Exploring Cincinnati Airport: Things To Do And See

what to do in cincinnatti airport

The Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) is one of the world's fastest-growing and most modern airports. It is renowned for its high level of customer satisfaction and has been named the Best Airport of 5 to 15 Million Passengers in North America by the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards. With a layover in Cincinnati, passengers can enjoy a variety of amenities within the airport, including dining at the Wolfgang Puck restaurant or grabbing a quick bite at Gold Star Chili to sample Cincinnati-style chilli. For those seeking entertainment, there are bookstores and a Brookstone store, while sports enthusiasts can visit the Bengals Bar & Kitchen, the first and only Cincinnati Bengals-branded restaurant and bar. Additionally, the airport is conveniently located just a 15-minute drive from downtown Cincinnati, offering easy access to various attractions and sightseeing opportunities.

Characteristics Values
Location Kentucky, USA
Nearby places Downtown Cincy, Buttermilk Pike, Covington, Newport, Rabbit Hash, Devour Park, Lunken Airport
Flight destinations 50+ destinations in North America and Europe
Cargo hub for Amazon Air, Atlas Air, ABX Air, Kalitta Air, DHL Aviation
Facilities Bookstores, Brewpubs, Brooks Brothers, Brookstone stores, Wolfgang Puck restaurant, Gold Star Chili
Transport The airport express runs downtown every half hour

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Explore the Art Deco murals in the airport

If you're looking for things to do during a layover at Cincinnati Airport, exploring the Art Deco murals is a great option. The airport features 18 iconic murals, including 14 that were originally located on the walls of Cincinnati's Union Terminal railway station. These murals, created in the 1930s by famed Art Deco artist Winold Reiss, portray the industrial era in Cincinnati and pay tribute to the American worker. The artist photographed actual workers as they performed their daily tasks, aiming to depict unnamed workers in an accurate and dignified manner.

The technique used to create these murals is quite remarkable. Glass was pressed into wet plaster on the walls, and once the plaster was dry, the backing paper was peeled off. The remaining areas were then filled in with coloured stucco. This method, known as "Silhouette Style", creates incredible realism in the mosaics.

Each mural is a statement, measuring 20 feet tall, 20 feet wide, and 8 inches thick, weighing 8 tons each. The foundations and walls of the airport had to be reinforced to support these massive artworks. Over the years, some of the murals have been relocated due to airport expansions, and efforts have been made to identify the workers depicted in them, giving them back their identities.

Among the murals, you'll find tributes to notable figures and various aspects of Cincinnati's history and culture. One mural celebrates the city's brewing heritage, while another showcases the legacy of Kenner Toys, a Cincinnati-based company. There is also a mural inspired by Frank Duveneck, one of the city's treasured painters, and another honouring Edie Harper, a Cincinnati Master artist. These murals provide a wonderful insight into the city's past and present, making them a fascinating way to spend your time during a layover.

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Visit the downtown Cincy area

Downtown Cincinnati is an increasingly residential area with plenty of attractions. It is centrally located within the city and easily accessible by public transport. The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority operates public transportation with its hub at Government Square, and the Connector streetcar line connects downtown with Over-the-Rhine.

The Fountain District is a popular destination, known for its vibrant nightlife, dining options, and easy access to sports and entertainment venues. The Banks is another waterfront development with bars and restaurants, especially lively after games at the nearby Paycor Stadium and Great American Ball Park. The Backstage District, which surrounds the Aronoff Center, also offers a variety of dining and nightlife experiences.

For art enthusiasts, the Contemporary Art Center, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and the Taft Museum of Art are all located downtown. The Mercantile Library and the Pendleton Art Center, with its vast collection of artists, are also worth visiting.

If you're looking for some outdoor exploration, downtown Cincinnati has several parks, including Lytle Park, Piatt Park, and Smale Riverfront Park. The Riverwalk, a three-mile-long trail along the Ohio River, offers stunning views of the city skyline and connects multiple waterfront parks.

Whether you're interested in history, art, dining, or simply enjoying the city views, downtown Cincinnati has something for everyone.

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Try Cincinnati-style chilli at Gold Star Chili

If you're looking for something to eat during a layover at the Cincinnati Airport, Gold Star Chili is the place to go. Located in the Delta Terminal 3 Concourse B, Gold Star Chili offers a unique opportunity to sample Cincinnati-style chili, a regional delicacy. While some may have mixed feelings about the taste of the chili, with one person noting that it had a "weird aftertaste", the restaurant is worth a visit for its friendly staff alone. The staff at Gold Star Chili have been described as the "nicest people" by a traveller from Australia, who had a genuine conversation with the workers, something they didn't typically do.

Gold Star Chili offers a range of menu items beyond their namesake dish, including cheese fries, burgers, coneys, and chilitos. Their burgers, in particular, have been praised as "phenomenal", and their coneys, or cheese-topped hot dogs, are a popular choice. If you're feeling adventurous, try their chilito, a unique menu item that is distinct from the more common gorito, which can be found on Taco Bell menus.

For those with a longer layover or a willingness to venture outside the airport, there are other options nearby. The airport express runs downtown every half hour, providing access to a wide range of restaurants and attractions. Buttermilk Pike, located off I-75 North of the airport, offers several nice restaurants and shopping areas. If you're looking for something more scenic, Rabbit Hash, KY, is a beautiful area along the river, and Newport, KY, boasts a great aquarium.

However, if you'd prefer to stay within the airport, there are plenty of other dining options available. The airport has a Wolfgang Puck restaurant, brewpubs, and several great bookstores. You can also grab a quick bite and a drink with a river view outside the airport, as recommended by a traveller looking to take a break from airports and planes.

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Head to Buttermilk Pike for restaurants and shopping

If you're looking for a place to eat or shop near the Cincinnati Airport, head to Buttermilk Pike, located off I-75 N of CVG. This area is known for its variety of restaurants and shopping options.

For a quick bite, you can try one of the many restaurants in the area, such as Guthrie's Chicken, which offers delicious American and fast-food options, including their famous chicken strips. Lucky Duck Pub is another great choice for American classics and a cosy pub atmosphere. If you're craving barbecue, City Barbeque is worth a visit, offering great food and fast service.

In the mood for something more international? Bistro Danielle, located in the Doubletree Hotel, serves up international cuisine and is just a short distance from the airport. Or, if you're looking for a familiar favourite, Starbucks is also located nearby on Terminal Drive.

When it comes to shopping, Buttermilk Pike has you covered as well. You'll find a variety of stores to browse, ranging from local boutiques to well-known brands. Whether you're looking for fashion, electronics, or souvenirs, you're sure to find something to suit your taste and needs.

So, if you have some time to spare before your flight or are looking for a place to eat and explore near the Cincinnati Airport, Buttermilk Pike is definitely worth the visit. With its array of dining and shopping options, you're sure to find something to enjoy and perhaps even pick up a souvenir or two!

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Check out the Creation Museum

If you're looking for something to do near Cincinnati Airport, why not check out the Creation Museum? Located in Petersburg, Kentucky, the museum is just a short drive from the airport, and is easily accessible by car, bus, or taxi.

The Creation Museum is a state-of-the-art facility operated by the Christian creation apologetics organization, Answers in Genesis. The museum promotes a young Earth creationist explanation of the origin of the universe, based on a literal interpretation of the Book of Genesis in the Bible. It is a great option for those interested in a unique and educational experience.

The museum offers a variety of exhibits and attractions that explore the organization's interpretation of the Genesis creation narrative. Visitors can learn about their take on the origin of the Earth, the universe, and life itself. The museum also features a variety of interactive and hands-on displays that engage and entertain guests of all ages.

In addition to the exhibits, the Creation Museum also offers a range of amenities and services to enhance your visit. There are several dining options available, including a Wolfgang Puck restaurant and brewpubs, as well as a variety of stores, including Brookstone and Brooks Brothers. The museum also offers easy access to nearby parks and scenic areas, providing a great opportunity to explore the local natural beauty.

Whether you're travelling with family or simply looking for a unique educational experience, the Creation Museum is definitely worth considering during your layover in Cincinnati. With its convenient location and engaging exhibits, you're sure to have a memorable and enriching experience.

Frequently asked questions

The Creation Museum, Devou Park, and Rabbit Hash, KY, a scenic area along the river, are all close to the airport. If you're willing to travel a little further, Newport, KY, has a great aquarium. Downtown Cincy, which is a 15-minute drive from the airport, also offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities.

Buttermilk Pike, which is off I-75 N of the airport, has several nice restaurants. There are also plenty of dining options at the airport itself, including a Wolfgang Puck restaurant, brewpubs, and a Gold Star Chili place where you can sample Cincinnati-style chili.

The Cincinnati airport has a variety of shops, including Brooks Brothers and Brookstone, as well as bookstores and a Bengals Bar & Kitchen.

Downtown Cincinnati is a 15-minute drive from the airport, and the airport express runs downtown every half hour.

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