Victoria Lupascu 
Planning your trip to this fun city in Ohio will feel like a breeze after reading this guide on where to stay in Cincinnati!
I recently spoke with a local from Cincinnati who gave me countless tips for visiting her hometown like a pro! I’ll include all that in the post along with all the juicy things I found during my thorough research, from the top hotels to the main things to do.
Over-the-Rhine (OTR) is the best area to stay in Cincinnati for first-timers: a walkable, historic brewery district full of shops and restaurants, linked to Downtown by the free Connector streetcar. Downtown suits sightseeing, Uptown foodies, Covington a hip riverfront, and Newport families.
I’d also recommend booking your hotels in advance here. This town offers entertainment year-round, so tourists are always around. Trust me, it’s better to secure your spot early!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Here are the best places to stay in Cincinnati, Ohio, with hotels from luxury to budget. They all have good reviews and great locations!
Here is a map of where to stay in Cincinnati, Ohio, with the 4 best areas I will be talking about in this travel guide so you can easily visualize them:
- Over-the-Rhine: for first-timers
- Downtown Cincinnati: for sightseeing
- Uptown Cincinnati: for foodies
- Covington: the trendy area
- Newport: for families
| Area | Best for | Vibe | Top hotel pick (Booking score) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Over-the-Rhine (OTR) | First-timers, breweries | Historic, trendy, walkable | The Symphony Hotel (9.2) |
| Downtown | Sightseeing, business | Central, riverfront | The Lytle Park Hotel (9.1) |
| Uptown | Foodies, university | Lively, student, casual | Graduate by Hilton Cincinnati (8.7) |
| Covington (KY) | Hip riverfront | Across the river, characterful | Hotel Covington (9.6) |
| Newport (KY) | Families | Aquarium, levee, relaxed | Fairfield by Marriott Newport (8.6) |
1. Over-the-Rhine – best place to stay for the first time
Historic architecture, breweries, chic shops… Over-the-Rhine is a tourist’s dream come true and undoubtedly the best place to stay for first-time visitors.
Once you set foot in this area, you might feel as if you’ve taken a detour and arrived in some European city. And with all the breweries down the streets, it might feel as if you’ve arrived in a German town.
Lots of years back many Germans came and settled here, which definitely contributed to the European vibe.
According to Maria (@mariathewild), a local from Cincinnati, you can easily explore this area on foot. That way you can admire the architecture and stumble across lots of shops, trendy restaurants and bars.
PRO TIP: There’s an electric streetcar that connects Over-the-Rhine and Downtown, so you could use that instead of walking, since it’s free of charge. It’s called the Connector.
Some attractions that you should check out here are the Cincinnati Music Hall and the Pendleton Art Center (map).
Our local guide also said you should definitely stop by Findlay Market (map), the oldest market in Cincinnati, for lunch, where you can grab lots of yummy food, then head to Washington Park (map) and enjoy it there!
Talking about food and drinks, you’re probably wondering which places to hit first. As I mentioned, there are lots of breweries here, like Braxton Brewing Company (map), and tons of other bars.
Some amazing spots that our local guide recommended are Somerset Bar (map), and Ghost Baby (map) which is housed in an old underground brewery cellar and where you can listen to some nice jazz music.
Ever wanted to stay in a haunted hotel? According to our local guide, this place may have a few ghosts! Despite that, the hotel is super stylish, and it boasts antique furnishings and a bar.
Other accommodation options in Over-the-Rhine
A stylish apartment with cool furnishings, a lounge area with a TV and a kitchen.
This modern place has 2 rooms, a kitchen, a flat-screen TV and air-conditioning
Such a cool loft that comes with a kitchen, a lounge area and free parking
Things to do in Over-the-Rhine
- Grab some cocktails at Lost & Found (map)
- Check out the Cincinnati Music Hall
- Go for a stroll in Washington Park
- Join a ghost tour in Cincinnati
- Grab a bite from Findlay Market
- Listen to some jazz music at Ghost Baby
- Catch a show at the Memorial Hall (map)
2. Downtown Cincinnati – where to stay for sightseeing
Unlike its neighbor, Downtown has a more modern vibe.
Here the buildings are newer and taller, which makes sense since this is also the business and financial district.
Still, according to Maria, our local guide, there are still some cultural attractions that you should check out here, like the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge (map), which apparently inspired the famous Brooklyn Bridge.
PRO TIP: If you’re in town during the famous Oktoberfest festival (usually held at the end of September as it’s warmer) definitely attend the celebrations as Maria said the town hosts one of the biggest Oktoberfests in the world!
What’s fun about it is that you can just cross the bridge and you’ll no longer be in Ohio, but Cincinnati!
By the bridge, you’ll also find the Smale Riverfront Park (map), a super nice green area where you can chill and watch the sunset. You could also rent a bike and head down the Ohio River Trail (map).
Right near the park, there’s the Banks area (map), which is home to the Great American Ball Park (map) where you can catch baseball games. So if you’re a sports fan, definitely check out what’s on when you’re visiting.
There are also lots of cool museums in this neighborhood, like the Contemporary Arts Center, the Taft Museum of Art, and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.
As for places to eat, don’t worry, you’ll find plenty here! Some amazing ones like Sotto (map) and Boca (map).
Housed in a gorgeous building, this amazing hotel has such a great design! Some of the rooms offer park views, and you’ll also find 2 on-site restaurants and a bar where you can enjoy a drink after a day out.
Other accommodation options in Downtown Cincinnati
Set in a restored 1920s tower a block from Lytle Park, with full kitchens, a rooftop bar and hot breakfast included
This hotel has a great location, and it offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a swimming pool
Feel at home in this condo that has a kitchen, a living room, and laundry facilities
Things to do in Downtown Cincinnati
- Learn new things at Cincinnati History Museum
- Visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
- Go for a stroll in Sawyer Point Park (map)
- See an exhibition at Contemporary Arts Center
- Catch a sunset in Smale Riverfront Park
- Visit the famous Great American Ball Park stadium
- Grab dinner at Boca
- Attend the Blink Festival in October
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3. Uptown – best place to stay in Cincinnati for foodies
Set North of the Over-the-Rhine area, around a 10 min drive away, Uptown is a larger area that encompasses the smaller areas of Clifton and Corryville.
NOTE: If you’re planning to explore all the different neighborhoods in Cincinnati, I’d recommend renting a car or bringing your own. Maria, the local guide, said you can get around by bus. However, that will probably take more of your time, plus she mentioned that the city is not super walkable.
PRO TIP: If you are renting a car, you can download the Cincy EZPark app to pay for your parking spot online.
Uptown is home to the University of Cincinnati and to countless restaurants, cafes, and pubs, making it the perfect place to stay for foodies or those looking for a younger crowd.
Maria mentioned that you should totally explore the university campus (map) as it’s packed with unique buildings!
She also said you’ll find so many dining spots serving international cuisines! Indian, Chinese, Italian food- you name it, you’ll definitely find a great place here that serves it.
If you’re looking for some specific spots, definitely head to Mr. Sushi Clifton (map), Island Frydays (map), or El Taco Veloz (map).
As for attractions, some spots you should check out are the Esquire Theater (map), Mt. Storm Park (map), the Burnet Woods Park (map), and the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.
P.S. Maria told me that, generally, Cincinnati is a safe town; just take care when walking around at night, and maybe take a cab if it’s late and you’re alone.
A super nice hotel offering spacious rooms with unique decor, a bar, and a restaurant that serves breakfast.
Other accommodation options in
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott
Simple yet comfortable hotel with an indoor pool, a fitness center, and private parking
This hotel has family rooms with a TV, family rooms, and a fitness center
Perfect for a family or friend group, this place has a kitchen, a private balcony, and a parking space
Things to do in Uptown
- Grab a bite at Skyline Chili (map)
- Have fun at Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden
- Enjoy dinner at Mr. Sushi Clifton
- Go for a walk in Burnet Woods Park
- Explore the University of Cincinnati campus
- Catch a sunset in Eden Park (map)
4. Covington – a hip district in Cincinnati
Set across the Ohio River from Downtown Cincinnati, Covington is technically in a different state (Kentucky); however, it’s still considered part of Cincinnati.
This is a super hip area, packed with quirky boutique shops, restaurants, bars, and other fun attractions.
If you’re looking for a more unique place to stay in Cincinnati, then Covington is surely for you!
Start your adventures on Main Street (map) where you’ll find lots of cafes, restaurants, and shops. You can definitely stop at Cedar (map) for a yummy brunch and then do a bit of shopping!
If you like witchy, Harry Potter-ish things, definitely head to Hierophany & Hedge (map), a store that our local guide recommended, where they have wands and all sorts of cool things like candles and more.
She also said you should check out what’s on at the Madison Theater (map), since they always host concerts and other events.
Some other places you should check out here include Devou Park (map), which is super big and hosts lots of sites like a golf course, a concert hall, and the Behringer-Crawford Museum.
Cozy rooms with an elegant design and great city views, a lovely outdoor terrace and a fab restaurant. This one is surely a keeper! The accommodation also offers an airport shuttle and room service.
Other accommodation options in Covington
This modern hotel boasts an indoor pool, a restaurant and a fitness center
Such a great affordable hotel that offers a free breakfast and an indoor pool
A super stylish place that comes with private backyard, a kitchen and free Wi-Fi
Things to do in Covington
- Grab a drink at Second Story bar (map)
- Visit the Behringer-Crawford Museum
- Have a delicious dinner at Blinkers Tavern (map)
- See the Gothic Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption (map)
- Get some souvenirs from Hierophany & Hedge
5. Newport – where to stay in Cincinnati for families
Newport is located just next to Covington, 2 miles (3 km) Southeast of Downtown Cincinnati across the Ohio River.
According to Maria, the local guide, this area is perfect for families! Not only is it more tranquil, but it also offers some fun attractions that the whole crew will love!
Plus you won’t be too far from Downtown and Over-the-Rhine! You only need to cross the Taylor Southgate Bridge, and you’re there.
Back in Newport, you’ll find the Aquarium, which has the most amazing walk-through tunnels, and right next to it, you’ll also find Newport on the Levee mall (map). The area is also home to some cool restaurants, like Hofbräuhaus (map), a spot where you can indulge in lots of yummy German dishes.
Such a great place to stay in Newport that offers spacious rooms with a flat-screen TV. You can rent out bikes from the hotel to explore around, and you’ll also find a terrace and a fitness center on-site.
Other accommodation options in Newport
This modern hotel offers a free breakfast, family rooms and free parking
An affordable place that has an indoor pool, family rooms and a gym
This Airbnb has room for 5 people, a kitchen, a TV and laundry facilities
Things to do in Newport
- Discover the underwater world at Newport Aquarium
- Don’t get too scared at the USS Nightmare
- Catch a performance at Thompson House (map)
- See a movie at the Newport on the Levee mall
- Take a trip to Kings Island Amusement Park
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$200 |
| 💵 Mid-range: | US$140 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$85 |
| 📍Best Area: | Over-the-Rhine |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | The Symphony Hotel |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | The Reserve |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Stylish Apartment |
FAQs about lodging in Cincinnati, Ohio
🗺️ What are the bad areas of Cincinnati, Ohio?
I would avoid the North and South Fairmount areas, as they have higher crime rates.
✨ What part of Cincinnati, Ohio is nice?
Downtown Cincinnati and Over-the-Rhine are some of the best areas to stay in Cincinnati, as that’s where you’ll find some of the main attractions.
👨👩👦👦 What are the best hotels in Cincinnati, Ohio for families?
Fairfield by Marriott Inn and Hampton Inn & Suites, set in the Newport area, are some great hotels for families, as is the area!
🤔 What should I not miss in Cincinnati, Ohio?
Some sites you shouldn’t miss out on are the historic Over-the-Rhine area, Washington Park, the Contemporary Arts Center, and the Taft Museum of Art.
🏈 Where do visiting teams stay in Cincinnati, OH?
Whether it’s baseball or football, visiting teams usually stay in downtown Cincinnati and have often been spotted at the Renaissance and The Westin.
🛎️ What are the best hotels in Downtown Cincinnati, OH?
Residence Inn and Lytle Park Hotel are some of the best hotels in Downtown Cincinnati.
✈️ How do you get from Cincinnati Airport to downtown?
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) sits across the river in Kentucky, about a 15 to 25 minute drive (roughly 13 miles) from downtown. There is no rail link, so taxis, rideshares, and pre-booked airport transfers are your best options (a limited TANK bus also runs).
🗓️ When is the best time to visit Cincinnati?
Late spring and early fall bring mild weather and riverfront events, while summer is warm and lively with Reds baseball and festivals, and winters get cold. Check the Reds and Bengals schedules, since game days push up downtown hotel prices.
Areas run first-timers first, and every hotel is picked for its current Booking.com guest score and how it fits the area and your budget.
Final thoughts
What a ride! I hope this guide to where to stay in Cincinnati, OH, helped you decide which area and hotel to choose.
I’ve included lots of tips from Maria, our local guide, plus other amazing things I found through my extensive research.
If you’re still not sure which hotel to pick for your stay, here are my top-rated 2 favorite hotels:
- The Symphony Hotel – a stylish hotel that is apparently haunted!
- Lytle Park Hotel – this modern hotel offers 2 restaurants
Just remember to book your hotels here in advance! Cincinnati is a popular holiday destination, and the good hotels fill up fast.
Enjoy your adventures, and as always, if you have questions, you can drop them in the comment section below!
Have a great time in Cincinnati,
Victoria
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