Best Things to Do Near the Ark Encounter
Best Things to Do in Northern Kentucky
Northern Kentucky blends small-town charm, riverfront views, and easy access to Cincinnati. From historic Main Streets to family attractions, here are ten great ways to experience the region.
On the Riverfront
Newport on the Levee
A lively riverfront destination with dining, entertainment, and skyline views just across from downtown Cincinnati — the easiest first stop in Northern Kentucky.
Newport Aquarium
Walk through underwater tunnels, touch stingrays, and explore one of the region’s top family attractions. Pair it with the Levee next door for a full day.
BB Riverboats
Hop aboard a relaxing Ohio River cruise with skyline views, themed dinners, and live entertainment — book the sunset sailings in summer.
Neighborhoods & Views
Mainstrasse Village, Covington
A historic, walkable neighborhood filled with bars, restaurants, shops, and European-style architecture. This is Northern Kentucky’s best evening out.
Devou Park Overlook
The best skyline view in the region. Go at sunset for sweeping views of Cincinnati and the Ohio River — and bring a camera.
Family Favorites
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Just minutes across the river and one of the nation’s top zoos — perfect for a full day of exploring with all ages.
Florence Y’alls Baseball
A fun, affordable minor-league experience with family-friendly energy and creative promotions. Summer evenings here are hard to beat.
The Ark Encounter
Forty minutes south in Williamstown, the life-size Ark is one of Kentucky’s biggest attractions — our Ark Encounter guide covers how to plan it.
Outdoors & Local Flavor
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site
Known as the birthplace of American paleontology, with walking trails, a bison herd, and natural-history exhibits.
Braxton Brewing Company
A Northern Kentucky staple for craft beer, with a rooftop patio and rotating local brews in the heart of Covington.
Scenic backroads & bourbon stops
Rolling hills, quiet country roads, and lesser-known distilleries just outside the city — the unhurried side of Northern Kentucky. If it leaves you wanting the full bourbon experience, start with our Bourbon Trail weekend guide.
Where to Stay
Our Williamstown vacation homes put you between the Ark Encounter and the riverfront — large houses with pools and game rooms that sleep 12 to 30, thirty-five minutes from Covington. They are the ideal base for a trip that mixes Cincinnati days with quiet Kentucky evenings.
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