Best attractions and places to see around Fort Thomas are situated on a bluff overlooking the Ohio River and Cincinnati, Ohio. This location provides scenic views and a rich historical background. The city offers a blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and community-focused attractions.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
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Weekends on nice days draws many folk that are walking on this part of the trail. Slowly is the best way to enjoy the Ohio River vistas this trail section provides.
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The Cincinnati Trailhead for the Ohio to Erie Trail is located at Smale Riverfront Park near downtown Cincinnati. It serves as the southern terminus of the 326-mile trail that traverses Ohio, connecting Cincinnati to Cleveland. This trailhead provides a nice starting point with amenities such as parking, restrooms, water fountains, and access to the scenic park on the Ohio River.
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Some people will use this as a starting / ending point
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The Ohio River Trail is a 22-mile trail from Smale Park in Cincinnati to New Richmond, Ohio. This section of the trail runs alongside downtown Cincinnati. It passes through several riverside parks and has many opportunities for a relaxed picnic spot next to the water.
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Wavy wall right along the northern banks of the Ohio River. This area is a popular spot to hang out near the river and have picnics. Great views of the various bridges that cross over into Kentucky.
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Scattered across the city of Cincinnati, you will find artfully decorated pig statues. These statues were first created in 2000 by local artists and schools in order to celebrate the history of the city as the pork capital of the US. At one time there had been over 400 different statues on display, but today only a handful still exist outside private collections. One of the best examples can be found near Sawyer Point and is named "Lucius Quinctus Pigasus".
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Scattered across the city of Cincinnati, you will find artfully decorated pig statues. These statues were first created in 2000 by local artists and schools in order to celebrate the history of the city as the pork capital of the US. At one time there had been over 400 different statues on display, but today only a handful still exist outside private collections. One of the best examples can be found near Sawyer Point and is named "Lucius Quinctus Pigasus".
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Wavy wall right along the northern banks of the Ohio River. This area is a popular spot to hang out near the river and have picnics. Great views of the various bridges that cross over into Kentucky.
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Fort Thomas is rich in history. You can explore the iconic Fort Thomas Tower, a 102-foot-tall stone water tower built in 1890, which symbolizes the community's heritage. The Fort Thomas Military and Community Museum, located in Tower Park, preserves the city's military roots and evolution with artifacts and exhibits. Additionally, you can discover the city's many historic homes, with over 160 residences that are at least 100 years old, some of which were former officers' quarters.
Yes, Fort Thomas offers several beautiful green spaces. Tower Park is an 86-acre central hub with walking trails, sports facilities, and stunning vistas of the Cincinnati skyline. Another cherished green space is Highland Hills Park, spanning 60 acres, offering peaceful walking paths, open areas for picnicking, a disc golf course, and dog park spaces. The city's location on a bluff also provides picturesque views of the Ohio River.
Families can enjoy various activities. Tower Park features a large playground and hosts community events like movie showings. The Serpentine Wall is a popular spot for picnics along the Ohio River, offering views of bridges. Near Fort Thomas, Smale Riverfront Park provides a family-friendly environment with views of the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge. You might also spot the fun Cincinnati Flying Pig Statues scattered across the city.
Fort Thomas is known for its scenic views. Tower Park offers stunning vistas of the Cincinnati skyline, especially beautiful at sunset. The city's position on a bluff overlooking the Ohio River provides picturesque river views. You can also enjoy views of the famous Cincinnati suspension bridge from Smale Riverfront Park, which is a short distance away.
Absolutely. Tower Park and Highland Hills Park both feature scenic walking trails. For longer excursions, the Ohio River Trail is a 22-mile path that runs alongside downtown Cincinnati, passing through several riverside parks. You can find more detailed routes and guides for easy hikes in the area, such as the Highland Hills Park Loop, on the Easy hikes around Fort Thomas guide.
Beyond its military history, Fort Thomas is home to Blue Marble Books, noted for having a re-creation of the main bedroom in 'Goodnight Moon' and recognized as one of the oldest children's bookstores in the nation. The city also hosts various community events throughout the year, including concerts and artisan craft shows, often held in Tower Park.
Yes, there are excellent cycling opportunities. The Ohio River Trail is suitable for cycling, offering a scenic ride along the river. Additionally, the Ohio To Erie Trail Trailhead in Smale Riverfront Park serves as the southern terminus for a much longer trail. For more cycling routes, check out the Cycling around Fort Thomas guide, which includes routes like the Little Miami Scenic Trail and the Ohio to Erie Trail.
Visitors particularly enjoy the scenic views and the relaxed atmosphere. The Serpentine Wall is a popular spot to hang out near the Ohio River and have picnics, offering great views of the bridges. The family-friendly parks, like Smale Riverfront Park, are appreciated for their picnic spots and views of the Cincinnati suspension bridge.
Several attractions in and around Fort Thomas offer good accessibility. The Serpentine Wall and the Cincinnati Flying Pig Statues are noted as wheelchair accessible. Many parks and trails, especially paved sections, are generally accessible, though it's always good to check specific trail conditions.
For runners, the area offers several options. The Ohio River Trail provides a scenic path along the river. You can find various running loops, such as the Serpentine Wall – Purple People Bridge loop, and the Cincinnati Water Works loop. More detailed routes and information are available in the Running Trails around Fort Thomas guide.
The best time to visit Fort Thomas attractions, especially for outdoor activities and enjoying the parks and scenic views, is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is pleasant. This allows for comfortable exploration of walking trails, picnics, and community events held outdoors.


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