Cincinnati Things to Do - Attractions & Must See

People watch at Fountain Square, get a history lesson or take in a panoramic view in Cincinnati, Ohio.

This is the signature spot in Cincinnati, a gathering place and focal point at the heart of of the city. The Tyler Davidson Fountain rises 43 feet in the center of the square. It's the oldest sculpture in The Queen City and her best known and most loved symbol.

The Taft Museum of Art in downtown Cincinnati has much more to offer than just great works of art. The building itself is a national historic landmark and served for many years as one of the most opulent residences in Cincinnati. In addition to art, there is a performance lecture facility, museum shop, tea room, garden and terrace and a free parking garage. There is a nominal charge to visit the museum every day except Wednesday, which is free to the public.

One of the cheapest thrills in Cincinnati is the $2.00 admission to the observation deck atop Carew Tower. At 574 feet (49 floors) it's the tallest building in town, and it houses upscale shops, offfices, restaurants and a hotel. To reach the observation deck you ride a modern elevator up the first 45 stories. From there a rickety telephone-booth-size elevator carries you to the 48th floor, then a gray steel staircase leads up the final floor to the observation deck. The 360 degree vistas are the best to be had in the city, along the Ohio River, and into the countryside beyond.

One of the best parts is that the observation deck is seldom crowded, so you could have the views all to yourself. We shared it with only half a dozen other people.

Editor's Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Cincinnati.