Cold Comfort
Looking to beating the heat before the Cincinnati Music Festival? The Banks is pouring, and the magic of the DORA means your drink walks right along with you. You can order at any of the participating spots, ask for the official DORA cup, and freely explore 85 acres of gorgeous riverfront from Great American Ball Park all the way to Paycor Stadium, from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.
If you’re looking for the perfect path to pre-game the festival, here’s the COLD hard truth to work your way toward the gates.
Elevated River Views at AC Upper Deck
Begin your stroll high above the crowds at AC Upper Deck (135 Joe Nuxhall Way) for the perfect starting line, offering sweeping, unbeatable views of the Ohio River, the Roebling Suspension Bridge, and Great American Ball Park. Sunset is absolutely the move up here. Order their signature Rooftop Pour, a gorgeous mix of Olmeca Altos Blanco Tequila, pineapple juice, and blue curacao. It’s topped off with Red Bull Blueberry and finished with a dusting of edible glitter, making it the most photogenic drink on your route.
Patio Chilling at The Park
Once you make your to The Park ( 161 E. Freedom Way), it’s time to snag a spot on what is easily the most comfortable patio at The Banks. The Park makes frozen slushies, beautifully layering two flavors side-by-side into a striking blue-and-gold swirl. You can grab a boozy regular size for $10, upgrade to a boozy bucket for $14, or keep it cool with a $9 non-alcoholic bucket. While you’re relaxing, be sure to grab a quick bite before you keep walking west.
Sweet Treats at Fishbowl
Just a few steps away at Fishbowl (141 E. Freedom Way) is pouring their most highly requested item for a strictly limited time. This is the weekend to get your hands on their legendary tequila-infused Soft Serve Margs. You can choose between refreshing strawberry, vibrant pineapple, or a twist of both. To make it a true festival treat, they top the soft serve with a waffle cone, a candy wheel, and an adorable mini bottle. It’s like a tropical escape right in the middle of downtown!
High Energy Pours at Tin Roof
As the bass from the stadium gets a little louder, bring the energy up at Tin Roof (160 E Freedom Way). If you are sharing with the crew, you have to order the Big Red Machine, a massive 32-ounce concoction of raspberry vodka, sour mix, Sprite, and grenadine poured deep for the whole table at just $16. If you prefer your own cup, grab the $12 Energized Watermelon Margarita featuring Teremana Blanco Tequila, Red Bull Watermelon Edition, and fresh lime, or stick to a classic $10 Roof-Rita with El Jimador Blanco, triple sec, agave, and sour mix.
Nostalgic Sips at The Filson
As you get closer to the stadium, and The Filson brings the ultimate summer nostalgia to your pre-game. Remember ripping open a Capri Sun after a day in the sun? They brought that feeling back, just with a little more fun. Their brand-new Party Pouches feature clear, sealed pouches with colorful straws punched through and fresh fruit–like orange slices, blueberries, and strawberries–floating right inside. Available in vibrant orange, berry, strawberry, and citrus flavors, these are flying across the bar alongside their full summer cocktail lineup. Grab your favorite flavor, hit the patio, and kick off your night with the drink everyone is talking about.
A Historic Cap at Red Leprechaun
You’re practically at the gates now! Red Leprechaun (20 W. Freedom Way)0 is an absolute must-visit before heading into the stadium, even if it’s just to see the room. The bar itself is a piece of history, built in Malahide, Ireland in 1957. After standing for 62 years, it made a 57-day journey across the Atlantic, arriving with its original stained glass perfectly intact. You can be ready for the rest of your night with their signature frozen espresso martini.
Essential Festival Info
The 59th Cincinnati Music Festival presented by P&G runs Thursday through Saturday, July 23 to 25, at Paycor Stadium. This year’s lineup is incredible. Thursday opens with a Tribute to Hip Hop Music in the East Club Lounge. Friday brings Charlie Wilson, Tyrese, Ledisi, and 803 Fresh with special guest Nelly to the stage. Finally, Mary J. Blige closes out Saturday night alongside Trey Songz, SWV, Doug E. Fresh, Slick Rick, and Heatwave.
One last thing before you head in: Paycor Stadium does not allow outside beverages, so be sure to finish your DORA drinks on the plaza! To get home safely, ride the Cincinnati Bell Connector free through downtown, grab a Red Bike, or catch a rideshare along the north curb lane of Second Street between Vine and Walnut.