Staff Picks

The top drivers in NASCAR come to the Kentucky Speedway each July. Get in on all the action. Enjoy an energetic atmosphere filled with music, food and fun while watching the world's best drivers face one of the toughest challenges in all of racing.

Visit beer church just one time and you will become a convert. Taft's Ale House offers three floors of craft beer and casual dining in a former church. The unique decor, beer and food are all first-rate. The prices are reasonable, so what’s not to like?

The Bunbury Music Festival transforms the banks of the Ohio River into a giant party each June, featuring an eclectic lineup of 50 or more national, regional and local acts on four stages. Now entering its fifth year, Bunbury is considered one of the 10 top music festivals in the U.S.

Explore the heart of Cincinnati with a stroll through Washington Park. The picturesque plaza features interactive fountains, a restored bandstand for concerts and outdoor movies in summer — all bordered by great restaurants, and the grand Music Hall as a backdrop.

Raise a glass to Cincinnati’s brewery tradition at the Christian Moerlein Malt House, preserved from the 1860s with arched stone ceilings and 12 beers on tap. Rhinegeist brews its hoppy creations in a beer hall that bustles with a community-center vibe.

Salazar’s unique set-up allows you to dine in or out. Chef Jose Salazar offers a farm-inspired menu that’s playful yet refined, creative yet approachable. Drop in or grab a seat at one of the windows to enjoy a truly great meal and a thoughtful selection of wines, beers and craft cocktails.

Late at night you might find one of the city's top chefs waiting in line at the walk-up window for a Gomez taco. Slow-roasted beef spiced just right, farm-fresh ingredients — Gomez redefines grab-and-go Mexican. If you're really hungry, go for the Turtle. You won't regret it.

The Urban Grill is among the best of many great Cincy food trucks. Try their Central Porkway with pork tenderloin, slaw, bacon, onions and peppers. Or try any of their other creative sandwiches, most of which feature . . . bacon. Look for them downtown and at major events.

The 21c Museum Hotel is a unique experience in itself. The Cocktail Terrace on the 11th floor takes relaxation and great downtown views to a whole new level. Before joining the beautiful people on the rooftop, enjoy a meal at the Metropole on the ground floor.

Via Vite is a contemporary Italian bistro in the center of Downtown. The adjacent rooftop Piazza overlooking Fountain Square offers one of the best settings for watching people while enjoying great food and wine. If the wind blows just right, you may even feel a slight mist from the fountain.