Top 10 Sites + Bites of Cincinnati Tour with Riverside Food Tours
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Top 10 Sites + Bites of Cincinnati Tour with Riverside Food Tours

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(495 reviews)
3h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Cincinnati on a 3-hour adventure through the heart of the Queen City! This fast-paced tour features 6 mouthwatering food stops, Cincinnati’s Top 10 must-see sights, and a fun ride on the modern streetcar — all led by a friendly, local guide who knows the city inside and out.
Along the way, savor Cincinnati icons like a Belgian waffle, a chili cheese dog, Graeter’s raspberry chocolate chip ice cream, German goetta, a French macaron or Market cookie, and more sweet & savory bites. (Findlay Market is closed Mondays — but don’t worry, we’ve got delicious alternatives!)
Come hungry and wear comfy shoes — we’ll cover about 45 minutes of walking as we explore stunning architecture, colorful murals, and sweeping riverfront views. Whether it’s your first time here or you’re a local looking for something new, this tour is a hit with all ages — yes, even kids love it!
Your guide will share the hidden stories, history, and insider tips. You might just fall in love and want to stay!

Available options

Cincy Top 10 Tour

Cincy Top 10 Tour

What's included

Food guide and streetcar map
Local certified guide
6 Food Stops: Belgium waffle, ice-cream, goetta, fudge, cheese, cookie

Detailed itinerary

1

The Banks is a mixed-use development along the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio, on the land between the Bengals Football Stadium and Great American Ball Park. The Banks Project represents the single biggest shift in thinking and developing the riverfronts potential since the canal development started in the 1820s.

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Stop 2

The John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge is a suspension bridge that spans the Ohio River between Cincinnati, Ohio, and Covington, Kentucky. When it opened on December 1, 1866, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world at 1,057 feet main span, which was later overtaken by John A. Roebling's most famous design, New York's Brooklyn Bridge, which opened in 1883 at 1,595.5 feet.

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Stop 3 Pass by

On the outside of the Center is a piece of history that symbolizes the end of the cold war era. See and hear the interesting story.

4

Fountain Square is the symbolic center of Cincinnati since 1871, with a stunning fountain and a thriving entertainment district. it is surrounded by signature restaurants, bars, events, and ice skating at the heart of downtown.

5

View story-high murals like astronaut 'Neal Armstrong' among others created by Cincinnati Artworks. Youth Apprentices have completed more than 230 murals in over 36 Cincinnati neighborhoods and seven nearby cities.

6

Carew Tower is a 49-story, 574-foot Art Deco building completed in 1931 in the heart of downtown. It is being remodeled into luxury apartments. The architecture and history is amazing.

7

The Aronoff Center is a large performing arts center in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. Events that can typically be found at the Aronoff Center include: plays, ballet, popular music concerts, stand-up comedy shows, and musicals. The center was designed by renowned architect César Pelli and named in honor of Cincinnati native and Ohio senator Stanley Aronoff.

8

The Lois & Richard Rosenthal Center for Contemporary Art is a striking building on the corner of Sixth and Walnut Streets, just a block from Fountain Square in the heart of downtown Cincinnati. The Rosenthal Center was designed by the late Zaha Hadid and holds the distinction of being the first U.S. museum designed by a female architect.

9

Central Parkway is one of Cincinnati's major parkways in a citywide network envisioned in the 1907 park plan by George Kessler. Extending along the former route of the old Miami & Erie Canal, central Parkway was developed in conjunction with a rapid transit railway, which was to run in a tunnel created in the old canal bed, however, the subway was abandoned mid-construction and never completed.

10

Over-the-Rhine, also known as "Cincinnati's Rhineland", and the "Rhineland of America", is a German cultural district of Cincinnati, Ohio. Well-preserved 19th-century buildings pepper this historic neighborhood, making it among the largest, most intact urban historic districts in the United States. This onetime working-class German neighborhood is now home to craft breweries, hip gastropubs, and trendy bars.

11

We pass by Music Hall on our way to Findlay Market. Cincinnati Music Hall, is a classical music performance hall in Cincinnati, Ohio, completed in 1878 to host concerts, expositions and political events. It also has a haunted past! It now serves as the home for the Cincinnati Ballet, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Opera, May Festival Chorus, and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra.

12

We ride by Washington Park on our way to Findlay Market. It is a scenic 8-acre park in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood of Cincinnati. It was originally built as cemeteries. It was acquired by the city in the mid 1800's and turned into a beautiful Victorian Park. Today, the Park welcomes millions of individuals each year from all over, hosting over 300 events annually, including live music, public markets, outdoor fitness classes, children's activities and more.

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We have our final tasting at the market and tour the market before returning to our starting point. Please note: Findlay Market is closed on Mondays, therefore we enjoy the sample of goetta along with the waffle at The Taste of Belgium Bistro.

What's not included

Gratuities for your guide are not included. Please make sure to take care of your guide.
Drinks such as soda, coffee, tea (available to purchase)
Parking fees

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

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Tripadvisor 5.0
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Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
This particular tour involves a total of 45-60 minutes of walking over the course of 3 hours. Wear comfortable shoes.
Children 0-5 are free, but do not receive any food. Parents may share of bring snacks. Children 6 yrs+ require a ticket and do recieve full servings. Contact supplier after booking to notify of child aged 0-5
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Bring a water bottle for hydration if needed.
Not recommended for physically challenged walkers. The entire tour involves 60 minutes of walking over the course of 3 hrs
We cannot accommodate nut, food allergies, low carb, diabetes, gluten free, vegan or lactose free restrictions.
This is a motorized wheelchair accesible tour.

Meeting point

Meeting/Ending Point: We meet at 9:45AM outside the Taste of Belgium Bistro at the Banks at 16 West Freedom Way, Cincinnati OH 45202. Make sure you have the correct location.
Do not park on the street. The Central Riverfront Underground Garage is located 182 Race Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202.

Important notes

We gather 15 minutes prior to the start of the tour at Taste of Belgium Bistro at the Banks, 16 West Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Please check to make sure you are at the right address as there are multiple locations. An underground parking garage is located across the street. You will see multiple entrances. Do not park on the street. Any guest who has an aversion to pork or is a vegetarian, must notify Riverside Food Tours 48 hours prior to the tour to request a meatless option. We cannot accommodate those with food allergies, diabetes, celiac disease and other special dietary requirements. This is a walking tour which includes a ride on the streetcar. Guests will be required to be physically fit enough to walk a total of 2.5 miles over the course of the 3 hour tour. Questions, call 513-289-0035.
Findlay Market is closed on Mondays. We substitute an alternate stop for you to enjoy.
Gratuities for your tour guide are not included and much appreciated.
You may bring water bottles for hydration along the way.
Tour takes place rain or shine. Wear comfortable shoes and appropriate outerwear. The tour includes 2.5 miles of walking.

About Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a vibrant city in the Midwest known for its rich history, diverse architecture, and thriving arts scene. It offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and small-town charm, with a strong German heritage and a growing foodie culture.

Top Attractions

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

One of the oldest zoos in the U.S., known for its conservation efforts and diverse animal exhibits.

Nature 3-5 hours $22-$28 for adults, $16-$20 for children

Over-the-Rhine

A historic neighborhood with well-preserved 19th-century architecture, vibrant nightlife, and diverse dining options.

Historical Half-day to full day Free to explore, costs vary for dining and shopping

Cincinnati Art Museum

A world-class art museum with a collection spanning 6,000 years of human history.

Museum 2-3 hours Free general admission, $10 for special exhibitions

Smale Riverfront Park

A beautiful urban park along the Ohio River with walking paths, playgrounds, and scenic views.

Nature 1-3 hours Free

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

A museum dedicated to the history of the Underground Railroad and the struggle for freedom and human rights.

Historical 2-3 hours $15 for adults, $12 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cincinnati Chili

A unique chili served over spaghetti, topped with cheese, onions, and beans. It's typically served with oyster crackers.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made vegetarian or vegan

Goetta

A German-inspired sausage made from oats and pork, often served for breakfast.

Breakfast Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Frozen Custard

A creamy, rich dessert similar to ice cream but made with egg yolks and a higher fat content.

Dessert Contains dairy, can be made with non-dairy alternatives

Popular Activities

Hiking in Hocking Hills State Park Rock climbing at the Red River Gorge Whitewater rafting on the Ohio River Visiting the Cincinnati Art Museum Strolling through Smale Riverfront Park Enjoying a frozen custard at Graeter's Ice Cream Exploring the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center Attending a performance at the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage in the fall. It's the best time for outdoor activities and festivals.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Spanish, German
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cincinnati is generally safe for visitors, but as with any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services

Getting there

By air
  • Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
By train

Cincinnati Union Terminal

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with frequent service during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Over-the-Rhine The West End Mount Adams Hyde Park

Day trips

Kentucky Horse Park
150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A working horse farm and educational theme park dedicated to man's relationship with the horse.

Hocking Hills State Park
100 km (62 miles) • Full day

A beautiful state park with stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Newport Aquarium
2 km (1.2 miles) • Half day

A world-class aquarium with a diverse range of marine life and interactive exhibits.

Festivals

Oktoberfest Zinzinnati • September Cincinnati Music Festival • September Taste of Cincinnati • May

Pro tips

  • Visit the Cincinnati Art Museum on a weekday morning for a peaceful and less crowded experience
  • Explore Over-the-Rhine's historic streets and architecture on a guided tour to learn about the neighborhood's rich history and cultural significance
  • Try Cincinnati's signature chili dish at Skyline Chili or Camp Washington Chili for an authentic local experience
  • Take a day trip to Hocking Hills State Park for stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and hiking trails
  • Attend a performance at the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra or Cincinnati Opera for a world-class cultural experience
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 11-99
1
Childs
Age 6-10
0
Infants
Age 0-5
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 12
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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