5 Easy Weekend Trips from Cincinnati
Summertime in Cincinnati is one of our favorite seasons—longer days, warmer nights, and just the right excuse to pack an overnight bag and sneak away for a few days of adventure. One of the things we love most about living in Cincinnati is how centrally located it is. In just a couple of hours, you can find yourself hiking through stunning natural parks, exploring vibrant cities or kicking back in a cozy cabin surrounded by trees.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor thrills, charming small towns, or foodie hot spots, there’s no shortage of weekend trip ideas just a short drive from the Queen City.
At TREO, we believe in loving where you live—and that includes knowing where to go when you want to get away. So, grab your sunglasses, load up the car, and let’s hit the road!
Red River Gorge, Kentucky
Drive Time: ~2 hours
Why Go: Hiking, rock climbing, and jaw-dropping natural beauty
Day 1:
Hike to Natural Bridge via the Original Trail or take the sky lift for panoramic views.
Refuel at Miguel’s Pizza, a laid-back spot loved by climbers and locals alike.
Explore Rock Bridge Trail, where a waterfall flows beneath a natural arch—yes, it’s as dreamy as it sounds.
Day 2:
Go underground (literally!) with a kayaking tour at The Gorge Underground.
Enjoy shorter hikes at Sky Bridge and Chimney Top Rock.
On the drive back, stop for a local brew at Pivot Brewing or West Sixth in Lexington.
Where to Stay:
Book a cabin on Airbnb or check out Cliffview Resort for rustic charm and forest views.
Columbus, Ohio
Drive Time: ~1.5 hours
Why Go: Artsy vibes, food finds, and family fun.
Columbus is full of personality—think bold murals, diverse neighborhoods, and enough great food to plan your whole weekend around. It’s perfect for couples, friend groups, or families looking for a quick city break.
Day 1:
Stroll through the Short North Arts District and brunch at The Pearl.
Visit the Columbus Museum of Art or wander the beautiful Franklin Park Conservatory.
Dine in German Village—you can’t go wrong with Schmidt’s Sausage Haus or The Sycamore.
Day 2:
Spend the morning at COSI or the Columbus Zoo, one of the best in the country.
Walk the scenic Scioto Mile and grab a coffee before heading home.
Where to Stay:
Stay at The Graduate for artsy fun or Le Méridien The Joseph for boutique luxury.
Hocking Hills, Ohio
Drive Time: ~2.5 hours
Why Go: Caves, waterfalls, and peaceful cabin life
Looking to unplug? Hocking Hills offers that perfect mix of adventure and serenity. With scenic trails, quiet cabins, and night skies full of stars, it's the ideal spot to disconnect and recharge.
Day 1:
Hike the stunning Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave.
Add a little adrenaline with ziplining or horseback riding.
End your day soaking in the hot tub at your cabin under a canopy of trees.
Day 2:
Start your morning with a peaceful walk at Rock House or Cantwell Cliffs.
Grab lunch at The Ridge Inn in nearby Laurelville.
Optional: Sip a glass of red at Hocking Hills Winery before heading back.
Where to Stay:
Choose from dozens of cozy cabins—many feature fireplaces, hot tubs, and secluded settings.
Louisville, Kentucky
Drive Time: ~1.5 hours
Why Go: Bourbon trails, horse racing, and hidden cultural gems
Louisville is more than just the home of the Kentucky Derby. It’s a lively mix of southern hospitality, bold flavors, and some seriously cool museums and bars.
Day 1:
Visit the Louisville Slugger Museum or take a bourbon tour (start with Angel’s Envy or Buffalo Trace).
Eat dinner in the trendy East Market/NuLu area or at The Eagle for fried chicken.
Wrap up your night at Hell or High Water, a swanky underground speakeasy.
Day 2:
Brunch at Biscuit Belly (pro tip: get the gravy).
Tour Churchill Downs or explore the Muhammad Ali Center.
On the way back, stop by Rabbit Hole or Bardstown Bourbon Co. for a final pour.
Where to Stay:
Treat yourself at The Brown Hotel or the eclectic 21c Museum Hotel.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Drive Time: ~2 hours
Why Go: Sports, museums, and a surprising culinary scene
Often overlooked, Indy is an under-the-radar favorite with plenty to offer. It’s clean, creative, and packed with things to do.
Day 1:
Tour the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields—it’s part museum, part botanical wonderland.
Bike the Cultural Trail or explore the canals downtown.
Dine in Fletcher Place—Bluebeard or Amelia’s are top-notch.
Day 2:
Spend the morning at the Children’s Museum or the Indianapolis Zoo.
Pick up lunch at Goose the Market, a foodie-approved deli.
Walk through Fountain Square before heading home.
Where to Stay:
Book a stay at the stylish Bottleworks Hotel or the industrial-chic Ironworks Hotel.
Ready to Hit the Road?
From outdoor escapes to foodie weekends and family-friendly fun, there’s no shortage of amazing weekend trips just a short drive from Cincinnati.
And if you find yourself falling in love with one of these spots—we get it. Fall hard enough? We’d be happy to help you find a second home, vacation getaway, or even make a move—wherever life takes you next!
Have a favorite weekend spot we should know about?
Drop us a comment or tag us on Instagram @treorealtors—we love discovering new places to share with our community!
Brett Keppler
Broker | Owner | Agent at TREO Realtors, Cincinnati’s botique real estate firm.
Reach out and let’s discuss how to make your real estate dreams a reality!
Let’s Chat | 513-225-1790
