If you're looking for an extensive list of date ideas in Cincinnati, I have you covered! I was born and raised in Cincinnati, and still spend a few months there each year. Whether you're looking for a competitive activity (pickleball or axe throwing, anyone?), a moody bar or a date out at a museum, there are so many things to do in Cincinnati!
Cincinnati, Ohio is a city rooted in German heritage, known for craft beer, a unique chili and seven hills that surround a bustling river valley. The amount of historic Cincinnati restaurants and cultural institutions make the city truly unique and special, many spots are over 100 years old! If you live in Cincinnati or visit often, this list is perfect for finding a new spot in the city for date night.
Use the table of contents to choose the type of date you’re looking for and find a wide range of ideas! Some of the ideas and places mentioned are not Covid friendly or temporarily closed at time of writing. Bookmark this list or save on your Pinterest for brighter days ahead!
If you only have a short time in Cincinnati, check out my list of the top 10 things to do in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Romantic Cincinnati Date Ideas
1. Dine Underground at Sotto
Eat incredible Italian food underground at Sotto. The interior is moody and romantic with brick walls, candlelit tables and red velvet curtains. Enjoy the pasta, wine and complementary donuts in the upscale and enchanting atmosphere located in central downtown. Sotto is one of the best date night restaurants in Cincinnati.
2. Take in the Views at a Rooftop Bar
For a treat or special occasion, enjoy a drink with a view at the Top of the Park at The Phelps. This upscale bar serves tapas and handcrafted cocktails alongside an incredible view of Cincinnati, the Ohio River and Kentucky.
3. Explore A Modern Park on the River
Take a walk in Smale Riverfront Park on the banks of the Ohio River. The park has interactive elements like a giant piano or a flying pig you can climb in, along with a perfect view of the picturesque John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge. Sit on a swinging bench and enjoy watching the river boats and barges go by on the river.
4. Get Dressed Up for one of the Nicest Restaurants in Town
Indulge in fine dining among elegant art deco architecture at the Orchids at Palm Court. Known as one of the best restaurants in Cincinnati, Orchids offers multi-course dinners with wine pairings in their exquisite dining room, but also has a bar where they serve a more casual food menu with creative cocktails.
5. Have Dessert at a Cute Ice Cream Parlor
Have dessert at an ice cream parlor from a bygone era at Aglamesis Bro’s. This parlor has been left mostly untouched since it opened in 1913 on Oakley Square, and the interior has beautiful tile floors, sculptured ceilings and vintage lamps. They serve incredible ice cream, italian ice and gourmet chocolate.
6. Stargaze at the Cincinnati Observatory
Gaze at the night sky at the Cincinnati Observatory. Throughout the year, they offer ‘Late Night Date Night’ events that include an intimate look through the telescope at night. You can also tour during the day, where a guide will show you the oldest telescope still in use in this hemisphere, among other things. Gazing at the stars is one of the most romantic things to do in Cincinnati!
7. Have a Drink at the Blind Lemon
Head up to Mt Adams and have a drink in the garden at the intimate Blind Lemon. This charming garden is a Cincinnati institution that often has live music and is always serving up delicious cocktails in a comforting atmosphere. Combine the trip with the nearby viewpoint at Celestial and Hill Street to take in an incredible view of the Ohio River and Kentucky.
8. Sample Local Wine at Skeleton Root
Drink excellent local wine at the Skeleton Root Winery, located in Over-the-Rhine. The winery has a mission to work with obscure American grapes and bring wine production back to the local region. The space is airy and beautiful, also serving light bites and wine-based cocktails. Over-the-Rhine is also has great nightlife if you're looking for more things to do in Cincinnati at night.
9. Have a Artisanal Cocktail
Enjoy an artisanal cocktail at the vintage-feeling Sundry and Vice bar in Over-the-Rhine. This lounge has an intimate atmosphere and an extensive cocktail menu of inventive drinks. It’s a perfect spot to have a couple cocktails and a great conservation.
10. Enjoy a French breakfast
Enjoy a little slice of Paris at French Crust Cafe, located right across from Findlay Market. The bistro serves french baked goods, elegant french meals and beautiful desserts. The interior is beautiful, bringing you to France with artfully selected details.
11. Take in the views from Price Hill
Enjoy an incredible view of Cincinnati from Price Hill. Eat at the high end Primavista for an elegant Italian meal with a view of the city, or at Incline Public House for a more casual dining experience with delicious pizza, sandwiches and appetizers. You can also just head to the small Olden View Park to take in the view, which sits in between the two restaurants.
12. Enjoy an Independent Movie Night
Watch an independent film at the 100+ year old Esquire Theater in Clifton. The theater is intimate and charming and often has special runs of older films along with new releases. The theater does a great job of bridging the gap between artistic films and blockbusters. There are also several nearby restaurants that can be paired up for date night.
13. Hang out at a Coffee Shop Open Late
Surround yourself with plants and eclectic furniture at Highland Coffee House in Clifton. This moody coffee shop is open late into the night, making it perfect for deep conversations. Order coffee, a cocktail, food or a milkshake as you cozy up in the intimate space.
14. Take in the Views of Cincinnati from Clifton
Bellevue Hill Park is another spot to get some of the best views of Downtown Cincinnati. The small park is located in the CUF neighborhood (a merge of Clifton Heights, University Heights and Fairview) and overlooks the city from the north. I recommend grabbing take out from a nearby restaurant, like Adeep India or Adriatico’s Pizza, and enjoying the view with a picnic.
15. Dine Farm to Table
For a farm to table brunch or dinner experience, visit The Baker’s Table. The restaurant was voted one of the best new restaurants of 2019 by Eater and USA Today for good reason, the attention to detail to the interior and the food is incredible. Be sure to try the ricotta donuts if you visit for brunch!
16. Get Fancy at High Tea
For when you’re feeling elegant, visit the BonBonerie for high tea and dessert. The BonBonerie has been in operation since 1983 and is a quintessential Cincinnati dessert spot. Order a pot of tea with a tasting tray full of handcrafted desserts, finger sandwiches and scones. The BonBonerie is a great place to order a cake or pastry to take home.
17. Be Entertained with a Live Performance
Catch a live theatrical performance at the Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park or the Aronoff. Both have a variety of musicals and plays throughout each season. The Aronoff is located downtown and shows the most famous and large productions of Broadway shows and ballet. Playhouse in the Park offers a more intimate setting, but still with an incredibly high calibration of theater.
18. Step back in time at a Drive-In Movie
Feel a sense of nostalgia with a double feature movie from your car at the Starlite Drive - In Theater. This gem shows first run movies with an old school snack bar and video intros of dancing hotdogs and sodas. Cozy up in your car and enjoy the show.
Quirky Cincinnati Date Ideas
19. Stay in a Cincinnati-themed Hotel
Enjoy a staycation at the Graduate Hotel in Clifton! This hotel is themed with all things Cincinnati, from sport team references to Cincinnati chili motifs on the nightstands. Not only will you love the detail in the colorful and fun rooms, but you can unwind with a drink downstairs at Fiona's in the lobby.
20. Admire Lucky Cats
The Lucky Cat Museum is a quirky little museum located in Essex Studios. It is completely dedicated to the Lucky or Fortune Cats that originate from Japan. The museum is tiny but super unique and special, especially if you love cats and Japanese culture! The museum is currently open by appointment (May 2022).
21. Explore Northside
Spend an afternoon or evening exploring the eclectic and artistic Northside neighborhood. For shopping, check out Casablanca Vintage or Hi-Bred to find a beautiful selection of vintage clothing. For eating and drinking, visit Northside Tavern for a large outdoor patio and bar, Melt Revival or Ruth’s Parkside Cafe for a good selection of vegan options.
22. Sample Funky Beers
Try a flight of sour beers at Urban Artifact, located in the eclectic neighborhood of Northside. The brewery specializes in sour beers and has some of the best I’ve ever had. It has plenty of outdoor seating but the indoor ambience is especially unique, as it is located inside of an old church. Play a board game, listen to live music or order a pizza to go with your sours.
23. Delight in 100's of Cool Signs
Gaze at a unique collection of neon signs at the Cincinnati Sign Museum, the largest public sign museum in America. The museum pays homage to over 100 years of sign making and is beautiful to look at while offering a lot of historic value as well. Personally, I think this is a Cincinnati hidden gem.
24. Step into The Shining
If you like The Shining, make a visit to the Overlook Lodge. This rustic bar shows The Shining on repeat along with wonderful cocktails and vintage touches. This Holiday season, it transformed into a holiday pop up bar for the winter.
25. Take an Outdoorsy Small Town Day Trip
Take a day trip to Yellow Springs, about an hour north of Cincinnati. Yellow Springs is known for its laid back and hippie vibes, and is also a great place to do some hiking. Take in nature at Glen Helen Nature Preserve or Clifton Gorge, grab a drink at Yellow Springs Brewery or some tacos from Miguel’s Tacos while you explore the quirky town.
26. Visit a Castle
Who knew you could find a castle right outside of Cincinnati! The Loveland Castle was built by one man who began in the 1920’s. He also established the Knights of the Golden Trail and willed the castle and its grounds to the knighthood upon his death. Knights still guard the grounds today and teach visitors about the history of the unique castle. It’s an interesting and unexpected piece of history.
Adventurous Dates in Cincinnati
27. Hike at Ault Park
Hike through a beautiful garden and forest or experience views of Lunken Airport at Ault Park. This is the fourth largest park in Cincinnati and is a beautiful place to explore, have a picnic or take photographs. There is also an iconic pavilion structure where many weddings take place. You can climb on top for a great view of the surrounding area.
28. Shop for International Foods at Jungle Jim's
Head to Eastgate or Fairfield and visit Jungle Jim’s International Market to travel without leaving Ohio. Visiting the stores is an adventure in itself, as they are full of quirky objects like portalets that lead to the bathrooms and animatronics. At the Fairfield location, there is even a monorail that leads from the grocery store to an events venue. Choose a country that you want to visit and buy ingredients to cook a special meal, or wander around and try candy, noodles, drinks and more from all over the world.
29. Get Your Energy Out with Active Gaming
Compete head to head at Activate, an active gaming experience. They have a variety of games that use your body and mind. You may find yourself crawling under lasers, matching colors, shooting hoops, and more. It's located in Oakley and so much fun.
30. Take in the Views from Fairview Park
Catch a view of Cincinnati from Fairview Park. You can take a mile long drive through the park and admire the view of downtown the entire time, or sit on the stonewall area and watch all the going-ons of the city below. The park was formerly a stone quarry and you can even find the remnants of an old sealed wine cellar as you explore the park.
31. Explore a Sculpture Park
Drive north to Hamilton to explore the unique Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park. The park is over 300 acres but you are able to explore it by golf cart. There are over 80 sculptures that are nestled among hiking trails, lakes and rolling hills. The park is a unique and beautiful way to spend an afternoon.
32. Hike Bender Mountain
Go hiking at the short but steep Bender Mountain Trails, located in Delhi. Begin by crossing a creek, and then hike up for some beautiful views of the Ohio River. Look out for a graveyard at the top and for beautiful wildflowers in the springtime.
33. Hike at Mt Echo
Mt Echo Park is a great place to not only experience a great view of the Ohio River, but also hike through forested trails. You’ll find a historic pavilion from 1928 along with steep wooded hillsides to explore.
34. Walk Between Two States
Walk across state lines on the Purple People Bridge, a walking bridge that connects Yeatman’s Cove on the Ohio side to Newport on the Levee on the Kentucky side. The bridge is half a mile long and a great spot for views of the Ohio River. Combine the trip with a walk through Yeatman’s Cove, where you can take a seat on the iconic Serpentine Wall and watch the barges go by.
For more hiking ideas, read about the best hiking trails near Cincinnati
35. Visit a Historic Cemetery
Admire historic graves and impressive landscaping at the 733-acre Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum. Many notable Cincinnati natives are buried here, including the founders of Procter & Gamble and Kroger. The scenery here is beautiful; I recommend driving or walking around the premises and getting a little lost as you admire the horticulture and gothic gravestones.
36. Admire the City from Across the River
See one of the best views of the Cincinnati skyline from Devou Park! Located in Northern Kentucky, this is one of the best views of the Cincinnati skyline from across the river. When you arrive, head towards the Drees Pavilion for the incredible view, but stick around and explore stretches of the paved or backcountry trails in the large park.
37. Look for Wildlife at the Cincinnati Nature Center
Explore a beautiful and protected forest at the Rowe Woods portion of the Cincinnati Nature Center. The park has miles of trails, ranging from easy to difficult with high elevation changes. The paths are well preserved and you’ll discover something new no matter what time of year you visit, from waterfalls to wildflowers.
38. Hike at Mt Airy Forest
Get outside and enjoy a hike through Mt Airy Forest. This park is over 1000 acres and has several miles of serene wooded trails. The park is especially beautiful when the leaves change in the fall. You can also combine the trip with a visit to Putz Creamy Whip, which is located right at the edge of the park.
39. Camp at East Fork Lake
Sleep under the stars with a camping trip to East Fork Lake State Park. The park is one of the largest state parks in Ohio and offers campgrounds, a beach and 46 miles of hiking trails. With only a 35 minute drive from Cincinnati, it makes for a great day trip or weekend escape from the city.
40. See What You Can Find at Traders World
Shop at the midwest’s largest flea market at Traders World. The sprawling market is open on weekends and you can find anything from clothing to furniture to tarot card readings. Make a day over searching for a unique piece of home decor and find things you never knew you needed.
Creative Cincinnati Dates
41. Stop in Local Galleries
Go art gallery hopping in Pendleton and Over-the-Rhine during the monthly ‘Final Friday’ event. On the last Friday of every month, many galleries open their doors from 6-11 pm for people to wander and view the art. As a starting point, visit the Pendleton Art Center, a collection of over 200 artists under one roof.
42. Visit Modern Art Museums
Enjoy an afternoon full of modern art at the CAC and the 21C. The Contemporary Arts Center, famously designed by architect Zaha Hadid, is an amazing museum with interesting rotating exhibitions of current artists. Explore the unique galleries and don’t forget the top floor, home of the fun and interactive UnMuseum. For more modern art, combine the trip with a visit to the 21C Museum and Hotel right next door. The first two floors of this hotel are full of rotating modern exhibits that are always interesting and thought-provoking. *
43. Stroll Through the Cincinnati Art Museum
The Cincinnati Art Museum is perfect for a date with someone who enjoys art. The museum is located in Eden Park and has a large collection of classics works, along with interesting rotating exhibitions throughout the year. The architecture of the museum is also nice, there is a gorgeous Great Hall with a grand staircase and elegant columns. The museum is one of the oldest art museums in the country and the largest in the state of Ohio.
44. Paint your Own Pottery
Paint your own unique plate, mug, ornament, piggy bank or otherwise at Let’s Go Doodlin’. The studio allows you to pick out your piece of pottery and paint it, then they fire it for you for later pick up. It’s a fun couples activity and a great way to get creative.
Classic Cincinnati Date Ideas
45. Visit Ohio's Oldest Public Market
Spend a Saturday morning picking out fresh and local ingredients from Findlay Market! Ohio’s oldest public market has a huge variety of goodies - from belgium waffles to BBQ to delicious spice blends. Grab lunch and sit outside or collect ingredients for the perfect picnic. You can spend hours visiting the many businesses.
46. Hang out at Rhinegeist
Visit Rhinegeist Brewery and enjoy some of Cincinnati’s best beer! Sit in the large indoor space and order a burger that will arrive through a pneumatic tube, or head up to the rooftop and enjoy the views. Rhinegeist always has rotating taps and new beer to try, get a flight and sample multiple choices!
47. Try all of the Best Local Eats on a Food Tour
Learn more about the Cincinnati culinary scene from a professional with a Cincinnati food tour! Options include tours of Findlay Market, Walnut Hills or stops along the Cincinnati Streetcar. It’s a great way to learn more about the city and try a lot of delicious things along the way.
48. Visit Union Terminal
Learn about Cincinnati history in an art deco style train terminal at Union Terminal. The building is home to the Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History and Science, a children’s museum and an omnimax. The museums are great, but the interior Rotunda of the building is also worth seeing on its own. Tours are offered of the Rotunda where you can learn more about the architecture and artwork. This is one of the best things to do in Cincinnati!
49. Explore the Cincinnati Zoo
Visit the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden to catch a glimpse of the famous Fiona the Hippo along with many other animals. The zoo is especially romantic in the winter during the Festival of Lights, there you’ll find a gorgeous light display to explore with lots of holiday fun.
50. Hang out at Washington Park
Visit Washington Park in Over-the-Rhine for a variety of activities, from a dog park to water features. It is also home to a bar and a huge lawn to spread out in. It’s a great spot to order takeout from a nearby restaurant and have a picnic. It is also right across the stunning Music Hall, making it a beautiful spot for photography.
51. Immerse yourself in Classical Museum
Listen to the Cincinnati Symphony inside of the iconic and historic Music Hall. Music Hall is on the National Register of historic places and considered one of the most beautiful concert theaters in the world. The theater is also known to be haunted and you can take a ghost tour of the premises to learn more about the spooky occurrences and ghost sightings. This is a great indoor date idea in Cincinnati.
52. Head to the Top of Carew Tower
Enjoy panoramic views of downtown Cincinnati on the observation deck of the Carew Tower. The Carew Tower was completed in 1930 and features art deco style architecture. The admission is very affordable but cash only, so make sure you’re prepared.
53. Teleport to Germany at the Hofbrauhaus
Have a stein of bier and a soft pretzel at Hofbrauhaus! Head to Newport and enjoy traditional Bavarian food paired with ice cold German beer. There’s a large bier garden out back with plenty of space to spread out. Also keep a look out for special events like keg tappings of seasonal beers.
54. Enjoy Authentic German Food
Enjoy authentic German food at Mecklenburg Gardens in Clifton. This restaurant has served as a meeting place for the city’s German residents since 1865. The historic restaurant has many stories attached, including the fact that it served as a speakeasy bar during Prohibition in the 1920’s. Today, it is on the National Register of Historic Places and serves delicious German food and German beer. It was even ranked the #1 beer garden in the US according to Travel + Leisure. This restaurant closed in 2023, but is supposed to reopen under new ownership in the future.
55. Walk Through a Greenhouse at the Krohn Conservatory
Explore a beautiful greenhouse and botanical garden at the Krohn Conservatory. This greenhouse has been open since 1933 and features over 3,000 plant species. Inside, you’ll find a waterfall, a room of butterflies and many more gems to explore.
56. See the Iconic Fountain Square
Visit a central symbol of Cincinnati at Fountain Square, located downtown. Here you’ll find ‘The Genius of Water’ fountain, which is dedicated to the People of Cincinnati, which is 43 feet tall and a beautiful sight. The square is home to seasonal events, like an ice rink in the winter. It’s also a nice place to hang out and enjoy a cone of Graeter's ice cream in the summertime.
57. Savor a Belgium Brunch
Enjoy a delicious brunch at one of the Taste of Belgium’s around town. The idea of the restaurant was born when founder Jean-Francois Flechet, originally from Belgium, constantly sold out of his waffles at Findlay Market. The waffles went on to be featured on Diners, Drive ins and Dives. Be sure to try them, but also check out all of the other great items on the menu.
58. Eat the Best Ice Cream in Town at Graeter's
Eating Graeter’s Ice Cream is a must-do for anyone visiting Cincinnati and is perfect for any date night. There are many locations all around the city to enjoy their incredible ice cream. I recommend the famous black raspberry chip, or really any other flavor that includes the giant and delicious chocolate chunks. A couple locations that I really like are the Greater’s on historic Ludlow Avenue and the Greater’s in the adorable Hyde Park Square.
59. Visit a Classic OTR Bar
Japp’s is a cocktail bar in Over-the-Rhine that originally was a Hair Store creating handcrafted wigs in the early 1900’s. The space feels like a refined and intimate lounge and the bar is one of the best places to enjoy a handcrafted cocktail in the city.
60. Explore The Banks
Explore the strip between the Great American Ball Park and the Paul Brown Stadium known as The Banks. This is a great area to bar hop and watch sports, with fun bars like Jefferson Social and Moerlein Lager House. You are also right next to Smale Riverfront Park, where you’ll find a carousel and plenty more to do.
61. Cheer on the Home Team
For an iconic Cincinnati activity, head to a Reds' Game! Tickets for the baseball games range widely in price, so you can find great deals for far away seats. Go on a friday to see the famous Rozzi fireworks light up the sky after the game.
62. Ride the Free Streetcar
Take a ride on the Cincinnati Streetcar from the Banks to Over-the-Rhine! This is a fun way to bar hop across neighborhoods without using rideshare, or a great way to explore the city using public transportation. The Streetcar goes right to the popular Rhinegeist Brewery, a perfect place to end or begin your night.
63. Take a Ride on a Riverboat
Cruise down the Ohio River on a BB Riverboat Cruise. BB Riverboats have been operating since 1979 and pay homage to Cincinnati’s history as an important port city. There are a variety of cruise types offered, from jazz brunches to sightseeing. It’s a great way to see the city from a new perspective and a wonderful couples activity in Cincinnati.
64. Take a Ferry Across the River
The Anderson Ferry has transported people between Ohio and Kentucky since 1817 and is a nationally registered US Historic Sight. Today you can ride the ferry for a quick and scenic trip across the river. Nearby in Delhi, OH, check out West Hill Greenhouses for a huge selection of plants.
65. Explore Covington
Spend a day or an evening exploring the historic Mainstrasse Village neighborhood in Covington, KY. The village is home to numerous art galleries, shops and antiques. It has no shortage of places to eat, like the whimsical Frida 602 for a Mexican brunch, Mainstrasse Village Pub for craft beers in a homey setting, Goodfellas Pizza for late night New York style slices or Otto’s for great quality American food.
66. Have a Night Out at Newport on the Levee
At Newport on the Levee you’ll find an aquarium, a movie theater and a variety of restaurants and bars. The area also has an incredible view of the downtown Cincinnati skyline right across the river. Whether you want to spend a whole day or just grab dinner and see the view, you won’t be bored while visiting.
67. Explore Hyde Park Square
Spend the better part of a day in Hyde Park Square and visit some of the wonderful shops and restaurants the area has to offer. Check out the Echo for delicious brunch in a diner setting, Arthur’s for great burgers and an intimate garden or Alfio's Buon Cibo for a high end Italian meal.
68. Explore Mt Lookout
Head to Mt Lookout to enjoy a delicious burger in a pub-like setting at Zip's Cafe. The restaurant has been open for over 90 years, making it a popular spot for locals to enjoy a cold beer and delicious sandwich. After your meal, head next door to enjoy deliciously sweet gelato from Buona Terra.
Fun Date Ideas in Cincinnati
69. Ride Rollercoasters at Kings Island
Spend a day riding thrilling coasters at Kings Island Amusement Park. There is no shortage of things to do here, from flying down a funnel water slide to being slingshotted in the air inside a ball. A couple of my favorite rides are The Beast, the longest wooden roller coaster in the world, or the Diamondback, a super smooth coaster with huge drops.
70. Watch a Hockey Game
Cheer on the home team at a Cincinnati Cyclones Game! Cincinnati’s minor league hockey team is always adding fun events into their seasons to keep the games exciting. Wednesdays or Thursdays are typically dollar beer nights, where you’ll be able to have a great time on a budget. The spectators usually end up creating a pyramid of beer cans in the stands. Games typically occur from October to April.
71. Rent a Karoake Room at Tokyo Kitty
For a fun night out, show off your singing skills at Tokyo Kitty! This karaoke bar downtown has private rooms you can reserve and is super colorful and fun. Enjoy a sake bomb or highball as you sing your heart out.
72. Compete in duckpin bowling at Pins Mechanical Co
Go head to head in a game of duckpin bowling at Pins Mechanical Co. This large bar in Over-the-Rhine also offers foosball, pinball, ping pong and bocce ball, so you won't be bored while waiting for your turn to bowl. The range of activities make for a fun and competitive date or night out with friends. Pins is also great if you're looking for a double date idea in Cincinnati!
73. Compete at a Board Game Bar
Try out a new game accompanied with food and drinks at a board game bar! This is especially could for a double date so you have more players. One great one in the Cincinnati area is Free Parking.
74. Head to the 21C Rooftop
Sip an adult slushie on a rooftop at the 21C Cocktail Terrace. The bar is only open during the warmer months and gives off summertime fun vibes with refreshing pop-tails and other fun drinks. It also provides a beautiful view of the city. To make the night extra special, have a staycation and book a room inside a modern art museum at the 21C Hotel.
75. Compete in Axe Throwing
Compete for a bullseye during a night of ax throwing. Ax throwing makes for a great date because it’s an active activity that brings out a little competitive energy! There are a few locations to do this in the Cincinnati area, including Class Axe in West Chester.
76. Explore Walnut Hills
Spend an evening exploring the Walnut Hills neighborhood. Enjoy woodfired pizza inside a former firehouse at Fireside Pizza, then head over to Tiki-Tiki Bang Bang for an experience that infuses cinema and tiki culture. There are typically film screenings and unique events occuring, check their website or social media for upcoming events.
77. Go to a Concert at Bogart's
Enjoy live music in an intimate setting at Bogart’s. The theater has a rich history; it was first built in 1890 and hosted vaudeville acts, and then later switched to German films. The building was renamed Bogart’s in 1980 and has been hosting live musical performances ever since.
78. Create Your Own Candle
Create and pour your own candle at The Candle Lab. You can find locations in Over-the-Rhine and Anderson. Choose your scent and hand pour the wax into a jar size of your choice. The candle will be a fun way to remember your date night!
79. Spend an Evening at Top Golf
Practice your swing at Top Golf! At Top Golf, you can score points as you sip on adult milkshakes and snack on nachos. The activity makes for a super fun night out with a date or with friends.
80. Have a Ducky with Your Breakfast
Eat brunch in a retro atmosphere among rubber ducks at Sugar ‘n Spice. This adorable restaurant serves pancakes, coffee, omelettes and more in a bright atmosphere, and they give you a rubber duck to take home!
81. Get Buzzed on Ice Cream
Enjoy a sweet treat at Buzzed Bull Creamery, which has a huge selection of booze-infused ice cream. Try a milkshake filled with mix-ins like waffle cones, brownies or bananas with ice cream flavors infused with vodka, bourbon, kahlua and more. You can even get a flight that includes tasting-size ice cream shots in rotating flavors.
82. Try New Foods at Factory 52
Eat around the world at the Factory 52 food hall! They have several food stalls with a variety of genres. Plus, right outside of the food hall you can enjoy Jeni's Ice Cream, Hi-Wire Brewing and Aces Pickleball.
Relaxed Cincinnati Date Ideas
83. Stroll Through the International Friendship Park
Take a relaxed stroll through the International Friendship Park on the banks of the Ohio River. The park is made up of beautiful sculptures and botanic life that pay tribute to international peace and world unity. The park was named in honor of the city’s first African American major and is a beautiful place for a walk.
84. Have Breakfast at Sleepy Bee
Enjoy a locally sourced brunch while admiring local artwork at Sleepy Bee Cafe. Try a scramble or a stack of pancakes with a delicious cup of coffee in one of their cute restaurants. The menu also has a great selection of vegan options.
85. Have a Drink at Queen City Radio
Have a beer or boozy slushie in an outdoor patio at Queen City Radio. Order from the bar inside or the airstream parked outside. When you get hungry, grab a bite from the Queen City Whip food truck. The bar has a great atmosphere and is great to spend an evening or afternoon.
86. Eat at Mt Adams Bar and Grill
Have dinner at the classic Mt Adams Bar and Grill, which was born out of a Prohibition Era speakeasy. They serve bar fare and popular items including the reuben, sweet potato fries and burgers. The menu also has a good amount of vegan options. The atmosphere is full of vintage decor and old architecture, and the people are always friendly and relaxed. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy a great conversation.
87. Enjoy a Rooftop Drink
Head to the Banks and have a drink at the AC Hotel Marriott Upper Deck. This rooftop bar offers great views of the Great American Ballpark, Ohio River and Northern Kentucky. After a drink or two, head downstairs and around the corner to Condado Tacos. Condado Tacos has an extensive taco menu and even an option to build your own. They also serve margarita flights and trios of salsa, queso and guacamole.
88. Have Breakfast at Maplewood
Maplewood Kitchen and Bar offers a delicious brunch in the heart of downtown. Enjoy a brussels sprout benedict or an avocado toast along with a coffee or a cocktail. The restaurant is west-coast inspired and offers healthy options using local and seasonal ingredients.
89. Have a Drink and Pizza at MadTree
Enjoy a Cincinnati brew at the MadTree beer garden in Oakley. The brewery has a large tap room along with a great outdoor space to spread out. Along with their huge beer selection, they also serve delicious wood fired pizza. The outdoor area is also a great place to bring a pup!
90. Dine in a Former Church
Enjoy beer and delicious food inside a former church at Mellotone Beer Project, which is in the space that was formerly Taft's Ale House. They have some unique menu items and fresh beer made in house.
91. Visit a Local Coffee Shop
Sip on local coffee at Collective Espresso, Rohs Cafe, Coffee Emporium, Carabello Coffee or Deeper Roots Coffee. All of these spots serve great coffee, but my personal favorite is the Coffee Emporium location in Hyde Park. It’s located in an old home and fits in perfectly with the neighborhood. They have seating upstairs along with a cute backyard space. While you’re there, be sure to check out the famous Mushroom House across the street. It’s a quirky and architecturally-unique home that resembles a mushroom.
92. Order Tacos from a Window
Order tacos from a walk up window at the Gomez Salsa in OTR! Gomez serves up delicious turtles, tacos, burritos and the food never disappoints. At the OTR location, order from an outdoor window and bring your food to the Halfcut bar next door. Spread out a bit more at the Gomez Salsa in Walnut Hills, where you order inside.
At Home Cincinnati Date Ideas
93. Sample Cincinnati Chili
Settle the classic debate of what is the best Cincinnati chili. Grab take-out from a couple of the contenders - Skyline, Gold Star, Price Hill Chili, Blue Ash Chili or Camp Washington Chili - and compare to find out for yourself! For vegetarians, Skyline and Gold Star offer vegetarian chilis.
94. Get Indian Take Out
This might be unexpected, but in my opinion Cincinnati has some of the best Indian food in the States. Head to Clifton and grab take-out from Adeep, Krishna, Dusmesh or Ambar to see for yourself.
95. Bring a Charcuterie Board Home
Order a charcuterie board from The Rhined, an artisanal wine and cheese shop in Over-the-Rhine. They offer a huge variety of options to-go, so order a bottle of wine and a cheese board to enjoy with a romantic date night at home! You can also visit the shop and pick out your selections of cheeses.
96. Bring Home a Dozen Donuts
Visit my favorite Cincinnati donut shop: Holtman’s Donuts! You can find locations in OTR, Oakley, West Chester and Loveland. The donuts are made from scratch daily and you’ll find new seasonal flavors every time you visit. Order a variety to-go and enjoy them in a nearby park or at home.
Seasonal Cincinnati Date Ideas
97. Paddle on the Little Miami River
Rent a canoe to explore the Little Miami River (part of the National Wild and Scenic River System)! Check out Morgan’s Canoe Livery and spend a day exploring the area by water. This area of the Little Miami is secluded and full of natural beauty. There are no towns within miles, making this one of the most beautiful areas to canoe on the Little Miami.
98. Enjoy a Creamy Whip
In the summertime, enjoy a sweet treat at one of Cincinnati’s many iconic Creamy Whips (ice cream stands known for their soft serve). Check out Putz Creamy Whip, Zip Dip or the Newtown Dairy Corner and indulge in a cone piled high with soft serve dipped in sprinkles.
99. Have a Beer at Oktoberfest
During the month of September, you can find an Oktoberfest event going on all around town just about every weekend. The largest, however, is certainly the downtown Oktoberfest Zinzinnati. The event is one of the largest Oktoberfests in the world and includes many festivities revolving around German beer, German food and German entertainment.
100. Go Skiing
Escape the city and hit the slopes at Perfect North. The ski resort is typically open from November to March and has hills for skiing at all different difficulties, along with hills for tubing. It’s the perfect spot to practice skiing and offers season passes as well as day passes.
101. Have your Mind Blown at BLINK
Admire the wild and and mesmerizing light displays at BLINK! The festival has occured every two years in the fall for the last few years, so check back to see if they bring it back in 2026.
102. Sample the Best Foods of Cincinnati
Be sure to add the annual Taste of Cincinnati event to your calendar! It's one of the largest and oldest street food festivals in the United States. Not only is there seemingly endless food vendors lining the sidewalks, but there is live music throughout the event. It typically occurs over Memorial Day Weekend.
103. Transport to Medieval Times at the Reniassance Festival
On weekends in the fall, take a day trip to the Ohio Renaissance Festival. This huge event is a great place to eat a turkey leg, get splashed with mud at the Mud Show, purchase a medival dagger, and so much more. Also be sure to check their themed weekends to decide when you should go. From Pirates Weekend to Vikings Weekend, there is something for everyone at this fun event.
Final Thoughts
I hope this gives you some great ideas for a Cincinnati date night! From hiking trails to historic restaurants, there is so much to do around the city year round.
For more Ohio guides, check out these blogs:
- The Best Hikes near Cincinnati
- A Guide to Exploring Hocking Hills
- Top 10 things To Do in Cincinnati
- The Best Things To Do in Cuyahoga Valley
- The Best Hiking in Yellow Springs
- The Best Things To Do in Warren County, Ohio
Thanks for Reading!
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