Welcome to Porkopolis - Cincinnati, Oh!

New York, L.A., Vegas…Cincinnati? I admit – Cincinnati is not the first place I think of when considering vacation spots. However, I want us to start thinking of it as a destination! Cincinnati is affordable, beautiful and has plenty for the entire family.

I do not recommend a winter or early spring visit. Snow aint fun, y’all. My favorite time in Cincinnati is early fall. You’ll see all of the rich colors of fall mingling with the last remnants of summer. The temperature is perfect – crisp but still comfortable mornings; warm, sun kissed afternoons; cool nights to soothe you after a night of fun.

Who?

African American couple in their late 20’s

How to get there?

Fly to Cincinnati during the summer from multiple locations around the country through Frontier. Tickets to and from Dallas are as low as $29 each way (before taxes/fees)!

Check flights into Dayton, OH. Dayton is 45minutes to 1hour from Cincinnati. Many times, flights are cheaper. You can take a bus or cab/Uber/Lyft to your hotel or rent a car.

For closer departure locations, consider the bus. There are several buses from New York (and many cities in between) to Cincinnati for about $60 each way. Most buses have complimentary wifi, a restroom, and USB ports. Many long distance bus rides are scheduled to travel at night – take an eye mask and neck pillow, your most comfortable headphones and banging playlist, as many bags as you like, and sleep.

Spending money once there?

Take around $500 per adult for a comfortable stay. Leverage Groupon, city event prices (e.g. restaurant week) and company discounts for an even more affordable getaway. Grocery stores, such as Kroger, offer discounted tickets for certain attractions. Just go to the Service Desk and ask.

Sports Adventure:

Cincy is a sports town. They are hopelessly devoted to their teams. Whether it be baseball (the Reds), football and their Bengals, hockey (Cyclones), soccer with FC Cincinnati , or the fanatical love of their college sports team – you should put a game/match on your itinerary.

The Reds play at the Great American Ballpark. It is a cozy stadium with great views from most of the park. My favorite parts are the fireworks after a win and the flames that burst from the towers at the corner of the stadium after a strike. Tickets have been as low as $1.

The Bengals toss the pigskin around at Paul Brown. The stadium is on the water and provides great water views and views of neighboring Kentucky. During football games, you will see boats roll by cheering on the home team. Tickets can be $15 and up.

If tennis is more your style, the Western and Southern Open takes place every August. The big names always show up. The grounds are small; so there are no bad seats. You can expect some local glamour – there is an annual fashion show as part of the kickoff events, onsite there are champagne stations, a few celebrity and tennis legend sightings could be made, as well. You can expect a sampling of Cincinnati’s most popular foods. They’ve had pricey steakhouses to bargain fast-food classics available. There is something for most budgets and pallets.

Tip #1: Save some coins and buy an evening ticket. The ticket is cheaper, the temperature is not torturous and there are still big names playing. The evening ticket says 7pm start HOWEVER you can enter starting at 5pm. Catch a bonus match, enjoy some good food with the money you saved.

Tip #2: Some seating is uncomfortable. The “cheap seats” are metal benches. Take a sitting cushion or buy a souvenir cushion from the many shops.

Tip#3: This is still August y’all – a lot of sun or a lot of rain. Take a hat. Take sunscreen. Drink plenty of water.

Downtown Adventure:

Cincinnati has a lot of great parks. My favorite is Friendship Park; and it’s located at the edge of downtown. Friendship Park takes you through the different flora of the continents and some amazing architecture. It has a great walking trail along the river. You’ll get lost in the lushness and views.

Cincinnati’s riverfront has become a highly-visited spot lately. It is truly beautiful. Smale Riverfront Park is 45-acres long and lined with metal swings, walking and biking trails, play areas, an outdoor gym, child-friendly obstacle courses, doggie water fountains. There is something for every member of your family. Park the car, take a stroll, get some beautiful pictures of the Cincy riverfront.

Tip #1: rent bicycles and ride from Smale Riverfront Park to Friendship Park or vice versa. There are a few options – Chase bike rentals at entrance of Friendship Park (about $8/hr), bike vendors near Sawyer Point (they have lowriders, which I love), and the Cincinnati Bike Center. You’ll get a casual workout, feel the wind through your hair and explore the extensive riverside trail.

Tip #2: take some time to enjoy Yeatman’s Cove and Sawyer Point – both are side-by-side parks on the riverfront and between Smale and Friendship. Near Yeatman’s Cove, you’ll see the “Purple People Bridge.” It is a pedestrian only bridge over the Ohio River. Walk or ride across to Newport, KY. In the middle of Sawyer Point, there is a status of Cincinnatus. Take a picture!

Washington Park is a large greenspace with plenty of activities. There is also a dog park for your fur babies. Throughout the year, there are music festivals and concerts, a water park, morning yoga. Unfortunately, Cincinnati has a large homeless population. The homeless tend to hang out on the far side of the park. I have yet to hear of them harassing anyone. Use your best judgement.

Wanna gamble? There is a casino in downtown Cincinnati. Yes, it is open 24-hours a day (for the uninitiated). It is a short Uber/Lyft or streetcar ride from anywhere in the city.

Get a “top of the world” view of the city at Carew Tower. Fair warning: You will take one elevator to a higher floor, then walk around the corner to take a tiny elevator to another floor, then walk up a flight and a half of stairs to get to the rooftop. Admission must be paid in cash (about $10). It can be windy up there. If you are one of my skinny brothers or sisters, wear some sneakers and hold on to the rails in the beginning.

In the heart of the city, you will find Fountain Square. It is an open space with a gorgeous fountain in the middle. Restaurants, hotels and a popular club form the perimeter. There are activities there every weekend and holiday. During the summer, there are free concerts and dance lessons throughout the week. A huge favorite is “Salsa on the Square.” The Latino and Hispanic communities educate the attendees through art, dance lessons, and food. There is even a dance competition! Always a good time. During the Christmas season, Santa repels from Carew Tower. Yes, Santa repels. It's tradition.

Find the pigs! The city of Cincinnati was once called “Porkopolis” (I’ll let you imagine why) and you can still spot many statues of pigs around the city today. During the summer, several pigs are painted and decorated by several groups, then placed around the city. Try to find them.

I like tours. Cincy has plenty (including underground mafia options). Ride the Duck was one of my favorites. It gives you a “land and sea” history lesson of the city. It takes you around the landmarks, then the duck dives into the Ohio river with a splash. So much fun! It should cost around $30 per adult.

Tip: if you visit during October, there is a special “haunted” tour. Ghouls and goblins and such.

Art & Culture Adventure:

I love the theater. I like seeing what Broadway shows are touring in the cities I visit or what their theater community has to offer. Cincinnati has a nice theater and symphony scene. There is the Ensemble Theater, the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, Playhouse in the Park. The Aronoff (kind of nose bleeds pictured below) is one of the big performing arts centers in the city. Touring Broadway shows perform there; the Cincinnati Ballet performs there. Look at the schedules and take in some theater. There aren’t many bad seats in the Aronoff.

Cincinnati has several great museums. Includes: The Taft Museum of Art (which is free on Sundays), the Contemporary Arts Museum (free every day), and the Cincinnati Museum Center.

Of note is the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. This museum is dedicated to African American history. There are exhibits about current and historic events that impact the African American community. It is moving, it is inspiring, it is heavy, it will change you. There is also a genealogy department with volunteers ready to help you sketch out that family tree. It is free and you will have access to a bunch of data.Tickets cost up to $15. If you buy tickets online, there is a $2 discount.

Tip: check out the carousel behind the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. It’s great for kids…and adults alike!

I particularly love the Cincinnati Arts Museum. It is free and gorgeous. When you drive up to the entrance, a huge Pinocchio statue rises to greet you.

If you are an astronomy fan, check out the Cincinnati Observatory. They offer fun courses for kids and adults alike. Cost ranges from free to about $50.

Fun fact: they possess the oldest public telescope in the country

I love street art. Seeing this art provides great insight into the spirit of the city. Cincinnati has plenty of murals that will make you stop and stare. The Cincinnati Art Works organization manages, sponsors and commissions local artists.

Download the free map for a self-guided tour. If you’d like a guided tour, expect up to $15 per adult. Private tours start at $125 for 50 people

Art on Vine is one of my favorite lazy activities in the city. Local artists come together each month to sell their art to the public. There is everything from artisan soaps to large scale abstract art. It takes place at Rhinegeist Brewery, Fountain Square or Washington Park regularly. All amazing environments.

Nightlife & Drinking Adventure:

So, you’ve taken in the city sights and now, you’re ready for the turn up/a little partying. You’ve got options in Mount Adams . It is filled with bars, clubs, and late night restaurants. The Pavilion is a popular option for a little drinking, a little dancing, and great views of the city.

Cincinnati loves a good beer and, in turn, a good brewery. Rhinegeist brewery is an example of that love. It is a functioning brewery and event space beloved by many. There is a rooftop deck, tours and tastings. It is a rustic environment but also has a cool edge. You can go there to kick it and enjoy a frothy beer or cider. You can have food delivered and just take a break from the daily hustle.

Over the Rhine is a neighborhood in transition – hip and increasingly gentrified. In 2010, it was still considered a “lock your doors and roll up your windows” kind of place that you drove quickly through. Now, it is a popular spot for nightlife. Washington Park and Findley Market are near. Families frequently walk through and around OTR to get there and back. So, it’s pretty safe.

Music Festival Adventure:

Who doesn’t love a good music festival? Lucky for you, Cincinnati has some options!

MusicNOW: “Through the years, the festival has invited contemporary musicians and risk-taking artists who do not fit neatly into genre defined categories.”

MidPoint Music Festival: “MidPoint Music Festival has developed a reputation as the place to discover contemporary music, find the next big thing, and meet your new favorite band. For three days each fall, the beautiful and resurgent Over-the-Rhine neighborhood becomes a music-lover’s paradise.”

Cincinnati Music Festival presented by P&G:

This is a very popular festival held at Paul Brown stadium. Folks make the annual pilgrimage from neighboring states every summer to join in on the fun. It features R&B artists from all eras. You can have Jill Scott, The Whispers, New Edition, Mali Music, Fantasia and R. Kelly on the same ticket. Acts perform alternating between two stages. People sing, dance and really get into the performances. The festival tends to be closed out by Frankie Beverly and Maze. Most dress in white on that night. Prepare for a great night of music!

Tips, suggestions & considerations:

-Sit in the middle, regardless of section. You can see both stages and not miss out on any performances.

-If you have floor seats, there tends to be one bar in the back. Prepare for a line.

-If you have access to a boat…or park across the river…or strategically place yourself in a room overlooking the river or the stadium…you could enjoy the concert for free.99.

Bunbury Music Festival “takes place along the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati throughout Sawyer Point and Yeatman’s Cove.” Think of this as a chill Coachella vibe. There are artists from several genres, ranging from legends to underground artists. There are one day tickets and VIP experience tickets.

Eat:

Tucked away in the Incline District, is the Incline Public House. If you blink, you might miss it as you drive by. It has spectacular views of Cincinnati and Kentucky. It is a laid-back restaurant with laid-back staff. Don’t expect rushed or hurried service. Spectacular views are complemented by wonderful food. Sit on the patio, have a drink, and enjoy.

Try the chicken and waffles. As you may know by now, I loves me some chicken and waffles. These are top 3 – easy. The waffles have serrano peppers in its batter and are topped with bacon butter. I’ll give you a second to enjoy that visual…

Try the braised short rib grilled cheese. Childhood, meet my Adulthood. It is the best of both worlds. All the warmth and comfort of a grilled cheese sandwich, with the bold flavor of braised short ribs. Go ‘head, be fat.

City BBQ is one of my mother’s favorite eateries in Cincinnati. Well, it’s my mother’s favorite, my husband’s favorite, my sister’s favorite…you get the point. There is a vast variety of items and all are delicious.

• Watching your figure? Get the Premium Salad and add smoked turkey. It is loaded with crispy romaine, cranberries, red onions, grape tomatoes and shredded cheese. Runs about $12. Worth every penny.

• Not a committed BBQ fan? Order the Texas Sausage. It comes in an order of 1 or order of 2 sausages. Expect hot dog bread and vinegar slaw on top. You can order it “naked” or with slaw on the side. Two links sets you back about $8.

• Have a picky or skeptical group? Order the Sampler. It gives you a bit of everything and has healthy portions.

• Lent? They have seasonal fried catfish and salmon.

Tip: order as a meal and get the sides. Adds about $3 to your orders. They have mac n’ cheese, green beans, baked beans, side salads, seasonal items (think cucumbers in the summer and sweet potatoes in the fall). Try the corn pudding. If you like it sweet, add some honey and butter. Buy the desserts. Ask for whipped cream. You are welcome.

Sleepy Bee Café is an adorable breakfast/brunch spot. The vibe is pleasantly hipster. The food is eclectic, fresh, local and healthy. The pancakes and smoothies are must-haves.

Chili is a big deal in Cincinnati. Camp Washington Chili , Skyline Chili, Gold Star Chili are all popular options around the city.

Try a cheese coney dog or a 3-way (spaghetti noodles, chili, cheese). Try a 4-way (3-way + beans) or 5-way (4-way + onions) if you’re adventurous.

D’Jango Western Taco is a charming, little restaurant with a focus on tex-mex. Set in the Northside neighborhood, it is quirky and cool. Get the shrimp taco and the fried chicken taco (when available).

My experience: while the location is cool, and most of the staff is friendly, my waiter was not. He was direct, no frills, not very amicable. He was an older gentleman. He was friendlier to the older, white customers around us. No tea, no shade. Just an observation.

Pub at Rookwood offers traditional, English pub fare. I love the décor – mix and match chairs (including two wooden, throne-like armchairs – great photo op moment), hardwood trim, semi-private sitting...Try the Fish & Chips and the cheese bollocks. Enjoy the liquors and extensive beer options.

Think classy, modern takes on Mexican deliciousness. That is Nada. It is right next to the Aronoff and across the street from the Contemporary Art Museum; which makes it a perfect place to get grab a bite after a show or gallery walk. Nada is affordable but not cheap. I understand if you want to save some coins. Try Brunch. It is very good and cheaper than lunch or dinner.

Frida’s is a fun place with beautiful artwork and nouveau tex-mex food. In the bar, they play movies or sports as you enjoy some drinks. They have a hipster vibe that feels tangible. It is in the neighborhood of Mainstrasse. Eclectic and vibrant, Mainstrasse is filled with restaurants, bars, boutiques, and record shops. Take a walk around.

Try the short rib empanadas ($5 each – you might only need 1 or 2). I live for that chimichurri sauce. Ladies, in the upstairs bathroom, look in the mirror. You will see Frida Khalo’s signature unibrow etched in the glass. Angle that face and take a selfie.

Hofbräuhaus – beer, pretzels, live bands, German food, and more beer. Go have a good time.

All you can eat churrascaria (Brazilian Steakhouse)? You have two options: Boi na braza or Rodizio.

Boi na braza is located downtown and is pretty fancy. It’ll cost about $45 per person for the full buffet (meats and salad bar) but it is absolutely delicious.

If you want to save some coins, Rodizio is a great option with a more casual environment. It costs about $35 per person for the full buffet.

Tip: save more money and only get the unlimited salad and sides options. It is around $10 cheaper than the full buffet, offers delicious and filling sides.

Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse is one of the best steakhouses I’ve visited…and I like steak…a lot. The restaurant is beautiful. The chandeliers are mesmerizing. The steaks are amazing. It is a fancy joint but you can expect to see Cincinnati’s upper class there in jeans (amongst the formal and designer duds). The steaks will cost you a minimum of $42. The sides are served family style.

Tip: to get the experience at a fraction of the cost, try the burger – it’s $20. Also, visit when the live band plays. The crowd will be dancing and singing along. Grab a seat at the bar, get a glass of wine (about $10) and enjoy the music.

Try: do not leave without trying the carrot cake (about $10). It is massive, so you can share it. It will be your sugar fix for the week but it is oh so good. The cheescake and carrot cake below.

Pappadeaux is a Texas classic. They offer seafood, mostly. Items range from a $5 cup of gumbo to marketplace priced fresh lobster. It is about 20 minutes from downtown, in the Springdale neighborhood.

I recommend: the Crawfish Bisque, Crispy Fried Alligator (Gator), Shrimp and Crawfish Fondue (has spinach), Sampler Platter, Grilled Tilapia and Jumbo Shrimp or Jumbo Shrimp Brochette. Go ahead; be fat and decadent.

Tip: go during lunch (between 11am and 3pm during the work week) and save some coins. Several items are inexpensive. You won’t regret it.

Tom and Chee. Grilled cheese and tomato soup; few things are more comforting to the soul. Tom and Chee puts a twist on this combination and includes the use of some expected items such as donuts and goetta. You may recognize this (formerly) little company from Shark Tank.

Just the Sweet Stuff:

Greater’s ice cream is one of Oprah’s favorites things. So, you know it’s good.

Try: the Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip. If you decide to bathe in it, I won’t judge you.

Holtman’s doughnuts. OTR (Over The Rhine). If you like donuts, if you know donuts, go.

Taste of Belgium is a Cincy favorite and quickly gaining a dedicated following. There is a healthy variety of waffles, sweets and crepes. If you're in the mood for something savory, they've got you covered. They have their version of chicken and waffles. I’m partial to the meatballs.

Sleep:

Be in the middle of the action with a hotel in Downtown Cincy or in Newport area. There are several top ranked, well known brands in the area, at various price points. There are many forms of public transportation which will allow for maximum flexibility.

The 21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati is a great option. It has an art museum that is open 24-hours and houses a top Cincy restaurant – Metropole. It is in front of the Aronoff; next to the Contemporary Art Musuem, a 5 minute walk from Fountain Square and a few minutes’ walk/drive/ride away from many other attractions, restaurants, bars or venues.

If you have a car, check out the Blue Ash area. It is more affordable and offers well respected brands (think Hyatt Place, Embassy Suites) to choose from. There are many restaurants in the area. No one will go hungry or get bored.

Overall:

Cincinnati is a great place for a relaxed vacation. There is something fun for all of the folks in your group. Promise.

My experience:

• Cincy folks can stare sometimes…it’s like they can sense you “aint from ‘round here.” If you are a person of color, you may notice this more so than your Anglo-Saxon brothers and sisters.

• There is some racial tension due to an uncomfortable recent history. In 2001, there was a riot that scared this city and its people. The 2015 murder of Samuel DuBose at the hands of a police officer pushed this city to revisit its past.

• While the city is overwhelmingly safe, there are some “First 48” areas. Be careful. Not a joke.

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