One of my favorite things to do in the summer is spend entire afternoons at the park with my kids. We pack a picnic, lots of water, snacks and a big blanket — and head out for an adventure!
Cincinnati is a beautiful city, and there are some parks that not only feature super-cool playgrounds, but also wow-worthy views. With school letting out for the summer, there’s no better way to spend a day than at a park with your kids! Here are our favorites:
1. Eden Park
There’s a reason so many movies, weddings and events favor Eden Park: it’s breathtakingly beautiful! We love the Eden Park Playground — and the stunning views of Kentucky and the Ohio River are icing on the cake.
Of course, you can also picnic by Mirror Lake, Hinkle Magnolia Garden or even the Art Museum. This Mt. Adams park has lots of places to take in the views with your PB&J.
This brand-new Cincinnati Park lives up to the hype. For river gazing, it doesn’t get better than Smale. Have lunch in the green lawn in the Gardner Family Grove & Rose Garden, or on one of the many swings in the Duke Energy Garden. Afterwards, stay for the playground, splash park and Carousel!
Related Post: Yelp! Cincy Packs a Picnic
3. Ault Park
Tons of green space makes Ault Park as perfect for a picnic as it is for a round of catch or frisbee with the kids. We like to eat at the greenspace by the playground, and explore the nearby trails after lunch. Older kids would love the views from the picnic tables at the Overlook.
This park is the largest of all the Cincinnati Parks, boasting nearly 1,500 tree-filled acres that includes an amazing playground, lots of picnic areas, picturesque trails and a treehouse. The Arborteum is a must for nature-loving families — as is the dog park, for families with four-legged members.
5. French Park
We used to live in Pleasant Ridge, and stumbled upon this park accidentally one day as the result of a wrong turn. It became on of our favorites — and still is! French Park has rolling hills, distant city views and a historic house that’s often used for big events and weddings. It’s quiet and serene — you won’t believe it’s just a stone’s throw from busy Montgomery Road!
We live in such a beautiful city — get out and enjoy it this summer! (Entrance and parking at all of these parks is free, with the exception of Smale, where you’ll pay a nominal parking fee.)
For more summer inspiration, check out 100 Things to Do This Summer in Cincy — there’s even a free printable you can stick on the fridge!
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