Cincinnati boasts world-class attractions—from internationally renowned art to one of the country’s best city parks scenes—but you don’t have to empty your wallet to experience the region’s beauty. There are numerous free activities in Cincinnati for travelers with various interests, whether you’re a nature lover, an art enthusiast, or consistently awestruck by historic architecture.
If you’re seeking a budget-friendly Cincinnati guide, look no further. Here are 10 of our favorite free activities in Cincinnati.
Findlay Market
Colorful Findlay Market is the oldest continuously operating public market in Ohio. It’s the main attraction in Cincinnati’s vibrant Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, where residents and travelers alike admire the juxtaposition of 19th-century digs and the city’s contemporary culture. Enjoy the architecture and energy without spending a dime, or grab a thrifty bite from one of the 50 full-time merchants dishing out cheese, deli sandwiches, and a host of international fare.
Smale Riverfront Park
Cincinnati’s Smale Riverfront Park was an impressive project nearly 20 years in the making. This affordable attraction links downtown Cincinnati and the city’s riverfront, featuring walking trails, gardens, a carousel, fountains, and a sprawling event lawn. Two major attractions bookend the park: the Cincinnati Bengals stadium and Great American Ballpark, home of the Cincinnati Reds.
While tickets to games can be pricey, Smale’s outdoor attractions are kind on the wallet. Stroll the trails, snag a swing-bench seat, or jam with the giant foot piano—all without spending a dime. Additionally, if the budget allows, consider a small splurge for a $2 ride on Carol Ann’s Carousel.
Cincinnati Art Museum
Admire more than 67,000 pieces of art at the hilltop and Eden Park-adjacent Cincinnati Art Museum, where general admission is always free. Opened in the 1880s, it is one of the country’s oldest art museums, with collections spanning 6,000 years, including an impressive East Asian art collection and remarkable Indigenous artwork.
Beyond the permanent collections, the museum hosts regular events, many of which are free, such as Art After Dark, featuring live music and food. If hunger strikes, stop at the museum’s Terrace Café, with beautifully designed spaces paired with fresh cuisine.
For a unique experience, visit the Lucky Cat Museum, which houses over 1,000 waving Japanese cats—cultural symbols of good luck. Open by appointment only, the museum features a gift shop where visitors can purchase their own lucky charm. For local bites, head to The Pickled Pig for delicious cured meats and craft beverages.
Fountain Square
It’s easy to see how Fountain Square became downtown Cincinnati’s main gathering place. This charismatic square, named for its iconic fountain, features a consistently packed events lineup, nearly all of which are free. Stop by for live music, participate in salsa lessons every Thursday during summer and fall, or gather a group for Monday trivia night where winning teams earn gift cards.
If you seek a low-cost bite nearby, head a few blocks south to Cincinnati’s second-oldest bar, O’Malleys in the Alley, where complimentary popcorn accompanies your drink or burger.
Self-Guided Mural Tour
Cincinnati is a canvas for local artists. ArtWorks Cincinnati supports apprentices and professional artists to create larger-than-life murals, which travelers can enjoy for free. Grab ArtWorks’ mural map for a self-guided walking tour, featuring over 200 murals throughout the city, with the largest concentration in Over-the-Rhine. Notable pieces include “Mr. Dynamite,” a colorful four-story rendering of music legend James Brown.
Little Miami Scenic Trail
Save some money by exploring Cincinnati on a bike. The Little Miami Scenic Trail spans 80 miles and begins just 11 miles east of the city. This river-flanked trail winds past everything from small towns to main attractions such as Kings Island amusement park in Mason. It connects with Loveland, where you can make a quick detour for locally roasted coffee at inviting Hometown Café.
Purple People Bridge
Walk from Ohio to Kentucky along the pedestrian-only Purple People Bridge, linking Sawyer Point Park and Newport on the Levee, which features dining and retail options. This half-mile violet-hued bridge, officially named the Newport Southbank Bridge, is open to walkers, bikers, and runners. While crossing the bridge is free, it leads to several spots for a low-cost bite or brew, including the sprawling German beer hall Hofbrauhaus and popular grilled cheese eatery Tom & Chee known for its unique grilled-cheese donut.
Mount Adams Views
You don’t need fancy rooftop bars to enjoy Cincinnati’s skyline. Simply head to Mount Adams, one of the tallest “mounts” in the city, where sweeping vistas await due to its proximity to downtown. Several locations throughout Mount Adams offer stunning views, including the back of Holy Cross Immaculata Parish and the parking lot next to The View at Mt. Adams.
For a budget-friendly bite that doesn’t skimp on scenery, visit City View Tavern, a casual spot with one of the best city-view balconies in the area.
Mt. Airy Forest
Few budget-friendly experiences are as tranquil as a stroll through Mt. Airy Forest, Cincinnati’s largest park. The forest boasts 13 miles of trails, 23 picnic areas, a disc golf center, and a wheelchair-accessible treehouse within its vast 1,500 acres. An onsite arboretum with 30 acres of gardens provides a peaceful lake and gazebo for unwinding. The newly established Mt. Airy multi-use bike trail enhances exploration options, inviting visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature.
