Cincinnati offers a variety of activities, especially with the Cincinnati Music Festival happening during July 25-26, 2025. Here are ten things you can do:

  1. Attend the Cincinnati Music Festival at Paycor Stadium (Friday, July 25 & Saturday, July 26): This is the highlight of the weekend! On Friday, catch Earth, Wind & Fire, Anthony Hamilton, Jazmine Sullivan, PJ Morton, and The Zapp Band. On Saturday, see LL Cool J with DJ Z-Trip, Toni Braxton, Lucky Daye, 112, The Bar-Kays, and a special tribute to Frankie Beverly with the TMF Band and guest appearances by Ronald Isley, Joe, After 7, Dave Hollister, and Raheem DeVaughn.

    • Specific to date: The entire weekend is centered around this event.

  2. Explore Festival513 at Freedom Way: During the Cincinnati Music Festival, Freedom Way near Paycor Stadium will host Festival513, featuring food trucks, local art fairs, and live pop-up performances.

    • Specific to date: Runs parallel to the Music Festival, likely Friday and Saturday.

  3. Visit the Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame Induction Ceremony (Saturday, July 26): Before Saturday's festival kick-off, there will be a special (and free) ceremony to unveil the newest inductees to the Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame at the Andrew J. Brady Center. This is a significant cultural event honoring Cincinnati's musical legacy.

    • Specific to date: Saturday, July 26, at noon.

  4. Enjoy Smale Riverfront Park: Located along the Ohio River, Smale Riverfront Park offers large porch swings, water play areas, splash grounds, and kids' play areas. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the river views, especially if you need a break from the festival crowds.

    • Specific to time of year: Enjoy the summer weather and river activities.

  5. Take an Ohio Riverboat Cruise: Several riverboat companies offer cruises on the Ohio River. You can choose from sightseeing cruises, dinner cruises, or even a special "All White" Mid-Day Cruise offered by YOLLO Group Services on Friday, July 25th, during the festival weekend.

    • Specific to date: The "All White" Mid-Day Cruise on Friday, July 25th, is directly tied to the Music Festival.

  6. Catch a Cincinnati Reds Game: The Cincinnati Reds have a home game against the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday, July 25, 2025, at Great American Ball Park. This is a classic Cincinnati summer experience.

    • Specific to date: Friday, July 25th.

  7. Visit the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden: Even if you're in town for the music, the Cincinnati Zoo is a renowned attraction, home to Fiona the hippo and many other animals. It's a great family-friendly option.

    • General summer activity, but always a top Cincinnati destination.

  8. Explore Over-the-Rhine (OTR): This historic neighborhood is known for its vibrant arts scene, unique eateries, and breweries. Take a walk through Washington Park or check out the architecture. Many pop-up events and parties are likely to happen in OTR during the Music Festival weekend.

    • General summer activity, but will be lively due to the festival.

  9. Discover the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center: Learn about the history of the Underground Railroad and contemporary freedom movements at this powerful museum located on the riverfront.

    • General activity, but offers a meaningful experience.

  10. Attend the "All White Party Hosted by Larenz Tate" (Saturday, July 26): If you're looking for another social event during the Music Festival weekend, there's a ticketed "All White Party" hosted by actor Larenz Tate at the Contemporary Arts Center.