Things To Do In Covington, Kentucky, 5 Day Travel Itinerary, Brief History, Weather – Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall – Bike Paths, Campsites, Famous Landmarks

June 25, 2024

Covington, Kentucky: Stepping Across the River to Charm

Covington, Kentucky, directly across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, offers a unique blend of history, art, and entertainment. Here’s your guide to exploring Covington:

Things To Do In Covington, Kentucky, 5 Day Travel Itinerary, Brief History, Weather – Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall – Bike Paths, Campsites, Famous Landmarks travelanycountry

A Rich Tapestry: A Look Back at Covington’s History

Covington’s past is as rich as the Ohio River bordering it. Here are some historical highlights:

Early 1800s: Founded by General Lewis Cass, Covington quickly thrived as a commercial center.
Mid-1800s: The city became a major stop on the Underground Railroad, helping enslaved people reach freedom.
Late 1800s & Early 1900s: Covington faced economic challenges but maintained its cultural vibrancy.
Late 1900s: Urban renewal projects revitalized parts of the city.
Today: Covington offers a charming mix of historic architecture, art scene, and growing entertainment options.

Weather by Season: Planning Your Covington Trip

Covington experiences all four seasons, so plan your wardrobe accordingly:

Summer (June-August): Warm and humid (average highs in the 80s F), perfect for outdoor activities. Expect higher hotel rates and larger crowds during festivals.
Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October): Pleasant temperatures (averages in the 60s and 70s F) with comfortable weather for exploring.
Winter (December-March): Cold with occasional snowfall (average highs in the 40s F). Bundle up for outdoor activities, but enjoy lower hotel rates and fewer crowds.

5-Day Itinerary: Unveiling Covington’s Treasures

Covington packs a punch for a 5-day adventure:

Day 1: Arrive in Covington and check into your hotel. Explore the heart of the city with a walkable tour of Mainstrasse Village. Admire the 19th-century architecture, browse unique shops, and savor delicious food.

Day 2: Delve into Covington’s art scene. Visit the Northern Kentucky Art Center for contemporary exhibits. Later, stroll through the Devou Park Art Center grounds, dotted with sculptures and offering stunning Ohio River views.

Day 3: Immerse yourself in history. Explore the Roebling Suspension Bridge, a marvel of engineering connecting Covington and Cincinnati. Visit the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge Visitor Center to learn about its construction and significance. In the evening, take a Covington ghost tour for a spooky adventure.

Day 4: Take a day trip to Cincinnati. Explore its vibrant Findlay Market, home to fresh produce and international flavors. Visit the Cincinnati Art Museum or catch a game at the Great American Ball Park.

Day 5: Relax and recharge. Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Ohio River, offering breathtaking views of both Covington and Cincinnati. In the afternoon, explore Covington’s growing craft beer scene by visiting local breweries.

Biking Your Way Around Covington

While Covington itself isn’t extensive, explore the surrounding area on the Licking River Greenway Trail. This paved trail stretches over 13 miles, perfect for biking or hiking. You can rent bikes at various locations in Covington.

Camping Under the Stars (Near Covington)

Covington doesn’t have campgrounds within city limits. However, several options are available nearby:

Camp Dennison (Sharonville, Ohio): This park offers campsites, a pool, and fishing opportunities.
East Fork State Park (Moscow, Ohio): Nestled along the East Fork Little Miami River, this park offers scenic campsites, hiking trails, and a swimming lake.

Famous Covington Landmarks: Beyond the Traditional

Covington boasts unique landmarks that set it apart:

Mainstrasse Village: This historic district with 19th-century architecture is a must-visit for its shops, restaurants, and lively atmosphere.
Roebling Suspension Bridge: This architectural marvel, designed by John A. Roebling (who later designed the Brooklyn Bridge), connects Covington and Cincinnati.
Devou Park: This expansive park offers stunning Ohio River views, art installations, and a replica of the Statue of Liberty.

Covington may not have traditional historical landmarks, but its rich past woven into its architecture, art scene, and vibrant atmosphere offers a unique travel experience.