Cincinnati isn’t just about Riverfront views and baseball games — it’s a city with a lively shopping scene and market culture that deserves exploring. Whether you’re after local delicacies, unique shops, or a taste of historic neighborhoods, Cincinnati offers something for every shopper. The tours we highlight here stand out for their mix of food, history, and retail therapy. For example, the Streetcar Food Tour and Findlay Market combines a walk through the city’s most iconic food market with a streetcar adventure across diverse neighborhoods, making it perfect for first-timers who want an insider’s view of Cincinnati’s culinary scene.
If you’re interested in a more intimate experience, the Sunday Brunch at Findlay Market offers a relaxed, food-focused walk that immerses you in the local flavors and stories of Cincinnati’s historic German neighborhood. Or, if shopping is your priority, the Private Shopping Tour from Cincinnati to Cincinnati Outlets takes you to top designer outlets with the convenience of private transport. Keep reading for detailed insights into these top-rated tours so you can pick the perfect experience for your trip.
1. Streetcar Food Tour and Findlay Market with Riverside Food Tours
At number 1 on our list, the Streetcar Food Tour and Findlay Market offers a comprehensive intro to Cincinnati’s food scene combined with city highlights. This 3-hour tour is ideal if you want to sample local dishes while learning about Cincinnati’s neighborhoods. The tour includes an all-day streetcar pass, which lets you extend your exploration after the guided experience—perfect for those wanting flexibility. You’ll visit several restaurants and a historic food market, with each stop carefully selected to showcase the city’s diverse culinary offerings.
What makes this tour stand out is the small-group format, which ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe. Tour guide Marcia, for example, goes behind the scenes into restaurant kitchens, giving you a true taste of Cincinnati’s food culture. Highlights include Fountain Square, Carew Tower, and the Contemporary Arts Center, making it as much about the city’s architecture and history as the food. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, tasty food, and the well-planned itinerary. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors wanting an all-in-one introduction.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy a balanced mix of food, city sights, and local stories, this tour offers excellent value for a three-hour experience that’s both fun and educational.
2. Sunday Brunch at Findlay Market Tour with Riverside Food Tours
At number 2, the Sunday Brunch at Findlay Market is a 2.5-hour walk that centers on Cincinnati’s oldest public market. This tour is perfect if you want a leisurely, food-focused experience that mixes history, local culture, and plenty of tastings. You’ll explore over 50 vendors in Ohio’s most beloved market, sampling delicacies like fudge, bread pudding, and empanadas, all while hearing stories about Cincinnati’s German heritage and neighborhoods like Over-the-Rhine.
What sets this tour apart is its insider access—your guide shares stories and photos that bring the market’s history to life. The small-group setting makes it easy to ask questions and sample generously. Reviewers love how the guide weaves in Cincinnati history with the food, making it more than just a tasting tour—it’s an immersive experience. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, authentic look at Cincinnati’s food and neighborhood culture without a long commitment.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a tasty, informative, and unhurried outing in Cincinnati’s historic market, this brunch tour hits all the right notes.
3. Cincinnati’s Original Findlay Market Tour With Tastings
Number 3 is all about sampling in Cincinnati’s most iconic locale: Findlay Market. This 1.5-hour small-group tour focuses on meeting local vendors and tasting a variety of their specialties. You visit five different stalls, each offering a unique flavor—think artisanal cheeses, meats, baked goods, and specialty foods that make up a light but satisfying lunch.
What makes this tour a great choice is its focus on local vendors, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the market’s thriving community. It’s perfect for travelers short on time but eager to taste Cincinnati’s local fare and learn about its market’s history. Reviewers note that the food is excellent—some of their bites inspired ideas for their own kitchens—and that the guide is knowledgeable about the market’s evolution.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a quick, focused tasting experience in a historic market, this tour offers a friendly, personalized way to enjoy Cincinnati’s flavors.
4. Private Shopping Tour from Cincinnati to Cincinnati Outlets
Number 4 on our list is a different kind of experience — Private Shopping Tour from Cincinnati to Cincinnati Outlets. For around $521, you get a five-hour, door-to-door shopping trip to Cincinnati Premium Outlets, featuring over 100 stores from top designers. This private tour is ideal for travelers looking for a seamless, personalized shopping day without the hassle of navigating alone.
The tour begins with hotel pickup, then takes you directly to the outlet center, where you can browse the latest collections at discounted prices. The outlets include brands from both local and international designers, making it a true retail paradise. After four hours of shopping, your driver will return you to your hotel.
While this experience is pricier, it offers the convenience of private transport and a focused shopping environment. It’s best suited for serious shoppers, or those celebrating a special occasion. The main downside is the limited time at the outlets, so those wanting a more relaxed pace might prefer combining this with other activities.
Bottom Line: If retail therapy is your priority and you value comfort and convenience, this private outlet trip offers a hassle-free way to score designer deals.
$521.31 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and available time. If you’re a food lover eager to taste Cincinnati’s best dishes, the Streetcar Food Tour and Findlay Market brunch are both excellent choices, offering different styles of food exploration. For those with a shorter schedule or a focus solely on market tastings, the Original Findlay Market Tour provides a quick but flavorful experience.
If shopping is your main goal, the Private Shopping Tour delivers a convenient, upscale retail experience. Consider your budget and how much time you have—these tours range from 1.5 hours to a full day of shopping.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the Findlay Market brunch or the private outlet trip, to secure your spot and plan your visit during the best times—weekends typically offer more vendors and lively atmosphere.
Cincinnati offers a variety of shopping and market tours that cater to foodies, history buffs, and shopaholics alike. Whether you prefer tasting local specialties, exploring historic neighborhoods, or enjoying a day at designer outlets, these tours promise memorable experiences and great value. For a balanced introduction, the Streetcar Food Tour and Findlay Market brunch stand out, while serious shoppers will appreciate the convenience and deals of the Private Outlet Tour. Whichever you choose, booking ahead will ensure you make the most of your Cincinnati shopping adventure.