A December Getaway to Cincinnati: Football, Food & Festive Fun

If you’re looking for the perfect early-winter escape, Cincinnati in mid-December offers the ideal mix of excitement, comfort, and holiday charm. With discounted Allegiant flights available for December 11th arrivals and December 18th departures, it’s easier than ever to slip away for a week of football, food, and festive relaxation in one of the Midwest’s most underrated cities.

Cincinnati is a big city that moves at a comfortable pace — perfect for unwinding. Whether you spend quiet mornings in a downtown café, enjoy the river views, or indulge in a spa visit, the city offers the right atmosphere for recharging.

With a full week to enjoy, you can balance the excitement of game day with plenty of stress-free downtime.

The Main Event: Bengals Football on December 14th

The highlight of the week is the Cincinnati Bengals home game on Sunday, December 14th, where they take on the Baltimore Ravens at Paycor Stadium. A 1:00 PM kickoff sets the stage for a perfect football Sunday, complete with tailgates, electric stadium energy, and the chance to watch one of the league’s most exciting teams defend their turf.

With downtown just steps away from the stadium, game day blends seamlessly into post-game dining and nightlife, making the whole experience feel like a football-themed mini-vacation.

A Taste of Cincinnati: Dining You’ll Love

Cincinnati’s culinary scene is having a moment, and December is the perfect time to savor it. Whether you’re looking for upscale, cozy, or scenic, the city has you covered:

Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse

A Cincinnati staple known for its luxurious ambiance, legendary steak cuts, and five-star service. Perfect for a celebratory dinner or a night you want to dress up and enjoy excellence.

Mita’s

Located right on Fountain Square, Chef José Salazar’s Mita’s offers contemporary, Spanish-inspired small plates, ceviches, charcuterie, and craft cocktails. It’s vibrant, stylish, and great for sharing a variety of flavors.

Holiday Magic in the Queen City

Riverfront Walks & Scenic Views

Ice Skating

Fountain Square’s twinkling lights, upbeat music, and an outdoor rink bring classic winter cheer to the heart of downtown. Whether you skate or simply watch with a hot chocolate in hand, it’s a must-see.

Shopping

Cincinnati’s Holiday markets fill the streets with local art, handmade gifts, festive treats, and joyful energy. They’re perfect for casual browsing or last-minute holiday shopping.

Theatre and Culture

From Broadway-style productions to symphonies and seasonal shows, the Cincinnati Arts scene shines in December. Visitors can catch festive performances throughout the week.

Scenic Walks

The crisp December air and holiday lights make strolling the Ohio Riverfront a relaxed, romantic experience — ideal for winding down after dinner or exploring during a leisurely afternoon.

Important Notes / Things to Confirm

Verify flight availability & pricing for both legs (the website shows one-way deals, but you’ll need round-trip and for these exact dates).

Confirm game tickets & seating; tickets for Dec 14 are listed now. Ticketmaster+1

Weather: early December in Cincinnati is chilly (likely 30s‐40s °F). Pack accordingly. Wanderlog

Transport: Ensure hotel is conveniently located to downtown & stadium to reduce transit hassle.

Some holiday events may require advance booking (shows, markets) so lock early.