9 Underrated Places In Cincinnati That Even Natives Have Never Heard Of

Our city is big enough — and interesting enough — that you can live here a lifetime and still miss out on some of Cincinnati’s hidden gems. These are the places around our town that maybe you’ve heard of, but then forgotten, or perhaps you’ve never heard of them at all. We’ve rounded up some of the best of those underrated gems in Cincinnati, and they range from nature preserves to historic libraries and everything in between. If you’re native to Cincinnati (or even if you’re not), take a look at this list and see how many of these places you’ve heard of during your life in the Queen City.

Facebook/Caldwell Nature Preserve

Cincinnati Parks is a collections of dozens of parks and preserves that many in our city don't known about and definitely don't utilize to their full extent. Caldwell Nature Preserve is one of their hidden gems and is a lovely natural oasis anytime of year. It features a Nature Center, an amphitheater and 3.5 miles of nature trails, including a level-paved trail that makes it possible for wheelchair users to go into the woods.

Facebook/American Sign Museum

The American Sign Museum is a one-of-a-kind collection in Cincinnati and certainly the most colorful place in the city. Walk along "Main Street" and experience the history of American signage over the last century. It's the largest public sign museum in the country and you can take a guided tour or visit during their open hours: Wednesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

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Flickr/elycefeliz

As unique and interesting Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park is, it still somehow remains a hidden gem in the Cincinnati area. It tends to be the type of place that perhaps locals have heard about, but then never visited and forgot about it. The contrast of the modern sculpture with the rolling hills and forest of the park is unlike any other spot around Cincinnati and definitely worth a visit. Keep an eye out for their events as well, as they host many throughout the year.

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Flickr/Joana Roja

Farbach-Werner is somewhat oddly located right in the middle of the busiest area of Colerain. Looking at this beautiful photo of a tree-lined pathway, you'd never guess it's right next to a very busy street. But surprisingly, this little park is not very well known to those who don't live nearby, but it is the perfect spot to stop for a walk through the woods and around a pond and pay a visit to the nature center. You can't even tell you're in an urban area!

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Facebook/Behringer-Crawford Museum

This museum is tucked away inside Devou Park in Covington and is such a special place for all ages to visit near Cincinnati. It showcases all things transportation, so it's perfect for curious little ones, as well as those wanting to learn more about the history of transportation in our area. While you're in the park, don't miss out on the stellar views of downtown!

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Another lesser-known museum, for whatever reason, is the Cincinnati Fire Museum. Located on Court Street, you can't miss the bright red doors and obvious firehouse structure. Cincinnati is known as the birthplace of professional firefighting and the museum highlights our city's contribution to this incredibly important profession. It's also great for all ages and has a variety of exhibits and events.

Wolf Creek Habitat

Located in Brookville, Indiana, Wolf Creek Habitat is a unique wolf rescue and education center that allows you to get up close and personal with these amazing animals. You do not need to make an appointment to visit during open hours, and you're sure to have an unforgettable experience interacting with these incredibly mysterious wild animals.

Facebook/The Mercantile Library

The Mercantile Library is one of only a handful of membership libraries left in the country. Founded in 1835, it has a rich history and the space itself is one of the most beautiful and serene interiors in the city. The Library has hosted notable speakers such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Joyce Carol Oates, Julia Child, and many, many more.

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Facebook/The National Flag Company

The National Flag Company has been in business right here in Cincinnati for the last 140 years! This family-owned business custom makes beautiful flags from Old Glory to sports teams to anything else you can imagine. It's incredible to think where the flags, created within the walls of this West End location, have flown all around the world.

There’s so much to do and see in Cincinnati, that even the natives of our city will never get bored. Are there other hidden gems around the city that we need to check out? Share your favorite underrated place in Cincinnati with us in the comments!

And for another hidden gem in the Cincinnati area, check out our previous article here.