A Tour of Nightlife in Downtown Cincinnati: Music, Clubs and More

A Hidden Mecca of Entertainment Riches

People commonly think of Cincinnati as a conservative city, either bustling with commerce or entangled in old-fashioned values. The alternative face of this Ohio River city is its diverse cultures, replete with avant-garde music scene and a vibrant, energetic nightlife. From casual, yet chic, communities, such as Cincinnati's Mt. Adams area, to the unique, somewhat bohemian-infused neighborhood called Northside, the city is overflowing with entertainment venues for people of all ages and fascinations.

Our tour starts on Main Street, downtown in the heart of Over-the-Rhine. "OTR" is a historic district in Cincinnati attracting artists of all types. Final Fridays are held every last Friday of the month, when local art galleries and various other establishments open their doors to display original local and out-of-town exhibits and performance art. This monthly celebration of the arts is enjoyed by many and presents the community with an occasion to participate in a culture that is abundant in visual and performance art. Lively, yet contained, Final Friday's are a great way to take pleasure in the city and the talents of it's many artists without breaking your bank or staying out until the sun comes up. For the night owls, however, regulars of the Final Friday events can often be found after the galleries have closed at local coffee shops and bars, such as Kaldi's and Cooper's Pub, on the main strip.