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A Guide to Cincinnati’s Top Parks for Family Outings

One of the things that makes Cincinnati such a good place to live is the opportunity to experience the range of seasonal experiences. What better way to enjoy those sunny days of early summer or the colorful array of leaves in the fall than by visiting one of the many Cincinnati Parks? These locations can also be wonderful places to spend time with family and friends. As you start to plan upcoming outings with grandparents, pups, kids and more, explore what some of the top parks in Cincinnati have to offer below.

7 Popular Parks in Cincinnati

In the city of Cincinnati, there are over 100 parks and natural areas to enjoy. Therefore, whether your residential location is in Hyde Park or in one of the Saint Xavier Park apartment communities, your choice of Cincinnati Park may be within walking distance or a short commute from your home. Learn more about 7 popular parks from around the city here, as well as some of their notable features.

Smale Riverfront Park

Nestled along the Ohio River, Smale Riverfront Park is one of the most popular Cincinnati Parks for local residents and out-of-town guests. Families can enjoy rides on the carousel, spend time on the giant swings, play the foot piano, and explore multiple paths and playgrounds. During the warmer months in particular, this park hosts a variety of community events, such as Music at the Esplanade, and is also a great place to cheer and celebrate during the Flying Pig Marathon Weekend.

Washington Park

Located in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood of Cincinnati, this spot’s unique dog park and beautiful scenery with paved walking paths may be most appealing to some individuals. Others will appreciate wandering through the interactive water park or enjoying the playground with its play castle, climbing wall and other features. Washington Park also offers a variety of events. For example, FC Cincinnati fans of all ages might enjoy attending the FC Cincinnati Pre-Match at the Park to eat food truck fare and celebrate their favorite team with fellow supporters.

Burnet Woods

Burnet Woods is noted as one of the city’s oldest parks. In addition to playgrounds and picnic areas, this park features a disc golf course and a lake to fish in, as well as hiking trails. While these activities alone might keep the group busy for the day, the Trailside Nature Center and the Wolff Planetarium are also located at this Cincinnati Park. Situated just north of the University of Cincinnati, this park is also close to another popular attraction in Cincinnati – the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.

Mt. Airy Forest

The largest of the Cincinnati Parks in the northwestern part of the city, Mt. Airy Forest offers multiple hiking and biking trails, as well as paved paths. Both picnic shelters and picnic areas with grills are available, as well as a disc golf course, playground and Everybody’s Treehouse.

Eden Park

Part of both East Walnut Hills and Mt. Adams, Eden Park is a beautiful destination to explore in any season. From its public art displays to its gardens, not to mention its basketball courts and scenic views, this park has much to offer to individuals of all ages. In the same location, you’ll also find other things to do in Cincinnati, such as the Cincinnati Art Museum and the Krohn Conservatory.

Alms Park

Included on the list of “Perfect Cincinnati Playgrounds” at Cincinnati Family Magazine, this park offers incredible views, trails and events in addition to its playground with a stone slide, climbing boulder, spinners, swings and more. In addition to Washington Park and Smale Riverfront Park as mentioned above, be sure to check out the complete list for other ideas for family outings, if a playground is something that you’d like to have available!

Ault Park

From garden explorations and trail walks to picnics and sledding, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy during an outing to Ault Park. Special events (often with FREE admission) also take place at the Ault Park Pavilion, such as Picnic Performances and Summer Music Festivals.

To help you prepare for your visit to these Cincinnati Parks or any others, make sure to check the individual park websites! Sometimes, areas, facilities or features may be unavailable due to recent weather, special events or repairs.

For upcoming outings, a park may be the perfect place! The abundance of Cincinnati Parks is also one reason why so many people choose to live in this incredible city. If you are looking for apartments in or near Cincinnati, contact our leasing experts today for assistance!