For more than 70 years, Cincinnati’s Contemporary Art Center (CAC) has showcased work by progressive modern artists in constantly changing temporary exhibits. The stunning new building in the heart of downtown’s trendy Backstage District has drawn international acclaim for its dramatic layout and engaging facades. With a focus on painting, sculpture, photography, architecture, performance art, and new media, the CAC is on the leading edge of new ideas and has a reputation for provoking thought.

In the 19th Century, Cincinnati was a major hub on the Underground Railroad, the route American slaves took out of the South toward freedom in Canada. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center memorializes the long fight against slavery by highlighting the ongoing struggles for freedom around the world today.

BB Riverboats offers relaxing sightseeing cruises of the Cincinnati Harbor on the Ohio River. The 90-minute cruises can be combined with a lunch, brunch, or dinner packages, and some dinner cruises feature live Dixie jazz.

Formerly a railroad bridge between Newport, KY and Cincinnati, the Purple People Bridge is now a pedestrian walkway across the Ohio River. The bridge allows great views of both sides of the river. Parks on either side of the bridge – Cincinnati’s Bicentennial Commons at Sawyer Point and along the floodwall in Newport – are also great for picnics.

This 265-acre park overlooking the Great Miami River has been called one of the most beautiful parks in America. Home to monumental works of both modern and ancient sculpture, the park aims to be a permanent outdoor museum of the history of sculpture. Check the web site for special events and concerts.