Tucked into Cincinnati’s bustling West End, TQL Stadium becomes more than a stage for global soccer—it’s a gateway to a city buzzing with character, culture, and Queen City charm that lingers well beyond the final whistle.
From street murals to craft breweries, and 19th-century architecture to gourmet hot dogs, the neighborhoods surrounding the stadium beat to their own eclectic rhythm. A pre-match stroll reveals unexpected corners that feel entirely local.
Whether it’s OTR’s historic pulse, the neon hum of Findlay Market, or an offbeat museum just blocks away, Cincinnati offers a matchday experience that extends past the pitch—if you know where to wander before the Club World Cup.
Explore Cincinnati’s historic Over-the-Rhine district
Just a short walk north of TQL Stadium, the Over-the-Rhine (OTR) neighborhood mixes 19th-century brick architecture with a new wave of indie boutiques, galleries, and craft beer halls.
A general view inside the stadium of fireworks during the MLS match between FC Cincinnati and New York Red Bulls at TQL Stadium on February 22, 2025. (Source: Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
The streets once built by German immigrants now house some of the city’s most dynamic spaces, from vintage shops to outdoor patios filled with local fans. Whether it’s sipping a cold IPA at Rhinegeist Brewery or admiring murals along Vine Street, OTR is where Cincinnati’s creative pulse beats loudest.
Findlay Market: A taste of Queen city flavor
Established in 1855, Findlay Market is Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market—and it still feels like the city’s pantry. Open Tuesday through Sunday, it offers a sensory tour of local produce, international bites, fresh meats, and artisan goods. Grab a Belgian waffle, try the empanadas at Areti’s Gyros, or simply wander the lively stalls between matches. It’s the perfect place to refuel with something uniquely Cincinnati.
Washington Park: Green space with civic soul
Across from Music Hall and a ten-minute walk from the stadium, Washington Park offers an open-air escape shaded by old-growth trees and buzzing with community energy. The park often hosts live music, food trucks, and events—especially during major happenings like the Club World Cup. It’s also home to the whimsical Cincinnati Toy Heritage sculptures, which make for great post-match photos.
Contemporary Arts Center and 21c Museum Hotel
For fans with a taste for the unexpected, downtown’s Contemporary Arts Center delivers bold, experimental exhibitions from global artists. Admission is free. Just across the street, the 21c Museum Hotel blends hospitality and art with rotating modern installations throughout its public spaces—yes, even the elevators. It’s a welcome detour from matchday crowds.
Take the streetcar loop
Cincinnati’s Connector streetcar is a free and easy way to get around the urban core. It runs in a 3.6-mile loop connecting downtown, the riverfront, and OTR—all within reach of TQL Stadium. For first-time visitors, it’s not just transportation, but a moving window into the city’s neighborhoods, culture, and game-day atmosphere.
