Cincinnati, the "Queen City of the West" is a beautiful city nestled on the banks of the Ohio River in the heart of America. Small town charm blends easily into big city amenities, producing one of the most comfortable places in our country to live. Greater Cincinnati-the eight-county, three - state region is home to over two million people.

Nearly everyone who comes to reside in Cincinnati finds the proper fit in one of the countless affordable and unique neighborhoods. Some choose to live in the more urban and cosmopolitan areas of town such as Mt. Adams or Downtown. Others prefer one of the many historic suburbs such as Hyde Park or Clifton, and still others move to newer or more rural areas such as Northern Kentucky or Eastgate. All of these places are located within minutes of the Medical Center, making commuting easy.

The safe, clean downtown area offers upscale shopping, inexpensive parking, and a variety of restaurants and museums. Our river parks and activities are a short walk from the downtown landmark, Fountain Square. The Reds (baseball's oldest franchise) have moved to their new Great American Ballpark home. The Cincinnati Bengals strive for a winning season in their new Paul Brown Stadium. The Cincinnati Cyclones (minor league hockey) use the US Bank arena for their venue. All sporting events are a few city blocks from Fountain Square, the center of Cincinnati.

The magnificently restored Cincinnati Music Hall is home to the Cincinnati Symphony, May Festival (oldest continuous coral festival in the US) and Cincinnati Opera, The Cincinnati Zoo, one of the country's most respected zoos is located one block from the Medical Center. Noted for the white Bengal tigers and reproduction of endangered species, the zoo provides activities for all seasons. The world of art can be enjoyed at the Taft Art Museum and the newly opened (5/31/03) Contemporary Arts Center both are located in our downtown area. The Cincinnati Art Museum located in beautiful Eden Park, has recently opened the American Wing and permanently eliminated admission charge.

A twenty-minute drive north of the city will take you to Paramount's Kings Island, the number one seasonal family amusement park. The park, noted for the well-kept grounds, has several nationally know roller coasters, including The Beast and Vortex.

Newport, our neighbor across the river is linked to Cincinnati by the pedestrian Purple People Bridge. The recently opened 'Newport on the Levee' provides an extensive complex of entertainment and restaurants. The most recent addition is the only Hofbrau Haus outside of Munich. Adjacent to the Levee is the Newport Aquarium known for the distinctive shark displays. The successful aquarium is currently expanding its species and viewing capacity.

Cincinnati has pride in a rich heritage and has much to offer. If fact, Cincinnati has incredible diversity in terms of culture, performing arts, education, family, nightlife, spectator sorts, music, and outdoor activity. It would take volumes to present all of Cincinnati's living amenities.

Photos Courtesy of Greater Cincinnati Convention and Visitors Bureau