Washington Park is the main urban lung of the city of Cincinnati, with a plaza, paths and trees. Among its highlights are the iconic bandstand, a children’s playground and a dog park. Bring snacks and refreshments here for a picnic with friends and family.
Choose a sunny day and find a spot on the large, elliptical patch of lawn at the northern end of the park. The entire complex covers a scenic area of 8 acres (3 hectares).
Dine at the café on the western side and sit at one of the tables spilling out into the park. Here you will find a small plaza and a performance stage that is linked to the adjacent Cincinnati Music Hall. Examine the cannons and busts of figures relating to the American Civil War. These include military men Frederick Hecker and Colonel Robert Latimer McCook.
Wander through the dense array of trees covering the southern portion of the park. The eastern part is adorned with pots of plants, floral displays and trees. Stay into the evening and see the romantic canopy of lights installed beside the historic bandstand.
Bring your kids to the children’s playground, where they can use the sandbox and climbing walls. Play in the jets of water of the interactive fountains. The park contains a fenced-off section specifically for walking dogs. Attend the various events and activities that take place here, such as summer concerts, a kickball league and yoga classes.
Washington Park is in the northern part of Cincinnati’s downtown district. Take the streetcar to one of the stops on either side of the park and get around it on foot. Rent a car and leave it in the Washington Park Garage. Go to nearby landmarks, such as the Cincinnati Music Hall, Memorial Hall and the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County.
