There’s something undeniably special about wintertime in Northern Kentucky. From the glow of lights reflecting on the Ohio River, the sounds of holiday merriment spilling from cozy taverns, to the warm, rich aroma of bourbon swirling in the air. Whether you’re after elegant dinners and holiday traditions or downtown strolls and bourbon-inspired shopping, there’s something here for everyone. Read on for a taste of ways to celebrate the season.
Get Outside and Explore
Covington’s Bourbon Walk is a self-guided tour that takes you to a smattering of locations that embrace America’s Native Spirit and the entwined history of Kentucky and bourbon.
Holiday Shopping on The B-Line
Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati are bursting with bourbon-flavored finds and locally crafted gifts. Here are a few must-stop spots for your holiday list.
For The Bourbon Lover
Pair a local bottle of bourbon with a handmade coaster set or custom glassware. It’s a gift that’s thoughtful, regional, and always appreciated!
- New Riff Distilling: Gift a bottle of their Single Barrel Bourbon, shop their collection of locally made goods, or schedule a distillery tour
- Revival Vintage Bottle Shop & Bar: Explore one of the largest selections of rare and vintage bourbon and other spirits
- Wenzel Distillery: Tour the distillery or create a one-of-a-kind bottle by blending your own bourbon, perfect for any whiskey lover
- Second Sight Spirits: Quirky, magical, and perfect for gifting. Their Smoked Cherry Rum or Hazelnut Liqueur are local legends
- Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar: Snag a bottle from their impressive collection of private barrel picks
Local Shopping Treasures
Covington’s Pike Street & Madison Avenue: Pop into Handzy Shop + Studio for playful stationery and homegoods; Left Bank Coffeehouse and Maison Covington inside Left Bank for unique gifts and a cozy warmup; or Coppin’s Boutique at Hotel Covington for luxe robes, candles, and locally made gifts that capture the hotel’s chic aesthetic.
Newport’s Monmouth Street: Stroll Monmouth and visit modern boutiques like the magical Monmouth St. Mercantile, hunt for hard-to-find vinyl at Jet Age Records, or pop into Trailhead Coffee located inside Reser Bicycle Outfitters for locally roasted coffee and gifts for the cyclist in your life.
Bellevue’s Fairfield Avenue: This charming stretch of locally owned boutiques is ideal for holiday browsing for vintage finds at Oracle Antiques & Vintage, gifts and fashion at Le Sorelle Boutique, or handcrafted confections made the same since 1939 at Schneider’s Sweet Shop.
Dine and Drink Local
Northern Kentucky is a food-lover’s wonderland. While you are exploring The B-Line®, stop for a festive bite or a well-earned drink.
- Coppin’s at Hotel Covington: Seasonal menus, local ingredients, and the best bourbon Old Fashioned in town
- Libby’s Southern Comfort: Fried chicken, Cheerwine Bourbon Slushes, and a menu that feels like home
- Tousey House Tavern: A cozy, historic stop with bourbon flights and Kentucky classics like the Hot Brown
- The Baker’s Table: Farm-to-table perfection with a seasonal menu and artisan-crafted bread
- Three Spirits Tavern: Creative cocktails, live music, and a friendly neighborhood vibe that keeps you coming back
Warming Winter’s Chill
This season, sip something local, shop small, and celebrate the moments that make the holidays feel like home. In this corner of Kentucky, connection, comfort, and good bourbon are always in season. For more great things to do check out the Cincy Region Event Calendar.
