Daniel Drake Park

If you want a low-key afternoon with the kids that doesn’t feel like half of Cincinnati had the same idea, this park delivers. The swings are solid for the 2-10 crowd, but honestly the walking trails — both paved and the woodsy dirt paths — are what make it worth the trip. Pack a lunch, grab one of the picnic tables near the shelter, and fire up the grill if you’re making a day of it. The shade trees actually do their job in the summer, and there are benches scattered around for when you just want to sit and watch the kids burn off energy. It’s the kind of spot regulars keep quietly to themselves.