Budget-Friendly Fun: Affordable Spring Break Activities for Kids in Cincinnati
Discover engaging and wallet-friendly options for low-cost spring break activities to keep children entertained and enriched. Explore murals, statues, parks, art museums, and more for little to no cost.
With a mix of cultural immersion and outdoor adventures, this Spring Break promises endless fun without breaking the bank. Dive into the list below and maximize time away from school.
1. Visit an Art Museum
In Cincinnati, spring breakers will find a variety of art museums that offer free or affordable admission. The city’s vibrant cultural scene is easy to explore without breaking the bank.
Cincinnati Art Museum
513-721-2787
953 Eden Park Drive, 45202 (Mt Adams)
Admission and parking are free.
Exhibition ticket pricing varies. Enjoy free admission on Thursday Evenings
Features a diverse, encyclopedic art collection of over 73,000 works spanning 6,000 years. In addition to displaying its broad collection, the museum hosts several traveling exhibitions annually. Guests can also utilize the Art Climb at the corner of Gilbert Avenue and Eden Park Drive, incorporating a lighting component that guides visitors toward the museum.
Taft Museum of Art
513-241-0343
316 Pike Street, 45202 (Downtown)
Admission is free for Taft members, military, and youth (17 and under)
Adults: $15
Seniors: $12
Sundays and Mondays are free!
Restored and reinterpreted for the next century, visitors can enjoy special exhibitions, an outdoor garden, a museum shop, and Lindner Family Café, as well as events and programming for all ages. Enjoy a one-of-a-kind, multi-sensory experience that puts guests at the center of art and history.
Contemporary Arts Center
513-345-8400
44 E 6th Street, 45202 (Downtown)
Admission is free for all, with a suggested donation of $15.
Bringing art and the creative process to all people through exhibitions, performances, and experiences that open minds. Located on the sixth floor, the Creativity Center features art installations by local artists that encourage guests to engage with the work by pressing buttons, mixing beats, drawing characters, building sculptures, dancing, and more!
Celebrate art at CAM by engaging children in hands-on art activities, exciting performances, story times, gallery visits and more! 
At CAM, families can visit the Rosenthal Education Center to experience art in a hands-on manner. 
Taft offers space for youth to create and play. 
Explore the Taft galleries while learning about art through guided activities and interactive games. 
At CAC, families can engage with artwork by pressing buttons, mixing beats, drawing characters, building sculptures, dancing, and more!
2. Learn about Black History at The Banks
Stroll along the scenic Cincinnati banks on a journey celebrating Black History. Visitors can embrace Cincinnati’s diverse African American heritage with an impressive collection of statues, an outdoor Black musician exhibit, and a museum.
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
513-333-7500
50 E Freedom Way, 45202 (The Banks)
Adults: $16.50
Seniors (60+): $14
Children ages 3-12: $11.50
Children under 3: Free
Sharing the stories of freedom’s heroes from the era of the Underground Railroad to contemporary times through traveling and permanent exhibits. Guests are now greeted by an 11-foot statue of one of history’s greatest heroes until the end of April. Harriet Tubman, famous as a conductor on the Underground Railroad, is enshrined in a traveling bronze statue called The Beacon of Hope.
Black Brigade Monument
8 W Mehring Way, 45202 (The Banks)
Admission is free
During the 150th anniversary of the 1862 defense of Cincinnati, a memorial monument to the Black Brigade was dedicated in Smale Park in 2012. The monument features three life-size bronze figures, relief panels, and poetry. The names of all 700 soldiers in the Black Brigade are etched in stone.
Marian Spencer Statue
85 E Mehring Way, 45202 (The Banks)
Admission is free
A statue of the civil rights activist and politician Marian Spencer was installed in Smale Park in 2021. The sculpture displays Mrs. Spencer holding the hands of two young children, a boy and a girl. Her other hand is open, enabling her to receive the hands of generations of park visitors.
Black Walk of Fame
190 W Mehring Way, 45202 (The Banks)
Admission is free
An international state-of-the-art, outdoor interactive permanent tourism attraction celebrating the impact of the region’s Black musicians. Listen, learn, dance, sing, and feel the energy and soul of these fantastic artists.
Learn the stories of freedom’s heroes at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. 
The Beacon of Hope tells Tubman’s continuing story, amplifying her message of equality so all may hear it. 
Marian Spencer broke barriers throughout her life and fought for civil rights in Cincinnati. 
The Black Brigade was formed in 1862 to construct barricades to defend Cincinnati from Confederate attacks. 
Celebrating the legacy and untold stories of music artists, songwriters, producers, and musicians from Cincinnati, Hamilton County, and Southwest Ohio.
3. See a discounted movie
Join the fun at the movie theater in Cincinnati this spring break! Enjoy discounted movie showings perfect for families and children, creating unforgettable memories on the big screen.
Bargain Tuesdays at Esquire Theatre and Mariemont Theatre
320 Ludlow Avenue, 45220 (Clifton)
6906 Wooster Pike, 45227 (Mariemont)
Admission is $5
Bargain Tuesdays at Kenwood Theatre
5901 E Galbraith Rd Suite 200, 45236 (Kenwood)
Admission is $7
Bargain Tuesdays at Cinemark Theaters
3025 Disney Street, 45209 (Oakley)
5870 Harrison Avenue, 45248 (Western Hills)
7860 Mall Road, 41042 (Florence)
500 Rivers Edge Drive, 45150 (Milford)
Admission is $8.50
Discount Matinees at AMC Theaters
9415 Civic Center Boulevard, 45069 (West Chester)
One Levee Way, Suite 4100, 41071 (Newport)
7490 Beechmont Avenue, 45255 (Anderson)
25% off tickets every day before 4 p.m.
Related Article: Cincinnati kid-friendly activities to enjoy with the family
4. Go on a DIY mural tour
ArtWorks has designed and installed more than 50 public art exhibits that tell the untold stories of African Americans’ contributions to the rich history and vibrancy of the greater Cincinnati region.
The Hands that Built Our City – 525 Elm Street, 45202 (Downtown) – Highlighting the workers’ hands featured in the famous Union Terminal mosaic murals by Winold Reiss. 
The Face of the Arts – 1100 Race Street, 45202 (OTR) – Created by young apprentices and teaching assistants. 
The Buzz Around Town – 1010 Elm Street, 45202 (OTR) – In honor of Scripps National Spelling Bee’s 90th anniversary. 
Time Saved vs. Time Served – 235 W. Court Street, 45202 (OTR) – Celebrating and uplifting white, Hispanic, and African American women who are returning citizens. 
Ezzard Charles: The Cincinnati Cobra – 1537 Republic Street, 45202 (OTR) – Honoring two-time World Heavyweight Champion, Ezzard Charles. 
Faces of Homelessness -1225 Vine Street, 45202 (OTR) – Bringing awareness to housing and homelessness in Cincinnati. 
Mr. Dynamite – 1437 Main Street, 45202 (Pendleton) – Honoring iconic and influential musician, James Brown. 
Dreaming Blues – 309 E. 13th Street, 45202 (Pendleton) – Honoring first African American blues recording artist, Mamie Smith. 
From Enslavement to Emancipation: Sky’s The Limit – 1001 Lincoln Avenue, 45206 (Walnut Hills) – Representing the existing vibrancy of the neighborhood of Walnut Hills and celebrates the neighborhood rich in Black History and community pride. 
A Song of Freedom – 3630 Reading Road, 45229 (Avondale) – A tribute to the life and legacy of the late Louise Shropshire, an Avondale resident and activist during the 1960’s Civil Rights Movement. 
Avondale Heroes – 3371 Reading Road, 45229 (Avondale) – Celebrating African American heroes in Avondale. 
On the Shoulders of Giants – 959 W 8th, 45203 (Queensgate) – Honoring the tradition and legacy of service from the Cincinnati and Hamilton County police forces. 
All You Can Imagine Is Real -1515 Carll Street, 45225 (Fairmount) – Representing the diverse community, the elders, and the youth. 
What Are the Lyrics to Your Song? – 3564 Montgomery Road, 45207 (Evanston) Honoring the history of King Records and hoping to inspire today’s youth. 
Heart of the Community – 3301 Beekman Street, 45225 (Millvale) – A local group of youth apprentices and teaching assistants created the painting. 
Black Excellence in Zone 15 – 1201 Steffen Avenue, 45215 (Lincoln Heights) – Lincoln Heights is the first self-governing African American community above the Mason-Dixon Line. 
Heart & Soul: Annie Ruth – 3635 Reading Road, 45229 (Avondale) 
Heart & Soul: Bailey – 3635 Reading Road, 45229 (Avondale) 
Heart & Soul: Skye – 3635 Reading Road, 45229 (Avondale) 
Heart & Soul: Taren – 3546 Montgomery Road, 45207 (Evanston) 
Heart & Soul: Crystal – 3546 Montgomery Road, 45207 (Evanston) 
Heart & Soul: Nancy – 3546 Montgomery Road, 45207 (Evanston) 
Heart & Soul: Aliah – 2936 Colerain Avenue, 45225 (Camp Washington) 
Heart & Soul: Ewaniki – 2866 Colerain Avenue, 45225 (Cumminsville) 
Heart & Soul: Adalia – 2866 Colerain Avenue, 45225 (Cumminsville) 
Heart & Soul: Bebe – 5021 Whetsel Avenue, 45227 (Madisonville) 
Heart & Soul: Nia – 5021 Whetsel Avenue, 45227 (Madisonville) 
Heart & Soul: Schera – 4595 Paddock Road, 45229 (Bond Hill) 
Heart & Soul: Amber – 4595 Paddock Road, 45229 (Bond Hill) 
Heart & Soul: Aprina – 901 Findlay Street, 45214 (West End) 
Heart & Soul: Kimberly – 901 Findlay Street, 45214 (West End) 
Heart & Soul: Honour – 901 Findlay Street, 45214 (West End) 
Heart & Soul: Sesheta – 1801 Baymiller Street, 45214 (West End) 
Heart & Soul: Kimberly – 1900 Baymiller Street, 45214 (West End)
5. Visit a Cincinnati Library
Experience spring break at the Cincinnati library with activities like storytime, chess, art, music, puzzles, crafts, Legos, yoga, dancing, gaming, and nature exploration.
Locations
Calendar of events
6. Learn about local heroes
Embark on an exciting spring break journey by visiting Cincinnati’s Police and Fire Museums with the family! Discover the heroic tales and fascinating exhibits that showcase the brave men and women who serve the community daily.
Cincinnati Fire Museum
513-621-5553
315 West Court Street, 45202 (Downtown)
Children (2-6): $5
Children (7–17): $8
Adults: $10
Seniors (65+): $9
Operates a world-class fire safety education program to teach participants how to prevent fires within the home, protect themselves, and escape should a fire occur. Educators lead a tour and discussion through various rooms in a mock home. In each room, various fire and burn hazards are demonstrated, and explanations of how each can cause a fire and what can be done to prevent it.
Police Museum
513-300-3664
308 Reading Road, 45202 (OTR)
Children (7–17): $6.00
Adults: $8.00
Seniors (65+): $7.00
The all-volunteer staff continues to work to conserve and enhance the historic environment of law enforcement, broaden public access, and increase understanding of policing now and in the past. The staff works diligently and almost daily to obtain, identify, preserve, and interpret more than 10,000 law enforcement artifacts and archives.
Highlighting the significant contributions that Cincinnati has made to the firefighting profession. 
Various fire and burn hazards are demonstrated and explanations are offered as to how each can cause a fire and what can be done to prevent it. 
Enhancing the historic environment of law enforcement, broadening public access, and increasing the understanding of policing 
Handsome is the most well-known police dog, and the only one preserved over a century for posterity.
7. Check out a park in Cincinnati
Explore the beauty of Cincinnati’s parks this spring break with family and children! From picnics to playgrounds, hiking trails to scenic spots, there’s endless adventure waiting amidst nature’s splendors.
Cincinnati Parks
Consists of 5 regional parks, 70 neighborhood parks, and 34 natural areas that are open and active 365 days a year.
Locations
Calendar of Events
Great Parks
Created in 1930 to preserve and protect natural resources and provide outdoor recreation. Remember, a valid Motor Vehicle Permit is required to enter all parks.
Locations
Calendar of Events
Nature’s playground awaits! 
From picnics to paddle boating, there’s something for everyone in Cincinnati’s parks. 
Step into a world of wonder and natural beauty. 
Every step leads to new discoveries and moments of pure bliss. 
Embark on an adventure like no other as you delve into the beauty of Cincinnati’s parks. 
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Cincinnati’s parks.
Related Article: Good books for Black children
Planning Ahead…
While reveling in the delights of spring break, don’t miss the opportunity to get tickets for an upcoming array of family-friendly entertainment in vibrant Black Cincinnati. Delight in captivating ballet performances and plays sure to enchant audiences of all ages.
Mercurial Landscapes Ballet Performance
April 5 through April 7
650 Walnut Street, 45202 (Downtown)
Starting at $29
Take 25%-off select tickets using code BALLET25 at check out.
This mixed-repertory evening of dance features four dynamic contemporary works, including a premiere by African American choreographer Rena Butler and costume design by Asha Ama Bias-Daniels.
The Little Mermaid Ballet Performance
April 11 through April 14
650 Walnut Street, 45202 (Downtown)
Starting at $20
Dive into the adventure as the stage transforms into an ocean filled with colorful characters, including sharks, crabs, and mermaids! The Aronoff Center for the Arts will become the Mermaid’s Cove, with free sea-themed games, drop-in dance classes, crafts, photos, and other activities on all three levels.
Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr the Musical
April 20 through April 28
317 E 5th Street, 45202 (Downtown)
Starting at $10
Explore the big blue world with this lively new stage musical based on the beloved Pixar Film.
Mercurial Landscapes features four dynamic contemporary works. 
Enjoy a premiere by African American choreographer Rena Butler. 
See costumes designed by Asha Ama Bias-Daniels. 
Dive into adventure with the Cincinnati Ballet Family Series: The Little Mermaid. 
The stage will be transformed into an ocean filled with a cast of colorful characters, including angelfish, sharks, crabs, and, of course, mermaids! 
Enjoy free sea-themed games, drop-in dance classes, crafts, photos, and other activities on all three levels. 
Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr. is a 60-minute musical adaptation of the beloved Pixar movie Finding Nemo.
Related Article: Black kids’ movies and TV shows to enjoy on Netflix
Budget-friendly spring break activities for kids in Cincinnati can create lasting memories. Families can enjoy spring break to the fullest with diverse options for fun-filled days without overspending.
Written by: Sophie Barsan
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 513-270-3880.
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