We've turned the corner and the end of summer is fast approaching in Cincinnati. We may still be faced with plenty of hot and humid days, but with the start of the school year for many comes the end of the laid-back summer vibe. But don't worry if you're sad to see summer come to an end, because we've put together a very achievable bucket list of a few things you can still do in these last weeks of the season. They're all nearby, all can be done without much planning, and all ensure a fantastic end to an incredible summer in the Queen City.
1. See a drive-in movie.
There's still time to experience some nostalgic summer fun at the drive-in. You'll find a few of these classic destinations left in our area and they are showing brand new movies in what many would say is the best atmosphere around. Take the kids and show them the "old school" way to watch a movie. For information on Holiday Auto Theatre in Hamilton (pictured above) visit its website here.
2. Visit a waterfront restaurant.
Summer is a great time to eat by the water and there are plenty of options around Cincinnati to do just that. We recently featured Weather Oar Knot in Union - a delicious restaurant where you can also rent a boat to take out on the Ohio. It doesn't get much more summery than that. For more on "The Knot," check out our previous article here.
3. Play at the newest summer hot spot in town.
Land of Illusion in Middletown opened an inflatable waterpark this summer and it's even more fun than you could ever imagine. It's great for kids and adults (you must be 43" tall), and there is so much to do. Play on the (rather difficult) obstacle course, dig in the sand, and relax with food and drinks, among other water activities. For more on Cincy's newest summer playground, check out our previous article here.
4. Lounge on an outdoor patio.
Summer is patio season and Cincinnati's restaurants and bars have some of the best. Whether you're looking for a beautiful view, a waterfront location, or a lively atmosphere, our city's dining destinations have you covered. Check out some of the best outdoor patios in Cincinnati featured in our previous article here.
5. Go camping.
Camping is another summer pastime that many seem to forget about. It's not too late to plan a little camping trip, and if you choose the beautiful campground at Winton Woods, you don't have far to travel! Great Parks of Hamilton County offers many campgrounds, and even has options if you don't have a tent or camper. For more information on the Winton Woods Campground, check out our previous article here.
6. Spend time at the lake.
You don't have to plan an elaborate trip to be able to spend time at the lake this summer. There are many picturesque bodies of water within a short drive from Cincinnati, many of which have sandy beaches and marinas where you can rent a boat and/or fishing gear. Choose a nearby lake to visit before summer ends from our previous article here.
7. Explore a unique park.
Cincinnati has many unique parks that are made for warm, summer days. Highfield Discovery Garden within Glenwood Gardens (shown above) is a must-see for all ages. Other one-of-a-kind options include the Cincinnati Nature Center, Smale Riverfront Park, and Summit Park in Blue Ash. For more on Highfield Discovery Garden, check out our previous article here.
8. Eat at a creamy whip.
It's not a Cincinnati summer without (hopefully) multiple trips to a neighborhood creamy whip. These classic walk-up destinations serve up a wide variety of sweet treats, and everyone seems to have their favorite soft serve destination in our city. Be sure to enjoy one last summer evening with a cone of your favorite flavor. If you're up for the sweetest challenge ever, check out our Creamy Whip Trail through Cincinnati here.
Summer may be wrapping up, but there is still plenty of fun to be had in Cincinnati. Have you been able to fit all of your bucket list items into your summer schedule? What else do you want to experience before it's over? Let us know in the comments!
And if you're already excited for fall and all of the fun and beauty it brings, you'll want to start planning our Fall Foliage Road Trip, found here.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!