Hyde Park

Hyde Park and Mt. Lookout are two neighboring suburbs that blend together almost imperceptibly to form one of Cincinnati’s oldest and most fashionable areas. Hyde Park was established in 1892 by Cincinnati businessmen who wanted an exclusive community for the wealthy and named it after New York’s Hyde Park. The area was annexed by the City of Cincinnati in 1903. Mt. Lookout is located adjacent to Hyde Park and was named for the Mount Lookout Observatory which was moved to this neighborhood in 1873.

Hyde Park and Mt. Lookout Squares feature excellent specialty shops, local restaurants and cafes as well as popular pubs. Hyde Park Square hosts a farmer’s market every Sunday during warmer months. The Echo (on the side of the square) has been a popular place for a meal since 1945 and is open for breakfast and lunch daily. In Mt. Lookout, Zip’s Cafe (which was established in 1926) is known for its burgers.

Hyde Park Plaza Shopping Center, Rookwood Commons and Rookwood Pavilion serve all convenience needs. Nearby Oakley has its own “downtown” strip along Madison Road with popular eateries, cafes and shops. Kenwood Towne Centre (with Nordstrom, Dilliards and Macy’s as anchors) and Sycamore Plaza (aka Kenwood Square) are only a 15-minute drive away. All feature nationally branded stores along with everything from casual to gourmet dining.

Need a donut fix? Local Busken Bakery bakes its goodies in Hyde Park and this particular location is open 24 hours a day.

There are picnic and play areas at Ault Park and Alms Park, two of Cincinnati’s largest and most beautiful parks. Alms Park has beautiful views of the Ohio River. Ault Park has a lovely pavilion that serves as a lookout point to the beautiful gardens. This park hosts many outdoor events during warmer months including a Concours d’Elegance car show, dances and a 4th of July celebration. Annwood Park is located on Madison Road and is a serene parklet with a fountain.

The private Hyde Park Country Club has an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts and a swimming pool. The Cincinnati Country Club, also private, has an 18-hole golf course, swimming pool, squash and tennis courts. The Mt. Lookout Swim Club is private. Nearby Lunken Playfield (public) offers tennis, archery, golf and baseball. Marinas along the nearby Ohio River provide excellent facilities for boating enthusiasts. An indoor tennis club is located across from Lunken Airport and a racquetball facility is conveniently located in nearby Fairfax.

There are also a variety of athletic and recreational activities sponsored by neighborhood schools and special interest groups. Hyde Park Square hosts the annual Hyde Park Art Show with over 200 artists showcasing their work. The Hyde Park Blast (held in June) is another square event for runners and bikers.