Cincinnati, Ohio, is full of life and excitement, with so much to see and do! Known for its amazing art, fun sports culture, and delicious food, this Midwestern city is packed with energy and ready to explore.
In this blog, we’ll dive into everything that makes Cincinnati so famous, from its iconic landmarks to its unique culture and must-try experiences.
Sports, Sports & More Sports
Cincinnati is a sports lover’s paradise, packed with a history of big wins and loyal fans. It’s home to the Cincinnati Reds, one of the most loved baseball teams in the country. The Reds play at the iconic Great American Ball Park, right along the Ohio River.
Fun fact: they were the first professional baseball team ever, starting back in 1869 as the Cincinnati Red Stockings! Opening Day here isn’t just a game—it’s a full-blown city celebration with parades, parties, and cheering fans everywhere.
Football fans aren’t left out either! The Cincinnati Bengals, the city’s NFL team, bring the excitement to Paul Brown Stadium, giving fans plenty to cheer for all season long.
Very Interesting Architecture
Cincinnati is famous for its incredible historic architecture, with styles that range from stunning art deco buildings to colorful painted ladies and elegant townhomes with intricate designs. Walking through the city, you’ll find charming English Tudor homes, cozy bungalows, towering skyscrapers, and even grand mansions—all full of character and history.
One standout is the Taft Museum of Art, once the home of President William Howard Taft’s half-brother. This beautiful building is now a museum filled with amazing art and is a shining example of Cincinnati’s architectural pride.
Cincinnati’s most popular architectural style is Italianate, and the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood has the largest collection of intact Italianate buildings in the entire country! Strolling through its streets feels like stepping into the past, with detailed designs and a timeless charm that make every corner worth exploring.
This city celebrates its history through its architecture, and its neighborhoods tell stories of a rich past. If you’re wondering “what is Cincinnati known for,” its stunning and well-preserved buildings are definitely at the top of the list, drawing visitors from all over!
Flying Pigs
Cincinnati’s flying pigs are a quirky and beloved symbol of the city, rooted in its history as “Porkopolis” during the height of the pork-packing industry.
In the 1980s, artist Andrew Leicester created the Cincinnati Gateway sculpture for the city’s bicentennial, featuring winged pigs atop smokestacks to honor the pigs that helped the city thrive.
Though initially met with some resistance, the flying pigs have since become a cherished emblem of Cincinnati, seen in statues around town and even as the name of the city’s annual marathon.
The Ohio River
The Ohio River is as much a part of Cincinnati’s identity as its skyline and famous cheese coneys. While the water may be murky and its contents a bit questionable, the riverfront is a gathering spot for locals.
Whether you’re heading to a Reds game with the river in the background or dining at a new restaurant along The Banks with a view of the water, Cincinnatians love to be near the river.
With miles of parks lining the banks, even if the water smells a bit funky, residents embrace the river as an essential part of the city’s charm.
Good Food In Every Corner, Literally!
Cincinnati is famous for its delicious, finger-licking offerings on every corner. The city is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse and unique culinary scene that will satisfy any craving.
Take for example one of the most iconic dishes associated with Cincinnati, its own style of chili, known for its distinct cinnamon and cocoa flavor. Skyline Chili is the signature restaurant serving up this local favorite, and it’s a must-try when visiting. The city also has a German influence, evident in the popular breakfast item, goetta, a meat-and-grain sausage.
For dessert, Graeter’s ice cream, America’s oldest family-owned ice cream parlor, is a Cincinnati staple. With a unique French pot process, their ice cream is incredibly creamy and comes in a variety of mouth-watering flavors.
But that’s not all—Cincinnati has a vibrant food culture with something to satisfy every taste bud. Dewey’s Pizzeria serves up delicious, hand-tossed pies, while Montgomery Inn Barbeque is renowned for its mouth-watering ribs. Frisch’s Big Boy is a classic diner chain that originated in Cincinnati, and Holtman’s Donuts will satisfy any sweet tooth with their creative doughnut flavors.
With its array of craft breweries and unique dining experiences, Cincinnati truly offers a gastronomic journey like no other.
Hug Me Jesus
Cincinnati is home to the infamous “Hug Me Jesus” statue, officially known as Lux Mundi, located near I-75 at Solid Rock Church. After the original “Touchdown Jesus” statue was struck by lightning, many thought the church would focus on more practical needs, like helping the less fortunate.
Instead, the church built this massive new statue, which has become a local icon. Cincinnatians love pointing it out while driving, finding humor and cosmic irony in its larger-than-life presence on the highway.
Craft Beer Culture
Cincinnati and beer go hand in hand, with a brewing history dating back over 200 years. In the 1800s, German immigrants settled in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood and began a brewing tradition that earned Cincinnati the title of “Beer Capital of the World.” This rich brewing heritage continues to this day, with the city now boasting over 50 breweries.
The craft beer scene in Cincinnati is thriving, and beer enthusiasts will be delighted by the variety of unique and innovative brews on offer. The Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, in particular, is a hub for breweries, carrying on the legacy of its German roots.
With so many options, beer lovers can embark on a tasty journey, discovering new favorites and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Cincinnati’s breweries. The city’s beer culture is definitely something to raise a glass to, and it’s a key part of what makes Cincinnati famous.
The 7 Hills
Cincinnati’s “Seven Hills” are a famous part of the city’s identity, but they come with a bit of controversy. Originally named in an 1853 guidebook, the hills—Mount Adams, Walnut Hills, Mount Auburn, Vine Street Hill, College Hill, Fairmount, and Price Hill—were celebrated for shaping the city’s unique landscape.
However, debates arise because Cincinnati has many more hills beyond these seven, and as neighborhoods and boundaries have evolved, some question whether the original list still holds relevance. Despite the disagreements, the Seven Hills remain an iconic and intriguing feature of what makes Cincinnati famous.
Other Notable Mentions
- Findlay Market: A vibrant public market offering fresh produce, local goods, and a great atmosphere.
- Fountain Square: The heart of downtown Cincinnati, often hosting events and gatherings.
- Mount Adams: A historic neighborhood known for its beautiful views and unique shops and restaurants.
- Washington Park: A popular green space in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, offering events and activities throughout the year.
- Cincinnati Observatory: One of the oldest observatories in the country, offering stargazing opportunities.
- Newport Aquarium: Just across the river in Kentucky, this aquarium is home to a variety of marine life.
Cincinnati truly has something for everyone, and its unique blend of art, culture, history, and exciting attractions make it a memorable place to visit or call home.
