Covington, Kentucky, is a vibrant city located directly across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, Ohio. Founded in 1815, Covington has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its architecture, museums, and attractions. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or outdoor recreation, there’s something for everyone in Covington. Here are the top 10 things to do in Covington in April 2024.
1. Visit the Behringer-Crawford Museum
The Behringer-Crawford Museum is a world-renowned art museum that houses over 20,000 works of art from around the world. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, and decorative arts. In April 2024, the museum will be hosting a special exhibition on the work of American artist Mary Cassatt. The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday, and admission is $12 for adults.
2. Take a Guided Tour of the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption
The Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. The cathedral was built in the late 19th century and is home to a number of beautiful stained glass windows, mosaics, and sculptures. Guided tours of the cathedral are available on weekdays, and admission is free. Reservations can be made online or via phone, and it is recommended to reserve a tour in advance to avoid any wait. Visitors should also be respectful of the religious nature of the place of worship.
3. Explore the Devou Park Art Museum
The Devou Park Art Museum is a free art museum that features a variety of contemporary and modern art. The museum is located in a beautiful park that offers stunning views of the Ohio River. In April 2024, the museum will be hosting a special exhibition on the work of local artist John Ruthven. The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday, and admission is free.
4. Visit the Goebel Park Carousel
The Goebel Park Carousel is a beautiful carousel that was built in 1917. The carousel features 54 hand-carved animals, and it is one of the few remaining carousels in the United States that is still in its original location. The carousel is open from April to October, and it costs $2 per ride.
5. Explore Covington’s Historic Districts
Covington is home to several historic districts that are filled with beautiful architecture. The most popular historic districts include the Licking Riverside Historic District, the MainStrasse Historic District, and the Old Seminary Square Historic District. These districts are a great place to take a stroll, admire the architecture, and learn about Covington’s history.
6. Visit the Braxton Brewing Company
The Braxton Brewing Company is a local brewery that offers a variety of craft beers. The brewery has a taproom where visitors can sample their beers and take a tour of the brewing process. The taproom is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and it offers a variety of food options.
7. Attend a Performance at the Aronoff Center for the Arts
The Aronoff Center for the Arts is a performing arts center that hosts a variety of shows, including Broadway musicals, concerts, and dance performances. In April 2024, the center will be hosting a performance of the Broadway musical “Hamilton.” Tickets for shows can be purchased online or via phone.
8. Visit the Newport Aquarium
The Newport Aquarium is a world-renowned aquarium that is located just across the river from Covington. The aquarium is home to a variety of marine animals, including sharks, penguins, and sea turtles. The aquarium also offers a variety of educational programs and exhibits. The aquarium is open from Monday to Sunday, and admission is $29.95 for adults.
9. Take a Walk or Bike Ride Along the Ohio River
The Ohio Riverfront in Covington is a beautiful place to take a walk or bike ride. The riverfront offers stunning views of the river and the Cincinnati skyline. There are also a number of parks and restaurants along the riverfront.
10. Visit the Northern Kentucky Convention Center
The Northern Kentucky Convention Center is a large convention center that hosts a variety of events, including trade shows, conventions, and concerts. In April 2024, the convention center will be hosting the Cincinnati Comic Expo. The comic expo will feature a variety of comic book vendors, artists, and celebrities. Admission to the comic expo is $30 for adults.
Culture
Covington is a culturally diverse city with a variety of attractions and events that celebrate its rich heritage. The city is home to a number of museums, art galleries, and theaters. Covington is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the MainStrasse Oktoberfest, the Devou Park Arts Fair, and the Worldfest-International Festival.
Best Months to Visit
The best time to visit Covington is during the spring (April and May) or fall (September and October) when the weather is mild. The summer months can be hot and humid, while the winter months can be cold and snowy.
Nearby Transportation
Covington is easily accessible by car, bus, and train. The city is served by the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), which is located just 10 miles from Covington. There are also a number of public transportation options available, including buses and trains. Covington is also served by the Southbank Shuttle, which provides free transportation between Covington and Cincinnati’s riverfront.
Local Food
Covington is home to a variety of restaurants that serve a variety of cuisines. Some of the most popular local dishes include goetta, a type of German sausage, and Cincinnati chili. Covington is also home to a number of craft breweries, including the Braxton Brewing Company and the Blank Slate Brewing Company.
Best Hotels
There are a number of hotels located in Covington. Some of the most popular hotels include the Hotel Covington, the Hampton Inn & Suites Covington, and the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Covington. These hotels offer a variety of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and parking.
Conclusion
Covington is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. The city is home to a number of attractions and events that are sure to appeal to visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or outdoor recreation, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in Covington. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Covington today!
