With overcast skies and perfect temperatures, I set out to visit Cincinnati’s Riverbank along the Ohio River. Starting at West Freedom Way, I toured the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, strolled through Smale Park and walked east towards Sawyer’s Point and Yeatman’s Cove.
Yeatman’s Cove was a part of the original settlement of Losantiville, renamed Cincinnati in 1790 as well as the site of Fort Washington. With spectacular views of the Ohio River, this recreation area is located between Smale Riverfront Park and Berry International Friendship Park.
The park stretches about a mile along the banks of the Ohio to include several displays and placards detailing the history of Cincinnati. On Mehring Way is the National Steamboat Monument, a replica of the American Queen Riverboat’s paddlewheel standing three stories high. Several stainless steel smokestacks display the names of the riverboats that transported passengers and goods up and down the river in the 19th and 20th centuries.
The Procter & Gamble Pavilion at Sawyer Point hosts an annual Summer Concert series. A family-friendly venue, the events are free and offer food, drinks and alcohol for purchase.
In the early 19th century, Cincinnati was referred to as “Porkopolis” based on its production of pork products traded along the banks of the Ohio. In 2000, when I first moved to Cincinnati, the city was hosting the “Big Pig Gig” where local businesses could sponsor one of 400 fiberglass pigs to decorate for its public art installation. Over twenty years later, several of these art displays can be found around Cincinnati. Lucius (Lucky) Quinctus Pigasus stands in Yeatman’s Cove.
Check out the Instagram, BigPigGig for the location of what remains of the pigs.
Several markers lined along the park display key historical events in Cincinnati’s history as well as local prehistoric findings.
A statue of Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus, for which the city was named, stands at Yeatman’s Cove.
Another view of Cincinnatus from the Arches and Overlook at the base of the Purple People Bridge. Daniel Carter Beard Bridge (also known as the Big Mac Bridge) in the background connects downtown to I-275.
Looking towards the west side is a spectacular view of the Serpentine Wall. Completed in 1976, the structure acts as a barrier to help contain the floodwaters of the Ohio River. A great place to picnic, this space is also perfect for taking in the local fireworks and other riverfront events.
My final stop before lunch is Yeatman’s Cove Park, the original settlement of Cincinnati which took place in the winter of 1788. A beautiful sculpture by David von Schlegell marks the location of Cincinnati’s beginnings.
By now, I have made arrangements to meet some friends at Moerlein Lager House for lunch and looked forward to sampling their beers as well as vintage ales from Cincinnati.
Have you had the opportunity to visit Cincinnati’s riverfront? Did you have a favorite stop on your tour? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.
Many thanks for reading about my exploration of the Ohio River al Cincinnati and wishing you many Happy Travels!
What to See and What to Do:
Sawyer Point Park & Yeatman’s Cove
705 East Pete Rose Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 352 6180
Where to Stay:
AC Hotel Cincinnati at The Banks
135 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 744 9900
Where to Eat:
Moerlein Lager House
115 Joe Nuxthall Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 521 2337
What to Eat:
- Skyline Chili: My go-to meal at Skyline is the 4-way chili with onion served with oyster crackers and hot sauce. I always pick up two York peppermint patties after cashing out. Cincinnati chili is a beef based sauce served over spaghetti noodles and cheese. Additional toppings include onions and beans.
- LaRosa’s Pizza: A local chain pizzeria, this Sicilian style pie is made with a sweet crust and sauce. My favorite menu item is the Caprese pesto Flatbread Pizza.
- Graeter’s Ice Cream: It’s the French Pot process that makes Graeter’s Ice Cream so decadent and rich. Towards the end of the process, they pour chocolate into the mix creating large chunks of yummy goodness.
- Montgomery Inn BBQ: Visiting the original Montgomery Inn BBQ at the boathouse is a culinary and scenic experience. Their ribs are served with a sweet and tangy sauce that has since made them the “Ribs King” and a favorite among locals. Load up on their amazing BBQ flavored Saratoga chips,
- Glier’s Goetta: While it looks like a slab of corn beef hash, this breakfast staple is made of sausage and oats, cooked until crispy. Most breakfast restaurants carry it as a side, especially the local cafes and diners.
- BonBonerie: One of the most decadent pastry shops in Cincinnati, their rich confections are absolutely amazing.
Where to Drink:
AC Hotel Rooftop Bar
135 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 744 9900
What to Read:
- Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride & Prejudice, by Curtis Sittenfeld
- Running, by J.T. Cooper
- Dead Witch Walking, by Kim Harrison
- Beloved, by Toni Morrison
- Double Dutch, by Sharon M. Draper
- Romiette and Julio, by Sharon M. Draper
Photo Guide to Cincinnati:
- City Hall – inside and Out
- Smale Riverfront Park
- Union Terminal
- Roebling Suspension Bridge
- Washington Park
- Krohn Conservatory
- American Sign Museum
