One of the newest and most popular attractions is the Newport Aquarium, One Aquarium Way, Newport (tel. 800/406-3474 or 859/491-FINS; www.newportaquarium.com), located on the banks of the Ohio directly across from downtown Cincinnati. The aquarium displays 11,000 marine animals, including 50 sharks and 16 king penguins. It also offers 200 feet of clear, seamless tunnels that put visitors literally face-to-face with sharks and other creatures of the deep. The aquarium is open 365 days a year, from 10am to 7pm Memorial Day to Labor Day, from 10am to 6pm the rest of the year. Admission is $18 for adults, $16 for seniors, and $11 for children ages 3 to 12. Late afternoon and early evening are the best times to avoid crowds.
Leaving the aquarium, head west on Fourth Street, across the Licking River, and in about 2 miles you'll come to Main Street, Covington. A left turn takes you into Main Strasse Village, a neighborhood that recalls northern Kentucky's German heritage. Over several blocks, visitors will find an inviting and interesting collection of shops, antiques stores, restaurants, art galleries, pubs, and neighborhood taverns. It's rarely overcrowded and great for a late-afternoon stroll and window-shopping, followed by dinner in a local haunt.
BB Riverboats, 101 Riverboat Row, Newport (tel. 800/261-8586 or 859/261-8500; www.bbriverboats.com), offers short afternoon and evening excursions up and down the Ohio River past the city's skyline, particularly beautiful from the water at night. Call or check the website for information on the numerous options and prices.
