Cincinnati Shines: Travel + Leisure Highlights Queen City as Midwest’s Most Underrated Gem

Cincinnati is once again basking in the national spotlight, earning accolades from Travel + Leisure magazine. The prestigious publication recently released a comprehensive city guide, declaring the Queen City the “most underrated” in the Midwest and celebrating its unique blend of “folksy charm” and “metropolitan energy.” This recognition reaffirms Cincinnati’s growing appeal as a vibrant destination for travelers and locals alike.

Cincinnati’s Rising Star in the Midwest

The new city guide emphasizes what many Cincinnatians already know: our city is a hidden treasure. Beyond being crowned the “most underrated,” Travel + Leisure previously ranked Cincinnati an impressive No. 2 on its “Best Places to Live in the Midwest” list. The article also spotlights our vibrant culture, including the renowned Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, recognized as the largest Oktoberfest celebration in the United States.

A Thriving Culinary and Nightlife Scene

Cincinnati’s food and drink landscape is highlighted as one of the region’s most exciting, with a nod to our beloved chili. The guide specifically calls out several award-winning establishments that contribute to this buzz.

Noteworthy Restaurants

• The Aperture (Walnut Hills): Recognized in USA TODAY’s 2025 Restaurants of the Year list.
• Wildweed (Over-the-Rhine)
• Bridges Nepali Cuisine (multiple locations)
• Kiki (Clifton)
• Sotto (Downtown)

Vibrant Nightlife Spots

• Ghost Baby (Over-the-Rhine): Named one of the best bars in the country for 2025 by USA TODAY.
• Longfellow (Over-the-Rhine)
• Homemakers Bar (Over-the-Rhine)
• King Pigeon (Walnut Hills)
• Somerset (Over-the-Rhine)

Beyond Food: Arts, Culture, and Sports

Cincinnati’s rich arts and culture scene also earns high praise. The article features Blink, the nation’s largest art, light, and projection-mapping festival, as a major draw. Visitors and residents can also explore the city’s historic neighborhoods, stunning architecture, burgeoning craft breweries, diverse museums, and passionate sports teams, all contributing to its glowing review.

Plan Your Visit: Top Spots to Explore

Travel + Leisure’s guide offers specific recommendations for places to stay and things to do, ensuring a memorable experience in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.

Where to Stay

• The Lytle Park Hotel, 311 Pike St., Downtown
• Hotel Covington, 638 Madison Ave., Covington
• 21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati, 609 Walnut St., Downtown
• Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza, 35 W. Fifth St., Downtown

Must-See Attractions

• Findlay Market, 1801 Race St., Over-the-Rhine
• National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, 50 E. Freedom Way, The Banks
• Queen City Underground Tour, 1332 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine
• Revival Vintage Spirits, 614 Madison Ave., Covington
• Cincinnati Music Hall, 1241 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine

Explore Cincinnati’s Diverse Neighborhoods

The guide highlights several vibrant neighborhoods, each offering a distinct flavor and experience:

• Over-the-Rhine
• The Banks
• Mount Adams
• Covington
• Northside
• Walnut Hills

Cincinnati’s National Recognition Snapshot

Cincinnati’s vibrant scene is gaining national attention, with several establishments earning prestigious mentions.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What makes Cincinnati an “underrated city”?
  Travel + Leisure recognized its “folksy charm” and “metropolitan energy,” placing it second on their “Best Places to Live in the Midwest” list and highlighting its culinary scene, arts, and historic neighborhoods.
• Are any Cincinnati establishments nationally recognized?
  Yes, The Aperture was named in USA TODAY’s 2025 Restaurants of the Year, and Ghost Baby was recognized as one of the best bars in the country for 2025 by USA TODAY.
• Which neighborhoods should I explore?
  The guide highlights Over-the-Rhine, The Banks, Mount Adams, Covington, Northside, and Walnut Hills for their unique offerings and vibrant atmospheres.
• What unique experiences does Cincinnati offer?
  Don’t miss Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, the nation’s largest Oktoberfest, or Blink, the nation’s largest art, light, and projection-mapping festival, both celebrated by the publication.

This latest recognition from a major travel publication solidifies Cincinnati’s status as a must-visit destination. Whether you’re a long-time resident or planning a visit, this guide offers a fresh perspective on the dynamic experiences awaiting you in the Queen City.

Travel Leisure highlights Cincinnati underrated Midwest gem