Cincinnati might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of walking tours, but it’s a place where history, local flavor, and even a touch of the supernatural come together beautifully. Wander its historic streets, explore vibrant neighborhoods, or peek into its haunted corners — Cincinnati offers a surprisingly diverse array of walking experiences. Among the tours that stand out, the Nightmare on Elm Street Walking Tour captures the eerie spirit of the city with ghost-hunting adventures, while the Cincinnati Food Walking Tour offers a mouthwatering dive into its culinary scene. If you’re into spooky stories paired with local drinks, the Haunted Cincinnati Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour is a fun, spirited option. And for those who want to discover Cincinnati’s art and murals, the Cincinnati Art Walk and Cincinnati Mural Insanities provides a colorful, cultural stroll. We love the variety here, ensuring there’s a perfect match whether you’re after chills, bites, or culture.
Quick Overview
This list features ghost walks, such as the Nightmare on Elm Street Walking Tour, with its underground tunnels and spectral stories, perfect for thrill-seekers. Food lovers should check out the Cincinnati Food Walking Tour with Secret Food Tours, a 3-hour culinary adventure through iconic neighborhoods. For a blend of spirits and stories, the Haunted Cincinnati Booze and Boos Ghost Tour combines laughter, local bars, and ghost tales. Art and puzzle fans can explore Cincinnati’s murals and scavenger hunts, with options like the Cincinnati Art Walk and Murals and Cincinnati Scavenger Hunt. Now, let’s walk through each of these top Cincinnati tours.
1. Nightmare on Elm Street Walking Tour
Starting at the Northern Row Brewery, this ghost-hunting tour takes you through Cincinnati’s Over-The-Rhine neighborhood. It’s a 2-hour adventure that combines historic hauntings with underground brewery tunnels — and yes, you get to descend into 30-foot-deep tunnels that once housed Christian Moerlein Brewery. The tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0/5 from 57 reviews, and for good reason. It offers a blend of spooky tales, local history, and interactive ghost-hunting equipment, which you can handle on a first-come, first-served basis.
What makes this tour special is its immersive storytelling combined with a visit to the dimly lit brewery tunnels, where legends of ghostly apparitions and eerie noises persist. The tour begins and ends at the Northern Row Brewery, giving you a chance to relax with a craft beer or soda after the spooky stories. Visitors praise the knowledgeable guides and the engaging mix of history and hauntings. It’s perfect for those interested in Cincinnati’s hidden past and supernatural tales. The cost is $35 per person, making it a good value for the experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a spooky walk that includes underground adventures and ghost-hunting fun, this tour offers a well-rounded, entertaining experience with excellent reviews.
2. Haunted Cincinnati Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour
At number 2 on our list, this 2.5-hour haunted pub crawl combines Cincinnati’s lively bar scene with chilling ghost stories. The tour kicks off at Queen City Radio, the city’s oldest bar, where the guide, dressed in costume, sets a playful tone. As you stroll to the city’s most haunted spots, including the Ghost Baby Bar, Washington Park, and Rosedale, you’ll hear tales of murders, spirits, and ghostly encounters that make Cincinnati’s nightlife a little more mysterious.
The highlight is the combination of beverages and stories — you can purchase drinks at each stop, adding to the fun. Tour guides like Luster and Ellie are praised for their humor and storytelling, making the experience lively and engaging. At a cost of about $35.57, it offers a great balance of entertainment, history, and socializing.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for those who want a fun, social evening with a spooky twist, especially if you enjoy exploring bars with a haunted history.
3. Cincinnati Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
For food lovers, the Cincinnati Food Tour is a 3-hour journey through three iconic neighborhoods, including Findlay Market and Over-the-Rhine. It’s a culinary adventure that takes you from fresh, local produce at Ohio’s oldest public market to trendy spots with viral dishes. The tour is designed to give you a taste of Cincinnati’s diverse food scene, from handmade specialties to local favorites.
Guests rave about the delicious samples and the knowledgeable guides, who share stories of Cincinnati’s culinary influences. Price-wise, at $75, it’s a bit of an investment, but the generous tastings and cultural insights make it worthwhile. The tour involves walking between neighborhoods via streetcar, adding a local flavor to the experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies eager to sample Cincinnati’s best bites while learning about its culinary heritage in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
4. Clifton A Haunted Walking Tour
This 2-hour tour explores the haunted streets and historic sites of Clifton, one of Cincinnati’s most charming neighborhoods. It covers eerie locations like the Clifton Fountain, the Old Ludlow Avenue, and the infamous Stenton House, known as one of the most haunted places in America. During this walk, you’ll hear stories about phantom lovers, murders, and unexplained phenomena.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local legends and haunted landmarks with a personal touch. The guide shares chilling tales about historic crimes and ghostly sightings, making it a good pick for those interested in Cincinnati’s darker side. Guests have praised the guide for their storytelling, and the tour costs $34 per person, offering affordable access to Cincinnati’s supernatural stories.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a spooky walk with a focus on haunted houses and neighborhood legends, this tour combines history with ghost stories.
5. Cincinnati: Food Walking Tour
This 3-hour culinary tour highlights three distinct neighborhoods, with a focus on local flavors and history. It includes stops at iconic sites like Music Hall, Washington Park, and lively districts filled with restaurants and shops. The tour involves walking and streetcar rides, allowing you to experience Cincinnati like a local.
While this tour is slightly pricier at $77, it offers a well-rounded taste of the city’s food scene and culture. Travelers mention the variety of flavors and the chance to learn about Cincinnati’s influences through food. The guide’s storytelling brings the neighborhoods alive, making it a good choice for those wanting an in-depth, foodie-focused experience.
Bottom Line: For those interested in exploring Cincinnati’s neighborhoods through its cuisine, this tour balances food, culture, and sightseeing.
6. Cincinnati Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
This exclusive 3-hour private tour caters to those who want a personalized experience, with a focus on handmade specialties at family-owned businesses. The tour covers three neighborhoods, connected by the streetcar, and costs $306 — reflecting its private, tailored nature.
Guests love the flexibility, and one review notes the guide’s ability to blend Cincinnati history with culinary stories seamlessly. You’ll sample local favorites, learn about the city’s food influences, and enjoy the intimacy of a private tour. It’s best suited for small groups seeking a more curated experience.
Bottom Line: If privacy and personalized attention are priorities, this tour offers a comprehensive, customized foodie journey through Cincinnati.
$306.00 per person
7. Cincinnati Art Walk and Cincinnati Mural Insanities
For art fans, this self-guided Art Walk and Mural Tour offers a different kind of experience. While it currently has no reviews, it promises a chance to explore Cincinnati’s vibrant murals and public art at your own pace.
Ideal for those who prefer flexibility, you’ll navigate the city’s colorful murals and street art, discovering local artists’ work and the city’s creative side. The tour price is just $14.99, making it an accessible way to see Cincinnati’s street art on your schedule.
Bottom Line: Best suited for art enthusiasts and independent explorers who appreciate street art and murals without a guided schedule.
$14.99 per person
8. Cincinnati Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game
This 3-hour scavenger hunt offers a fun, interactive way to discover Cincinnati’s historic downtown. It’s perfect for groups that prefer a playful approach, solving puzzles and seeking clues at landmarks like the Reds Hall of Fame, Cathedral Basilica, and Ohio River views.
The tour’s price is $24.50, making it an affordable, engaging activity for families or friends. It’s a flexible experience that allows you to explore at your own pace, with the added challenge of completing tasks and discovering hidden details.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who enjoy games and puzzles, this tour turns sightseeing into a lively, competitive adventure.
$24.50 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Cincinnati Walking Tour
When selecting a Cincinnati walking tour, consider your interests and what kind of experience you’re after. If spooky stories and underground tunnels excite you, go for the Nightmare on Elm Street Walking Tour. For a taste of Cincinnati’s culinary diversity, the Secret Food Tours offers a flavorful journey. Want a social night with ghost stories? The Haunted Cincinnati Booze and Boos is a lively choice. Art lovers and puzzle-solvers can pick the Murals or Scavenger Hunt, respectively.
Budget, time, and mobility matter too. Tours like the Murals are budget-friendly and flexible, while private foodie tours suit travelers wanting a more personalized experience. Book early in the year for popular options, especially during peak tourist seasons or festivals, to ensure availability.
Cincinnati offers a wealth of walking experiences that reveal its ghostly secrets, delicious flavors, and vibrant art. Whether you prefer uncovering haunted tunnels, tasting local dishes, or admiring murals, there’s something for every explorer. With options ranging from budget-friendly scavenger hunts to private culinary adventures, you’ll find a tour that matches your interests and travel pace. Remember to book ahead, especially for popular tours, and prepare for a memorable journey through the Queen City’s streets. Happy exploring!