I am not going to lie; one of my favorite places in Cincinnati to spend a free day is Over-the-Rhine! OTR, as it’s known, has been hugely revitalized in recent years, and has become a hotspot for Cincinnatians, young and old, to enjoy local art, shopping, and fine dining! There just aren’t enough hours in one day to explore all of the cute shops and try all of the to-die-for artisan and comfort foods.

I know I am not alone in the OTR love! I recently asked my colleagues at Cincinnati Mom’s Blog about their favorite things to do, see, and eat in this historic district of Cincinnati. Here are our top picks:

Breakfast

Holtman’s Donuts: Try the chocolate chocolate donut, a maple bacon donut or the blueberry cake donut, or really ANY of the donuts!

Coffee Emporium: Any hot or cold coffee beverage you could imagine!

Iris Bookcafe: Sit back with a warm cup o’joe and a good book and enjoy the art on display.

Shopping

MiCA 12/v: This is the place to go for all-things-Cincinnati, including local art. They also have some unique baby items that would make great shower gifts!

Homage: Vintage T’s

Elm and Iron: Super cute home decor.

Rookwood Pottery: World-renowned local handmade pottery.

Findlay Market: Hop on the Cincinnati Bell Connector Streetcar (this is the perfect excuse to ride if you haven’t yet) and it’s not far to great local and artisan shopping!

Lunch

The Eagle: Try the fried chicken, succotash, mac’n’cheese, and spoonbread.

Pontiac: Try the fried pickles and brisket (basically anything BBQ!)

Abigail Street: Try the mussels

Salazar: Try the brussel sprouts and fried oyster sandwich.

Tours & Activities

Queen City Underground Tours: One of the Top 5 Underground Tours in the US, this is a historic tour that is not to be missed!

The Candle Lab: Pour your own custom-scented candle.

Spruce Nail Shop: If you just need to relax, make an appointment to get your nails done or have a rejuvenating massage (or definitely BOTH)!

Washington Park: Stroll through these beautifully curated grounds and gardens, fountains, and even a dog park and playground.

The Rook: Play board games while you kick back with a drink from the bar.

Memorial Hall: This gorgeous historic venue is host to many events and shows throughout the year!

Music Hall: Re-opening later this fall after renovations, you need to be sure to plan at least one trip to the Opera this year, or go behind-the-scenes and take a tour!

Happy Hour

1215 Wine Bar & Coffee Lab: The best combo EVER! Something for everyone.

Low Spark: For those wanting an old-school vibe.

Kaze: A hotspot for those wanting appetizers & drinks. You have to try the sushi, waygu sliders, katsu roll, and house smoked wings.

Sundry and Vice: Don’t leave without trying the Champagne Cocktail.

Taft’s Ale House: This beautiful old church serves good beer and small plates (steak tips)!

Bakersfield: The favorite for margaritas and guacamole.

Dinner

Senate: Try the truffle fries & a hot dog (if you have always wanted a night with Nick Lachey, you can order him), or the authentic poutine.

Zula Bistro: Try the eggplant “fries” and seafood options!

A Tavola Trattoria: Wood fired pizza. Enough said.

Dessert

3 Sweet Girls Bakery: Stop by for a sweet treat to end your day!

Graeter’s Ice Cream: A Cincinnati favorite, of course!

Whew, my mouth is watering just writing this list. I know this isn’t exhaustive of all of the delights OTR has to offer. If you have a favorite to add to the list, leave a comment! I can’t wait to do some more exploring