ensuring every adventure is filled with diverse challenges tailored to everyone's preferences.

3.0(1)
2h
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Cincinnati History & Sightseeing Bus Tour
From $49
Free Cancellation

Our unique multimedia tour will not only tell you the rich history, but show you archived photos on 6 color monitors as it has evolved over the past 200 years. There's simply nothing that compares to this tour. Whether you are a local resident, or just visting this amazing city, you will leave with a full understanding of how the area evolved, and the wonderful landmarks that stood the test of time. Our tour is chalked full of fun facts and the most notable historic buildings and places on both sides of the Ohio River. We just can't wait to tell you their stories! We are Cincinnati's only mobile tour Bus company that can show you this much of the areas history from the comfort of you seat. If you're planning a visit to Cincy, you'll want to take this tour first. By the end of the tour, you will have compiled a long list of things to do next during your visit. Have a large group? call us to learn about Private tours for your outing.

4.8(183)
2h
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Awesome Art Walk: Cincinnati Mural Insanities
From $14.99
Free Cancellation👤Private TourNew

Dive into adventure with Let’s Roam, your go-to for the ultimate app-led adventure hunts! Step into a world where every landmark and hidden gem is waiting to be discovered. Challenge yourself with trivia, tackle brain-teasing puzzles, and embark on an epic journey of exploration! Whether you’re collaborating with your crew or turning up the competition, Let’s Roam Adventure Hunts guarantee a blast for all. Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a spontaneous outing, a wild bachelorette bash, a festive birthday celebration, or a team-building extravaganza. Each player gets to dive into an interactive role, ensuring every challenge is as thrilling and unique as the next. So, gather your squad, choose your adventure, and let the good times roll! With Let’s Roam, every outing becomes a treasure trove of memories and excitement. Are you ready to conquer the city and create unforgettable experiences? Let’s Roam and make every day an adventure!

1h 30m
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Cincinnati Streetcar Transportation and Infrastructure Tour
From $40
Free CancellationNew

Using the Cincinnati Streetcar loop as a route, this tour will take you by nearly every major attraction in Downtown Cincinnati, with stops at top attractions, including Fountain Square and Findlay Market. However, this is not a typical 'general history of the city through time and here are the top attractions and cultural experiences' tour. This tour is focused on transit and infrastructure, given by a local aware of and involved in transportation and infrastructure projects in the city. Highlighting the city's greatest infrastructure accomplishments, as well it's biggest failures, this tour will focus on the Riverfront Transit Center, Cincinnati Subway, Cincinnati Union Terminal, as well as Kenyon-Barr (urban renewal), and Highway Construction and Expansion. I will also share some of the plans for future projects. Tours are guided by myself, Fenley, an Urban Planning student at the University of Cincinnati.

5.0(1)
3h
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Cincinnati City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Wacky Walks
From $10
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Wacky Walks of Cincinnati allows your team to discover the city in a fun and different way. The game instructs you to find a variety of items that can be found in the downtown area. For every item you find, you'll get points. You'll also participate in exciting challenges for points as well. See how your points stack up to others on our app rankings. All our Scavenger hunts have a live remote host to help along the way. Come out and explore with us in Cincinnati.

3.0(1)
2h
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Cincinnati Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game
From $24.5
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Embark on an engaging scavenger hunt through the historic streets of Cincinnati, Ohio! Explore the quaint and beautiful historic downtown. See the historic sights like the Cincinnati Music Hall, Cincinnati Reds Hall Of Fame And Museum, Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter in Chains, amazing views on the Ohio River, and much more. Explore and see the many unique shops, restaurants and and sights. Go at your own pace and see the best of what Cincinnati has to offer. Ready to discover Cincinnati in a whole new way? Let the adventure begin!

3h
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Ready to Explore Cincinnati?

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Why Choose Ohio Riverfront Exploration in Cincinnati?

Unique Perspectives

See Cincinnati's skyline and landmarks from the water, offering a different vantage point than land-based exploration.

Historical Insights

Learn about the Ohio River's crucial role in Cincinnati's development, from its founding to its industrial past.

Scenic Views

Enjoy picturesque views of both the Ohio and Kentucky sides of the river, including bridges and natural landscapes.

Family-Friendly Options

Many tours cater to all ages, making it a great way to experience the city with the whole family.

Diverse Activities

From leisurely cruises to more active narrated tours, there's an option for every traveler's preference.

Value for Money

Find tours and activities that offer a comprehensive and engaging experience of the Cincinnati riverfront without breaking the bank.

Types of Ohio Riverfront Exploration in Cincinnati

Riverboat Cruises

Experience the Ohio River aboard a traditional riverboat or modern vessel. These often include narrated tours highlighting historical points of interest along the banks, showcasing landmarks like the Roebling Suspension Bridge and the Great American Ball Park.

Narrated commentarySightseeingVarious cruise lengthsOften offer food/drink options

Riverfront Walking Tours

These tours focus on the extensive parks and attractions along the Cincinnati riverfront, such as Smale Riverfront Park. Guides share stories of urban renewal, public art installations, and the area's history from a ground-level perspective.

In-depth historical contextExplore park amenitiesDiscover public artFocus on architecture

Kayaking & Paddleboarding Adventures

For the more adventurous, guided kayaking or paddleboarding tours offer an up-close and personal encounter with the river. These tours often emphasize the natural beauty of the river ecosystem and offer a unique physical engagement with the environment.

Active explorationFocus on natureSmall group sizesRequires physical activity

Bridges & Landmarks Tours

Some specialized tours concentrate on the iconic bridges spanning the Ohio River, particularly the Roebling Suspension Bridge. Learn about their engineering feats and historical significance while enjoying views from various vantage points.

Architectural focusHistorical narrativesPhotography opportunitiesCross-border perspectives

What to Expect on Ohio Riverfront Exploration Tours

Duration

Tours typically range from 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on the type of activity. Boat cruises may offer shorter sightseeing trips or longer dinner cruises, while walking tours usually last around 2 hours.

Weather

Most tours operate in various weather conditions, but cancellations can occur due to severe weather. It's advisable to check the operator's policy and dress appropriately for the season. Layers are recommended.

Group Size

Group sizes vary. Boat tours can accommodate larger numbers, while walking and kayaking tours often have smaller, more intimate groups for a more personalized experience.

What's Included

Inclusions depend on the tour. Boat tours might include narration, while some may offer snacks or drinks. Walking tours primarily offer guided commentary. Kayaking tours usually provide equipment.

Meeting Point

Meeting points are usually clearly specified and often located at popular riverfront access points, such as docks or visitor centers, on either the Cincinnati or Newport, KY side.

Additional Costs

Prices typically cover the tour itself. Meals, drinks not explicitly included, souvenirs, and transportation to the meeting point are usually additional expenses.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Book in advance, especially for popular weekend slots or during major Cincinnati events like the Tall Stacks festival.

2

Consider a tour that crosses the river to explore the attractions and views from the Newport, Kentucky side.

3

Wear comfortable shoes for any walking tours; you'll be covering ground along the riverfront parks.

4

Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, particularly for boat tours during sunny days.

5

Check the specific age and accessibility requirements for boat tours if traveling with young children or individuals with mobility challenges.

6

Look for tours that offer a blend of history and modern development for a comprehensive understanding of the riverfront.

7

If opting for a kayaking tour, ensure you are comfortable with basic swimming skills and understand the physical demands.

8

Factor in time to explore Smale Riverfront Park before or after your tour – it’s a destination in itself with unique features like the playground and the Serpentine Wall.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is the best time of year for Ohio Riverfront tours in Cincinnati?

A: Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant weather for riverfront exploration, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter tours are less frequent and focus on the holiday season.

Q:Can I see fireworks from a riverfront tour?

A: Yes, many riverboat cruises offer special packages during major fireworks events like WEBN Fireworks or Cincinnati's Festival of Lights. It's best to check specific tour itineraries for availability.

Q:Are these tours suitable for people who don't like boats?

A: If you're hesitant about boats, consider a riverfront walking tour instead. These focus on the parks, bridges, and landmarks from ground level, offering a different, yet equally engaging, way to explore the area.

Q:What should I wear on a Cincinnati riverfront tour?

A: Comfort is key. For walking tours, wear comfortable shoes. For boat tours, dress in layers as it can be cooler on the water. Sun protection like hats and sunscreen is always a good idea.

Q:Are there tours that go under the Roebling Suspension Bridge?

A: Absolutely. Many riverboat tours are specifically designed to navigate close to the historic Roebling Suspension Bridge, providing excellent photo opportunities and insights into its construction and significance.

Q:How do I get to the riverfront meeting points?

A: The riverfront is accessible by car, with various parking garages available. Public transportation also serves the downtown area, and many hotels are within walking distance of riverfront access points.

Q:What if I get seasick on a boat tour?

A: For mild motion sickness, try to stay on deck and focus on the horizon. You can also bring over-the-counter medication. If you are prone to severe motion sickness, a walking tour might be a better choice.

Q:Can I combine a riverfront tour with other Cincinnati attractions?

A: Definitely. The riverfront is central to many attractions like the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Smale Riverfront Park, and is within easy reach of the aquarium and sports stadiums on the Kentucky side.

Don't Miss the Perfect Cincinnati Experience

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Why Visit Cincinnati?

Explore vibrant neighborhoods brimming with unique shops and delicious food, offering a true taste of the Midwest.

Discover stunning architecture along the Ohio River, from historic districts to modern marvels.

Enjoy world-class museums and a thriving arts scene without the overwhelming crowds of larger cities.

Immerse yourself in Cincinnati's rich German heritage, evident in its iconic architecture and culinary traditions.

Experience a friendly, laid-back atmosphere perfect for exploring parks, breweries, and lively street festivals.

Uncover a city rich in history and innovation, surprising visitors with its dynamic cultural landscape.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Cincinnati experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures, with blooming flowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn.

Best Months

The best months to visit Cincinnati are typically May, June, September, and October. During these periods, the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities, and the city hosts numerous festivals and events.

Peak Season

Peak season in Cincinnati generally falls during the summer months, from June through August. Expect warm to hot temperatures, larger crowds at attractions, and higher accommodation prices.

Off Season

The off-season spans the winter months, from December to February. While it can be cold and snowy, you'll find fewer crowds, lower prices on hotels, and a cozy atmosphere, especially around the holidays.

Plan Your Cincinnati Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around Cincinnati is quite manageable. The city offers a decent public bus system, the Metro, which is an affordable way to reach most attractions. For more flexibility, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available and convenient. Renting a car is an option if you plan on extensive day trips outside the immediate downtown area, though parking can be challenging and costly in popular spots. Many central neighborhoods like Over-the-Rhine and downtown are very walkable, making foot exploration a pleasant choice for shorter distances.

Car Rental Deals in Cincinnati

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Cincinnati adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Cincinnati

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Ready to Explore Cincinnati?

Discover the best tours and activities in Cincinnati with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.