Cincinnati is one of the most diverse cities in Ohio. It’s home to iconic sports teams such as the Bengals, renowned contemporary art centers, aquariums, public markets, and many more! All of this makes the famous Queen City culturally rich, giving the family something new to try every day.
You can visit its museums one day, play mini golf the next, or go rock climbing. Cincinnati’s diversity in all aspects makes it one of the most significant regions in Ohio and the Midwest.
That being said, we present you with the most complete guide to things to do in Cincinnati with kids. Whether it’s a trip to a bowling alley, a family-friendly restaurant, or a trampoline park, there’s something for every interest or age. Check it out so you’ll know where to go for a fun time!
Top 50 Best Things to Do with Kids in Cincinnati
1
The Museum of Natural History & Science
With all kinds of exhibits, you’ll find great things to do with kids in Cincinnati! Dinosaur enthusiasts can learn about the Jurassic Age like never before through interactive exhibits. Kids will marvel at life-size specimens from bipedal predators to panty-eating sauropods.2
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park
Enjoy all kinds of water slides and heated swimming pools at the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park! Don’t worry about the season; the facility features indoor water attractions all year round. Mason is only about half an hour from Cincinnati so that it won’t be a problem getting over there in time for all the fun.3
The Children's Museum
Kids can learn while having fun at this museum’s exhibits and activities. Children of all ages are welcome to adventure in places like the Energy Zone. The Children’s Museum is among the top 10 museums for kids in the country, which is why it is a top destination when looking for things to do with kids in Cincinnati, OH!4
Cincinnati History Museum
Bring the kids to the Cincinnati History Museum to learn all about the magnificent history of the city! They'll learn about the bustling Public Landing of the late 1850s and climb aboard the Queen of the West, a replica of a side-wheel steamboat. If you are a member of the museum, you can come anytime and experience free things to do in Cincinnati with kids!5
American Sign Museum
What’s cooler than a museum where the main exhibits are those colorful and attractive signs? The American Sign Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of classic signs. It would be great for a family trip, especially if you want to go to a unique place and check out things to do in Cincinnati with kids!6
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Encounter a vast biodiversity at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden. There are more than 400 species of animals and more than 3,000 species of plants! But there is more to this place. Families can take a ride on the carousel, feed the giraffes, meet animals like the cheetahs, and much more! Definitely is one of the best things to do in Cincinnati with kids!7
DEFY Trampoline Park
When looking for fun things to do in Cincinnati with kids, DEFY Trampoline Park is a great place to go. Not only can the kids have some active fun, but adults can jump and play on the numerous attractions, such as battle beams, open jump, extreme dodgeball, a ninja course, and more!8
Contemporary Arts Center
Filled with educational yet fun things to do with kids in Cincinnati, The Contemporary Arts Center offers a wide variety of programs to keep the little ones entertained. They also offer family programs, hands-on art activities, science projects, and more!9
Cincinnati Fire Museum
This is a great plan, especially if your child has mentioned becoming a firefighter, a common dream for many young children. The Cincinnati Fire Museum celebrates the city's firefighting history through educational exhibits, interactive activities, and more!10
Scallywag Tag
Are you planning a unique family outing? Scallywag Tag is filled with things to do with kids in Cincinnati, OH! Choose from a fun game of glow-in-the-dark mini golf, laser tag, and many more! You can also book the venue to host your kid’s birthday party, as they offer different packages.11
Happy Hangout Westside
If you're looking for special fun things to do in Cincinnati with kids, but they're younger, Happy Hangout has plenty of room for them! There is an indoor playground with a toddler area so parents can feel comfortable knowing their little ones are playing in a safe environment. This location also has a miniature city for pretend play!12
Cincinnati Art Museum
For families interested in having a day filled with art exhibits, look no further! The Cincinnati Art Museum has an incredibly huge collection of over 73,000 pieces of art. Besides, it also offers several art programs for young artists, like Art Together, CAM Kids Day, Teen Art Expo, and more! Bring your child over so they can let their creativity run free with different hands-on art activities.13
The Place Cincy
The Place Cincy is home to some of the best things to do in Cincinnati with kids! You can choose between playing in the arcade or trying your skating skills at their roller skating center! As for the little ones, they can climb on a rock climbing wall, play a game of laser tag, or face each other on the bumper cars!14
Taft Museum of Art
Art is one of the best ways to entertain kids. The Taft Museum of Art in Cincinnati, Ohio, has plenty of things to do with kids. This museum, nationally recognized as one of the best in the country for art, includes architectural pieces and plenty of green space for kids to learn through educational programs, sensory experiences and more!15
King Arthur's Court
Come to King Arthur's Court for some family fun! This indoor playground provides a safe space for kids to have fun. Kids won't know where to start with archery, a zip line, playhouses, and many more cool attractions! Meanwhile, parents can visit the gift shop for a special present!16
Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum
The Cincinnati Reds are one of the most iconic baseball teams in the country, and if your kid is a big fan, this is a must-visit! Check out the Hall of Fame, where you can see memorabilia or fantastic exhibits like the Reds Baseball Then and Now, Ballparks, the George and Kim Vincent baseball card archive, and more!17
Land of Illusion's Aqua Adventures Waterpark
If you’re planning a family summer adventure, Aqua Adventures is a great option! Kids and adults are more than welcome to enjoy the many slides and aquatic attractions this place has to offer. For the little ones, there is a Kids Zone with splash pads (for children up to 5), and for a relaxing time, you have the Aqua Lounge!18
Lucky Cat Museum
This is a really cool and unique museum! If you love cats, this is a must, and if you're a dog person, you'll find it pretty amazing, too. The Lucky Cat Museum has over 2,000 waving cats, those lucky Japanese figurines. What's even better about planning a visit is that there's no charge, so it's perfect for families looking for free things to do in Cincinnati with the kids!19
LEGOLAND Discovery Center
LEGOs are one of the most iconic toys you can play with. That’s why you can’t miss going to LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Cincinnati. The place provides tons of fun experiences for the family, like 4D movies, thrill-seek rides, and so much more! Don’t miss out on some of the best things to do in Cincinnati with kids!20
Jump & Jack's
Considered the largest indoor playground in Queen City, Jump & Jack’s is a must-visit! Kids of all ages will have a blast creating experiences that engage the mind and body. For the little ones, there is a Toddler Zone (up to 2 years old)! Don’t forget to check out the Jump’s inflatables so kids can work off some energy.21
Wondercade Cincy
This is an outstanding facility for fun things to do in Cincinnati with kids! It’s a paradise for arcade lovers! The entertainment is open to children and adults alike for the wide variety of games they feature. From nostalgic arcade games to a custom and contemporary collection, everyone in the family will have a wonderful time!22
Cincinnati’s Music Hall
One of the city’s most important buildings is the Cincinnati Music Hall. Iconic artists such as Frank Sinatra, Janis Joplin, Bob Dylan, and others have performed here. Built-in 1878, thanks to what is believed to be one of the first fundraising campaigns in the country, it is one of the most important concert halls in the US and the world. Because of all these, it must be included in the list of things to do in Cincinnati with kids!23
Newport on the Levee
Come and enjoy a family day at Newport on the Lee! This premier destination near Cincinnati is filled with restaurants, retail stores, bowling alleys, and lots of cool attractions for the kids, like virtual reality experiences.24
Oakley Greens
This family-friendly place is a premier golf destination! You can even bring your furry friend! The little ones can have fun in a play area designed just for them while you play some golf. The facility has a private party room so you can celebrate a special event!25
The Magic Castle
If the family loves to spend a whole day playing mini golf, look no further! The Magic Castle is an entertainment center that has been a leader in the field for over 25 years. Enjoy some and other cool attractions like batting cages, arcades, a climbing wall, and even a soft play area for children ages 11 and younger!26
Western Bowl Strike & Spare
This bowling alley is great for kids. The lane has bumpers to keep the balls out of the gutters. You can also play Cosmic Bowling with light effects and music. Thanks to the many packages they offer, you can also celebrate a birthday party at Western Bowl Strike & Spare.27
Skateworld of Kettering
Put on your skates and come to Skateworld of Kettering! This family fun center is packed with things to do with kids near Cincinnati. In addition to roller skating, you can enjoy mini golf, arcade games, and a bite to eat at the full-service café.28
ACES Pickleball + Kitchen
Want to spend an afternoon with the family at a place where you can eat great food and play pickleball? There’s no better place than here. ACES Pickleball is full of things to do with kids in Cincinnati, Ohio. You'll find everything from 5 pro-level indoor pickleball courts to Hi-Def TVs throughout, a dog park, and more!29
We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym – Cincinnati
This indoor playground is perfect for kids of all ages to play in a safe environment. We Rock The Spectrum offers a unique sensory experience so children of different abilities are welcome to explore. Kids can enjoy arts and crafts, relax in a calming room, and more!30
Get Air Trampoline Park
One of the best trampoline parks in the area is Get Air. It is filled with several exciting activities, including wall-to-wall trampolines, ninja obstacle courses, and foam pits; kids will love it here! It is also the perfect place to host a birthday party. Don’t miss out on all the fun things to do in Cincinnati with kids that Get Air has to offer!31
Little Miami Golf Center
For a unique mini golf experience, Little Miami Golf Center is a must! You can also enjoy biking trails, paddling, lawn bowling, or playing a 9-hole par 3 course. You’ll get to enjoy some fresh air in its beautiful outdoors, so don’t miss out on it. The family will really enjoy it!32
Cincinnati Museum Center
If you are looking for educational things to do in Cincinnati, OH, with kids, you must include the Cincinnati Museum Center. Located in Union Terminal, it is home to the Children’s Museum, the Robert D. Lindner Family OMNIMAX® Theater, and more. Kids can learn about cultural, historical and other topics through temporary and permanent exhibits.33
Climb Cincy
This is a great destination for families who enjoy rock climbing. Climb Cincy welcomes climbers of all ages and abilities for a fun time. Experience climbing without harnesses or ropes! The venue also has a Fitness Space so you can come and work out with the kids.34
Drake Planetarium
This science center welcomes kids who are interested in STEM education and LEGOs. There are also laser shows, some seasonal (great for Christmas) and others theme-based, like the Taylor Swift experience. Not only does the Drake Planetarium offer tons of things to do with kids in Cincinnati, but they also offer party packages!35
Kids Club House
Kids Club House is a great indoor playground for children of all ages! From a toddler zone to obstacle courses, there are plenty of fun things to do with kids in Cincinnati, all in a safe atmosphere.36
Wyoming Fine Arts Center - Music Art Dance
Another excellent option for family entertainment, especially in the arts and music, is the Wyoming Fine Arts Center. There are creative classes for children and adults to enroll in. You can also celebrate an event here, such as your child’s birthday or graduation.37
Cedar Point
For adrenaline seekers, Cedar Point is the place to visit! There are many things to do with kids in Cincinnati, OH, from over 60 amazing rides, like Wild Mouse, a great family-friendly option. But if you’re looking for a more thrilling experience, check out the Steel Vengeance and Millennium Force.38
Newport Aquarium
Get ready for a wonderful aquatic experience at the Newport Aquarium. Learn all about sea life while enjoying some of the most unique things to do in Cincinnati, Ohio, with kids. Meet alligators, penguins, sharks, and more. See the world’s first shark bridge, a tank of sharks just inches above the ground.39
Highfield Discovery Garden
From a Butterfly Garden to a Frog & Toads Garden, this 12-acre area is perfect for taking in the magnificent nature of the Queen City. Whether you’re looking for things to do with kids in Cincinnati, OH, or want to let your child put their scouting skills to the test, Highfield Discovery Garden has something for the whole family.40
Kings Island & Soak City Water Park
When it comes to family fun, Kings Island & Soak City Water Park has a long-standing reputation dating back to 1972. Because of its long-standing presence, in addition to its 364 acres, there are all kinds of things to do in Cincinnati, Ohio, with kids. Enjoy its variety of rides, food stations, and live entertainment. From the little ones to the adults, they will enjoy the best fun in this amusement park.41
Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library
With more than 41 branches in different areas, the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library offers all kinds of plans for the family. From LEGO Clubs to themed and holiday events, it’s another excellent choice if you don’t know what to do with kids in Cincinnati, OH. There are activities for all ages and virtually year-round!42
Dig ‘N Play
This modern indoor playground is designed for kids 7 and under! Here, little ones are encouraged to explore, have fun, interact, and make new friends. While their children play, parents can relax and watch them have fun. With a 3-story play structure, the largest custom sand table, a dramatic play area for them to dress up in, there are lots of fun things to do in Cincinnati with kids!43
Cincinnati Observatory
Take the kids on a unique adventure at the Cincinnati Observatory! With one of the oldest telescopes in the world, everyone in the family will be amazed by all of the wonders of the galaxy and beyond. The Observatory also offers STEM programs and educational activities for children interested in astronomy!44
Scene75 Entertainment Center
If you’re planning fun things to do with kids in Cincinnati but don’t know where to go, Scene 75 is packed with activities and indoor attractions for all ages. Enjoy over 130 arcade games, bowling, mini golf, laser tag and more! The fun never ends at Scene 75!45
Putt-Putt Fun Center
Although it is a three-hour drive from Cincinnati, if you’re passing by Defiance, OH, Putt-Putt Fun Center awaits you with a whole bunch of exciting family activities. From laser tag to go-karts, batting cages, and more, the fun will never run out at this place. Besides, it offers party packages so you can celebrate a special event like your child’s birthday!46
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Ohio
Among the free things to do in Cincinnati with kids is Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Ohio. Kids up to 5 years old are welcome to let their imaginations run wild while engaging in storytelling and other activities. They even offer a free book every month until their 5th birthday!47
The WEB Extreme Entertainment
When it comes to some of the best things to do in Cincinnati with kids, The WEB Extreme Entertainment is a sensational destination! Check out the Harry Potter theme mini golf, or play a thrilling game of laser tag. You can also get competitive fun at the go-karts!48
Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
Nearby Cincinnati is the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery. Here, you will find a wide variety of interactive exhibits for the little ones, learning experiences, an indoor zoo, and the main event is the Paleo Lab, where kids can learn about fossil specimens and other interesting facts about dinosaurs and paleontology in general.49
Mosaic Climbing
For some indoor rock climbing experience, Mosaic Climbing is great and safe for climbers of all ages. The place offers bouldering that requires no ropes or harnesses. There’s also a yoga room for your little yogi. Don’t miss out on the things to do with kids in Cincinnati, OH, that Mosaic Climbing has prepared for you!50
Altitude Trampoline Park - Cincinnati
Another one of the coolest trampoline parks in the area is this one. Altitude is filled with fun things to do with kids in Cincinnati, like dodgeball, trapeze, basketball, trampoline dunk, battle beam, and much more! But kids are not the only ones who can jump for hours at this park. Adults are welcome for all this active fun!There’s nothing like planning an exciting family activity. Kids are always looking for new things to do, so we need to be prepared in advance with a wide variety of places to go.
Luckily, there are plenty of things to do in Cincinnati, Ohio, with kids! From indoor playgrounds and mini golf to water parks and so many other attractions and activities, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy an unforgettable time with the family! Just be sure to cherish each moment so you can come back and relieve them when the kids are grown up!