Cincinnati - The Queen City and Chili Capital

Recently, we drove to Cincinnati to celebrate my mother’s 90th birthday in a socially distanced and responsible way. Masks and greeting her guests from the balcony was not what we had in mind - but this maybe the new norm.

We took the opportunity while in The Queen City to get reacquainted with some of the sights that make Cincinnati so special and livable. We’ll point out a few of them here.

But first - a bit of history. Cincinnati was settled in 1788 on the northern shore of The Ohio River in Southwestern Ohio. It’s first name was Losantiville, but was soon changed to Cincinnati, after the Roman General - Cincinnatus. We can talk about the storied history of Cincinnati forever, but suffice it to say Cincinnati was at one time, one of the largest and most important cities in the United States. Cincinnatians reap the benefits of that status to this day.

Here are a few things we did on our short visit.

The Krohn Conservatory, built in 1933 is nestled in Eden Park and houses some 3000 plus plant species from around the globe. It truly is one of the finest “green houses” we’ve ever visited. Guests can wander the many rooms to take in and smell its many plants. There’s even an indoor water fall to enjoy. And don’t miss the orchid display.

Trip Monkee Tip - If you’re in the area at Christmas time, visit the outdoor nativity scene that features live animals.

While in the area, we stopped at the overlook in Eden Park. This small oasis offers a great view of The mighty Ohio River and Northern Kentucky. It was here that I captured this river boat paddling up the river. It’s a normal sight on The Ohio!

While so close, and just down the road, we couldn't pass up the chance to visit one of “The Seven Hills of Cincinnati” - Mount Adams. This area of the city holds special memories for me and my family. It was here that my mother was raised and my siblings and I spent much of our childhood.

At its crowning peak is The Church of the Immaculata. Built in 1839, it stands over Mount Adams and offers an amazing view of the downtown area and beyond and is still active today.

Mount Adams, with its narrow and sometimes steep streets offers visitors and locals many dining options and cultural opportunities with the renowned Playhouse in the Park.

It’s lunch time and no trip to Cincinnati would be complete without a visit to a Chili Parlor. Here’s a statement - Cincinnati is the “Chili Capital of the World”. I realize that folks in Texas may take umbrage with this claim, but ask a local - they'll probably agree with me. Cincinnati chili is like none other because some of its secret ingredients are cinnamon, clove, cumin and chocolate to name a few. My perennial favorite is a "3-way" - shredded cheese on top on chili on top of spaghetti. Yes, we eat it poured over spaghetti.

Trip Monkee Tip - take them up on a free bib - especially if you're wearing white!

After lunch, we went downtown to take a leisurely walk on The Purple People Bridge which spans the Ohio River. Fun Fact - Did you know The Ohio River actually belongs to Kentucky??

To make the city more walkable, city fathers, and mothers converted the L&N train span in to a pedestrian walkway over the river. And - true to its name - it’s purple! As you cross, you’ll get a great view of the city.

Once on the Kentucky side, it was here that we found a bench, took in the view of the city and watched the boats go by on the river.

Speaking of bridges, The Suspension Bridge linking Cincinnati and Covington, Kentucky was designed by John A. Roebling. Sound familiar? He's the same gentleman that designed the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City. Built in 1867, it’s still a vital link between the North and South.

From there, we took a few minutes to visit the heart of city - Fountain Square. The long time center of the Cincinnati, it features one of my favorite fountains - anywhere. The Tyler Davidson Fountain, as it's officially known was first dedicated in 1871 and celebrates the vital need and many uses of water. Fountain Square, situated next to the stately Carew Tower hosts many outdoor functions year round for Cincinnatians and visitors to enjoy.

There are many more things to see and do in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. A few include, The Cincinnati Art Museum in Eden Park and of course, the Natural History Museum which is housed in the old, Cincinnati Union Train Terminal which is pictured below.

Trip Monkee Tip - A visit to the Natural History Museum for the architecture of the building alone is worth the trip. It's glorious in every way.

Let's talk a little more about food. Cincinnati is known for chili as we mentioned, but there are many great places to go, known predominantly by the locals. .

I had the opportunity to meet some folks at The Anderson Pub and Grill or APG as some call it. It's also located on the east side of the city. It has a casual feel, with inside or outside seating on the huge, covered patio. Here too, the tables were separated and our waiter was friendly and properly masked. The menu is expansive and includes the likes of wraps, burgers, salads, wings, lunch and dinner entrees, daily specials and much more. The atmosphere is fun and lively and it was a great place to meet friends for a quick lunch meeting. If you're on the east side of the city, or even if you're not - APG is a great place to check out. The fish and chips were great! www.andersonpubandgrill.com

We've only scratched the surface here. Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky has so much to offer. You'll be glad you visited and I know you'll want to return. By the way - Cincinnati is within one day's drive from 50% of The United States. Take a weekend, but you'll need more time to see and do all it has to offer!

PS - You're probably wondering why the pictures are black and white. No special reason. Just trying something to differentiate our visit. Enjoy!