Cincinnati: Brunch History Tour & Streetcar with Findlay Market

Summary

Brunch bites murals and market strolls in Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine

You’ll walk Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine with a local guide, tasting stuffed French toast, deli sandwiches, pizza, German goetta and more along the way. Ride the streetcar together to Findlay Market where you can browse stalls or just soak up the noise and colors. Expect genuine stories, plenty of food included—and maybe a new favorite mural or two.

What’s the experience like?

Li from Riverside Food Tours greeted us in Washington Park with this huge grin—she somehow remembered everyone’s name right away, which honestly impressed me more than I expected. The park itself felt alive, kids darting around the fountains and a guy tuning his cello under a tree (I’m not making that up). We didn’t linger long before Li started telling us about how the park used to be a cemetery—kind of wild to imagine with all the dogs and joggers now. She pointed out these old Victorian details on the benches that I’d never noticed before, even though I’ve walked past here a dozen times.

Our first food stop was this little spot for stuffed French toast—warm, sweet, not too heavy. I probably ate mine too fast. Then we wandered through Over-the-Rhine, and Li kept pointing out these massive murals—one was of a baseball player whose name I already forgot (sorry), but it was pretty striking against the brick. There’s something about seeing art just splashed across buildings that makes you look up more than usual. The air smelled like coffee and something fried drifting from an open window—maybe goetta? I’m still not sure what exactly goes into goetta but it tasted way better than it sounds.

The streetcar part was fun—I don’t usually take public transit when traveling but it felt easy here, just hopping on for a few stops toward Findlay Market. Li handed us these little maps with her favorite spots circled (she drew a smiley face next to her top fudge pick). Inside the market it was noisy in the best way: vendors calling out specials, people squeezing past each other to grab cheese or pastries. One guy at the deli counter winked at me when he saw me eyeing the sandwiches—I caved and got one, even though I was already full.

I liked that there wasn’t any rush; we could wander after our last bite if we wanted. Honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so connected to Cincinnati by just walking and eating my way through it. There’s something about sharing food with strangers while someone local tells you stories that stick with you longer than any museum plaque ever does. Sometimes I still think about that warm pastry smell mixing with rain on old bricks—it just felt like real life for a few hours.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Cincinnati's history and food

• Begin tour in Washington Park
• Pass by Cincinnati Music Hall
• Stroll historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood
• View colorful outdoor murals
• Visit Findlay Market and shop
• Ride free Cincinnati Streetcar

Top questions

How long is the Cincinnati brunch history tour?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours including walking and streetcar rides.

Is food included on this Cincinnati brunch tour?

Yes, food from six local eateries is included such as stuffed French toast, sandwiches, pizza, goetta, fudge, cheese and pastries.

Does this tour include Findlay Market?

Yes, Findlay Market is visited during the second half of the tour for tastings and free time to explore.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated on this tour?

No allergies or special diets except vegetarian can be accommodated; no gluten-free or vegan options are available.

Is transportation provided during the tour?

The tour includes a short ride on Cincinnati’s free streetcar between neighborhoods.

Where does the Cincinnati brunch history tour start?

The tour begins at Washington Park in Over-the-Rhine neighborhood.

Are children allowed on this food tour?

Children 5 and under are free (no food included); children 6+ require their own ticket.

How much walking is involved in this brunch tour?

The total walking time is about 30-40 minutes between stops; comfortable shoes are recommended.

What’s included

Your day includes guided tastings at six local eateries (think stuffed French toast, deli sandwiches, pizza slices, German goetta), plus fudge and pastries at Findlay Market. You’ll also get a printed food guide with restaurant map tips for exploring later—and your streetcar ride between neighborhoods is covered too.