Walking tours in Cincinnati pack fascinating history and local culture into manageable chunks. The city’s best guided experiences offer excellent value and insider access.
I’m especially fond of the Over-the-Rhine Ghost Walking Tour for its mix of authentic history and spine-tingling tales told by knowledgeable guides.
The Underground Walking Tour stands out by taking visitors beneath the city streets to explore forgotten tunnels and cellars – it’s a real eye-opener.
For food lovers, the Findlay Market Food Tour provides generous tastings while supporting local vendors in America’s oldest continuously operated public market.
The Brewing History Tour skillfully connects Cincinnati’s rich German heritage with its modern craft beer scene.
Let’s look at the top walking tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Cincinnati offers a diverse range of walking tours, including historical, culinary, and supernatural-themed options, providing immersive experiences for 2-3 hours.
- Ghost walking tours, such as the “Ultimate Queen City is Haunted Tour” and “Haunted Cincinnati Booze and Boos,” offer unique ghost-hunting experiences and explore the city’s haunted history.
- Themed walking tours like the “Brewers & Barons Trail Tour” and “Nightmare on Elm Street Walking Tour” focus on Cincinnati’s brewing legacy and ghost hunting, respectively.
- Culinary walking tours, such as the “Findlay Market Food Walking Tour” and “Cincinnati: Food Walking Tour,” allow visitors to explore the city’s culinary heritage and sample local specialties.
- Self-guided and smartphone-guided walking tours, including a haunted tour of Over-the-Rhine, offer flexible options for exploring Cincinnati’s landmarks and historical sites at one’s own pace.
Cincinnati: Ghost Walking Tour of Over-the-Rhine
Cincinnati’s “Ultimate Queen City is Haunted Tour” takes participants on a captivating ghost walking adventure through the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood.
Boasting a 5.0 rating from over 179 reviews, this 93% recommended tour delves into the neighborhood’s haunted history, led by knowledgeable guides.
Highlights include eerie tales and historical facts about landmarks like the Cincinnati Music Hall and Emery Theater.
Utilizing EVP meters, the tour offers a unique ghost hunting experience, though some guests found certain aspects less spooky than expected.
Accessible via public transportation, the tour is an excellent choice for history buffs and those intrigued by Cincinnati’s haunted past.
Read our full review: Cincinnati: Ghost Walking Tour of Over-the-Rhine Review
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Haunted Cincinnati Ghost and Pub Walking Tour
For those seeking a truly immersive experience blending Cincinnati’s haunted history with the city’s vibrant bar scene, the Haunted Cincinnati Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour offers an engaging and memorable outing.
This 2.5-hour walking tour led by costumed guides takes guests to local historic bars, where they can sip cocktails and enjoy local beers while learning about the city’s ghostly legends.
With a maximum of 14 travelers and a recommended rating of 95%, the tour provides an intimate and interactive experience.
Highlights include unique bar atmospheres, engaging storytelling, and a take-home commemorative souvenir.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation.
Read our full review: Haunted Cincinnati Ghost and Pub Walking Tour Review
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Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cincinnati Sights & Stories
The Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cincinnati Sights & Stories, offered by Wandering Tours, provides an immersive and self-paced exploration of the city’s key landmarks and hidden gems.
Covering approximately 1.5 miles on city sidewalks, the tour allows visitors to discover Cincinnati’s history and culture at their own pace.
While the technology-driven format has received mixed reviews, with some finding it distracting, others appreciate the interactive elements and the ability to uncover lesser-known attractions.
The tour is accessible for wheelchair and stroller users, and service animals are welcome.
With pricing starting at $27.50 per group and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it offers a convenient and budget-friendly way to explore downtown Cincinnati.
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Cincinnati Small-Group Brewing History Walking Tour
Exploring Cincinnati’s rich brewing legacy, the Brewers & Barons Trail Tour offers an immersive glimpse into the city’s storied past as a hub for beer production.
Rated 5.0 based on 18 reviews and recommended by 94% of travelers, this walking tour takes guests to multiple historic brewing sites, including an underground cellar and tunnel exploration.
Along the way, knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights into the city’s brewing heritage.
While the tour focuses on the historical aspects rather than beer sampling, it includes an alcoholic beverage at the Findlay Markets Race Street Station Bar.
With a moderate fitness level required, this small-group tour provides an entertaining and informative experience for those interested in Cincinnati’s brewing legacy.
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Nightmare on Elm Street Walking Tour
Although located in the heart of Cincinnati, the Nightmare on Elm Street Walking Tour transports participants to a chilling realm where the infamous slasher, Freddy Krueger, haunts the streets.
With a 5.0 rating from 52 reviews and a 98% traveler recommendation, this tour offers a thrilling ghost hunting experience. Guests can use provided equipment as they explore the area, though the moderate fitness level and exclusion of those with certain medical conditions suggests a physically demanding experience.
Priced at €33.35 per person with free cancellation, the tour ends back at the starting point, providing a convenient and immersive way to uncover Cincinnati’s dark side.
Read our full review: Nightmare on Elm Street Walking Tour Review
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Self Guided Cincinnati Ghost Haunted Walking Tour Audio Tour Music Hall OTR
This self-guided Cincinnati Ghost Haunted Walking Tour allows participants to explore the historic Over the Rhine (OTR) neighborhood, renowned for its haunted tales and eerie atmosphere.
Using the WalknTours app, the tour guides visitors to notable sites like Music Hall, where skeletal remains were discovered during construction, and Memorial Hall OTR, both of which are said to be haunted.
The tour covers the area’s German immigrant history and chilling stories, including the legend of the Cincinnati Strangler.
Available daily, this private experience starts at $7.75 and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Reviews praise the tour’s historical insights and suitability for spooky events.
Read our full review: Self Guided Cincinnati Ghost Haunted Walking Tour Audio Tour Music Hall OTR Review
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Mount Adams Historic Smartphone Guided App GPS Audio Walking Tour
Visitors can embark on the Mount Adams Historic Smartphone Guided App GPS Audio Walking Tour to explore the historic sites and stories of this captivating Cincinnati neighborhood.
The self-paced tour starts at the Roots of Vision Mural and ends at the Mt. Adams Bar & Grill, once owned by a notorious bootlegger. Along the way, you will hear tales about the mural, local legends, and the bar’s prohibition-era history, including murder and FBI involvement.
Priced from $6.75, the tour offers flexibility with free cancellation and reserve-now-pay-later options.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation and open to most travelers, including private groups.
Read our full review: Mount Adams Historic Smartphone Guided App GPS Audio Walking Tour Review
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Cincinnati: Ghost Walking Tour
Adventurous travelers can embark on the Cincinnati Ghosts: Poltergeists Haunted Walking Tour to uncover the city’s dark and supernatural past.
The tour takes guests on a 1-hour or 1.5-hour journey through haunted locations like Washington Park and Cincinnati Music Hall, where they’ll hear ghostly tales and experience the eerie atmosphere.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the walking tour is suitable for both skeptics and believers. Priced from $25.60 to $32, it offers free cancellation and the option to reserve without upfront payment.
With comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire, participants can explore Cincinnati’s supernatural side and mingle with spirits, though the tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues.
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Cincinnati: Self-Guided Haunted Walking Audio Tour
Travelers can embark on a self-guided haunted walking audio tour to explore Cincinnati’s spooky past in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood.
The tour, priced from $6.75 per person, takes about an hour to complete. It’s a flexible, self-paced experience, with the option to pause and resume at any time.
The fully narrated tour, led by professional horror narrators, covers haunted locations like Music Hall and the Witch of Washington Park. Participants can also hear stories about Charlie Manson and the Elm Street that inspired Freddy Kruger.
The tour can be accessed through an app, and it’s recommended to use earbuds or headphones for the best audio quality.
Reviewers praise the flexibility and pacing of this unique walking tour.
Read our full review: Cincinnati: Self-Guided Haunted Walking Audio Tour Review
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Mt Adams Historic, Cincinnati, App/GPS Audio Walking Tour
Exploring Cincinnati’s historic Mt. Adams neighborhood is made easy with the Mt Adams Historic, Cincinnati, App/GPS Audio Walking Tour. Priced at just $6.75 per person, this 1-hour audio tour allows you to discover the area’s historic buildings, staircases, old speakeasies, and stunning city views at your own pace.
Learn about local folk figures, including Ida Martin and President John Adams, and hear tales of bootleggers, immigrants, vineyards, and Cincinnati’s rich history. With professional narration, engaging music, and the flexibility to take the tour anytime, this self-guided adventure is a must-do for anyone seeking an informative and enjoyable exploration of Mt. Adams.
Plus, with a 5/5 rating from previous participants, you can’t go wrong.
Read our full review: Mt Adams Historic, Cincinnati, App/GPS Audio Walking Tour Review
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Prime Crime in Cincinnati Walking Tour
The Prime Crime in Cincinnati Walking Tour, led by the knowledgeable guides of Flying Pig Tours, takes participants on an enthralling journey through the city’s dark past.
This 2-hour tour, capped at 20 travelers, departs from the iconic Cincinnati City Hall and explores the area’s notorious criminal history. Along the way, guests access historic maps and images while learning about the city’s most notorious crimes.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and is conveniently located near public transportation. With included parking fees and gratuities, this walking tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for anyone interested in Cincinnati’s captivating criminal underworld.
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Ghosts of the Garden Walking Tour
For those seeking a more supernatural experience, the Ghosts of the Garden Walking Tour takes visitors on an after-dark exploration of Cincinnati’s Eden Park.
Operated by Flying Pig Tours, the 2-hour tour allows up to 20 travelers to hunt for ghosts using real equipment. The tour starts at 7 PM near the basketball court and stone steps at 950 Eden Park Dr.
Participants should look for the guide carrying a lantern. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, and it’s near public transportation.
While parking and gratuities aren’t included, confirmation is received at booking.
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Cincinnati Walking Sightseeing Tour With Pizza and Ice-Cream
This Cincinnati Walking Sightseeing Tour with Pizza and Ice Cream offers a diverse exploration of the city’s renowned landmarks and cultural gems.
The small-group tour takes visitors to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Covington’s Licking Riverside Historic District, and Mainstrasse Village, known for its German architecture.
Travelers will indulge in pizza and customizable ice cream, with a lactose-free option available. The tour includes two trolley rides and a choice of beverage.
While it’s not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers.
However, recent reviews indicate issues with the tour guide’s no-show and unresponsiveness to refund requests due to weather conditions, which potential participants should consider.
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Cincinnati: Findlay Market Food Walking Tour
Exploring Cincinnati’s culinary wonders, the Cincinnati: Findlay Market Food Walking Tour takes visitors on a delectable journey through the vibrant Findlay Market, a hub for local foodies.
Priced at $94 per person, this 2-hour tour treats participants to a variety of farm-fresh bites, including baby back pork ribs, handmade perogies, and cheesecake.
Along the way, guests will savor a fresh local scone, visit a unique curry hotspot, and enjoy the region’s rich flavors.
Limited to 10 participants, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
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Cincinnati: Guided Underground Walking Tour
The Guided Ultimate Queen City Underground Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating journey through the hidden depths of Cincinnati’s history. Priced at $45 per person, the 2-hour tour explores the city’s iconic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, home to the largest concentration of 19th-century buildings in America.
Guests will discover a hidden underground crypt and tunnels, remnants of Cincinnati’s brewing heritage, while learning about the city’s rich past from knowledgeable local guides.
The tour isn’t suitable for young children, those with mobility issues, or claustrophobia, but comfortable shoes are recommended.
With a 4.8/5 rating and numerous positive reviews, this underground adventure is a must-do for anyone seeking to uncover the hidden gems of Cincinnati.
Read our full review: Cincinnati: Guided Underground Walking Tour Review
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Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cincinnati
For those seeking a self-guided exploration of Downtown Cincinnati, the Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour offers a captivating and convenient experience.
Priced at $25 for groups of up to 15, the tour can be accessed anytime within a day, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Accessible via smartphone, the digital walking tour allows users to customize their stops and routes, uncovering hidden gems and neighborhood stories through engaging storytelling.
With turn-by-turn GPS directions, 24/7 support, and a family-friendly focus, this tour provides an immersive and flexible way to discover the iconic landmarks of Downtown Cincinnati.
The meeting point is the plaza outside Carol Ann’s Carousel in Smale Riverfront Park.
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Cincinnati: Food Walking Tour
Discover the rich culinary heritage of Cincinnati on an engaging Food Walking Tour. For $73.35, you’ll explore three iconic neighborhoods by streetcar, tasting local specialties like goetta, handmade chocolates, pierogi, Cincinnati chili, and Belgian waffles.
The 3-hour tour visits historic Findlay Market and delves into the city’s German influences. Rated 4.7/5, the experience is led by knowledgeable guides praised for their engagement.
With a flexible booking policy and dietary accommodations available, this top-rated, award-winning tour offers an immersive glimpse into Cincinnati’s vibrant food scene.
Read our full review: Cincinnati: Food Walking Tour Review
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Break Down
Cincinnati offers a wide range of walking tours that cater to different interests, from haunted ghost tours and brewing history to food and market explorations. Whether you’re looking for a spooky experience or a culinary adventure, there’s a walking tour in Cincinnati to suit your preferences. These guided excursions provide an engaging way to discover the city’s rich history, architecture, and local culture.