Over-the-Rhine District Walking Tour (Self Guided), Cincinnati
The historic Over-The-Rhine (OTR) neighborhood is one of the largest districts in the U.S. recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. Its name comes from the predominantly German immigrants who developed the area in the mid-19th century and had to commute across bridges over the Miami and Erie Canal (nicknamed "the Rhine" in reference to the river in Germany) which separated it from downtown Cincinnati. Thus the newly settled district north of the canal became known as "Over the Rhine".
The neighborhood currently undergoes strong development and revival, and is home to numerous craft breweries, hip gastropubs, and trendy bars. Still, if there’s one thing Over-the-Rhine is famous for, it is the finest in the U.S. concentration of well-preserved 19th-century Italianate architecture. One such edifice is the corner structure housing Taste of Belgium, one of the oldest surviving buildings in OTR.
Another local landmark – Washington Park – is popular for its fountains and festivals and is the second oldest park in the city, originally established as a burial ground for several small churches. In recent years, it has been the focal point of gentrification, prompting this portion of OTR to be renamed as "The Gateway Quarter".
The grand Music Hall – is likely Cincinnati’s most important and best-known building, representing a mixture of styles best described as Venetian Gothic. Constructed in 1878, this concert theater is the cornerstone of OTR’s renaissance and hosts the Cincinnati Opera, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, and the Cincinnati May Festival.
Findlay Market – established in the 1850s, is the oldest continuously operated public market in Ohio. The emporium is also the site of special events, bustles with indoor specialty grocers and a weekend farmers’ market.
For a more detailed acquaintance with the Over-The-Rhine area of Cincinnati, take this self-guided walking tour.
The neighborhood currently undergoes strong development and revival, and is home to numerous craft breweries, hip gastropubs, and trendy bars. Still, if there’s one thing Over-the-Rhine is famous for, it is the finest in the U.S. concentration of well-preserved 19th-century Italianate architecture. One such edifice is the corner structure housing Taste of Belgium, one of the oldest surviving buildings in OTR.
Another local landmark – Washington Park – is popular for its fountains and festivals and is the second oldest park in the city, originally established as a burial ground for several small churches. In recent years, it has been the focal point of gentrification, prompting this portion of OTR to be renamed as "The Gateway Quarter".
The grand Music Hall – is likely Cincinnati’s most important and best-known building, representing a mixture of styles best described as Venetian Gothic. Constructed in 1878, this concert theater is the cornerstone of OTR’s renaissance and hosts the Cincinnati Opera, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, and the Cincinnati May Festival.
Findlay Market – established in the 1850s, is the oldest continuously operated public market in Ohio. The emporium is also the site of special events, bustles with indoor specialty grocers and a weekend farmers’ market.
For a more detailed acquaintance with the Over-The-Rhine area of Cincinnati, take this self-guided walking tour.
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Over-the-Rhine District Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Over-the-Rhine District Walking Tour
Guide Location: USA » Cincinnati (See other walking tours in Cincinnati)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 8
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Author: Eveline
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: USA » Cincinnati (See other walking tours in Cincinnati)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 8
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Author: Eveline
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Washington Park
- Music Hall
- Memorial Hall
- Taste of Belgium OTR
- Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati
- Graeter’s Ice Cream
- Findlay Market
- Rhinegeist Brewery
1) Washington Park
Located in the heart of Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, Washington Park is a six-acre urban oasis nestled between Elm and Race Streets, just east of the iconic Cincinnati Music Hall. Though smaller in size than Eden Park, it’s arguably the city’s most beloved and vibrant green space.
Families flock here for the playground, which features a whimsical play castle, climbing wall, sandboxes, and slides. On hot days, kids cool off at the interactive splash pad with over 130 pop-up water jets. Dog lovers can enjoy the 12,000-square-foot dog park, complete with synthetic turf and a water fountain for four-legged visitors.
Cultural elements add unique charm to the park. The American Classical Music Walk of Fame pays tribute to music legends like Leonard Bernstein, Duke Ellington, and Scott Joplin with engraved pavement stones and a choreographed dancing fountain that plays along to classical melodies. There’s also a historic bandstand gazebo, which hosts regular concerts and festivals throughout the year.
History buffs will appreciate the Civil War memorials scattered throughout the park, including cannons and busts of Union figures like Frederick Hecker and Colonel Robert Latimer McCook of the German 9th Ohio Infantry ("Die Neuner"). A bronze tablet, gifted in 1931 by the descendants of the 9th O.V.I., also honors this legacy.
Whether you’re in town for a performance at Music Hall, looking for a family-friendly afternoon, or just want to stretch your legs under the shade of century-old trees, Washington Park offers a mix of leisure, history, and culture that makes it a true Cincinnati gem.
Families flock here for the playground, which features a whimsical play castle, climbing wall, sandboxes, and slides. On hot days, kids cool off at the interactive splash pad with over 130 pop-up water jets. Dog lovers can enjoy the 12,000-square-foot dog park, complete with synthetic turf and a water fountain for four-legged visitors.
Cultural elements add unique charm to the park. The American Classical Music Walk of Fame pays tribute to music legends like Leonard Bernstein, Duke Ellington, and Scott Joplin with engraved pavement stones and a choreographed dancing fountain that plays along to classical melodies. There’s also a historic bandstand gazebo, which hosts regular concerts and festivals throughout the year.
History buffs will appreciate the Civil War memorials scattered throughout the park, including cannons and busts of Union figures like Frederick Hecker and Colonel Robert Latimer McCook of the German 9th Ohio Infantry ("Die Neuner"). A bronze tablet, gifted in 1931 by the descendants of the 9th O.V.I., also honors this legacy.
Whether you’re in town for a performance at Music Hall, looking for a family-friendly afternoon, or just want to stretch your legs under the shade of century-old trees, Washington Park offers a mix of leisure, history, and culture that makes it a true Cincinnati gem.
2) Music Hall
Music Hall is Cincinnati's performance hall for classical arts. Music Hall is the venue for the Cincinnati Ballet, Symphony Orchestra, Opera and Pops Orchestra.
The building was completed in 1878. It was designed by Samuel Hannaford in the Victorian Gothic Revival Architectural Style. It is distinctive from other performance halls in that the building is actually three separate buildings: Music Hall and the North and South Exposition Buildings.
The buildings feature sandstone carvings, a pitched gable roof and a large rose window. Music Hall originally had intricately carved brickwork, but most of the details were destroyed during a renovation of the building.
Those who enjoy sites that are reputed to be haunted should pay particular interest to Music Hall. It is said to be one of the most haunted places in America due to the fact that it was built over a pauper's cemetery.
Music Hall was named a National Historic Landmark in 1975. It has also been placed on the list of America's 11 most endangered historic places.
The building was completed in 1878. It was designed by Samuel Hannaford in the Victorian Gothic Revival Architectural Style. It is distinctive from other performance halls in that the building is actually three separate buildings: Music Hall and the North and South Exposition Buildings.
The buildings feature sandstone carvings, a pitched gable roof and a large rose window. Music Hall originally had intricately carved brickwork, but most of the details were destroyed during a renovation of the building.
Those who enjoy sites that are reputed to be haunted should pay particular interest to Music Hall. It is said to be one of the most haunted places in America due to the fact that it was built over a pauper's cemetery.
Music Hall was named a National Historic Landmark in 1975. It has also been placed on the list of America's 11 most endangered historic places.
3) Memorial Hall
The Hamilton County Memorial Building, known by most as Memorial Hall, is a building created as a memorial to members of the military from Cincinnati and Hamilton County.
The building was funded by a cooperation between the Grand Army of the Republic and Hamilton County. In 1908, the two entities enlisted Samuel Hannaford & Sons to design the Beaux Arts-style memorial hall.
The hall hosts a 556-seat theatre that is used for concerts, events and ceremonies. Tourists can purchase tickets to see one of the many shows so they can get a glimpse of the hall's interior. With over 300 shows hosted each year, it is very easy to find a performance. Likewise, Memorial Hall attempts to offer as many low-cost or free performances as possible.
Many visitors forego the performances and simply enjoy viewing the columns and sculpted figures that adorn the exterior of the building. The location of Memorial Hall makes it an easy stop on a walking tour. It is in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, adjacent to Washington Park and south of Music Hall.
The building was funded by a cooperation between the Grand Army of the Republic and Hamilton County. In 1908, the two entities enlisted Samuel Hannaford & Sons to design the Beaux Arts-style memorial hall.
The hall hosts a 556-seat theatre that is used for concerts, events and ceremonies. Tourists can purchase tickets to see one of the many shows so they can get a glimpse of the hall's interior. With over 300 shows hosted each year, it is very easy to find a performance. Likewise, Memorial Hall attempts to offer as many low-cost or free performances as possible.
Many visitors forego the performances and simply enjoy viewing the columns and sculpted figures that adorn the exterior of the building. The location of Memorial Hall makes it an easy stop on a walking tour. It is in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, adjacent to Washington Park and south of Music Hall.
4) Taste of Belgium OTR
Nestled in the heart of Cincinnati's historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, Taste of Belgium OTR is where old-world charm meets modern culinary flair. This full-service Belgian-inspired brasserie is part of a beloved local group known for fusing the best of Belgian and American cuisines. Whether you're after an indulgent brunch or a hearty dinner, Taste of Belgium delivers with locally sourced ingredients, signature waffles, and an impressive drink list.
What started as a humble waffle stand in 2007 at Findlay Market—powered by a 120-pound cast iron waffle iron and the passion of founder Jean-François Flechet—has since grown into a Queen City institution. Jean-François’s dedication to authentic Belgian fare earned him a knighthood in 2023 by the prestigious Knighthood of the Brewer’s Paddle, honoring his commitment to preserving Belgian brewing traditions stateside.
At OTR, guests can savor dishes like Goetta hash, beer cheese with house-made pretzels, or classic Belgian chocolate desserts. Breakfast and brunch are served all day, ensuring your waffle cravings are satisfied from sunrise to the last call. And speaking of the last call—Taste of Belgium is just as serious about its beverages. The curated beer list includes an unmatched selection of Belgian brews alongside local drafts and whimsical cocktails like the Beer-Mosa and Belgian Mule. For the teetotalers, a locally roasted Belgian-style coffee awaits.
From its original stall still operating at Findlay Market to seven full-service brasseries across Cincinnati and Dayton, Taste of Belgium remains true to its mission: bringing a little piece of Belgium to Ohio, one waffle (and one beer) at a time.
What started as a humble waffle stand in 2007 at Findlay Market—powered by a 120-pound cast iron waffle iron and the passion of founder Jean-François Flechet—has since grown into a Queen City institution. Jean-François’s dedication to authentic Belgian fare earned him a knighthood in 2023 by the prestigious Knighthood of the Brewer’s Paddle, honoring his commitment to preserving Belgian brewing traditions stateside.
At OTR, guests can savor dishes like Goetta hash, beer cheese with house-made pretzels, or classic Belgian chocolate desserts. Breakfast and brunch are served all day, ensuring your waffle cravings are satisfied from sunrise to the last call. And speaking of the last call—Taste of Belgium is just as serious about its beverages. The curated beer list includes an unmatched selection of Belgian brews alongside local drafts and whimsical cocktails like the Beer-Mosa and Belgian Mule. For the teetotalers, a locally roasted Belgian-style coffee awaits.
From its original stall still operating at Findlay Market to seven full-service brasseries across Cincinnati and Dayton, Taste of Belgium remains true to its mission: bringing a little piece of Belgium to Ohio, one waffle (and one beer) at a time.
5) Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati
Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati was founded in 1986. It is located in the Over-the-Rhine district about three blocks east of Washington Park. The theatre has 182 seats for intimate performances and a full-service bar.
Over-the-Rhine is a hip neighborhood full of arts, dining, restaurants and historic buildings. The Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati stands out with its large columns and etched stone that offer a fusion of architectural styles.
The buildings now occupied by the Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati were built in 1904 and 1912. The two buildings were originally a bank and a department store. Though they have been converted to theatre space, some of the early features remain in place. For instance, the bank vault walls and chimney flutes have been incorporated into the eclectic design.
Visitors can attend a show or simply stop by the Ensemble Theatre to admire architecture of days gone by.
Over-the-Rhine is a hip neighborhood full of arts, dining, restaurants and historic buildings. The Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati stands out with its large columns and etched stone that offer a fusion of architectural styles.
The buildings now occupied by the Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati were built in 1904 and 1912. The two buildings were originally a bank and a department store. Though they have been converted to theatre space, some of the early features remain in place. For instance, the bank vault walls and chimney flutes have been incorporated into the eclectic design.
Visitors can attend a show or simply stop by the Ensemble Theatre to admire architecture of days gone by.
6) Graeter’s Ice Cream
Graeter’s Ice Cream isn’t just dessert—it’s a scoop of Cincinnati history served with pride since 1870. What started with young Louis C. Graeter peddling ice cream at local street markets has grown into a regional legend and a nationwide favorite, all without losing its small-batch soul.
The company’s roots run deep in the Queen City, where Louis Graeter, the son of German immigrants, opened his first shop in the Pendleton neighborhood. But it was his widow, Regina, who truly shaped the business into the legacy we know today. Since then, the Graeter family—now in its 5th generation—has stubbornly clung to the old ways, handcrafting ice cream two and a half gallons at a time using the signature “French Pot” process. The result? An ultra-dense, irresistibly creamy texture that has earned devoted fans far beyond Ohio.
From local Cincinnati carts to 56 retail locations across the Midwest—and over 6,200 grocery store freezers nationwide thanks to partnerships with chains like Kroger—Graeter’s has come a long way. But the heart of the operation remains the same: family-owned, family-run, and fan-loved.
Even Oprah herself famously declared it the best ice cream she’d ever tasted, catapulting Graeter’s into the national spotlight. Add in features from Vanity Fair, the Travel Channel, Food Network, and beyond, and you’ve got a sweet success story rooted in tradition and churned with love.
Simply put: no trip to Cincinnati is complete without a scoop of Graeter’s. It's history, heritage, and indulgence all in one cone.
The company’s roots run deep in the Queen City, where Louis Graeter, the son of German immigrants, opened his first shop in the Pendleton neighborhood. But it was his widow, Regina, who truly shaped the business into the legacy we know today. Since then, the Graeter family—now in its 5th generation—has stubbornly clung to the old ways, handcrafting ice cream two and a half gallons at a time using the signature “French Pot” process. The result? An ultra-dense, irresistibly creamy texture that has earned devoted fans far beyond Ohio.
From local Cincinnati carts to 56 retail locations across the Midwest—and over 6,200 grocery store freezers nationwide thanks to partnerships with chains like Kroger—Graeter’s has come a long way. But the heart of the operation remains the same: family-owned, family-run, and fan-loved.
Even Oprah herself famously declared it the best ice cream she’d ever tasted, catapulting Graeter’s into the national spotlight. Add in features from Vanity Fair, the Travel Channel, Food Network, and beyond, and you’ve got a sweet success story rooted in tradition and churned with love.
Simply put: no trip to Cincinnati is complete without a scoop of Graeter’s. It's history, heritage, and indulgence all in one cone.
7) Findlay Market (must see)
Findlay Market is the oldest continually operated public market in the city. The original Findlay Market was founded in 1852. It was located on land owned by James and Jane Irwin Findlay. It has been named one of the top 10 public markets in the world by "Newsweek" magazine.
The market features full-time vendors who sell meat, fish, flowers, produce, cheese, bakery items, beverages and other food items. There are also vendors who sell artisan crafts like candles, home decor, soaps and pottery.
From March through December, a farmer's market opens at Findlay Market on weekends. Along with the regular vendors, the farmer's market features outdoor vendors and street performers.
Unlike many other public markets in the United States, Findlay market is open year-round. Visitors can shop from 10 AM to 4 PM on Sundays, from 8 AM to 6 PM on Saturdays and from 9 AM to 6 PM during weekdays. The market is closed on Mondays.
The market features full-time vendors who sell meat, fish, flowers, produce, cheese, bakery items, beverages and other food items. There are also vendors who sell artisan crafts like candles, home decor, soaps and pottery.
From March through December, a farmer's market opens at Findlay Market on weekends. Along with the regular vendors, the farmer's market features outdoor vendors and street performers.
Unlike many other public markets in the United States, Findlay market is open year-round. Visitors can shop from 10 AM to 4 PM on Sundays, from 8 AM to 6 PM on Saturdays and from 9 AM to 6 PM during weekdays. The market is closed on Mondays.
8) Rhinegeist Brewery
Rhinegeist Brewery is a craft brewery located in Cincinatti's Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. The 25,000-square-foot brewery occupies what was once the Christian Moerlein Brewing Co. It is the second largest craft brewery in Ohio.
Rhinegeist was founded in 2005 by Bob Bonder and Bryant Goulding. They began by opening a brewery taproom, but were soon distributing to local bars. By 2014, Rhinegeist was bottling beers for wider distribution. One of their offerings, Rhinegeist's Truth IPA, was placed on a list of one of the best 100 beers in the world by "Men's Journal."
Visitors are welcome to sample beers and ciders in the taproom during open hours. The brewery also offers public tours that allow visitors to see the process of brewing beers and ciders from beginning to end.
Those who want more in-depth tours can book a private tasting tour, a specialty tasting tour or a historic tour that delves deeply into the days before prohibition when the Christian Moerlein Brewing Co. bottled its German beers in the same facility.
Rhinegeist was founded in 2005 by Bob Bonder and Bryant Goulding. They began by opening a brewery taproom, but were soon distributing to local bars. By 2014, Rhinegeist was bottling beers for wider distribution. One of their offerings, Rhinegeist's Truth IPA, was placed on a list of one of the best 100 beers in the world by "Men's Journal."
Visitors are welcome to sample beers and ciders in the taproom during open hours. The brewery also offers public tours that allow visitors to see the process of brewing beers and ciders from beginning to end.
Those who want more in-depth tours can book a private tasting tour, a specialty tasting tour or a historic tour that delves deeply into the days before prohibition when the Christian Moerlein Brewing Co. bottled its German beers in the same facility.
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The land that became Cincinnati had previously been occupied by Fort Washington. Before that, it was home to the Shawnee and other Native American tribes like the Miami, Ojibwe, and Lenape.
Founded in 1788, the city earned its name from the Society of the Cincinnati, the... view more
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