Finding ways to keep in touch with nature in the city can be tough. Luckily, this hidden gem park in Cincinnati offers a great walking path and plenty of greenery, not to mention waterfront views. Here’s why you should make this park space your next afternoon adventure.
Fernbank Park is an urban hiker’s dream. This park features a 2.2-mile loop trail that winds along the Ohio River.
The trail is paved for easy walking and biking. Most of the trail offers beautiful views of the waterfront.
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There are plenty of benches where you can sit and enjoy the view, not to mention loads of spots to spread a picnic blanket for a snack.
You can walk right down to the river’s edge, though it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on pets and small children near unfenced water.
Dogs are welcome in Fernbank Park, as long as they’re on a leash. It’s a great place to take your furriest friends for a dose of fresh air.
You really couldn’t ask for a better spot for a healthy walk and a lovey view right in the city.
Fernbank Park is located at 50 Thornton Avenue (at Forbes Road). Click here for a map.
If you’re looking for another great place to relax in Cincinnati, check out this new riverfront park that everyone has fallen in love with.
When the weather changes from winter to spring in Ohio, it's like the city takes one collective deep breath and comes back to life. Everyone heads outside and many enjoy seeking out the most beautiful flowering pathways throughout the Queen City. If you want to experience the best spring has to offer in Cincinnati, then look no further than Eden Park, located just minutes from downtown. Within the park, you'll find a garden walkway that is surrounded by blooming flowers and will positively enchant you with its natural beauty: Hinkle Magnolia Garden! It's one of the best flower gardens in Cincinnati.
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Eden Park is one of the most popular Cincinnati Parks, and yet you may not realize all of the hidden gems that call this historic property home.
The park is known for its historic structures, views, and destinations like Krohn Conservatory (pictured above), but after spending time at Krohn, especially during the Butterfly Show each spring, be sure to turn left and head down the sidewalk along Eden Park Drive to discover the magical walkway through Hinkle Garden.
While you may have walked through this area before, you may not have realized that it is actually a planned garden, filled with incredible Magnolia trees and other blooming trees and shrubs. In the spring, especially, it is positively magical.
From Krohn, turn left and walk down the sidewalk of Eden Park Drive. Once you reach Martin Drive, turn left again and then cross the street. You'll see a walkway that takes you further along Eden Park Drive and through this stunning area of the park. It's bound to become one of your favorite flower gardens in Ohio!
There are a variety of plants in bloom throughout the year, but early spring may be the most magnificent.
You will eventually reach the famous Gazebo, so make sure to walk up and relax in this historic structure for a bit. If you do happen to visit during peak blooming (typically early-mid April), you'll probably want to turn around and do the walk again.
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The pathway also takes you right to Mirror Lake, which is another scenic walk to take in the park.
In fact, the entire park is filled with blooming flowers in the spring, along with all of the history and activity, so go ahead and take advantage of all it has to offer.
A good way to end your time in Eden Park is by taking in the views.
Twin Lakes Overlook is a stunning area, especially in the spring, where you can park, enjoy the pond and flowers, and then relax on a bench with views of our remarkable city.
Hinkle Magnolia Garden in Eden Park is a hidden gem - one that is hiding in plain sight - and it's quite possibly the most beautiful spot in Cincinnati during spring. Did you know of this flowering walk in our city? What is your favorite part of the park? Where else do you go to experience spring in Ohio? Please let us know in the comments section. We're always glad to hear about your experiences!
For more information on the wonderful flowering stroll in Eden Park, check out our previous article detailing the haunting past of Eden Park's gazebo. And if you're looking for more fun local destinations in Ohio this spring, take a look at Airbnb Experiences. There is something for everyone on this site. Whether you are looking for more spring nature or searching for the perfect restaurant, there is certainly something to please every taste around our state.
Everyone in Cincinnati seems to be eager to get out and enjoy the fresh springtime air that starts to arrive in our city around April. Our parks, gardens, and neighborhoods come to life with budding green trees and blossoming flowers, and it's like seeing Queen City for the first time. If you're ready to soak up some vitamin D and see the best Cincinnati has to offer this season, check out these seven springtime walks to take that are now - or will soon be - bursting with blooms. Let's take a look at why spring in Cincinnati is so wonderful.
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1. Eden Park
Eden Park is wonderfully located in the heart of Cincinnati and allows you to escape into nature without leaving the city. Spring is a great time to wander around the park, and don't miss the Twin Lakes area and overlook, Krohn Conservatory, and Hinkle Garden.
2. Lytle Park
Heading downtown, Lytle Park is a hidden gem that stretches out in front of the Taft Museum. If you've never spent time in this section of the city, spring is the ideal time to visit. There are colorful tulips and other flowers, historic homes and buildings, and a unique atmosphere you won't find anywhere else in Cincinnati. After your walk, consider stopping at the museum for lunch at the charming cafe.
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3. Smale Riverfront Park
Smale Riverfront Park is extremely popular in the heat of summer for its riverfront location and abundant fountains, but don't miss out on a springtime visit. The meticulously created gardens are vibrant and fragrant, and they beautifully frame many of Cincinnati's most iconic landmarks. Find out what else there is to love about Smale Riverfront Park in our previous article.
4. Cincinnati Nature Center
To witness the beauty of Cincinnati in spring in a more natural state, visit the Cincinnati Nature Center in Milford. With miles of hiking trails, many of which are filled with wildflowers, there's no better way to experience the arrival of a new season. Plan your visit with our previous article about the Cincinnati Nature Center.
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5. Great Parks of Hamilton County
It’s hard to pick out the best springtime destination when looking at a list of the Great Parks of Hamilton County, as they are all beautiful. There is no wrong choice! Whether you pick a new one to explore or return to an old favorite, there is no wrong choice when it comes to these amazing parks. No matter where you go, you’ll find yourself immersed in springtime magic. One of our personal favorites is the Kroger Hills conservation area (pictured above).
6. Spring Grove Cemetery
We've shared the beauty of Spring Grove Cemetery many times before, and if you've visited in the spring, then you know why. The property is also an arboretum, and a peaceful walk around this historic destination is possibly the most enchanting thing you can do during springtime in Cincinnati. See more of the cemetery's beauty in our previous article.
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7. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
It's impossible to talk about spring flowers in Cincinnati without mentioning Zoo Blooms. This popular event is at its peak in April, and a relaxing walk around our Zoo & Botanical Garden is a must for every Cincinnatian. Learn more about the beloved Zoo Blooms event in our previous article.
Another wonderful place to spend a spring day in Ohio is the Holden Arboretum near Cleveland. Learn more in this video:
Beautiful blooms are popping up all over Cincinnati; some are in places we expect, and others are as a nice surprise as we transition into a new season. Be sure to take time to experience the natural beauty of Cincinnati in this stunning season. Did your favorite flowering walk make the list? Do you have a spot that you always visit during spring in Cincinnati? Help us add to this list and let us know in the comments!
And if you're already planning for the sun and warmth of summer, you'll want to check out the best lakes in our area, featured in a previous article about the best lakes in Cincinnati.