Cincinnati is a scenic town, complete with a stunning skyline and several hilltop views. But if you’re looking to escape the traffic and hustle within the city limits, these laid-back scenic drives near Cincinnati are worth taking. They all offer unique views, a relaxed atmosphere, and plenty of opportunities to stop and learn more about the charm and history of our beloved city. Let’s explore the best scenic drives near Cincinnati.

1. US-52 - Cincinnati to Ripley
Highway 52, US-52, Cincinnati, OH, USA
Google Maps
Follow US-52 from Kellogg Avenue along a picturesque route that takes you to historic Ripley, Ohio. This favorite drive keeps you right next to the Ohio River, and there are plenty of places to stop and explore beautiful views, historic sites, and tasty treats.

Take a look at some of the attractions on US-52:

2. Cliff Road
William Henry Harrison Memorial, 41 Cliff Rd, North Bend, OH 45052, USA
TripAdvisor/RyanSchweitzer
Head to the William Henry Harrison Memorial at the corner of Brower Road and Cliff Road in North Bend. After enjoying the views and the history at the memorial, head down Cliff Road for more lovely views of the Ohio River and its surroundings. You'll end up at Shawnee Lookout, which provides even more opportunities to explore this beautiful area, just minutes from Cincinnati.

Learn about William Henry Harrison and his tomb:

3. Indiana 56 - Aurora to Rising Sun
Indiana 56, IN-56, Madison, IN, USA
Flickr/Jonathan Parrish
Cross the border into Indiana, and begin your drive in the small town of Aurora. Check out the George Street Bridge, and then head on to IN-56. This picturesque road runs along the Ohio River and will take you into Rising Sun. If you want to keep going, follow IN-156 for more waterfront views.

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4. 536 to Rabbit Hash
Rabbit Hash, KY 41091, USA
Facebook/The Rabbit Hash General Store
Take 75/71 South to Union and get off at 536 to check out one of the best drives in Northern Kentucky. Turn right when you get off the highway, and follow the signs to historic Rabbit Hash. It can get crowded, but it's popular for good reason. It's a lovely country drive that ends in a vibrant community with a classic General Store.
5. River Road - on both sides of the river
Anderson Ferry, Cincinnati, OH 45204, USA
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
This loop will take you through our city in the most unique way. Start downtown and head down 50W, which becomes River Road. Take it to the Anderson Ferry, and then hop on for beautiful views of the river, the west side, and northern Kentucky. When you get off, turn left and take River Road (KY 8) all the way back to Covington.

Get a closer look at the Anderson Ferry:

6. The Backroads from Ross to Oxford
Oxford, OH 45056, USA
Facebook/Burwinkel Farms
What's a good drive in Ohio without a view of cornfields? Head to Ross and, while you're there, stop in at Burwinkel Farms for some fresh produce. Then hop on Layhigh Road. Take that to 748 (Millville Shandon) and turn right. Make a left on 129 and then a right onto 732 to end up right next to uptown Oxford. This classic Ohio drive will give you a taste of both country roads and small-town charm.

Have you been on any of these scenic drives near Cincinnati? Did we include your favorite Cincinnati scenic drive? Did we miss any? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments so we can check those out next! If you’re looking to take some road trips further afield, check out these lovely scenic drives in Ohio.

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More to Explore

Road Trip Attractions in Ohio

William Suphan | August 18, 2023

What are the best day trip destinations in Ohio?

The best day trip destinations in Ohio include:

  • The Book Loft in Columbus. If you want a bookstore you could browse all day in, this vast collection is the place.
  • The Akron Zoo. This is a wonderful zoo with a lot of different animals but not a lot of people crowding it.
  • Land of Illusion Aqua Adventures in Middletown. This waterpark has an inflatable obstacle course and lovely sandy beaches.
  • Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve in Rockbridge. This is a gorgeous area with a short hiking trail that’s a must-see. 

Learn more about the best day trip destinations in Ohio. 

What are the most incredible natural attractions in Ohio?

The most incredible natural attractions in Ohio include:

  • Oak Openings Metro Park in Swanton. This is a place where oak forests, savannas, sand dunes, swamps, and prairies coexist.
  • Glacial Grooves State Memorial at Kelleys Island. These are the largest accessible glacial grooves on the planet.
  • Brandywine Falls in Sagamore Hills Township. These falls are some of the most stunning in the state and are in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
  • Natural Bridge in Rockbridge. This is a natural stone bridge that is over 100 feet long and was formed millions of years ago.

Learn more about the most incredible natural attractions in Ohio.  

What are the most charming small towns in Ohio?

The most charming small towns in Ohio include:

  • German Village. This suburb of Columbus has cobblestone streets, brick buildings, and amazing shops and restaurants including Schmidt’s Sausage Haus.
  • Yellow Springs. This bucolic town west of Columbus has a delightful farmers market and is home to comedian Dave Chapelle. 
  • Oberlin. This is where you’ll find Oberlin College and an amazing progressive cultural and arts scene.
  • Waterville. This charming little town is home to the Interurban Bridge and the Roche de Boeuf Festival.

Learn more about the most charming small towns in Ohio. 

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