Our cyclist created a tour that you can opt in and out of depending on your two-wheel timidity, interest in specific sites and fitness level. See beautiful parks from the safety of a path, bustling downtown with regular traffic and cool Kentucky communities across the river. For each destination, we’ll tell you what you can view from the bike and where to take a break and visit. Ready? Let’s go!

First things first: Grab some wheels! The bike-sharing system Red Bike is inexpensive and allows you the freedom to drop off the bike at one of its numerous kiosks around town if you get waylaid at a brewery and decide to Lyft home. If you’re finicky about your ride or have kids with you, there are a few Cincinnati bike shops that rent bikes by the day. There is even a Segway rental! Don’t forget to review local laws before you get going.

We start our tour in Smale Riverfront Park, the western-most of a chain of parks dividing downtown Cincinnati from the river. Smale is a beautiful city park with gardens, fountains and interactive play areas that are fun for all ages. Its installations pay homage to the culture, history and industry of Cincinnati, making it the perfect entrance to the Queen City. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Paul Brown Stadium and Great American Ball Park are all here, and whether or not you’ve got kids with you, Carol Ann’s Carousel is a highlight of the park.

VIEW: John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, Paul Brown Stadium, Great American Ball Park

VISIT: Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame & Museum, National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Carol Ann’s Carousel

NEXT STOP: Fountain Square. If you’re confident city riding, let’s head north through downtown or head east along the river and we will pick back up with you at the eastern riverfront parks.

At the heart of downtown is Fountain Square, a busy city square surrounded by shops, restaurants and offices. Pause here to admire the 19th-century Tyler Davidson Fountain by sculptor August von Kreling. The Square is also a community gathering space with public events happening many days a week. Park the bike and you’ll find the Contemporary Arts Center and Carew Tower mere strolls away.

VIEW: Tyler Davidson Fountain, food fairs or happenings in the Square

VISIT: Contemporary Arts Center, Carew Tower

NEXT STOP: Washington Park