The Banks, located right on the Ohio River, is one of Cincinnati’s most vibrant entertainment districts.
Between Paul Brown Stadium (home of the Cincinnati Bengals) and Great American Ball Park, The Banks is a cluster of clubs, restaurants, residential buildings, and a riverfront park (home of the Cincinnati Reds).
Whether you are looking for a place to go on a date, spend time with your family, or socialize with a group of people, The Banks has something for everyone.
Because of its closeness to Downtown and the two professional sports stadiums, The Banks is frequently hosting several seasonal city-wide events, including:
Oktoberfest and Celtic Fest are two examples of food and cultural events, whereas Blink is an example of a light festival.
One of the well-known marathons in the world is the Flying Pig Marathon.
There’s almost always something entertaining going on at The Banks that’s worth checking out, no matter what time of year it is.
The Banks is tucked between Paul Brown Stadium and Great American Ballpark, and the Ohio River.
We have put together a detailed guide to The Banks, along with a brief history of how it got to be the region it is now, as well as a list of things to do and see in the area.
Map
A Short History of Banks
In the early 1900s, the riverfront area known as “The Banks” was the core of freight trains for the western United States.
In the mid-twentieth century, however, Cincinnati’s Central Corporate District followed a national trend in urban centers, seeing population reduction and a halt in business growth.
However, a “Riverfront Master Plan” was established in 1997 by Hamilton County and Cincinnati to renovate and redesign the riverfront area. The new Paul Brown Stadium, Great American Ball Park, and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center were all built after the proposal was approved.
The 18 acres of unused land between the two sports venues were then wholly redeveloped. New apartment complexes spring up, as have several bars and restaurants. Parking garages have been built, and the Riverfront Park has been redesigned with new landscaping, walking pathways, playground areas, and sculptures.
In comparison to two decades ago, the region known as “The Banks” now is practically unrecognizable.
Things to do and places to visit
The following plan recommends the locations of places to visit and things to do in The Banks.
SPORTS
Great American Ball Park:
In the United States, the Great American Ball Park is a baseball stadium. From March to September, go to a Cincinnati Reds game at Great American Ball Park, a stadium with a view of the Ohio River.
From March to September, go to a Cincinnati Reds game at Great American Ball Park, a stadium with a view of the Ohio River.
Heritage Bank Center:
Catch a Cincinnati Cyclones hockey game at the Heritage Bank Center. Despite their status as a mid-level professional team, the Cyclones are usually a good time for supporters. Superhero night, dollar beer night, Weiner dog racing night, and blanket giveaways are some of the “themes” that may be found at home games. On the days leading up to games, tickets are usually $18 per person, and on game day, they cost $20. Visit their website to learn when the Cyclones are scheduled to play next.
Paul Brown Stadium:
Visit their website to learn when the Cyclones are scheduled to play next.
RESTAURANTS:
BurgerFi:
At The Banks, this is the logical place to get a burger. BurgerFi is known for its all-day breakfast burgers, bacon cheeseburgers, chicken sandwiches, and various vegetarian and vegan-friendly burgers.
Condado Tacos:
One of Cincinnati’s most outstanding taco establishments. Condado is unique in that you can order pre-assembled tacos or make your own from the ground up, letting you pick and choose whatever meats, cheeses, and salsas to include. Tacos range in price from $3 to $5. Every night of the week, they’re open till 2 a.m.
Galla Park:
An expensive restaurant serving various steaks, burgers, and seafood meals during the day and a bar-like atmosphere in the evenings and late nights.
Holy Grail:
A sports pub famed for its burgers, pizza, and sandwiches is the Holy Grail. This is a popular place to watch a game because it has over 30 high-definition TVs.
Jimmy John’s:
one of the more affordable options for a deli-style sub or sandwich.
Joella’s:
The most popular chicken restaurant on The Banks. You can determine how spicy your chicken is with six different heat levels.
Moerlein Lager House:
The Moerlein Lager House is a restaurant that serves a full range of Christian Moerlein craft beers as well as burgers and salads.
Pies & Pints:
Get a homemade pizza or some grilled wings at Pies & Pints. They also have a selection of over 30 craft beers on tap.
Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse:
At The Banks, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse is the most incredible spot to get a premium steak. They also serve a wide range of appetizers, as well as fresh seafood and handcrafted sweets.
Smoothie King:
A pleasant location to stop for a smoothie.
Street Corner Market:
A fresh neighborhood market with a choice of snack options comparable to those found at a gas station.
Taste of Belgium:
A scratch kitchen noted for their waffles and chicken, Taste of Belgium is a must-visit in Brussels.
Yard House:
It is an upscale casual-dining establishment known for its classic rock music and an American-style menu of burgers, salads, and sandwiches.
BARS
Fishbowl:
This little bar is recognized for its fish tank-style interior and specialty mixed drinks served in fishbowls. Craft beers, as well as a limited menu of sandwiches and other small plates, are offered.
Jefferson Social:
A large bar that serves “Mexican street food” during the day and caters to a bar scene with live DJs in the evening.
The Stretch:
A pub with indoor and outdoor seating, as well as an exceptional craft beer, cocktail, and wine menu.
Tin Roof:
One of The Banks’ most popular hangouts, Tin Roof is known for holding live music and DJs, as well as several other community events such as a New Year’s Eve blowout and Santacon.
ATTRACTIONS
National Underground Railroad Center:
The National Underground Railroad Center is a history museum with several displays about the Underground Railroad. Adult tickets are $15, while children’s tickets are $10.50. For additional information on hours and entry, visit their website.
Smale Riverfront Park:
Smale Riverfront Park is a magnificent, scenic park located along the Ohio River. Because it features a playground component with climbing walls and slides, it is an excellent spot for families to visit. There’s also a lengthy, twisting walking path with swinging benches where you can sit and take in the views of the river and bridges.
From time to time you can see one of the Riverboats on their cruise.
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