Whether you are planning a perfect weekend getaway with your family, or want to experience the adrenaline rush on jaw-dropping stirring rides, or simply want to enjoy a food fair while basking in the sun, these top amusement parks in Cincinnati, Ohio, boast something for everyone.
These fun parks have been a center of attraction for all age groups for a long time. They are known for their best roller-coaster rides, live performances, mouthwatering food stalls, pools, and a lot more, all in one place.
So, what are we waiting for?
Let’s dive into the most coveted amusement parks in Cincinnati, where you can make unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
The Best Amusement Parks in Cincinnati!
Kings Island
Since its grand opening in 1972, the King Island amusement park has been a premier entertainment destination for zillions of families or teenagers seeking rip-roaring rides, live performances, magical events, or fun activities. Located 29 miles northeast of Cincinnati in Masan and built on a 364-acre area, Kings Island is the biggest amusement park in Cincinnati.
The park initially opened with 60 captivating rides, which grew to over 100 by 2017. The themed areas have also grown from five to eight by 2023, including Area 72 and Adventure Port, its recent additions. So, whether you are on an adventurous trip with your friends, escaping out with someone special, or hanging out with your kids, Kings Island Park ensures that you never get a single dull moment during your visit to this place.
Things to do
Rides and Experiences
The park offers more than 66 adventurous rides, including very well-known experiential roller coaster family rides like Orion, Diamondback, The Beast, Cargo Loco, and Solo Spin to get you major thrills, plus the Planet Snoopy for the kids. Moreover, there are 36 water slides, including two wave pools with relaxing water lagoons where you can catch some waves while bathing in the sun.
Shopping
For shopaholics, the amusement park has five inventory spots, including Coaster Connection, Diamondback Trading Post, Emporium, Snoopy Boutique, and Sweet Spot, where families can buy apparel, toys, candy, and treats.
Attend Seasonal Events
Everyone’s favorite spiritedly high winter season has arrived, and so have the unforgettable Halloween Hunt and WinterFest experiences. Voted as one of the best theme park holiday events, the entire Kings Island amusement park transforms into 12 delightful Winter Wonderlands from November 24th to December 31st. This is the best time to dive into the la la land of seven million lights with live entertainment, a magical Christmas tree, the WinterFest Parade, ice skating, and much more.
Tickets and passes
The Kings Island Park offers the following different ticket passes:
| Daily Tickets | Unlimited visits at $11/month |
| Season Pass | Silver ($8.50), Gold ($11), Prestige ($28) |
| WinterFest | Opening Sale ($19.99), Ice Skating ($20), Bring-a-Friend ($24.99), VIP Igloo Rental ($225), and more |
| Groups | For 15-99 members ($23.99) |
| Military | $26.99 plus exclusive discounts on retired military personnel |
| Operating Season | April to December. The timings will vary based on the events. For more info, click here. |
| Rating | 4.6 (28T) |
| Location | 6300 Kings Island Drive, Kings Island, OH 45034 |
Coney Island Amusement Park
Coney Island is another of the best amusement parks in Cincinnati, Ohio, and is located on the southwestern side of the New York City borough of Brooklyn. With its
over-the-century timeless charm, it has been entertaining and hosting tourists and locals all across the city and holds a special place in their hearts.
The Coney Island is further divided into two amusement parks, Luna Parks and Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park, offering several key attractions, from the 2.7-mile iconic boardwalk to the very famous Cyclone wooden roller coaster, fairy light show, shopping, cabanas, rentals, skeeball, and much more.
A fun fact about this amusement park is that Coney Island has been featured in movies like Uptown Girls and Men in Black, and of course, who can forget Taylor Swift’s iconic song titled Coney Island?
Today, Coney Island is going through enormous stages of revitalization; however, the management is still keeping up with its ancient charm and mystery. This makes this park worth visiting for everyone.
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Things to do
Rides
Coney Island has some of the most empirical rides to offer thrill mongers, including Wonder Wheel (150 feet tall and can stand up to 155 riders), the traditional B&B Carousel, the oldest wooden roller coaster, and Thunderbolt. Additionally, there are bumper rides and haunted houses.
Beaches
Coney Island has 2.7-mile-long public sand beaches where visitors can indulge themselves in a couple of activities like swimming, joining clubs, parties, or just taking a long beachside walk through the Riegelmann Boardwalk.
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Sunlite Water Adventure
Whether you are with your family or friends, you can create some unforgettable memories with the nation’s largest recirculating Sunlite water pool. Additionally, there are amenities such as pool cabanas where you can relax in comfort, rentals, shopping, dining, and more.
Children Attractions
The park offers some fun activities for families carrying their toddlers too, including action alley, storybook paddle boats, and Cincy mini golf.
Attend a seasonal event
Coney Island’s Nights of Lights show is Cincinnati’s largest and most spectacular light show event, with more than 2 million lights. You can check out the detailed pricing here.
Tickets and passes
If you are planning to go to Luna Park, then you can either opt for following:
- 4-hours day pass with unlimited rides: $65 for over 48” tall and $43 for under 48”.
- Buy an individual pass for individual rides.
Additionally, the Coney Island amusement park offers different ways to pay and play including daily tickets, season passes (the details are yet to be determined), and gift cards.
| Operating Season | 6–10 p.m. all throughout the week from Memorial Day to Labor Day |
| Rating | 4.5 (6.8T) |
| Location | 6201, Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH, 45230, U.S. |
Stricker’s Grove Amusement Park
Stricker’s Grove is a family-owned and privately operated amusement park near Cincinnati. Contrary to other parks, Stricker’s Grove is available to the public only for 8 days of the year (4 days in mid-July, family day, labor day, and customer appreciation day). And, the rest of the time, it is available to rent for wedding receptions, family picnics, or any private gatherings.
Built on 55 acres more than a century ago, the park offers 17 major attractions for all age groups, including two staggering classic wooden roller coaster rides. The largest of them is the Tornado, which was designed by AI Collins and runs a single Philadelphia
Toboggan Coasters train. Moreover, the list of fun rides, including boating, rockets, Ferris wheels, scramblers, pirate ships, and much more, is a perfect day-out plan for friends and families.
Things to do
Roller Coasters
Visitors can witness two iconic roller coaster rides in this park, Tornado and Teddy Bear. The one is a large ride, while the other is a small family ride. The interesting fact is that both of these rides go up to 45 miles per hour.
Key Attractions
The Stricker’s Grove amusement park is filled with 17 exciting fun rides for both adults and kids. Like tip-top, miniature golf, kiddie whip, train ride, little cars, skeeball, shooting gallery, and a lot more.
Tickets and Passes
If you want to enjoy rides at Stricker’s Grove amusement park, you can opt for the following:
- Single ticket for unlimited rides: $20
- Single ticket for individual rides: $2.50
Note: An additional parking fee of $5 is levied before 6pm and $10 after 6pm.
| Operating Season | Opens only on public holidays between 6:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. |
| Rating | 4.7 (1.8T) |
| Location | 11490 Hamilton Cleves Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013, United States |
Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
Unlike other Cincinnati theme parks, Urban Air Trampoline Adventure Park is a preeminent indoor venturesome park. It has different key attractions, from the thrilling twist tower to the courageous big leap of faith to the fun bumper rides, and is much more perfect to cater to everyone’s needs.
Furthermore, Urban Air takes good care of its community by organizing weekly events where people with similar interests can participate and make bonds. For instance, this week there is a sensory-friendly play, Jumperoo, where only children under the age of 5 are allowed to participate in these activities. Overall, the Urban Air Trampoline Park features ultimate indoor fun activities for all age groups to make their day even more playful and memorable.
Things to do
Key Attractions
The Urban Air Parks offer zillions of epic, adventurous activities to dive into for all epicureans. This includes an adventure hub, a drop zone where one can practice acrobatics, a wipeout, a laser tag, a sky rider, a ropes course, a tube playground, climbing walls, and a lot more.
Café
After doing all tumbling or jumping activities, you can refuel your energy while taking a break in the comforting ambience of Urban Air Cafe’.
Parties and events
You can make your kid’s or your loved one’s birthday even more special by organizing a party or event at Urban Air Trampoline Park in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Tickets and passes
Indulge yourself in the activities of Urban Air Trampoline at the following pricing plans:
| Cincinnati Ultimate Ticket | $31.92 each, fly all day with Ultimate Attractions for one day |
| Cincinnati Deluxe Ticket | $25.74 each, roar all day at Deluxe Attractions. |
| Cincinnati 5 & Under Ticket | $13.38 each, Deluxe attraction access for little flyers 5 and under. |
| Gift Card | $25.00 each, not valid for parties, events, or memberships |
| Cincinnati Ultimate Membership | $16.00 monthly, includes Endless Ultimate level attraction access and a small snack |
| Cincinnati Deluxe Membership | $12.00 monthly, includes Endless Deluxe-level attraction access |
| Cincinnati Parent Membership | $4.00 monthly, includes unlimited access to the same attractions as a child |
| Operating Season | Mon to Tue- 12 p.m.–8 p.m. Wed to Sun- 10 p.m.–8 p.m. Thursday closed |
| Rating | 4.1 (539) |
| Location | 3321 Alamo Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45209, United States |
Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay
Kentucky Kingdom & Hurricane Bay is the largest amusement and water park in Ohio and is within 1 hour and 42 minutes of Cincinnati. This perfect combination makes this an ideal place for a day-cation destination. Built on 65 acres, the Kentucky Kingdom amusement park has five of the most thrilling roller coasters in the state, including a steel one with a 100-foot fall drop. Scary right!
Furthermore, the neighboring Hurricane Bay waterpark features a wave lagoon and numerous water slides, all enough to cool you down in the scorching heat.
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Not just that, the park is staged with musical sound waves all around the season, including Conch Republic, Will Wright, and more. What’s more? For the very first time in the history of this park, the Kentucky Kingdom has started displaying fireworks since July 7th. Overall, Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay are two of the best amusement parks near Cincinnati and guarantee endless fun and adventure for all visitors with zero hassle.
Things to do
Kentucky Kingdom Rides
The Kentucky Kingdom offers 70+ attractions, including family-friendly rides such as Bella Musica and Flying Dutchman, 4D Hollywood movies, thrilling roller coasters such as Kentucky Flyer and Storm Chaser, kids-friendly rides such as BigFoot Trucks, Flutterfly, and Jump Around, and water rides such as Mile High Falls, Raging Rapids Riverside, and a lot more.
Hurricane Bay Water Park
The Hurricane Bay features a four-story playground with big surf, a castaway creek, deep water diving, a family wave lagoon, and more for the perfect getaway for families.
Attend upcoming events
Attend the upcoming events of 2024 Kentucky Kingdom Opening Day, Hurricane Bay Opening Day, and Pumpkins at Kentucky Kingdom, and discover more fun around every corner.
Dinings
The park features a great many food spots and cafeterias, including Auntie B’s, Beachside Burgers & Tenders, Bluegrass Bakery, Casa Mia, and El Nacho, to relax and eat.
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Shopping
You can take a walk around a wide variety of exclusive merchandise, toys, t-shirts, and a lot more.
Tickets and passes
You can buy one of the following passes and enjoy hassle-free, thrilling rides:
| Silver Season Pass | Unlimited visits + free parking at $64.99 excluding taxes |
| Gold Season Pass | 3 Bring-a-friend free tickets, 20% off on food, apparel |
| Diamond Season Pass | 5 Bring-a-friend free tickets, 20% off on food and retail, 50% off on Cabana |
| Free Pre-K Season | For 3 to 5 years old |
| Family Four-Pack | $59.99 |
| Parking Fee | Per car: $12 Per bus: $25 |
| Opening Season | May to October |
| Rating | 4.3 (9.8T) |
| Location | 937 Phillips Ln., Louisville, KY 40209, United States |
Cedar Point
If you are looking for an amusement park like no other on the Lake Shore, then Cedar Point is the next ideal family place and the best amusement park near Cincinnati, at a driving distance of 4 hours. Located on Lake Erie, this park has been home to more than 71 exhilarating rides for more than 150 years and is listed as the second oldest operating amusement park in the United States.
The place holds something for everyone. This includes miles of sandy beaches to the 16 adrenalized roller coaster rides, including Atomic Scrambler, Dodgem, Monster, Troika, family-friendly rides such as Giant Wheel, Midway Carousel, and more.
Furthermore, the management introduced the Boardwalk, a contemporary interpretation of Cedar’s Point’s historic lakefront training. Families may also experience the Grand Pavilion dining venue at Cedar Point and roving entertainment.
Things to do
Attractions
First-time visitors can witness the magic of Ohio’s exceptional lighthouses, enchanting amusements, and family-friendly wildlife parks.
Arts and culture
Explore the rich history of Lake Erie via cultural events, exhibitions, museums, theaters, and art galleries.
Adventure trail
Dive into the post-afternoon adventure trail, from enthralling activities to mouthwatering dishes, and savor the day.
Water Sports
Add more interesting memories to your day by indulging in water activities such as kayaking, boating, jet skiing, paddle boarding, and parasailing.
Attend upcoming events
The Cedar Point organizes from time to time events related to festivals, music concerts, local events, and more.
Dining
Explore delicious dining options and authentic local cuisine that will make your soul content and happy.
| Tickets and passes | For tickets and season passes prices, request them from their travel guide. |
| Operating Season | Spring through fall |
| Rating | 4.6 (51T) |
| Location | 1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky, OH 44870, United States |
Memphis Kiddie Park
Memphis Kiddie Park is another one of the oldest amusement parks, specially designed for toddlers and children under 50 inches tall. Its major attraction among visitors is its Little Dipper, which is one of the oldest steel-made roller coasters in North America.
Memphis features 11 different exciting kiddie rides, including comets (that move up and down), boats (that float in circles), pony carts (chariot-like cars that rotate in an infinite loop), space shuttles (the miniature version of comets), Jeeps, and more.
In addition to these fun kiddie rides, the park owns a chain of indoor movie theaters, a perfect day break for families desiring to spend more time with their babies. Moreover, you can celebrate your children’s birthday in Memphis and make it worth remembering.
Things to do
Kiddie Rides
The families can enjoy the classic 11 kiddie rides since 1950 with their little ones, as mentioned above.
Mini Golf
Golfers or those who have an interest in this sport can enjoy the beautiful 18-hole course of mini golf and cherish some time together in outdoor spaces.
Concessions
Their traditional concession stand is widely known for its hot dogs and funnel cakes. So, make sure that while on your visit to Memphis, you don’t miss out on these things.
Tickets and Passes
No admission fee is required. Charge only for rides.
| Single ticket | $3 |
| Group of 10 | $28 |
| Group of 25 | $44 |
| Group of 110 | $160 |
| Parking Fee | No parking fee is required. |
| Operating Season | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Also, the last golf time is 30 minutes prior to the closing time. |
| Rating | 4.7 (1.5T) |
| Location | 10340 Memphis Ave., Cleveland, OH 44144, United States |
Tuscora Park
Snuggled in the lush green hills of New Philadelphia, Ohio, Tuscora Park is another of the best amusement parks near Cincinnati, with a driving distance of 3.5 hours. It is known for its affordable admissions for families to enjoy the activities and relish the day.
So, whether you want to take thrilling roller coaster rides with your friends, indulge in amusement rides with your family, or simply relax and enjoy the musical concert, Tuscora Park is the perfect place for all your searches.
Things to do
Attractions
Ferris wheel, roller coaster, carousel, train, swings, airplanes, sky fighters, dune buggies, miniature golf All these have under 40-inch limits for adults.
Pool Facility
The park offers three different-sized pools, including Olympic (with several lanes dedicated to practice), Diving (high and low), and Kiddie (with fences).
Concessions
Don’t forget to taste the old-fashioned cotton candy and delectable ham burgers and fries at the concession stand.
Tickets and passes
Following are the pricing plans:
| Single ride ticket | $1.50 |
| Booklet of 12 ride tickets | $10.00 |
| Mini golf per player | $4.00 |
| Day pass youth | $3.00 |
| Day pass adult | $5.00 |
| Parking Fee | No parking fee is required. |
| Operating Season | Summer hours: Mon to Thu- 3:30pm – 8:00 pm Fri to Sun- 12pm – 8:00pm |
| Rating | 4.6 (1.9T) |
| Location | 161 Tuscora Ave. NW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663, United States |
Final Words
Amusement parks are the ideal places to visit by sparing some time from the busy mundane life, cherishing moments together, and creating a significant family bond. However, with different families having different age groups of members, it can be a chore to find the right amusement park in Cincinnati that suits their interests.
All the aforementioned options offer a discrete set of features, including invigorating rides, family-friendly activities, and outdoor spaces where you can sit, relax, and bask in the sun, or dive into water sports. The features are endless, as are the options along with them, providing something for everyone.
Having said that, we take a leave now with the best amusement parks in and near Cincinnati, Ohio.
Now, it is your call to choose the one that interests you the most. All we have to say is to buy some time and create some beautiful memories while taking your loved ones into the lap of nature.
