Bucket List for the Kids

Kids can truly connect to nature in the Cincinnati Nature Center’s Nature Playscape, an open area for creative play. Imaginations run wild-literally- when kids explore, touch, splash, climb, dig and build with native plants, water, soil, rocks, logs and more.

A cultural melting pot, Jungle Jim’s International Market represents almost 100 countries and specialty items, including a dizzying candy and toy section. Featuring toys, games, gifts and candy from both past and present, you’ll have trouble choosing just one goody to bring home.

For the thrill seekers in the family, Kings Island is the perfect place to have a screaming good time. Visit Planet Snoopy to delight the younger kiddos or hop in line for big thrill rollercoasters like Orion and Diamondback (just be sure to check height requirements in advance).

It’s all summer fun at Coney Island. This historic water park features three waterslides (including the iconic Silver Bullet), water play stations, diving boards, a floating obstacle course and Sunlite Pool, with over an acre of shallow water for the little ones.

What’s better than the sweet, sticky taste of your favorite donut? Everyone in the family can pick out their own at Holtman’s Donuts, a family-run Cincy staple with four locations around the region. Made fresh and from scratch every day.

Follow stories like that of Hugo the dog and his animal friends on their adventure as you walk the half-mile Storybook Trail at East Fork State Park. The entire family can get out and explore nature while learning along the way.

Sharks, penguins, jellyfish, albino alligators and more await above, below and around you at the Newport Aquarium. Explore the exhibits, touch a stingray and cross the Shark Bridge as you learn about fascinating aquatic animals from around the world.

The Pin Deck, part of Scene 75 Entertainment Center, is a 12-lane bowling alley where you can reserve a land or two for some friendly competition. Parents, sip a cocktail or order food while you play. Everyone can try out extra fun games, including ping pong, eight-person foosball, billiards and shuffleboard.