Discover the Best Places to Visit in Cincinnati to Make the Most out of the Trip!
When visiting Cincinnati, engaging in Black-owned businesses and cultural experiences provides countless opportunities to enjoy the city. From savoring delicious food at Black-owned restaurants to exploring unique shops and local attractions, Cincinnati offers a wide array of Black-centered activities. Embrace the city’s diverse activities and lively atmosphere with these 10 Black things to do, perfect for any traveler.
This article is as current as the publication date. Readers are encouraged to confirm hours and information before acting.
1. Savor Dishes Crafted with Passion
Cincinnati offers diverse dining options, with an impressive selection of restaurants in the heart of Downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. The city is proud to be home to a collection of Black-owned restaurants, food trucks, and take-out eateries, each serving up flavorful dishes.
Families will also find plenty of kid-friendly, Black-owned restaurants with dedicated children’s menus. Whether seeking fine dining, comforting soul food, or acclaimed culinary experiences, Cincinnati has something to satisfy every palate.
Another favorite is Cincinnati-style chili, a sweet, savory, and spiced chili. Skyline and Gold Star are the most prominent and have been rivaling each other for decades. This rivalry fuels passionate debates among residents over which restaurant serves the better 3-way or cheese coneys.
Located only 30 minutes North of Downtown Cincinnati, Pappadeaux features a variety of seafood, including shrimp, crawfish, oysters, and Cajun and Creole-inspired dishes. The casual yet bustling ambiance with a full bar makes bar, makes Pappadeaux an excellent spot for lively meals.
Related Article: Cincinnati’s Under-$15 Black-owned Restaurants
2. Groove Through the Black Music Walk of Fame
The Black Music Walk of Fame is an unmissable attraction celebrating the musical legacy of Black artists connected to Cincinnati. Located at The Banks, exhibits and a stunning walkway feature the stories and contributions of icons like Bootsy Collins. This space offers a meaningful way to engage with Black culture and music history.
Visitors can enjoy the outdoor experience year-round. The Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame is a tribute to the city’s enduring impact on American music, perfect for music lovers and history enthusiasts.
3. Raise a Glass at Black-Owned Happy Hour Hotspots
Cincinnati offers the perfect spots to unwind during happy hour, featuring discounted drinks and a welcoming atmosphere. In neighborhoods like Walnut Hills, OTR, and Woodlawn, Happy Hours at Cincinnati Black-Owned Bars provides a mix of craft cocktails, local beers, and small bites. These happy hours create an affordable way to relax after a day of travel or to connect with friends.
4. Dance the Night Away at Black-Owned Clubs
Cincinnati nightclubs provide an electrifying space to dance, socialize, and enjoy live DJs or themed events, offering an exciting mix of music genres like hip-hop and R&B. With energetic vibes, dynamic lighting, and a curated music selection, these venues are perfect for letting loose. Located in neighborhoods such as Downtown, OTR, Avondale, and College Hill, these Cincinnati Black-Owned Nightclubs and Bars are the perfect spots to dance the night away!
5. Reconnect with Nature in Cincinnati’s Parks
Cincinnati Parks offer walking and biking trails, recreational and picnic areas, and beautiful scenic views. Some of the largest Cincinnati parks include the Banks, Eden, Alms, and Ault. Parks are an ideal spot for any outdoor activity. From peaceful green spaces to fun recreation areas, these parks provide a refreshing escape for residents and visitors alike, perfect for relaxing, skating, exercising, or spending time with others.
Urban Hikers Cincinnati is a spirited community dedicated to bringing together individuals who are passionate about exploring Cincinnati’s diverse landscapes on foot. Locations and meetup times vary. Admission is free, and all are welcome to come hike.
Major Taylor Cycling Club of Cincinnati is another great way to explore the city’s outdoors. Named after the legendary African American cyclist Major Taylor, this club promotes cycling for all ages and skill levels. With group rides, community events, and a focus on inclusivity, the club offers a supportive environment for cyclists looking to connect with others.
6. Celebrate Creativity with Black Art and Exhibits
Cincinnati is home to a diverse array of public art and murals. The Black Lives Matter mural is one of the city’s most powerful pieces, symbolizing the ongoing fight for racial justice and equality. Other notable public art in Cincinnati include The Hands that Built Our City, The Face of the Arts, and The Buzz Around Town.
Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky also feature several museums that host Black art exhibitions. These institutions provide valuable platforms for showcasing African American art, highlighting both established and emerging artists. Insights into the history and culture of the Black community are also offered.
Related Article: Black Artists Making Cincinnati’s Art Scene Thrive
7. Get Inspired by Black Art Groups and Performances
Revolution Dance Theatre is a ballet company creating professional theatre and dance opportunities for African Americans. Intent on inclusion, the concerts and classes challenge traditional perceptions of ballet. The Theatre is challenging traditional perceptions of blackness. See the calendar of shows and concerts.
The Cincinnati Black Theatre Company (CBTC) is dedicated to preserving the spirit of Black theatre by offering top-notch theatrical productions, performance and employment opportunities, children’s theatre, educational programs, and community outreach in all aspects of theatre arts. View the full season of shows.
The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is a museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the Underground Railroad and the ongoing struggle for freedom. Through the exhibits, the center educates visitors about the fight against slavery and human trafficking, both historically and in contemporary times. Some notable exhibits include The Slave Pen, Brothers of the Border Land, and From Slavery to Freedom.
8. Find Faith and Fellowship at Historic Black Churches
No matter the branch or personal beliefs, Cincinnati is home to many Black churches ready to welcome all and any visitors. These churches represent a range of denominations, including Baptist, Methodist, Pentecostal, and non-denominational faiths. Some are among the oldest in the city, with rich histories rooted in the Black community.
Churches like the Allen Temple AME Church, founded in 1824, are among the oldest, while the Zion Baptist Church is the first brick church owned by African Americans. Church doors are open to everyone seeking spiritual guidance.
9. Discover Treasures at Black-Owned Boutiques
Downtown Cincinnati, OTR, the West End, and the outskirts of the city offer many shopping options, from clothing to jewelry to interior design. Visit Black-Owned Businesses in Downtown Cincinnati to find new favorites and connect with inspiring individuals who make a difference in the city.
Looking to buy a gift for a special someone? Cincinnati also has several Black-Owned Home and Gift Retail Stores perfect for any large and small gift.
10. Cruise Through the City on a Red Bike or the Streetcar
Cincinnati has several transportation options so visitors can get around the city.
One option is the Cincinnati Red Bikes. Cincinnati’s non-profit station-based bike share system. Red Bike serves parts of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky with 700 bikes out of 70 stations. Bikes are a fun way to get around Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky neighborhoods.
Another option is the Connector, an electric-powered streetcar that operates along a 3.6-mile loop connecting Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine and Banks neighborhoods via the Central Business District. The Streetcar is free to ride. Check the route map to determine destinations and routes.
Related Article: Get around with one of the hundreds of Cincinnati Red Bikes!
Cincinnati offers a wealth of experiences for Black visitors to enjoy. No matter the reason for visiting, endless opportunities exist to connect with the local community. Take advantage of these 10 Black things to do in Cincinnati and make lasting memories while supporting the city’s Black-owned businesses and culture.
The Voice of Black Cincinnati is a media company designed to educate, recognize, and create opportunities for African Americans. Want to find local news, events, job postings, scholarships, and a database of local Black-owned businesses? Visit our homepage, explore other articles, subscribe to our newsletter, like our Facebook page, join our Facebook group, and text VOBC to 513-966-3328.
10 Black Things to Do images provided by Adobe Stock, Black Walk of Fame, Cincinnati Streetcar, and The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.
