Lakeside Park KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Lakeside Park, Kentucky.
1. Kenton County Public Library
MODERN LOCAL LIBRARY
Kenton County Public Library in Erlanger offers visitors a spacious, modern setting with an impressive selection of books and multimedia resources. Interactive children's areas and community programs make it a hub for local families and lifelong learners alike. The library also features technology services and comfortable study spaces for work or quiet relaxation.
2. Vent Haven Museum
VENTRILOQUISM UNIQUE MUSEUM
Vent Haven Museum is the world's only museum dedicated to ventriloquism, presenting an eccentric and fascinating collection of over 900 ventriloquist dummies. Located in Fort Mitchell, it provides a glimpse into stage art history, famous performers, and rare artifacts. Guided tours share engaging stories and insights into this quirky entertainment tradition.
3. Pioneer Park
EXPANSIVE COMMUNITY PARK
Pioneer Park is a large, well-maintained park in Covington that offers walking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds for families and friends to enjoy. Picnic shelters and natural landscapes provide relaxing options for gatherings and casual outdoor activities. The park is also known for its seasonal events and community activities.
4. Doe Run Lake Park
SCENIC LAKESIDE RETREAT
Doe Run Lake Park features a tranquil lake surrounded by wooded trails, perfect for birdwatching, fishing, and hiking. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a quiet getaway just minutes from the city. The park's natural beauty shines in every season, offering visitors scenic views and wildlife encounters.
5. Devou Park
HILLSIDE CITY PARK
Devou Park is a sprawling urban park perched on Covington's hills, known for its panoramic overlooks of the Cincinnati skyline and the Ohio River. Visitors can enjoy golf, biking, hiking trails, and the cultural draw of the Behringer-Crawford Museum located on site. The park's amphitheater and gardens are popular for community events and outdoor concerts.
6. Behringer-Crawford Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Behringer-Crawford Museum, nestled within Devou Park, showcases northern Kentucky's history, culture, and natural sciences through interactive displays. Exhibits include local archaeology, river transportation, and hands-on children's experiences. The museum hosts engaging educational programs and is a favorite destination for families and history buffs.
7. Crescent Springs Park
QUIET NEIGHBORHOOD GREEN
Crescent Springs Park offers a serene space with playgrounds, walking paths, and well-kept gardens in the suburban community of Crescent Springs. Its grassy lawns and shaded picnic areas make it ideal for family outings or peaceful afternoon strolls. The park hosts seasonal activities that bring the local community together.
8. General Ormsby Mitchel Park
HISTORIC LOCAL PLAYGROUND
General Ormsby Mitchel Park is a beloved neighborhood spot in Fort Mitchell, providing ample green space, tennis courts, and a well-equipped playground. Its historical namesake adds character, while walking trails and picnic shelters attract visitors year-round. Community events and sports leagues are a regular sight at this family-friendly park.
9. Ludlow Lagoon Park
RIVERFRONT RECREATION AREA
Ludlow Lagoon Park is a picturesque riverside area that offers walking trails and open spaces with views of the Ohio River. Once the site of a historic amusement park, it now provides a peaceful setting for picnicking, fishing, and enjoying sunsets over the water. The park's gentle ambiance makes it a hidden gem along the riverbank.
10. Florence Nature Park
NATURAL WOODLAND ESCAPE
Florence Nature Park presents quiet wooded trails, scenic ponds, and native wildlife habitats just a short drive from Lakeside Park. Visitors can explore walking paths, picnic shelters, and butterfly gardens nestled among mature trees. The park's tranquil environment is ideal for nature walks, photography, and intimate gatherings.
11. Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
ART DECO LANDMARK MUSEUM
The Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal is an iconic Art Deco building that houses multiple museums, including the Museum of Natural History & Science and the Cincinnati History Museum. This family-friendly attraction offers interactive exhibits, an OMNIMAX theater, and fascinating architecture to explore. Its proximity across the river makes it a top day-trip destination for visitors to Lakeside Park.
12. Newport Aquarium
RIVERFRONT MARINE ADVENTURE
Newport Aquarium is a premier regional destination where guests can encounter thousands of aquatic species, including sharks, rays, and penguins. The immersive tunnels and interactive touch pools offer educational thrills for all ages. Its location at Newport on the Levee provides easy access to shopping and dining along the river.
13. Ohio River Trail
SCENIC CYCLING ROUTE
The Ohio River Trail is a 22-mile multi-use path stretching from Smale Riverfront Park in Cincinnati to New Richmond, Ohio, ideal for biking and walking. The trail winds along the riverbank, offering beautiful views, public art, and access to parks and waterfront attractions. Cyclists and joggers appreciate its flat, well-maintained surfaces and vibrant urban-river scenery.
14. Smale Riverfront Park
VIBRANT RIVERFRONT OASIS
Smale Riverfront Park is a modern urban park located along the Ohio River, featuring interactive fountains, play areas, and lush gardens. With sweeping views of the Kentucky and Ohio skylines, it is a favorite spot for walking, picnicking, and special events. The park regularly hosts concerts, festivals, and fitness classes in a scenic downtown setting.
15. MainStrasse Village
HISTORIC GERMAN DISTRICT
MainStrasse Village is a charming historic neighborhood in Covington, known for its picturesque 19th-century architecture, eclectic shops, and thriving nightlife. Cobblestone streets lead visitors past cozy cafes, art galleries, and vibrant festivals that celebrate the area's German heritage. Its unique atmosphere makes it one of the region's most walkable and photogenic districts.