WORTH THE DRIVE: Cincinnati river banks to transform into snowy winter wonderland this weekend

Downtown Cincinnati riverfront and skyline. Source: Shutterstock

Downtown Cincinnati riverfront and skyline. Source: Shutterstock

Imagine downtown Cincinnati’s riverfront transformed into a magical winter wonderland.

This weekend, a new event series Snow Banks at the Banks will debut. Every weekend in January, expect snow-themed activities including "snow blizzard" special effects, a 50-foot snow tub run, sledding, a ski lodge style cocktail lounge and more.

>> The best places to go snow tubing near Dayton

Cincinnati's ferris wheel along the river banks. Source: Shutterstock

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THE ATTRACTIONS

- The Frisch’s Big Boy Snow Tube Run, a 50-foot long snow

tube ramp at SkyStar Wheel Snow Park

- SkyStar Wheel rides for purchase (not included with regular admission)

- Joe’s Snow Ride, a snow sledding hill on Joe Nuxhall Way

- Snow blizzards for snow selfies on the half hour on Freedom

Way

- The Frontgate Snow Lounge with cocktails on Freedom Way

- Horse carriage rides courtesy of the 2020 Cincinnati Auto

Expo

- Cincinnati Cyclones hockey skill challenges

- Ice sculpture carvings on Crosley Terrace at Great American

Ball Park

- An Ice Bar at Galla Park with s’mores

- Acoustic performances at Moerlein Lager House

- Beer gardens on Freedom Way

>> The best places to go sledding in and around Dayton

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

The winter wonderland will be set up along Freedom Way between Joe Nuxhall and Walnut streets. The event happening weekends only beginning Jan. 3 and ending Jan. 26.

Tickets are $5 for a wristband and can be purchased in advance at eventbrite. Tickets can be redeemed at Street Corner Market for a wristband at The Banks, 160 Walnut Street. Waivers are required as well.

More info: Facebook

Friday hours are 5-9 p.m., Saturday hours are noon to 8 p.m. and Sunday hours are noon to 6 p.m.

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