Cincinnati is a city where history is woven into its streets, neighborhoods, and waterways. Unlike many larger cities, Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine district, with its beautifully preserved architecture, tells stories of its 19th-century immigrant roots. The city’s Findlay Market, Ohio’s oldest urban market, has been serving locals since 1852 and remains a lively hub for food and culture. For those wanting to explore Cincinnati’s past in a variety of ways, our list of the best historical tours offers a well-rounded look. As someone who appreciates authentic local experiences, I especially enjoy the combination of food, architecture, and storytelling—like on the Cincy Brunch History and Streetcar Tour with Riverside Food Tours, which merges walking, riding, and eating into a lively morning.
If you’re interested in truly immersive experiences, Cincinnati has options that range from scenic river cruises to walking through historic cemeteries. Whether you prefer a hands-on brewery history tour or a relaxing boat ride, Cincinnati’s history is accessible and often delicious.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of tours: a walking food tour that combines history and cuisine (Cincy Brunch History and Streetcar), a scenic historic river cruise (Cincinnati: Historic Sightseeing Cruise), a cemetery walk (Tour of Historic Wesleyan Cemetery), and a detailed brewery complex tour (Bruckmann Brewery History Tour). Each offers a unique way to engage with Cincinnati’s past, whether through food, architecture, or industry.
1. Cincy Brunch History and Streetcar Tour with Riverside Food Tours
This tour stands out for combining delicious local food with a deep dive into Cincinnati’s history. It lasts about three hours and includes a walk through the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood and a ride on the historic streetcar. The experience kicks off at Washington Park, a beautifully landscaped Victorian-era park that hosts over 300 events annually. From there, the tour visits Findlay Market, Ohio’s oldest public market, where you’ll sample dishes from local eateries. The tour offers a food map, restaurant list, and tips from a knowledgeable guide, making it both practical and personal.
What makes this tour unique is its intimate size—limited to 12 people—which ensures personalized attention. Tour guides share stories of Cincinnati’s architectural and cultural evolution while you enjoy regional specialties. The music hall, a Moorish Revival masterpiece, provides a stunning backdrop and a story of Cincinnati’s cultural ambitions. Most reviews praise the generous food portions and the lively, friendly atmosphere. One reviewer called it a “jam-packed afternoon” with “more than enough food,” while another highlighted the guide’s ability to adapt quickly, making the experience smooth and fun.
Bottom Line: If you love combining food, history, and local insights with a relaxed pace, this tour hits the sweet spot.
2. Cincinnati: Historic Sightseeing Cruise
For around $36, the Cincinnati: Historic Sightseeing Cruise offers a refreshing perspective on the city. This 1.5-hour boat trip along the Ohio River features stunning views of Cincinnati’s skyline and commentary from the captain about the city’s industrial past and notable landmarks. It’s a laid-back way to see Cincinnati from a different angle and learn about its history while enjoying the tranquil river scenery.
A key highlight is the entertaining narration, which covers everything from Cincinnati’s founding to the development of river transport. The music onboard adds to the relaxing vibe, making it perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting a quick but insightful escape from the city streets. Reviews mention that the viewing experience is top-notch, and the commentary makes the trip educational without feeling heavy.
Bottom Line: This cruise offers excellent value for a scenic, informative, and relaxing break from walking tours, ideal for those who enjoy being on the water.
3. Tour of Historic Wesleyan Cemetery
The Tour of Historic Wesleyan Cemetery is a 1.5-hour walk through Cincinnati’s oldest continuously operating cemetery. The cemetery is notable for its racially integrated history and the many Civil War veterans and abolitionists buried there. Led by a passionate guide, this tour reveals stories of Cincinnati’s past that aren’t often seen in traditional history books.
The cemetery is beautifully maintained, with notable grave sites and monuments that tell stories of 19th-century Cincinnati life. The guide’s dedication to restoring and preserving the site is evident, and they share insights about the military history and personal stories of the people laid to rest. Some reviews praise the depth of research and the guide’s ability to bring history alive, noting that the tour exceeded expectations for both its length and content.
Special features include free bottled water and the quiet, contemplative atmosphere of the cemetery. It’s an ideal choice for history buffs and those interested in Cincinnati’s social fabric.
Bottom Line: An intimate, meaningful experience, perfect for those who want to connect with Cincinnati’s layered past in a reflective setting.
4. Bruckmann Brewery History Tour
At number four, the Bruckmann Brewery History Tour offers an inside look at one of the most complete 19th-century brewery sites in the U.S. The tour explores the original brewhouse, stables, bottling building, and underground lagering cellars, giving a tangible sense of Cincinnati’s brewing history. The site was active from 1856 until 1950, and the surviving buildings offer a glimpse into the industrial past.
Touring this historic complex includes inside visits to the original structures, with some parts accessible only on this tour. The site’s preservation makes it a fascinating exploration of brewing technology and architectural history. The tour ends with a walk through the family home and the power plant, connecting the industrial and domestic aspects of 19th-century life. Priced at $45, this experience provides exceptional value given the in-depth exploration of the entire site.
Reviews are limited but glowing, emphasizing the comprehensiveness of the tour and the enthusiastic guide. It’s best suited for those interested in industry history or historic architecture.
Bottom Line: For anyone interested in Cincinnati’s brewing industry or industrial history, this detailed brewery tour is a rewarding experience.
$45.00 per person
How to Choose
When picking the right Cincinnati historical tour, consider your interests and schedule. If you love food and neighborhood architecture, the Cincy Brunch History and Streetcar combines walking, riding, and eating. For a relaxing view of the city, the river cruise offers scenic beauty and storytelling from the water. Those eager to connect with Cincinnati’s social history will enjoy the cemetery tour, while industry enthusiasts should consider the brewery complex tour.
Think about your budget, time availability, and whether you prefer active walking tours, relaxing boat rides, or educational visits. Booking early is wise, especially for limited-capacity tours like the brunch experience or brewery tour.
Final Thoughts
Cincinnati offers a diverse array of historical tours that cater to different interests. Food lovers will find the Brunch and Streetcar Tour a perfect mix of eats and stories, while those seeking a peaceful vista may appreciate the river cruise. For more contemplative history, the cemetery walk provides insight into Cincinnati’s social fabric and notable figures. Industry buffs will enjoy the detailed brewery complex tour.
No matter your pick, Cincinnati’s rich, layered history is accessible and waiting to be discovered. Planning ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences.