Smale Riverfront Park is where downtown Cincinnati meets the river. The 45-acre park runs along the Ohio, and it has been designed for lingering: Carol Ann's Carousel, with animals ranging from a ladybug to a Bengal tiger and paintings of historic Cincinnati scenes; fountains that children run through on hot days; misters near the bridge; porch-style swings along the water where you can watch boats pass; and two playgrounds, one with a rope bridge and climbing structures and another with a flying pig, a giant foot piano and water features. Stairs lead from the park up to the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, which gives you a high view over the park and the river. The park itself is free, which makes it a good unplanned hour between bigger plans.
Season and timing
The park is most lively in spring, summer and fall, when the fountains run and the carousel and playgrounds are busiest. Cincinnati Parks publishes current updates and winter activities, so check its page before a cold-weather visit, as some features are seasonal. Carousel riders must be dry, so save the fountains for after your ride. Carousel rides are ticketed separately from the free park, so check current fares on arrival.
The Roebling Bridge
The John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge crosses the Ohio River between Cincinnati and Covington, Kentucky, and it opened in 1866. Its designer, John A. Roebling, later designed the Brooklyn Bridge, and many visitors enjoy walking across it. It is free to walk and gives the best views of the skyline, the river and the stadiums at The Banks.
Stairs from the park lead up to it. Walking across and back takes under an hour at a relaxed pace, and Covington's streets, restaurants and Hotel Covington are a few blocks from the Kentucky end.
Getting there
The park is in downtown Cincinnati on the riverfront, beside The Banks and a short walk from Great American Ball Park, the Reds Hall of Fame and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. The free streetcar runs to The Banks, so it is easy to reach without a car. There is no admission and no schedule, which makes it a flexible stop between museum visits.
Making it count
Bring children if you have them, since the playgrounds and fountains are the main draw, and bring a jacket on shoulder-season evenings because the river breeze is cool. Late afternoon is the best time for the bridge, with the light on the river and the skyline behind you. Couples can take a swing seat at sunset, while sports fans will find the stadiums a short walk away. Pair it with a riverboat cruise from Newport, a visit to the Freedom Center, or a game-day wander along The Banks.
If you are planning around weather, the park is at its best on a dry, mild day, while the bridge walk is worth doing even on a cold clear day for the skyline view. Travellers with limited mobility can enjoy the paths and swings without climbing the stairs, and families with strollers should use the park's paved routes. The park also works as a meeting point, since it is central, free and easy to find from the streetcar line.
What to expect
The experience
A free, self-guided stroll through a riverfront park with a carousel, fountains and playgrounds, with an optional walk across the Roebling Bridge.
Best time
Late afternoon in warm months, for the light and the fountains.
How long
One to two hours, or an hour more if you walk the bridge.
Tips
Carousel riders must be dry, check current carousel fares, and check the Cincinnati Parks page before a winter visit.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families, walkers and anyone who wants a free riverfront view.
- Families
- Two playgrounds, fountains and a carousel make it a child favorite.
- Couples
- A porch swing at sunset, then a walk over the bridge.
- Pair with
- The Freedom Center, the Reds Hall of Fame or a Newport riverboat cruise.
- Time needed
- An hour or two.
Good questions
Is Smale Riverfront Park free?+
Yes, the park is free to enter. The carousel is ticketed separately, so check current fares.
What is at Smale Riverfront Park?+
A carousel, fountains, porch swings, two playgrounds and stairs up to the Roebling Suspension Bridge, across 45 acres on the Ohio River.
Can you walk across the Roebling Bridge?+
Yes, it can be walked, and it leads to Covington, Kentucky. Stairs from the park take you up to it.
How do I get there without a car?+
Ride the free streetcar to The Banks, a short walk from the park.
Is the park good in winter?+
Some features are seasonal, so check the Cincinnati Parks page for current activities before a winter visit.
