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Best restaurants, bars and hotels in Cincinnati, per Travel + Leisure's new city guide

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. cinnati-per-travel-leisure-s-new-city-guide.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Thursday, November 6th 2025 at 1:31 GMT by The Cincinnati Enquirer

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Travel + Leisure Designates Cincinnati as the Midwest’s Most Underrated Gem

Travel + Leisure’s latest “Best of the Region” list has done something that many Cincinnati locals have been saying for years: the city has finally been recognized as the Midwest’s most underrated destination. In the November 6, 2025 issue, the magazine awarded Cincinnati top honors, citing its thriving arts scene, diverse culinary landscape, historic riverfront, and affordable cost of living as key factors that set it apart from more celebrated regional cities like Chicago, Indianapolis, and Detroit.

A Culture That Pulses in Every Corner

The magazine’s editorial team spent a week in Cincinnati, sampling everything from classic Cincinnati chili to the avant‑garde offerings at the contemporary art museum. The city’s cultural calendar is packed, with the annual Cincinnati Film Festival, the International Festival of the Arts, and a robust theater circuit that includes the legendary Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. The article highlighted the city’s dedication to preserving its heritage while fostering innovation, a blend that Travel + Leisure described as “a living, breathing tapestry of past and present.”

The Cincinnati Art Museum, a National Historic Landmark, boasts an impressive collection that spans 6,000 years, including works by Picasso and Monet. The Smithsonian’s National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, located in the historic Over-the-Rhine district, offers a sobering yet powerful look at the city’s pivotal role in the fight for abolition. Meanwhile, the modern architectural marvels of the Carew Tower and the contemporary glass façade of the Great American Tower illustrate Cincinnati’s forward‑thinking urban design.

Food, Wine, and Local Flavor

Travel + Leisure’s food writer spent a full day at Findlay Market, the oldest continuously operating public market in the United States. The writer praised the market’s “breathtaking array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handcrafted baked goods” and noted that the market is “a culinary crucible that feeds the city’s burgeoning foodie scene.” From the renowned Cincinnati-style barbecue to its unique chili, the city’s food culture is a fusion of Southern comfort and Midwestern heartiness, with a growing number of farm‑to‑table restaurants and craft breweries that draw both locals and tourists.

The article also highlighted the rise of Cincinnati’s wine scene, with local vineyards in the surrounding counties offering tastings that “capture the region’s unique terroir.” A visit to the German Village neighborhood provided a glimpse into the city’s European heritage, with its cobblestone streets and brick townhouses providing a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely afternoon coffee.

Parks, Rivers, and Outdoor Living

Cincinnati’s extensive park system is a cornerstone of the city’s appeal. The article details the 10,000‑acre Great Lakes, which includes Eden Park—home to the iconic Fountain of the Arts—and the sprawling Eden Park Forest. The city’s 70‑mile network of bike trails, including the popular Walnut Hills Bike Trail, offers residents and visitors alike the chance to explore Cincinnati’s lush greenery on two wheels.

A highlight of the Travel + Leisure piece is the rejuvenated Riverfront. The 10‑mile stretch of the Ohio River has been transformed into a vibrant promenade, complete with a new marina, an expansive public beach, and a series of water‑front restaurants. The riverfront’s newly installed “Riverbend Carousel,” a modern reinterpretation of a historic attraction, draws families looking for a nostalgic yet contemporary experience.

An Affordable, High‑Quality Lifestyle

One of the most compelling arguments for Cincinnati’s underrated status is its affordability. The article notes that the city’s median home price is roughly 20% lower than Chicago’s, yet residents enjoy a comparable quality of life. The city’s job market is booming, with a 3.2% growth rate in the past decade, particularly in the technology, health care, and manufacturing sectors. The Cincinnati metropolitan area is also home to a high concentration of Fortune 500 companies, including Procter & Gamble and Kroger, which provide a steady stream of high‑wage jobs.

Travel + Leisure’s travel editor pointed out that Cincinnati’s cost of living is 18% lower than the national average, making it a “goldmine for families and young professionals looking for the perfect blend of culture, career, and community.” The city’s public transportation system—comprising buses, streetcars, and a recently expanded rail network—makes commuting hassle‑free and eco‑friendly.

Looking Ahead: City Initiatives and Future Growth

The article concludes by looking forward, noting that Cincinnati’s local government is investing heavily in sustainable development. Plans for expanding the downtown light‑rail system, creating more green spaces, and improving pedestrian infrastructure are expected to further elevate the city’s status on the national stage.

Travel + Leisure encourages travelers to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, urging them to delve into the city’s neighborhoods, such as Over-the-Rhine and the East Walnut Hills area, where historic buildings coexist with cutting‑edge art galleries and pop‑up markets. The magazine emphasizes that Cincinnati’s best experiences are often discovered by wandering off the beaten path.

Bottom Line

With its rich history, dynamic arts community, delectable cuisine, and affordable living, Cincinnati has earned Travel + Leisure’s stamp of approval as the Midwest’s most underrated city. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious newcomer, Cincinnati offers a vibrant, welcoming, and unmistakably distinct experience that stands ready to surprise and delight.