Best attractions and places to see around Highland Heights include a mix of natural riverfront areas, historical landmarks, and recreational facilities. The region offers diverse outdoor experiences, from scenic trails along the Ohio River to unique man-made structures. Its proximity to urban centers provides access to both local points of interest and broader cultural attractions. Visitors can explore a variety of settings, from tranquil natural preserves to active recreational spaces.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
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Weekends on nice days draws many folk that are walking on this part of the trail. Slowly is the best way to enjoy the Ohio River vistas this trail section provides.
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The Cincinnati Trailhead for the Ohio to Erie Trail is located at Smale Riverfront Park near downtown Cincinnati. It serves as the southern terminus of the 326-mile trail that traverses Ohio, connecting Cincinnati to Cleveland. This trailhead provides a nice starting point with amenities such as parking, restrooms, water fountains, and access to the scenic park on the Ohio River.
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Some people will use this as a starting / ending point
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The Ohio River Trail is a 22-mile trail from Smale Park in Cincinnati to New Richmond, Ohio. This section of the trail runs alongside downtown Cincinnati. It passes through several riverside parks and has many opportunities for a relaxed picnic spot next to the water.
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Scattered across the city of Cincinnati, you will find artfully decorated pig statues. These statues were first created in 2000 by local artists and schools in order to celebrate the history of the city as the pork capital of the US. At one time there had been over 400 different statues on display, but today only a handful still exist outside private collections. One of the best examples can be found near Sawyer Point and is named "Lucius Quinctus Pigasus".
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Scattered across the city of Cincinnati you will find artfully decorated pig statues. These statues were first created in 2000 by local artists and schools in order to celebrate the history of the city as the pork capital of the US. At one time there had been over 400 different statues on display, but today only a handful still exist outside of private collections. One of the best examples can be found near Sawyer Point and is named "Lucius Quinctus Pigasus".
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Great family-friendly park near the Ohio River. There are plenty of places to have a picnic, or enjoy the views of the famous Cincinnati suspension bridge.
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Wavy wall right along the northern banks of the Ohio River. This area is a popular spot to hang out near the river and have picnics. Great views of the various bridges that cross over into Kentucky.
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Highland Heights and its surroundings offer several family-friendly spots. You can visit the Serpentine Wall, a popular spot for picnics along the Ohio River with views of bridges. Smale Riverfront Park, which offers views of the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, is also great for families. The Cincinnati Flying Pig Statues are a fun, artistic scavenger hunt for kids. For active fun, the Highland Heights Community Park features a nature trail, jungle gym, and a zero-entry swimming pool, while the Sky Zone Trampoline Park offers indoor entertainment.
The region boasts several natural highlights. Explore Ohio River Trail for scenic walks along the river. Nearby, you can discover Buttermilk Falls, a 10-foot waterfall, or enjoy a relaxing walk and wildlife observation at Lower Shaker Lake. Chapin Forest Reservation offers beautiful trails through mature oak and maple trees, with scenic viewpoints. Oxbow Lagoon provides picturesque views, especially in autumn, and the expansive North Chagrin Reservation features parks and trails along the Chagrin River.
Yes, a notable historical landmark close to Highland Heights is Squire's Castle, a unique gatehouse built in the 1890s and modeled after European castles, popular for picnics. The Cincinnati Flying Pig Statues also represent a piece of local history, celebrating Cincinnati's past as a pork capital.
You'll find various hiking opportunities. The Ohio River Trail offers a 22-mile path through riverside parks. For more dedicated hiking, consider routes like the Pride Park Nature Trail, Trillium Valley and Moon Trail Loop, or the Highland Hills Park Loop. You can find more details and routes in the Hiking around Highland Heights guide.
Absolutely. Many trails in the area are considered easy. Options include the Pride Park Nature Trail, Trillium Valley and Moon Trail Loop, and the Black Squirrel and Bluebird Trails Loop. The Ohio River Trail also offers easy sections perfect for a relaxed stroll. For a comprehensive list of easy routes, check out the Easy hikes around Highland Heights guide.
Cyclists can enjoy the Ohio To Erie Trail Trailhead, which marks the southern terminus of a 326-mile trail. Other popular cycling routes include the Ramblin' River Bike Tour and various loops like the Purple People Bridge – Ohio River Trail loop. More cycling options can be found in the Cycling around Highland Heights guide.
Yes, several attractions are noted for their accessibility. The Serpentine Wall and Cincinnati Flying Pig Statues are generally wheelchair accessible. Lower Shaker Lake features a scenic asphalt trail that connects to the 6-mile Lake-to-Lakes Trail, providing accessible walking opportunities.
Highland Heights offers excellent recreational facilities. The Highland Heights Community Park spans 35 acres and includes baseball/softball fields, newly renovated tennis and pickleball courts, and a zero-entry swimming pool. Golf enthusiasts can visit Stonewater Golf Club or Airport Greens Golf Course, both offering 18-hole courses.
The best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, with autumn providing particularly picturesque views at places like Oxbow Lagoon due to fall foliage. Summer is ideal for enjoying the Highland Heights Community Park's pool and other outdoor recreational sites. Winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing at Chapin Forest Reservation.
Absolutely. The Serpentine Wall is a popular spot for picnics along the Ohio River. Smale Riverfront Park also provides many places for picnics with views of the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge. The Ohio River Trail passes through several riverside parks, offering numerous opportunities for a relaxed picnic next to the water.
Yes, Lower Shaker Lake is a great place to observe wildlife and enjoy a relaxing walk in a natural oasis. The various nature preserves and parks, such as Chapin Forest Reservation and North Chagrin Reservation, also provide habitats for local wildlife, making them good spots for nature observation.
While not exactly hidden, Squire's Castle offers a unique architectural experience with its castle-like structure in a natural setting. Buttermilk Falls, with its narrow, carved rock channel and wooden overlook, is another distinctive natural feature worth exploring. The artfully decorated Cincinnati Flying Pig Statues scattered across Cincinnati also offer a charming and unique cultural experience.


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