Downtown Cincinnati is a bustling place these days with countless restaurants, shops, concerts, shows, and other entertainment. The center of the action is Fountain Square, an iconic block of downtown that features the historic Tyler Davidson Fountain. The fountain and the square have changed some over the years, but this city center remains filled with action and plenty of things to do. Hopefully you don't take this beautiful spot for granted, but if you do, here are 11 ways to eat, drink, and be merry on Cincinnati's charming Fountain Square.
1. See fireworks over the city.
Several times throughout the year, Fountain Square is a great spot to catch a unique fireworks display. You can view them from the Square itself during Christmas events, New Year's Eve Celebrations, and other festive times during the year.
2. Go ice skating.
During the colder months of the year, a large portion of Fountain Square is turned into a beautiful, urban ice skating rink. The rink is open from late October to mid-February and offers open skating and other events. It's the perfect wintertime activity!
3. See a concert.
You'll find live music many times throughout the year, but the summer music series is definitely a favorite. You can catch popular bands and a variety of genres on a stage that is set up right by the fountain. It's a one-of-a-kind concert experience in our city.
4. Dance on the square.
Salsa on the Square is a favorite activity and a great way to let loose and do something different. The music is lively, there are food and drinks available, and it's just a really good time.
5. Enjoy dinner with a view.
There are a number of restaurants around the square that offer stellar views of the fountain and all the action. Palomino, pictured above, is a favorite, as are Morton's Steakhouse and Via Vite, all of which are located right on the square.
6. Try a food truck.
Basically, there is never a shortage of good food around Fountain Square. Keep an eye out for food trucks, grab a new dish from one, and have a seat at one of the many tables around the area.
7. Eat ice cream.
Graeters was the perfect addition to Fountain Square and is the best way to end any visit. Grab a scoop of your favorite flavor and take a walk over to the fountain and enjoy the view.
8. Watch a parade.
The Reds' Opening Day Parade goes right past Fountain Square, making it the perfect spot to watch it. Other downtown parades pass by here too, so keep an eye out for those!
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9. Take an iconic photo.
If you visit Fountain Square, you have to take at least one picture. The fountain and the square in general are so photogenic that you're bound to get a good shot.
10. Take a carriage ride.
This particular carriage may not be shown at Fountain Square in the photo, but you will typically find it, as well as others, lining the streets in the center of town. Hopping aboard and clip-clopping your way through downtown is a magical way to see our city and a must-do at least once.
11. Just hang out!
The great thing about Fountain Square is that you can visit with no agenda whatsoever. It's such a beautiful place that you'll surely have a good time, even if you go just to sit and marvel at the beauty of Cincinnati.
Fountain Square is the heart of so many happenings in Cincinnati and is always a showstopper. Is this one of your favorite places in the city? What do you think is the most iconic landmark in Cincinnati? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
For more information on all of the events that take place on Fountain Square, visit its website here and follow along with the Square on Facebook here.
And for another landmark spot downtown, check out our previous article here.
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