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Newport on the Levee shopping mall in Newport, KY
Photo: Joshua Bush
View of Newport on the Levee in Newport, KY
Photo: Todd Eichenlaub
View of Newport on the Levee in Newport, KY
Photo: Karol King

Newport on the Levee

4.5(16,638 reviews)$Entertainment
🕑 3-5 hours for a typical visit, though families often make a full day of it combining multiple activities👶 Best for all ages. Toddlers and preschoolers enjoy the open spaces and simple arcade games, school-age kids love the full arcade and movie theater, while teens appreciate the shopping and dining options. The variety ensures every family member finds something engaging.

About

Newport 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.

Highlights

  • AMC movie theater showing the latest family-friendly films
  • Large arcade with games for all ages and skill levels
  • Scenic Ohio River views and waterfront walkway
  • Variety of dining options from casual to sit-down restaurants
  • Shopping opportunities for rainy day entertainment

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Visit on weekday afternoons to avoid weekend crowds, especially at the arcade and popular restaurants.
  2. 2.Park in the covered garage and validate your ticket at participating venues for discounted or free parking.
  3. 3.The riverfront promenade offers stunning Cincinnati skyline views, perfect for letting kids run around before or after indoor activities.
  4. 4.Download any movie theater or arcade apps beforehand to take advantage of special promotions and skip lines.
  5. 5.Bring quarters for any coin-operated games or attractions, though most arcades now use rechargeable game cards.

Best Time to Visit

Weekday late mornings or early afternoons (11 AM - 2 PM) offer the best experience with smaller crowds at the arcade and restaurants. Weekends get busy, especially during evening dinner hours and movie times.

What to Know

Parking is available in the attached garage with validation options at many venues. The complex houses multiple dining options from quick-service to sit-down restaurants, so you can easily find kid-friendly meals without leaving the property.

Seasonal Notes

The outdoor riverfront area is particularly lovely in spring and fall with comfortable temperatures. Summer evenings often feature special events and fireworks visible from the waterfront. Winter months keep families indoors, making the arcade and theater especially popular.

Nearby Eats

All dining is conveniently located on-site within the complex, featuring multiple kid-friendly chain restaurants and local eateries with children's menus, so there's no need to venture elsewhere for meals.

More Activities Near Newport

Activity

East Row Historic District

Free

The East Row Historic District offers families a delightful outdoor experience walking through one of Kentucky's most picturesque Victorian neighborhoods. Kids will enjoy spotting unique architectural details like colorful painted ladies, ornate trim work, and turrets while getting fresh air and exercise along quiet, tree-shaded streets that feel like stepping back in time.

Activity

Newport Gangster Tour

4.9$

The Newport Gangster Tour offers families a fascinating journey through Newport's colorful prohibition-era history, bringing the 1920s-40s gangster past to life through engaging storytelling. While the tour covers mature historical themes, older kids and teens with an interest in history will be captivated by tales of illegal gambling, bootlegging, and the notorious criminals who once walked these streets.

Library

Campbell County Public Library: Newport Branch

4.8Free

The Campbell County Public Library's Newport Branch is a beloved community hub offering exceptional free programming for families. With its modern facilities and highly-rated children's department, this library goes beyond books to provide engaging storytimes, hands-on educational activities, and special programs designed to spark young imaginations throughout the year.

Adventure

Purple People Bridge

4.7Free

The Purple People Bridge is a vibrant, pedestrian-only connector between Newport and Cincinnati that's perfect for a family stroll or bike ride without worrying about traffic. Kids love the distinctive purple color, the thrill of walking over the Ohio River, and spotting boats below while enjoying panoramic skyline views from this historic converted bridge.