Family-Friendly Restaurants
14 kid-friendly restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops rated and reviewed by families.
The Colonel's Creamery is a beloved Cincinnati-area ice cream shop that has earned an impressive 4.9-star rating for its handcrafted, premium flavors made fresh in-house. Located in the Florence Mall area, it's the perfect reward after a day of shopping or exploring Northern Kentucky, offering generous portions and creative flavors that both kids and parents rave about.
🎮 EntertainmentNewport on the Levee is a one-stop entertainment destination where families can easily spend an entire day enjoying arcade games, catching a movie, dining at kid-friendly restaurants, and strolling along the scenic Ohio River waterfront. With its diverse mix of activities all in one location, parents appreciate the convenience of keeping everyone entertained without constantly loading kids back into the car.
Graeter's Ice Cream in Fort Mitchell is a beloved local destination where families can indulge in premium handcrafted ice cream, freshly baked pastries, and sweet treats that will delight kids of all ages. Beyond scoops of their famous ice cream, this sweet spot offers custom cakes perfect for birthday celebrations, cookies, and candy that make it a one-stop shop for family dessert outings.
Graeter's is a Cincinnati institution that's been churning out premium French Pot ice cream since 1870, and kids absolutely light up when they discover the huge chocolate chips throughout their famous Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip flavor. This downtown location offers a classic ice cream parlor experience where families can treat themselves to handcrafted scoops, sundaes, and milkshakes made using the same small-batch process that's been perfected over 150 years.
🕹️ ArcadeDave & Buster's Florence is the ultimate indoor entertainment destination where arcade fun meets family dining. With hundreds of games ranging from classic arcade favorites to cutting-edge virtual reality experiences, plus a full restaurant serving American cuisine, families can enjoy hours of entertainment under one roof regardless of weather.
Skyline Chili is a Cincinnati institution that gives families a taste of the city's unique culinary culture without breaking the bank. Kids love the novelty of chili served over spaghetti (called a "3-Way") or hot dogs ("Coneys"), and the casual, no-fuss atmosphere means parents don't have to stress about spills or noise. It's a quick, affordable meal that doubles as a local cultural experience your kids will remember.
Hofbrauhaus Newport brings a slice of Bavaria to Kentucky with its lively beer hall atmosphere that surprisingly welcomes families with open arms. Kids will be fascinated by the authentic German décor, traditional oompah band performances, and generous portions of schnitzel and pretzels, while parents can enjoy craft brews in a festive setting that doesn't require leaving the little ones at home.
This Chick-fil-A location in Florence goes beyond typical fast food with its indoor playground that keeps kids entertained while parents enjoy their meal. Known for the chain's signature friendly service and consistently clean facilities, it's a reliable stop for families who want quality chicken nuggets, waffle fries, and healthier options like grilled nuggets and fruit cups without the long wait of sit-down dining.
Skyline Chili is a Cincinnati institution that offers families a quick, affordable introduction to the region's unique chili culture. Kids are often fascinated by the unusual toppings and pasta combinations, while parents appreciate the fast service and budget-friendly prices that make feeding a family easy.
Frisch's Big Boy is a beloved Cincinnati-area diner that's been serving families for generations with its nostalgic atmosphere and kid-friendly menu. The Norwood location offers classic comfort food including their famous Big Boy burgers, pancake breakfasts, and hot fudge cake that keeps kids coming back for more.
Pompilios brings nearly a century of Italian tradition to Newport, offering families a cozy, old-school dining experience where kids can enjoy classic comfort food favorites. The multi-generational atmosphere means everyone from toddlers to grandparents feels welcome in this historic establishment that has been serving the community since 1933.
LaRosa's Pizza Clifton is a Cincinnati institution serving up classic pizzas and Italian-American fare in a casual, no-fuss atmosphere. While the location offers convenient proximity to the University of Cincinnati area, the modest ratings suggest it may not be the chain's strongest location, though it still delivers the familiar LaRosa's menu that local families know and love.