Things To Do
in Highland Heights
Highland Heights is a small suburban city in northern Kentucky best known as the home of Northern Kentucky University and a quiet residential feel within easy reach of downtown Cincinnati. The town blends campus life, parks, and family neighborhoods, offering green spaces and convenient access to regional attractions along the Ohio River. Visitors find a calm base for exploring nearby Covington and Cincinnati while enjoying local eateries, university events, and scenic overlooks.
Highland Heights is compact and practical — more of a convenient hub than a stand-alone tourist destination, but it is well placed for short trips and outdoor activities in the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe, where you can savor freshly brewed coffee and delicious pastries. After breakfast, take a stroll through the charming streets of Highland Heights, admiring the historic architecture and quaint boutiques. Don’t forget to stop by the local farmer's market to pick up some fresh produce and handmade goods.
In the afternoon, visit the Highland Heights Historical Society Museum to learn about the rich local history through engaging exhibits. Afterward, take a walk in the nearby scenic park, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature and perhaps have a picnic lunch. As the afternoon winds down, explore some antique shops that showcase unique finds from the past.
As evening approaches, head to a local restaurant known for its farm-to-table cuisine, where you can enjoy a delicious dinner made with fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the town square, where you might catch a live music performance or local event. Conclude your evening with a drink at a cozy bar, soaking in the ambiance and mingling with locals.
Begin your day by packing a picnic basket filled with local treats and snacks before heading to one of the nearby nature trails. Enjoy the crisp morning air as you hike along scenic paths, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for various bird species and other wildlife that call this area home.
After working up an appetite, find a picturesque spot to lay out your picnic blanket and enjoy your delicious lunch surrounded by nature. Post-lunch, explore more of the trails, perhaps venturing off the beaten path to discover hidden gems and tranquil spots. Engage in some light hiking or simply relax and read a book while listening to the sounds of nature.
As the sun begins to set, make your way back to town and grab a casual dinner at a local pub known for its hearty fare. After dinner, if you’re up for it, join a guided night hike to experience the trails in a different light, learning about nocturnal wildlife. End the night by stargazing and enjoying the peacefulness of the great outdoors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (restaurant/bar) | $5-8 |
| 🚕Local transit / bus fare | $2-3 |
| ⛽Gas (per gallon) | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Cincinnati and its major attractions
- Quiet, safe suburban atmosphere with parks and green spaces
- Accessible regional transportation and a major nearby airport (CVG)
- University events and cultural activities year-round
- Limited standalone tourist attractions within the city itself
- Car is useful — public transit options are limited compared with a big city
- Summers can be hot and humid
- Nightlife and dining options are more plentiful across the river than locally
Places to Visit in Highland Heights
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of the Cincinnati skyline from wooded ridges and stone overlooks — excellent at sunrise or sunset.
Modern campus architecture, tree-lined paths, and seasonal foliage provide varied subjects for day-time photography.
Riverfront promenades, historic bridges (like the Roebling Suspension Bridge), and reflections of the city at golden hour.
Prairie landscapes, interpretive exhibits, and wildlife. Good for nature and macro photography during spring and fall.
Food in Highland Heights
Highland Heights Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A unique Mediterranean-spiced meat sauce served over spaghetti or hot dogs (try it 'three-way' or 'four-way'); find it at regional chili parlors across the metro area.
Must-Try!
Slow-smoked pork and ribs with tangy or sweet sauces — available at local BBQ joints and regional smokehouses.
Hearty Southern breakfasts are common at diners and local cafes near the university and residential neighborhoods.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A short drive across the river, this historic market features local produce, prepared foods, international vendors, and pop-up street-food stalls — great for sampling regional flavors.
Seasonal farmers markets and campus markets offer fresh produce, baked goods, and locally made snacks during spring–fall weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents are generally friendly and polite; use please and thank you, hold doors open, and expect casual small talk in service interactions.
Be mindful of campus rules and student life at Northern Kentucky University — follow posted signs and respect private events.
Local sports loyalties (Cincinnati teams) can be strong — friendly rivalry banter is common, but avoid aggressive arguments with strangers.
Safety
Tipping in Highland Heights
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is expected in the U.S.: typically 15–20% of the pre-tax bill at restaurants (20% for good service), $1–2 per drink at bars, and 10–15% for taxi/rideshare drivers if service is standard. Tip hotel staff and other service workers for luggage, housekeeping, and concierge assistance.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Carry some cash for small vendors or tipping. ATMs are available across the area, and major cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) are generally accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid, with temperatures often in the 80s–90s°F (late June–August). Expect thunderstorms; dress in breathable layers, stay hydrated, and plan outdoor activities in mornings/evenings.
Mild to cool with beautiful autumn foliage from late September to November — one of the best times for hiking and photography.
Cold with occasional snow and freezing temperatures; some ice or snow can impact driving. Dress warmly and check weather advisories for storms.
Variable weather with warming temperatures, blooming trees, and muddy trails; pleasant for outdoor walks and farmers markets by late spring.
Highland Heights at Night
Hiking in Highland Heights
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Close and convenient wooded and paved trails with scenic overlooks of the Cincinnati skyline; suitable for easy to moderate hikes and photography.
Trails through prairie and forest with opportunities to learn about ice-age fossils, wildlife viewing, and easy walking paths.
Riverfront paths and multiuse trails along the Ohio River in Covington and Cincinnati provide flat, scenic routes for walking, jogging, and cycling.
Airports
How to reach Highland Heights by plane.
The primary regional airport located in Hebron, KY, ~15–25 minutes' drive from Highland Heights depending on traffic. Offers domestic and some international flights, rental cars, shuttles, and rideshare access — the most convenient air gateway.
A smaller downtown Cincinnati airport primarily serving general aviation and limited commercial flights; useful for charter flights or private pilots and about 30–40 minutes by car depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Northern Kentucky University brings a sizable population of students, faculty, and campus staff, creating a younger demographic and seasonal activity linked to the academic calendar.
Many suburban families live in Highland Heights and surrounding communities, valuing schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities.
A portion of residents commute to Cincinnati or other nearby employment centers for work, contributing to weekday traffic patterns.
A smaller but present group of older adults who appreciate the quieter residential neighborhoods and local services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Northern Kentucky University fields competitive basketball and other collegiate teams that attract local fans, especially during basketball season.
Major League Baseball's Cincinnati Reds have a regional following — game days draw visitors from across Northern Kentucky.
NFL fandom (Cincinnati Bengals) and local high school football are popular community sports with strong weekend interest during the season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Highland Heights.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly common, especially at cafes and city restaurants. Call ahead for specific menus in smaller suburban eateries; larger restaurants and markets will usually have at least a few plant-based dishes.
Many restaurants offer gluten-free options; indicate your needs clearly and ask staff about cross-contamination if you have celiac disease. Chain restaurants typically list allergen info online.
Dedicated halal or kosher restaurants are limited in the immediate Highland Heights area — you may need to travel into Cincinnati for larger, more diverse options.