THE CINCINNATI STREETCAR – A USER FRIENDLY GUIDE

I’m going out on a limb to proclaim I love the Cincinnati Bell Connector (aka the Cincinnati Streetcar). Yes, it has suffered from growing pains, but come on; it’s still in its infancy.

Why do I love the Cincinnati Streetcar? Let me count the ways:
1. The Cincinnati Streetcar is a cheap mode of transportation.
2. It provides a scenic ride. You ride past a lot of interesting ArtWorks murals.
3. It is safe. You can’t get lost on a 3.6 mile loop.
4. The Cincinnati Streetcar takes you to the fun spots in town, from the stadiums at the Banks, to Fountain Square, the Aronoff CenterJack Casino, Findlay Market and Rhinegeist Brewery to name a few.
5. The Cincinnati Streetcar makes it easy for visitors (as well as some locals) who have a difficult time navigating the one way streets in downtown Cincinnati.
6. It is fun for anyone who has never experienced a ride on a streetcar.
7. It is air conditioned in the summer and warm in the winter.
8. The Cincinnati Streetcar is accessible and easy for those physically challenged.
9. It’s convenient to most downtown hotels.
10. It’s pretty unique. Cincinnati is one of maybe 3 dozen or so cities in the whole US with an operating Light Rail System.

Here’s why it’s handy:
First, it’s FREE to ride.  There are 18 stops along a 3.3 mile figure 8 track layout.

I can hop off at Fountain Square to catch a special event or enjoy lunch or dinner at a wide variety of restaurants or walk over to Race for even more restaurants.

I can view some fantastic art exhibits at the Contemporary Arts Center and 21c Museum Hotel for FREE and dine in one of the many restaurants on Walnut and 6th Streets across from the Aronoff Center.

I can go to a Cincinnati Reds ball game, enjoy a few beers, ride to Over the Rhine, enjoy a few more beers and never have to move my car.

I can take the kids on the weekends to Washington Park to play for hours and then stroll over to Graeter’s for a sweet treat.

I can take a ride to Findlay Market experiencing all the sights and aromas, have a bite to eat, do a little shopping and not have the hassle of finding a place to park on the busy weekends.

I can journey north and hop out right in front of Rhinegeist Brewery, less than 20 feet from the Streetcar Station.

User Friendly Guide:

Cost: It’s FREE!

Hours of Operation:
Monday-Thursday 6:30 a.m. – midnight
Friday 6:30 a.m. – 1:00 a.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 a.m.
Sunday and holidays 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.

My Stuff:
What can I bring on the streetcar? Bicycles, strollers, wheelchairs, scooters, luggage and personal shopping carts or really almost anything but your pet (unless pooch is contained in a carrier). Service animals are allowed.

About Me:
In case you’re wondering what my qualifications are in writing a User Friendly Guide for the Cincinnati Streetcar, I ride the streetcar 4 to 5 times a week. And I’m never alone. I have the pleasure of hosting groups of locals and out-of–town visitors on a 3 hour guided food and culture tour. We begin at the Banks and eat our way to Findlay Market!

If you haven’t taken a ride yet, what are you waiting for? We offer 2 distinct Streetcar Food and Culture Tours 4 times a week.

The Cincinnati Streetcar Food and Culture Tour is every Friday at 1:00PM.
Enjoy dining at 5-6 restaurants, plus that includes a wine and beer tasting. Let us do the work while you relax and enjoy!
Adults $65.00 Children 6-10 $55.00

Our NEW Cincy Top 10 Tour is every Mon/Wed/Fri at 10:00AM.
See the Top 10 Sites and enjoy 5 Famous Bites that Cincinnati is known for! Don’t let the word bite throw you. The food is plenty for lunch.
Adults $60.00 Children 6-10 $50.00

Riverside Food Tours offers 6 different food and culture tours 7 days/ week.

For questions or more information, call 513-289-0035

Laura Noyes
Owner & Guide
Riverside food Tours
March 24, 2018

Duration
3 hours
Group Size
1 to 14

10 AM Cincy Top 10 ‘Sites and Bites’ City Tour

On the Cincy Top 10 Sites + Bites City Tour, you’ll spend three unforgettable hours savoring the soul of Cincinnati with all your senses.
You’ll start with the warm, crisp aroma of a buttery Belgian waffle, feeling its steam rise on your face as you take the first bite, then hear your guide’s stories while your feet carry you past the striking Roebling Suspension Bridge and the powerful exhibits at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.

You’ll ride the streetcar, feel the gentle sway underfoot, and watch city landmarks glide by as you anticipate the next flavor.

Along the way, you’ll taste savory German goetta, rich Cincinnati chili on a classic coney, and cool down with Graeter’s famous ice cream—its creamy richness melting on your tongue.

Later, the sweet saltiness of fudge and the crumbly delight of a freshly baked cookie at Findlay Market will bring smiles and laughter with new friends.

With every step and sip, you’ll feel the history, culture, and vibrancy of Cincinnati come alive around you, leaving you joyful, well‑fed, and deeply connected to the Queen City’s character.

133 Reviews verify
from
$69
Duration
3 hours
Group Size
2 to 14

1 PM Cincinnati Streetcar Food Tour + Findlay Market

Experience a feast for all your senses as you slowly uncover the city’s vibrant flavors and stories. You’ll feel the warmth of a hearty sit‑down dish—maybe savory bangers and mash or a juicy gourmet burger—smell the spice of fresh tacos and chips and salsa as your group laughs and shares bites together.

The sleek streetcar glides beneath you, sightseeing historic murals, Art Deco towers, and bustling city streets as your guide fills the air with fun facts and local history.

At Findlay Market, you’ll touch the smooth surface of artisanal chocolates, taste rich cheeses and artisan fudge, and enjoy sweet gelato or creamy banana pudding that melts on your tongue. With every flavor, every story, and every smile shared with new friends, you’ll feel joy, connection, and a deeper love for Cincinnati’s food culture—leaving you full, happy, and eager to explore more of the Queen City.

133 Reviews verify
from
$79
Duration
3 hours
Group Size
2 to 12

10:30 AM Cincy Brunch & Streetcar Food Tour

Enjoy a feast for all your senses that will leave you smiling from start to finish. You’ll delight in six flavorful dishes, from stuffed French toast in a historic Over-the-Rhine beer garden to fresh deli sandwiches, flaky empanadas, or zesty tacos, each bite warming your heart and sparking joy.

Feel the crispy, cheesy perfection of Detroit-style pizza paired with a cold German Pilsner, then hop on the streetcar and watch the city glide by, feeling a sense of adventure and connection.

At Findlay Market, smell sweet fudge, touch creamy cheeses, and savor savory goetta, discovering hidden flavors that make you feel curious, excited, and utterly content.

Finish with a delicate French pastry that melts in your mouth, leaving you laughing, full of wonder, and deeply connected to Cincinnati’s vibrant food scene.

78 Reviews verify
from
$79
Duration
3 hours
Group Size
2 to 12

12 Noon Ethnic Eats in Over-the-Rhine Walking Food Tour

You’ll wander lively streets filled with enticing aromas that make your stomach rumble with anticipation. You’ll bite into vibrant steamed buns, tacos with spicy heat and fresh cilantro, taste silky hummus and warm, soft pita, and sip rich, aromatic sauces that dance on your tongue.

Along the way, you’ll smell sweet spices, touch textured market wares, and hear the hum of friendly conversations as you explore each unique neighborhood stop.

With every flavorful dish and story shared, you’ll feel joyful, curious, and more connected—to the food, the culture, and the city itself—leaving you smiling, satisfied, and eager for your next bite in Cincinnati.

66 Reviews verify
from
$79
Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
2 to 8

5 PM Over The Rhine Cocktail Tour

You’ll wander through the historic streets of one of Cincinnati’s most iconic neighborhoods, letting the scent of handcrafted cocktails and warm snacks lead the way.

At each stop, you’ll sip smooth, aromatic drinks—from herbal elixirs in a cozy apothecary‑style bar to vibrant, balanced creations in a sleek lounge—feeling the chill of ice against your lips and the warmth of spice and citrus on your tongue.

Along the route, your guide will share fascinating stories of old tunnels and hidden speakeasies while you touch cool brick walls and hear laughter and clinking glasses around you.

Between drinks, the crisp night air and lively neighborhood energy will make you smile and connect with friends new and old.

With VIP access that lets you skip lines and enjoy each venue’s unique vibe, you’ll feel relaxed, delighted, and delightedly curious about every new flavor and story that awaits

54 Reviews verify
from
$89