Cincinnati’s best underground experiences start with the city’s historic Over-the-Rhine district.
Two standout tours deserve special attention: The Queen City Underground Tour packs impressive value into its 2-hour walk, featuring brewery tunnels and an authentic 19th-century crypt.
It’s well-organized, informative, and wheelchair accessible – exactly what smart travelers need.
For those who prefer independent exploration, two excellent mobile options exist: Cincinnati Scavenger Hunt and Operation City Quest.
Both transform sightseeing into an engaging game while covering key landmarks and local secrets.
Let’s look at our favorite Cincinnati tours and what makes them special.
Good To Know
- The Ultimate Queen City Underground Tour offers a 2-hour walking exploration of historic Cincinnati neighborhoods, including underground brewery tunnels and a historic crypt.
- Cincinnati Scavenger Hunt: Cincys Grand City Sights provides an interactive adventure showcasing the city’s landmarks and hidden gems through a downloadable app.
- The Cincinnati City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Wacky Walks is a 2-hour private tour using a smartphone for navigation to uncover the city’s grand sights and hidden gems.
- The Scavenger Hunt in Cincinnati by Operation City Quest is an interactive, team-based adventure exploring the city’s hidden gems through challenges and tasks using a smartphone app.
- These city tours in Cincinnati cater to a range of interests and accessibility needs, offering immersive experiences for both locals and travelers.
Ultimate Queen City Underground Tour
For an unforgettable glimpse into Cincinnati’s lesser-known history, embark on the Ultimate Queen City Underground Tour. This 2-hour walking tour, led by experienced guides, takes you on a journey through the city’s historic neighborhoods, including Washington Park, Over-the-Rhine, and Saint Francis Seraph Catholic Church.
One of the highlights is exploring the underground brewery tunnels built in the 1860s, as well as a historic crypt. With 1,738 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence from American Legacy Tours.
The tour is suitable for all ages, though not recommended for those with mobility issues or serious medical conditions, as it involves navigating steep stairs to the tunnels.
Prepare to be captivated by the knowledgeable and engaging guides, who weave fascinating historical insights throughout the experience. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this unique underground exploration is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Read our full review: Ultimate Queen City Underground Tour Review
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Cincinnati Scavenger Hunt: Cincys Grand City Sights
Embark on an exhilarating adventure through Cincinnati’s captivating landmarks and hidden gems with the Cincinnati Scavenger Hunt: Cincys Grand City Sights. This interactive experience explores the city’s rich history, art, and culture.
Download the app, then race against the clock to track down a list of items, answering trivia questions and completing challenges to earn points.
The hunt takes place downtown, starting and ending at 801 Plum St. Open daily from 7 AM to 10 PM, the activity accommodates up to 10 travelers and is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
While food and transportation aren’t included, the experience provides digital copies of your scavenger hunt photos. Compete with teams across the country, climbing the virtual leaderboard as you uncover the Queen City’s secrets.
Dress in smart casual attire, and prepare for a moderate level of physical activity. With no age restrictions, this hunt is suitable for all.
Reviews indicate an average experience, so embark on this unique urban adventure to discover Cincinnati in a fun, interactive way.
Read our full review: Cincinnati Scavenger Hunt: Cincys Grand City Sights Review
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Cincinnati City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Wacky Walks
The Cincinnati City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Wacky Walks offers an engaging and interactive way to explore the city’s vibrant streets. This 2-hour private tour takes you on a remote-guided adventure, using a provided smartphone to navigate the urban landscape and complete a series of challenges.
With all activities included, you’ll dive into Cincinnati’s Grand City Sights, uncovering hidden gems and testing your problem-solving skills.
The tour starts at 300 E 5th St and ends back at the same location. Accessible by public transportation and accommodating strollers, the experience caters to most travelers.
Confirmed upon booking, the scavenger hunt is available year-round, Tuesday through Sunday, from 9 AM to 5 PM. Enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, and the assurance of a lowest price guarantee starting at $10 per person.
Embark on this unique, private Cincinnati adventure and discover the city’s captivating sights through an immersive, hands-on experience.
Read our full review: Cincinnati City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Wacky Walks Review
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Scavenger Hunt in Cincinnati by Operation City Quest
Enjoy the vibrant streets of Cincinnati through the captivating Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest. This interactive, team-based adventure lets you explore the city’s hidden gems and complete exciting challenges for points.
Using a smartphone app, you’ll solve riddles and tackle tasks, competing with other teams in real-time rankings. For two hours, you’ll enjoy the support of a remote guide via chat, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience.
Track your team’s progress and compare scores with others as you uncover the city’s secrets. The scavenger hunt starts and ends at the convenient meeting point of 300 E 5th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202.
Available from 5/16/2020 to 6/27/2025, the Scavenger Hunt operates Tuesday through Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM. With a starting price of $10 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this private activity promises an unforgettable adventure for all ages and abilities.
Read our full review: Scavenger Hunt in Cincinnati by Operation City Quest Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Explore the vibrant heart of Cincinnati through these engaging city tours. Discover hidden gems, uncover historical secrets, and learn about the city’s rich culture. Whether you opt for a subterranean adventure, a scavenger hunt, or a guided sightseeing experience, you’re sure to create lasting memories in this dynamic Queen City. Don’t miss the opportunity to make the most of your Cincinnati visit.