Northern Cincinnati

Northern Cincinnati is a place of excitement and nonstop action, where families can find the perfect weekend getaway — from attractions that boast world-famous thrill rides to engaging educational entertainment and upscale shopping — without traveling far from home. Sports fanatics, outdoor adventurers, animal lovers and retail enthusiasts will all find fun and fond memories in Cincy.

Adventurous Outings

Cincinnati may be the Queen City, but one of its hottest attractions isKings Island. The largest theme and water park in the Midwest, Kings Island hurtles into its 37th season with a new, world-class coaster, the Diamondback. In April, guests will be introduced to the tallest and fastest ride the park has ever seen: a 5,200-foot-long coaster inspired by the Western Diamondback, one of world’s most formidable rattlesnakes. The steel track loops and twists over 10 acres of the park, whizzing by onlookers at 80 miles per hour and reaching heights of 230 feet. Other thrill rides include The Beast, the largest wooden coaster in the world, and the Firehawk, a flying coaster that sends riders facedown, 115 feet into the air at lightning-fast speeds. When the Cincinnati sun gets hot, cool off at Boomerang Bay, a first-rate water park that is free with park admission.

Speaking of the summer heat, the warmth of the Florida Keys awaits visitors right here in Ohio atCoCo Key, an indoor water park located at the Sheraton Cincinnati North hotel. At CoCo Key, you’ll find 50,000 square feet of wave-riding fun, and with age-appropriate pools and luxurious spas, there’s something for every member of the family. Thrill seekers will appreciate the park’s four exhilarating slides, and the Dip-In Theater (which combines water fun and video entertainment), a relaxing lazy river, large activity pool and both indoor and outdoor spa areas will keep park-goers busy for hours.

Continue the aquatic amusements at the Newport Aquarium, located just across the Ohio River in Newport, Kentucky. Recently named the best aquarium in the Midwest, Newport is home to some of the most innovative and awe-inspiring aquatic-animal exhibits in the world. Highlights include Sweet Pea and Scooter, a pair of shark rays that were the first of their species to breed in captivity. The Kingdom of the Penguins is a treat for fans of these charming arctic creatures, and the newly installed Frog Bog is an interactive exhibit that will have all the kids hopping. Surrounded by Sharks, one of the region’s premier shark exhibits, allows visitors to see these fearsome fish up close and personal — only 2.5 inches of glass separates the sharks from their admiring onlookers. In addition to first-rate exhibits, special behind-the-scenes tours are available for those looking for a more in-depth visit.

Now that you’ve experienced an afternoon under the sea, spend a day on land at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, the second-oldest zoological institution in the U.S. Featuring more than 500 animals and 3,000 plant species, Cincinnati’s animal park is more than your average zoo. The White Lions of Timbavati, Manatee Springs, the Butterfly Garden and a magnificent African violet display are just a few of the unique features that make this world-renowned zoo a must-see.

Looking for some sports action? Head to the Great American Ball Park, home to the Cincinnati Reds, the oldest professional baseball franchise in the nation. The Fan Zone is the place to be before home games — it’s packed with endless entertainment for the 2009 season. Before cheering on the Reds in their fight for the National League Central crown, fans can find their true baseball spirit with games and a hotdog lunch. Make sure to also check out all of your favorite players at the Reds Hall of Fame Museum, located on Main Street just west of the stadium.

For those who want both excitement and education, the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal will provide an entire day of entertainment. Home to three incredible resources — the Cincinnati History Museum, theDuke Energy Children’s Museum and theMuseum of Natural History and Science — the Museum Center features fascinating permanent and traveling exhibits in 2009. Highlights include “Dinosaurs Unearthed,” one of the largest animatronic dinosaur exhibits in the world, featuring a significant collection of life-sized fossils. If dark clouds begin to fill the Cincinnati sky, don’t fret; the Museum Center’s OMNIMAX movie theater is the perfect solution for a rainy day. The five-story, screen shows 3-D adventures, as well as the Friday Classic Film Series.

Shop ’Til You Drop

Calling all trendsetters — Northern Cincinnati provides some of the best shopping in the region. Relax, unwind and pamper yourself at one of the area’s many shops and malls.

IKEA at West Chester is an obvious choice for home décor enthusiasts and bargain lovers. The only IKEA in Ohio, the store is known worldwide for its sleek, modern home designs and affordable prices.

Deerfield Towne Center is the area’s premier lifestyle shopping center and boasts 65 national brand stores, specialty boutiques, upscale restaurants, great entertainment and the Regal Cinema.

If it’s a chic bargain that you’re in search of, Cincinnati Mills andCincinnati Premium Outlets, which opens in the summer, offer something in every style and for every occasion. Whatever your taste, you’ll be sure to find it here in Northern Cincinnati.

For more shopping destinations, visit www.CincyNorth.com.

Stay in Style

In Northern Cincinnati, you’ll find a wide range of accommodations — from family-friendly inns to charming bed and breakfasts and posh hotels — in close proximity to the Queen City’s main attractions. Visit www.CincyNorth.com for all the information you’ll need to plan a perfect Cincinnati stay. While on the site, check out the Fun Savings online coupon. Why pay full price for the city’s attractions, sporting events, accommodations and restaurants? Search online for coupons, including discounts for attractions like the Newport Aquarium, CoCo Key, the Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, Kings Island and many more.