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Exploring Over-the-Rhine: Cincinnati’s Historic Neighborhood

With the historic buildings and various ways to enjoy the arts, not to mention the incredible restaurants, markets and more, the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood in Cincinnati is an attractive destination for people from nearby locations and all over! Want to explore the many activities and attractions that this area of the city has to offer? Check out this guide to 5 popular things to do in OTR!

5 Things to Do in the Over-the-Rhine Neighborhood of Cincinnati

Whether you want to see a show or enjoy free activities like self-guided tours and playing with your pup in a beautiful park, you’ll find a wide variety of opportunities in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. In planning your adventures in the area, be sure to check out this map and other information about the local businesses provided by the OTR Chamber of Commerce. Below, find 5 ideas for how you might spend some time in this beloved Cincinnati neighborhood.

1. Shop at Findlay Market.

For its incredible history and extensive food offerings, be sure to stop at Findlay Market during your visit to the area. Before you head out to this delicious destination, these Findlay Market shopping tips may help you make the most of your experience. Plus, this list of merchants will give you a better understanding of the diverse offerings available at Findlay Market. Don’t forget that the summer isn’t the only season during which you may want to check out this market! There are plenty of incredible events and shopping opportunities to enjoy all year long, like the annual Holiday Market. Are you curious about some of the other local stores to visit during your time in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood? Visit Cincy offers suggestions for all kinds of shops, restaurants, breweries and other spots that you may want to include on your itinerary!

2. Attend a performance at the Cincinnati Music Hall.

Set across the street from the beautiful Washington Park, the Cincinnati Music Hall is one of the city’s most historic and iconic attractions. As the home of the Cincinnati Opera, the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the May Festival and the Cincinnati Ballet, there is certainly no shortage of performances to see at this venue, which is located in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Given the Music Hall’s celebrated architecture and notable history, guided tours of this National Historic Landmark are also available.

3. Check out the Cincinnati Fringe Festival.

There always seems to be some kind of festival happening in Cincinnati. Although it is not quite as historic an event as the May Festival which is held at the Music Hall, the Cincinnati Fringe Festival is another annual Cincinnati festival that has taken place in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood for more than 20 years. During this 2-week summer celebration of various performing arts, there are dozens of shows that happen in multiple spaces throughout the area, including the Know Theatre which also produces the festival. If you are looking for another place to see theatrical performances throughout the year, the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood is also home to the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company.

4. Spend the day in Washington Park.

With a fenced-in dog park, a huge playground and sprayground, and plenty of places to picnic, the many amenities and activities available at Washington Park help illustrate why Cincinnati Parks are recognized in the top tier of the nation’s city park systems. For fun, you can even help choose the music for the Washington Park Fountain! Plus, many special events take place at this park. From live music and FC Cincinnati pre-match events to art markets and holiday festivities, you may want to review the available event guide as you plan to enjoy this Over-the-Rhine park.

5. Experience Over-the-Rhine’s incredible art and architecture.

If you are interested in art or architecture, then Over-the-Rhine is a must-visit neighborhood for you. To check out some of the area’s historic architecture or most celebrated public art, consider a self-guided or guided walking tour. According to ArtWorks, murals including “Cincinnati’s Table,” “The Singing Mural,” and “Mr. Tarbell Tips His Hat” are located in Over-the-Rhine. Also, on the last Friday of every month, “Final Friday” takes place in both the Over-the-Rhine and Pendleton neighborhoods of Cincinnati, as shared by the OTR Chamber of Commerce. During this evening experience, studios, galleries and artists offer special showings for visitors to view or possibly purchase the pieces on display.

With everything from historic buildings and public art to dining, shopping and shows, Over-the-Rhine is understandably one of Cincinnati’s most popular neighborhoods to live in or visit. If you’d like assistance in finding an apartment in the Cincinnati area, contact our leasing experts today!