Sotto – An upscale Italian trattoria hidden below street level. Sotto is known for its rustic-chic atmosphere and house-made pastas that will transport you straight to Italy . It’s a local gem for a romantic dinner or intimate group gathering, located just a few blocks from Fountain Square downtown. *Reservations required months in advance.*

Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse – A Cincinnati dining icon and a top pick for steak lovers. Jeff Ruby has been in the steak game for decades and offers premium steaks, seafood, and an opulent old-school atmosphere . If you’re looking to celebrate with a splurge-worthy meal, this downtown steakhouse (about 5 minutes from the venue) won’t disappoint. *Reservations required months in advance.*

Skyline Chili – You can’t visit Cincinnati without trying our famous chili! Skyline is the go-to spot for Cincinnati-style chili, a mildly spiced chili served over spaghetti and topped with mountains of cheddar cheese . It’s a casual, quick bite and a true local staple – there are several Skyline locations around downtown for an easy lunch or late-night snack.

Graeter’s Ice Cream – A beloved local dessert spot dating back to 1870. Graeter’s is famous nationwide for its small-batch ice cream (try the Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip, a Cincinnati favorite) . There’s a shop near Fountain Square, perfect for an after-dinner treat to sweeten your night.

Lucius Q BBQ – A modern-industrial barbecue joint located just around the corner from the Bell Event Centre in the up-and-coming Pendleton neighborhood. Lucius Q serves up authentic slow-smoked meats, Southern sides, and often features live music . It’s great for a laid-back dinner of pulled pork, ribs, and local beers in a lively atmosphere.

The Eagle OTR (The grooms personal favorite) – A casual eatery in Over-the-Rhine known for its fried chicken and comfort food done right . The Eagle offers a relaxed beer-hall vibe with craft brews and live music on weekends. It’s a short drive or streetcar ride away, and the perfect spot to experience a local favorite with friends or family. *Reservations not required but highly recommended several days in advance*

Over-the-Rhine & Findlay Market – Explore Cincinnati’s historic Over-the-Rhine (OTR) district, a vibrant walkable neighborhood packed with history, food, and fun . Stroll past beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture, grab coffee or craft beer at local cafes, and browse unique boutiques. Don’t miss Washington Park (a green space with a splash fountain and views of Music Hall) and Findlay Market, Ohio’s oldest public market bustling with local vendors and food stalls – a great spot to sample Cincinnati’s local flavors.

Smale Riverfront Park & Roebling Bridge – Enjoy the outdoors at Smale Riverfront Park, a 32-acre park along the banks of the Ohio River. The park features fountains, gardens, playgrounds, walkways and even giant porch swings overlooking the water . Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy views of the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, a historic suspension bridge (predecessor to the Brooklyn Bridge) that beautifully frames the skyline. In the evenings, the bridge lights up and reflects on the river – a perfect backdrop for photos .

Cincinnati Art Museum & Eden Park – Perched on a hilltop in Eden Park (about a 7-minute drive from downtown), the Cincinnati Art Museum offers an afternoon of art and culture with free general admission to its extensive collections . After browsing the galleries, explore Eden Park’s paths and gardens – you’ll find picturesque lookouts with panoramic views of the Ohio River and Kentucky hills . Also in the park is the Krohn Conservatory, a charming 1930s greenhouse filled with exotic plants and seasonal floral shows, for those who love nature.

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center – A must-visit museum at The Banks downtown, especially for history buffs. The Freedom Center is dedicated to the history of the Underground Railroad and the ongoing pursuit of freedom for all people . Through powerful exhibits and stories, this “museum of conscience” invites you to reflect on the struggle for freedom in the past and present. It’s located right on the riverfront, next to the Roebling Bridge and near other attractions, making it easy to include in a day of sightseeing.

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden – If you have extra time and are up for a short drive (10–15 minutes from downtown), the Cincinnati Zoo is one of the top-rated zoos in the country (and the second oldest in the U.S.) . Home to famous residents like Fiona the hippo, the zoo features award-winning animal habitats and beautiful botanical gardens. It’s a fun daytime outing for guests of all ages – families with kids will especially love it!

The Banks Entertainment District – For a night out, head to The Banks, the riverfront district between the Reds’ and Bengals’ stadiums. This area is packed with bars, restaurants, and nightlife, making it a go-to spot for evening fun . You can find live music at places like Tin Roof, sports bars like Holy Grail (great on game days), and plenty of late-night eateries. Take an after-dinner walk through the park here to see the city skyline and bridges lit up along the river.

Rhinegeist Brewery – Cincinnati is a big beer town, and Rhinegeist is one of its most popular craft breweries. Housed in a vast historic brewery building in OTR, Rhinegeist offers a huge selection of craft beers in a lively taproom (with ping-pong and corn hole games). Be sure to check out the rooftop biergarten – it has a great view of the city skyline on nice evenings. Even if beer isn’t your thing, the atmosphere alone is worth the visit, and they do offer ciders and non-alcoholic options too.

Ghost Baby – For a unique bar experience, try Ghost Baby in Over-the-Rhine. This speakeasy-style cocktail lounge is hidden four stories underground in old brewery tunnels! The space is dimly lit and stylish, with live music (often jazz or funk) creating a cool, intimate vibe. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a more upscale, one-of-a-kind nightcap spot – just note, it’s popular on weekends, so consider making a reservation for entry. *Reservations required weeks in advance.*

Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati – Feeling lucky or want some late-night excitement? The Hard Rock Casino (formerly JACK Casino) is located just a few blocks from the Bell Event Centre. It offers a full casino experience – slots, table games, and poker – plus dining options and live entertainment. It’s a fun spot to keep the party going into the night, and many guests head here for an “after-party” when other bars start winding down.

We hope this guide helps you make the most of your visit! Enjoy these Cincinnati favorites, and if you need any more suggestions, please feel free to ask us. We’re excited to share our city with you and hope you have a fantastic time exploring before and after the wedding. Have fun, and see you soon!