Cincinnati: Food Tour with Streetcar & Top 10 Sights

Summary

Ride the streetcar taste goetta see murals stroll findlay market riverfront

You’ll walk Cincinnati’s streets with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story, tasting everything from Belgian waffles to goetta sausage as you ride the city streetcar between murals, markets, and riverside views. Expect laughter over chili dogs, quiet moments at historic sites, and plenty of small surprises along the way — this isn’t just a food tour; it’s a slice of Cincinnati life.

What’s the experience like?

Someone hands me a warm Belgian waffle dusted with sugar before I’ve even figured out where to stand. The group is already laughing about chili cheese dogs — apparently there’s a right way to eat them here (I still got mustard on my shirt). Our guide, Mike, knows everyone at Findlay Market by name; he waved us over for a bite of goetta and told us how his grandma used to fry it up on Sundays. I tried to say “goetta” like he did but just got a grin in return. The smell of coffee mixed with something sweet from the bakery stall — honestly, I could’ve stayed there all morning.

The city feels different when you’re walking instead of driving. We hopped on the streetcar (it’s included) and rolled past those wild astronaut murals — our guide pointed out which ones were painted by local teens. There’s so much old brick and glass downtown, but then suddenly you’re at the Roebling Suspension Bridge and the whole skyline opens up over the river. It was kind of windy that day; I remember someone’s hat flying off and all of us chasing it down like kids. At the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Mike paused and let us just look for a minute — no big speech, just letting it settle in.

I didn’t expect to get so into the architecture — Carew Tower is being turned into apartments now, but you can still feel its old energy when you walk by. The Aronoff Center looked sharp against the sky, all angles and glass. We stopped for Graeter’s raspberry chocolate chip ice cream (I’m not even an ice cream person but wow), then wandered through Over-the-Rhine where every corner smells like bread or beer or sometimes both. By the time we circled back to Fountain Square, my feet were tired but my head was buzzing with little stories — about German brewers and unfinished subway tunnels and that one haunted music hall. So yeah, bring comfy shoes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Cincinnati's top sights and bites

• Visit The Banks riverfront area
• See John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge
• Pass National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
• Stop at Fountain Square
• View large murals by Cincinnati Artworks
• Pass Carew Tower building
• Pass Aronoff Center for performing arts
• Pass Rosenthal Center for Contemporary Art
• Pass Central Parkway historic route
• Pass Over-the-Rhine German district
• Pass Cincinnati Music Hall
• Pass Washington Park scenic area
• Final tasting and tour at Findlay Market

Top questions

How long is the Cincinnati food tour?

The tour lasts about 3 hours total.

Is Findlay Market open every day for this tour?

No, Findlay Market is closed on Mondays; alternative tastings are provided instead.

How much walking is involved during the tour?

You’ll walk for approximately 45-60 minutes spread throughout 3 hours.

Are children allowed on this Cincinnati food tour?

Yes, kids are welcome; children 0-5 are free but do not receive food servings unless shared by parents.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, both manual and motorized wheelchairs can join; public transport is also accessible.

What foods are included in the tastings?

You’ll try Belgian waffles, chili cheese dogs, Graeter’s ice cream, goetta sausage, fudge or cheese samples, plus cookies or macarons depending on stops.

Does this Cincinnati food tour run in bad weather?

Yes, it operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for weather conditions.

Is lunch included in this Cincinnati food tour?

The six tastings together make up a hearty meal during your experience.

What’s included

Your day includes six generous tastings like Belgian waffles and Graeter’s ice cream at local favorites across Cincinnati neighborhoods. You’ll get around easily with included streetcar rides between stops while your certified local guide shares stories and gives you a handy map for later exploring. All entry fees are covered — just wear comfortable shoes and bring your appetite before returning to your starting point after three hours together.