In terms of river travel, singles must navigate toward the Ohio River for leisure at Indiana's southern border. The 981-mile long Ohio River is the largest and most significant tributary to the Mighty Mississippi and is remarkable for its beauty and significance to U.S. History.
Pittsburgh, Evansville, Louisville and Cincinnati are all important cities that have emerged from Ohio River trade. Indiana natives know that Cincinnati represents the best gateway to the Ohio River for singles and young professionals.
The U.S. Census estimates Cincinnati's 2006 population at 332,252 -- with a combined statistical (metropolitan) area of 2,133,678. The numbers highlight the fact that The Queen City is one shade below Pittsburgh as the Ohio River Valley's top city. The area is notable for rolling hills, lush foliage, and of course, the Ohio River.
Forbes Magazine ranks Cincinnati as the 38th best city for singles in America. Although this result is far from stellar, Cincy is the most ideal combination of value and location as a gateway to the Ohio River.
Singles can take in a ballgame, tour Fountain Square, enjoy concerts at Sawyer Point or patronize the shops and restaurants of downtown Cincinnati and the CUF neighborhood at the University of Cincinnati.
The Ohio River is the focal point for all things Cincinnati. The 1996 Central Riverfront Master Plan was implemented to design stadiums for the Reds and Bengals and establish a "central riverfront, which would capitalize on the major public investment." Certainly, the riverboat party is a must do event for all singles descending upon Cincinnati. Iconic Cincinnati riverboats launch from off Sawyer Point or Riverboat Row in Covington -- Newport, Kentucky.
Visitors to Cincinnati must tailor an Ohio River cruise to their particular tastes. Further, various social, business and civic organizations located in Hamilton County, Ohio and Northern Kentucky rent out riverboats to host events. B&B, Celebrations, Queen City and Satisfaction Yacht Charter Services all offer custom packages to suit the needs of singles and groups.
B&B Riverboats depart from Newport, Kentucky and offer dining cruises from 7-9:30 p.m. Of course, more adventurous revelers may opt for specialty cruises to Louisville or even New Orleans. Singles should be sure to set a date and book reservations as far in advance as possible by calling 1-800-261-8586.
In terms of lodging, two distinctly different hotels provide lodging for the discriminating consumer. The Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza offers top-shelf AAA Four-Diamond Service; it is immediately downtown at 35 West 5th Street. Meanwhile, budget conscious travelers will prefer the La Quinta Inn -- Cincinnati North. La Quinta features clean rooms and competitive rates at 12150 Springfield Pike in Springdale, Ohio. This location is directly off I-275 at Route 4.
