Smale Riverfront Park

A spring walk through Smale Riverfront Park is as Cincinnati as the Reds or Skyline Chilli. Smale is the quintessential Cincy experience because it gives visitors three important aspects of travel. 

1. Beautiful scenery, trees, plants, blooming flowers, and contemporary art are trademarks of the park.
2. Culture, walking through one of the best parks in downtown Cincinnati allows you to see how the locals live.
3. Views of the city! Smale is located just south of the banks area of Cincinnati and offers views of all the major buildings, the suspension bridge and purple people bridge (both of which are walkable), Northern Kentucky, the Ohio River, and the major sports venues- the views are incredible. 

Smale makes for a unique experience which connects Cincinnati’s urban core to the edge of America’s 10th largest river. Historically speaking, this was once the area where runaway slaves tried to complete their journey to freedom. The Ohio River divided the North and South in the region. Kentucky was a slave state and Ohio was a free one. One can only imagine the physical and mental fortitude it took for people to put it all on the line to cross. Their hopes, dreams, and aspirations just a couple hundred yards away across the treacherous river. You can learn about all this and more at the nearby National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. The five minute walk to the museum is well worth it. 

Smale Riverfront Park is also home to some of the state’s best events! Every year Sawyer Point and Yeatman’s Cove (~5 minute walk) host the Bunbury Music Festival. The event has brought in artists such as Post Malone, Jack White, Snoop Dogg, 21 Pilots, and more to the area! 

When visiting Cincinnati, Ohio, Smale Riverfront Park is a must-see!