Over-The Rhine - Cincinnati, OH

Over-the-Rhine has a rich heritage, beginning with the diverse immigrant groups that called the neighborhood home in the early 19th century. Central Parkway, the road separating Over-the-Rhine from downtown Cincinnati, was once the site of the Miami and Erie Canal. Reminded of the Rhine River in their German homeland, immigrants dubbed this neighborhood just north of the canal "Over-the-Rhine." The neighborhood teemed with industry during the 1800s, and breweries lined the streets of the community.

The mid- to late-1900s led to a decline in population and industry throughout the neighborhood. Poverty and crime grew, and Over-the-Rhine became an area avoided by most Cincinnatians. The 21st century has brought a renaissance to the area, however, as developers and community leaders bring Over-the-Rhine back to its former glory. New apartment developments, upscale restaurants, annual festivals and a return of craft breweries have all contributed to the neighborhood's dramatic upturn.

Dining and nightlife in Over-the-Rhine exude a personal, creative touch. Locally owned restaurants line Over-the-Rhine's Vine and Main Streets. Whether you're looking for fresh sushi, fried chicken or classic diner fare, this neighborhood has an option for you.

For the best fried chicken in town, don't miss The Eagle. Locals rave about the wide selection of craft beers on tap, along with a menu that packs a punch. Order a whole fried chicken to share with friends, or give the fried chicken sandwich a try. Be sure to try the spicy honey. Pair your chicken with spoonbread, succotash or white cheddar grits.

For an authentic breakfast waffle, give Taste of Belgium a try. Serving up Belgian waffles and crepes, this restaurant offers a taste of Europe right on Vine Street in Over-the-Rhine. Locals can't get enough of the meticulously crafted lattes and cappuccinos. Taste of Belgium's 'Nati crepe comes stuffed with egg, goetta, roasted peppers, onions and havarti.

When it comes to nightlife, Over-the-Rhine's bars and entertainment venues attract visitors from all over the city. With some of the most popular bars in Cincinnati, Over-the-Rhine is a nightlife destination. Don't miss the live entertainment and lively atmosphere at Japp's and MOTR Pub on Main Street. Just down the block, sip on specialty cocktails and play bocce ball on the outdoor patio at The Famous Neons Unplugged. For a more relaxed atmosphere, head north on Elm Street to Rhinegeist Brewery, located in a historic pre-Prohibition brewery building. Rhinegeist offers plenty of beers on tap, and a few food trucks usually park outside on weekends during summer months.

Residents find Over-the-Rhine to be an extremely pedestrian-friendly neighborhood. Most of the restaurants and shops in the community can be accessed within a few short blocks. Pick up a fresh-baked donut at Holtman's, admire the Cincinnati Artworks murals, and enjoy the sights and sounds of Washington Park, all on a short morning walk. Cyclists find the neighborhood easy to navigate as well. Many streets have dedicated bike lanes, and bike racks are widely available. Over-the-Rhine even offers bike rental stations, called Red Bikes, with dozens of locations throughout the surrounding area.

Drivers can find it challenging to park in Over-the-Rhine's busiest streets. While ample affordable street parking is available, most areas fill up fast on evenings and weekends. Washington Park does offer a large parking garage – just be prepared to walk a few blocks after parking. The neighborhood lies within a mile of both Interstate 71 and 75, making travel to other neighborhoods in the city fast and convenient.

For people planning to use public transportation, Cincinnati's metro bus SORTA provides plenty of routes connecting Over-the-Rhine to most other parts of the city. During weekend evenings, you may be able to hail a cab near popular bars and entertainment venues, but calling a taxi service ahead works best. Uber also offers service in Over-the-Rhine.

In the heart of Over-the-Rhine, Washington Park attracts visitors of all ages for its events, entertainment and fun facilities. This free park welcomes both children and dogs, with a large dog park where your furry friends can run off-leash. A children's playground and splash garden provide plenty of fun for the little ones.

Washington Park hosts some of the neighborhood's most popular events, including a free summer music series featuring local talent from around the city. The crowning event of the summer, LumenoCity, is part music festival, part light-show spectacular. This collaboration with the Cincinnati Symphony and Pops Orchestra attracts 35,000 people to the park each year.

For fitness buffs, Central Parkway YMCA provides plenty of fitness equipment and classes at an affordable rate. Downtown professionals and Over-the-Rhine residents alike flock to the Central Parkway Y for its convenient proximity to both downtown and the neighborhood.

Costs in Over-the-Rhine range from affordable to luxurious, with the average cost of living generally reflecting city averages. Though housing prices can vary radically, the average one-bedroom rental rate in the neighborhood sits at $732 a month. Rental options in Over-the-Rhine range from small inexpensive units to luxury lofts overlooking the most popular restaurants and parks. When it comes to dining, residents also find a wide range of options. You can expect to pay between $4 and $6 for a pint of beer at local pubs.

Public transportation remains affordable in Over-the-Rhine. A ticket on the SORTA metro bus to downtown or other central neighborhoods costs $1.75. For drivers, gas prices generally reflect city and national averages.

Over-the-Rhine includes plenty of shopping options for residents, especially a wide selection of small, independent boutiques. Options in the area range from high-value to upscale, with something for everyone's taste and budget.

When it comes to grocery shopping, a small Kroger serves Over-the-Rhine. On the northern edge of the neighborhood, Findlay Market also offers a wide selection of locally grown food and baked goods for shoppers. The state's oldest continuously operated public market, Findlay Market has been serving the neighborhood since 1852.

For all the best art supplies, picture frames and custom art services, stop into Suder's Art Store on Vine Street. Suder's has been an Over-the-Rhine staple since the 1930s. Browse the historic shop's collection of paint, paper and brushes. Ask the staff about custom services, such as framing, cutting and book binding.

For a collection of products and gifts as unique as the neighborhood itself, check out Park + Vine. Calling itself "Cincinnati's green general store," the shop offers a variety of environmentally friendly, organic and hand-made items from local artists around the city. From books and home decor to clothing and baby items, this shop has something special for everyone.