Located on the eastern side of the city, just a few miles from Downtown, Hyde Park is a gem among Cinccinati’s neighborhoods. It’s one of the city’s most charming and desirable enclaves and is celebrated for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant urban lifestyle. The community’s accessible location not only makes commutes easy but also gives residents a more relaxed escape from the bustling city center.
Founded in the late 19th century as a haven for the city’s elite, Hyde Park has blossomed into a dynamic community that promises a wealth of amenities that spark joy when living here. To learn more, take a look at the best things to do and see in Hyde Park below.
CAFES
The first thing that usually comes to mind when discussing must-visit spots in a neighborhood is its coffee shops. In Hyde Park, you can forget your predictable chain lattes and run-of-the-mill pastries because its café scene is made up of quirky independent shops, each with its own loyal following. Here, caffeine is an experience – not just a jolt.
There are several great coffee shops in the neighborhood, but if you need to get out of your home to get some work done, then this is the place. Thoughtfully designed for everyone to sit and stay for a while, Awakenings Coffee Roasters’ focus on hospitality makes it a cozy spot to get caffeinated. The outdoor area is reminiscent of an Italian al fresco café with its beautiful outdoor furniture.
What to get
Awakenings Coffee Roasters uses premium beans, all of which are locally sourced and roasted. You’ll always get top-tier coffee, no matter which one you choose. Try their drip coffee if you want your cuppa Joe unadulterated but you may also request to have your drink customized with your favorite add-ins.
Coffee Emporium’s origins date back to 1973, making it Ohio’s oldest-running coffee shop and a true Hyde Park gem. Located in a charming Victorian house in the heart of Hyde Park, it’s a quintessential neighborhood café where you visit to catch up with friends or just hang out by yourself. The Coffee Emporium is renowned for its amazing coffee beans which they source directly from smallholder farmers from across the world.
What to get
While Coffee Emporium’s brews always take center stage, their pastries also deserve attention. Choose from a lineup of freshly baked treats like their lemon poppyseed, sweet Danish, or blueberry muffins. If you’re looking for filling meals, they offer all-day breakfast options that include homemade bagels, breakfast burritos, and salad bowls.
The best way to start your day is by pairing your cuppa Joe with a good hearty breakfast. And there’s no better spot to get it than in this iconic neighborhood staple. As it approaches its 80th year in operation, Echo Restaurant remains as relevant as it was when it opened in 1945. This is mainly due to their no-frills approach to their offerings. When you come here, you get simple yet delicious comfort food – nothing more, nothing less.
What to get
Echo continues to be a beloved fixture, not just for the delicious food but for the portions they come in, especially among the breakfast items. Bonnie’s Bounty is a definite must-try. It comes with eggs made the way you want it, sausages, crispy home fries, and a side dish of biscuits and gravy.
RESTAURANTS
Hyde Park’s selection of restaurants runs the entire gamut – from small neighborhood eateries to fine dining options. Whether you’re coming in for a quick bite or opting for a fancy spot for a special occasion, there’s plenty to choose from.
When you have a good thing going, it’s best not to mess with it – this Hyde Park institution has kept its loyal diners because of this. Arthur’s has been serving good old-fashioned burgers with the same grilling methods they’ve been using since 1947. This burger spot’s interiors are reminiscent of a scene from an old Americana movie: tiled floors, red leather dining booths, and the sizzle of patties on the grill.
What to get
The first thing you should get are the burgers, of course. Their legendary patties are juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection, nestled between buttery, toasted buns. But Arthur’s isn’t just a one-hit-wonder. There are other options from the menu to choose from that feature an array of American classic fare like fried chicken, mac and cheese, and chili.
Alfio Buon Cibo is always on every Cincinnatian’s bucket list and it never fails to live up to expectations. Owned and operated by Chef Alfio Gulisano, the upscale restaurant combines flavors of his Italian heritage with the spices and techniques of his Argentinian upbringing. The result is a truly unique and delicious dining experience.
What to get
The menu features a wide variety of dishes, each just as delicious as the last, so there’s no wrong choice. Think slow-braised Angus beef and cheese stuffed in freshly made ravioli, coated in a rich marinara sauce, then topped with their five-cheese blend. For seafood lovers, check out their flaky, pistachio-crusted salmon, served over butternut squash and grilled asparagus. Alfio Buon Cibo also offers a six-course tasting menu for those milestone occasions.
Led by renowned restaurateur Jeff Ruby, The Precinct is more than an upscale steakhouse – it’s a living piece of the city’s culinary history. It’s the city’s longest-running fine-dining restaurant, and it’s easy to see why. The location itself makes it worth the visit. Housed in an old police station, The Precinct exudes an air of refined sophistication that feels both timeless and contemporary.
What to get
The star of The Precinct is, undoubtedly, the steak. Dry-aged to perfection, each cut arrives on your plate with an outstanding depth of flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Whether you choose the bone-in New York strip, the juicy filet mignon, or the decadent Wagyu ribeye, every bite is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality.
BARS
While not as high-octane as Downtown Cincinnati’s, Hyde Park’s nightlife scene is anything but dull. It has its brand of charm, featuring intimate bars, hidden music gems, and unexpected delights that will leave you wanting more. Here are some of the best watering holes in the area.
Taking a trip to Unwind is one of the best things to do in Hyde Park if you’re looking for a classy way to cap a long day. Tucked among boutique shops and cafes near Hyde Park Square, this wine bar offers a serene al fresco setting for wine lovers and casual drinkers. While it’s not the oldest in the city, it’s definitely in the running. It has consistently been featured in various publications like Cincinnati Magazine and more.
What to get
Unwind features an impressive wine list so you’re bound to find something that suits your taste. The selection boasts a global bounty, including bold California Cabernets, crisp New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs, and elegant Italian Chiantis; as well as lesser-known gems from emerging regions. If you’re not sure what to get, ask the staff for great recommendations.
Living in Hyde Park lets you enjoy the classic British pub experience without the need to take a trip across the pond. The Pub at Rookwood Commons is an English pub-themed watering hole, complete with plush leather booths, exposed brick walls, dark wood accents, and dim lighting. It’s a haven for craft beer enthusiasts or those just looking for a great place to hang out with friends.
What to get
No trip to The Pub is complete without raising a pint. Their extensive tap list boasts an ever-rotating selection of local and regional craft beers. Whichever you pick, a cold pint is always best enjoyed with hearty portions of classic English fare. For the complete experience, order their succulent fish and chips.
Zip’s Café is to Cincinnati as The Bill and Finch Pub is to Boston. This burger joint and watering hole was first opened in 1953 and it has been a cherished neighborhood institution ever since. Unlike newer hangout spots, Zip’s isn’t fancy but that’s precisely its charm. The walls are adorned with faded sports memorabilia and local artwork, telling stories of the countless regulars who’ve passed through these doors.
What to get
Zip’s menu is concise which shows its focus on doing two things and doing them right: burgers and cocktails. The signature “Train Wreck” is a legend in itself – a monstrous combination of two beef patties, melted cheese, bacon, ham, fried egg, and Zip’s special sauce.
SHOPS AND SPECIALTY STORES
One of the main highlights and best things to do in Hyde Park is shopping. Head over to Hyde Park Square, Cincinnati’s shopping mecca, and you’ll find an array of locally owned boutiques tucked in Victorian-era buildings. They range from high-end fashion stores to art galleries.
Bold-colored rompers, petite pant suits, patterned dresses – Alligator Purse specializes in beautiful pieces for fashion-forward women. Its expertly curated collection is tight but it features top contemporary fashion houses and rising independent designers, ensuring there’s a healthy mix of styles during every stock rotation.
Sustainable fashion is at the core of this Soho-style boutique’s ethos. Jacob James offers pre-loved designer statement pieces with a collection boasting several well-known brands like Gucci, Dior, Louis Vuitton, and more. Aside from bags, purses, and wallets, you’ll also find a beautiful selection of rare, vintage jewelry.
Looking for art pieces that will add character to your new home? Gallery 708 has you covered. This artist-run venue has become a popular space where rising artists in the region get the opportunity to showcase their work and art enthusiasts can purchase new additions to their collection.
PARKS AND CULTURAL LANDMARKS
Hyde Park isn’t Hyde Park without its lovely green spaces and other local attractions. Take a look at the places where locals go to relax or learn something new.
Larz Anderson Park
Picture a verdant space perched atop a hill, overlooking the majestic Ohio River and the rest of Cincinnati – that’s Larz Anderson Park. Though small in size compared to its other city counterparts, this nine-acre gem allows visitors to take in breathtaking views from high above the city.
The vistas from the Cincinnati Observatory are stunning, particularly during the evening. Located on top of Mount Lookout, this 19th-century landmark is the oldest public observatory in the country. It houses vintage telescopes from the early days of the observatory that remain functioning to this day. Join a guided tour to learn about the wonders of the universe and gaze at the stars through these old but powerful telescopes.
Bernheim House
Built in 1912 for prominent businessman Morris Bernheim and his wife, Delia, the house is a prime example of Colonial Revival architecture that showcases classic lines, symmetrical proportions, and exquisite detailing. While the house itself is not always open to the public, the exterior and surrounding gardens are worth exploring.
If you’re only going to choose one landmark to visit, it should be the Mushroom House on Erie Avenue because pictures don’t do it justice. Designed by local architect Terry Brown, this one-bedroom property may stand out like a sore thumb in the neighborhood but in the best way possible. Intentionally misshapen, it looks like a house plucked straight out of a fairytale book.
EXPLORE TOP-TIER REAL ESTATE IN HYDE PARK, CINCINNATI
Turn your dream of living in Hyde Park into reality by working with our expert team at the Johnson Real Estate Group. Our boutique real estate company specializes in buying and selling a wide range of premium properties in Cincinnati and other coveted locales in Ohio and Kentucky.
Led by top Realtor Don Johnson, we bring the full extent of our knowledge, skills, and experience to the table. With a deep understanding of the local real estate market and a commitment to excellence, we are dedicated to turning your real estate journey into a quick, seamless, and rewarding experience.
Ready to start house hunting in Hyde Park? Get in touch with the Johnson Real Estate Group today! Call us at 888.763.7575 or send us an email here.