As the leaves begin to turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, and the crisp autumn air settles in, Cincinnati transforms into a picturesque wonderland. With its scenic parks, festive events, and seasonal delights, the Queen City offers a plethora of opportunities to savor the beauty of fall. Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, here are 10 must-do activities to embrace the magic of autumn in Cincinnati.
- Explore the Cincinnati Nature Center – Autumn is the perfect time to immerse yourself in nature, and the Cincinnati Nature Center offers an ideal escape. The center’s numerous trails meander through wooded landscapes and provide stunning views of fall foliage. Take a leisurely hike, breathe in the fresh air, and discover the beauty of the season.
- Attend the Great Pumpkin Run – For those seeking an active autumn adventure, the Great Pumpkin Run is a must-attend event. Held at a scenic location just outside Cincinnati, this 5K run/walk features picturesque views, pumpkin-themed obstacles, and a festive atmosphere that captures the essence of the season.
- Visit Coney Island’s Halloween Harvest – Coney Island amusement park offers tractor races, pumpkin patches, face painting, and a monster mash stage. It is fall fun for the whole family for the entire month of October.
- Experience the Cincinnati Zoo’s HallZOOween – The Cincinnati Zoo is a year-round gem, but during HallZOOween, it’s especially enchanting. Watch as the zoo transforms into a magical Halloween-themed wonderland with trick-or-treat stations, animal encounters, and whimsical decorations. For 2023, the dates are: October 14-15, 21-22 & 28-29 from 12pm – 5pm and the event is included with regular zoo admission!
- Stroll Through Eden Park – Eden Park is a haven of tranquility and beauty in Cincinnati. During autumn, the park’s trees burst into a stunning array of colors, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic. Be sure to visit the Mirror Lake gazebo for a picture-perfect moment. Of course, there is no reason to stop at Eden Park, read up on all of Cincinnati’s city parks.
- Enjoy Oktoberfest Zinzinnati – Cincinnati’s rich German heritage comes alive during Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, one of the largest Oktoberfest celebrations in the country. Indulge in bratwurst, sauerkraut, and giant pretzels while enjoying live music and traditional dances.
- Take a Scenic Drive Along the Ohio River – Autumn’s beauty is on full display along the banks of the Ohio River. Take a scenic drive along Riverside Drive and enjoy breathtaking views of the river and the colorful foliage that lines the route.
- Get Lost in a Corn Maze – Cincinnati offers several corn mazes during the fall season, providing fun for the whole family. Test your navigation skills as you wind your way through the cornstalks and enjoy the feeling of being lost in the heart of autumn.Here are just a few of your options:
- Fall on the Farm at Blooms and Berries Farm Market
9669 S. OH-48 Loveland, OH 45140 - Brown’s Family Farm Market | 11620 Hamilton – Cleves Road, Hamilton, Ohio 45013
- Burwinkel Farms | 4359 Hamilton Cleves Road, Ross, OH 45013
- Iron’s Fruit Farm | 1640 Stubbs Mill Road, Lebanon, OH 45036
- Niederman Family Farm Maze | 5110 Lesourdsville West Chester Rd, Liberty Twp, OH 45011
- Shaw Farms | 1737 Ohio 131, Milford, Ohio 45150
- Experience Kings Island’s Halloween Haunt – For thrill-seekers, Kings Island’s Halloween Haunt is a must-visit attraction. The amusement park transforms into a realm of haunted houses, spooky mazes, and terrifying scare zones, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience. The 2023 season is September 22 – October 28th.
- Attend the Cincinnati Film Festival – As the days grow shorter, it’s an ideal time to catch up on some fantastic films. The Cincinnati Film Festival showcases a diverse selection of cinematic creations from talented filmmakers, providing a perfect indoor activity for a crisp autumn evening.
Cincinnati truly comes alive in the fall, offering a wide range of activities that cater to all interests. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, family-friendly fun, or spooky thrills, the Queen City has something to offer everyone during this magical season. So, grab your pumpkin spice latte, put on your coziest sweater, and immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of autumn in Cincinnati.