Complete with water features and scenic gardens, the Smale Riverfront Park is immediately adjacent to The Banks. Celebrating its grand opening in spring of 2012, the 50-acre park is being constructed and overseen by the Cincinnati Park Board. In addition to lawn space, there are walking and biking paths connected to the city’s other parks east of downtown, and an expanded public landing and overlook along the Ohio River – right where our historic city all began more than two centuries ago.

Bikes can be rented in the Park near the Walnut Street Fountain & Steps, adjacent to The Banks.

Public art features include a monument to Cincinnati’s little-known Black Brigade. The Black Brigade was formed by more than 700 African-American men in 1862 to construct barricades to defend Cincinnati from Confederate attack.

The Park’s Schmidlapp Stage & Event Lawn is located on the south side of The Banks, and will feature daily programming suitable for every age and interest. Programming is coordinated directly by the Parks, and public events can be accessed via our Events Page or at the Smale Riverfront Park .

The Moerlein Lager House

The Moerlein Lager House by Christian Moerlein Brewing Company celebrates Cincinnati’s beer brewing heritage by brewing craft beers on site, and offering expansive indoor dining and outdoor “biergartens” for guests.

With The Banks immediately adjacent to this riverfront playground, a visit to Cincinnati’s front door has never been more compelling!

Bicycle Rentals

Bike Rentals are available near the Walnut Street Fountain adjacent to The Banks. Bike rentals are managed by the Cincinnati Parks Board.