A Storybook Tour of Cincinnati: Visit the Real-Life Places from Our Books
What if you could step inside a story? Here at Good Little Souls, we believe that one of the most magical things about a book is its ability to make a familiar place feel brand new. That’s why so many of our stories are set right here in the parks, neighborhoods, and landmarks of our beloved Cincinnati.
We wanted to create a special guide for our local families—an adventure map that turns a regular day out into a storybook tour! Here are some of the real-life places that have inspired our tales. We invite you to read the story, then visit the spot for a truly magical family outing.
1. The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
As seen in: "Forrest's Favorite Place"
The Storybook Connection: Join little Forrest on his favorite adventure of all—a trip to the Cincinnati Zoo! In the story, he dashes straight to see Fiona the hippo with her powerful splash and then explores the quiet, cool Reptile House to see the slithery snakes and slow turtles.
Your Adventure: After reading the story, take your own little one to the zoo! Go say hi to the hippos and see if you can find some of the amazing creatures from the Reptile House.
2. Washington Park
As seen in: "George Loves Games"
The Storybook Connection: George is the undisputed king of Monopoly, but after his board game victory is complete, his favorite place to celebrate is Washington Park. The story describes the joy he feels kicking off his shoes and running through the water jets that splash to the sky on the promenade.
Your Adventure: Pack some snacks and a towel! After reading about George's adventure, visit Washington Park and let your kids have their own victory celebration in the fountains.
3. Price Hill
As seen in: "The Magic Swings," "Bold Faced Beaux," and "Judah Meets Jeremy"
The Storybook Connection: The vibrant neighborhood of Price Hill serves as the backdrop for several of our stories! It’s where you’ll find the Magic Friendship Swings that bring new friends together, the town where Beau bikes to get a triumphant ice cream cone after a day at the pool, and where Judah dribbles his basketball with his kitten, Batman.
Your Adventure: Explore one of the beautiful parks in Price Hill. Find a set of swings and imagine they have a little magic, or treat yourselves to ice cream at a local shop, just like Beau.
4. Eden Park
As seen in: "Thea Loves Tea"
The Storybook Connection: Thea loves a cozy tea party, and her absolute favorite spot is in beautiful Eden Park. The story paints a picture of Thea spreading out a blanket to have a lovely imaginary tea party with her teddy bear, surrounded by fresh breezes.
Your Adventure: Pack a blanket and some juice or water in a thermos. Find a shady spot in Eden Park and have your very own tea party, just like Thea.
5. Northside
As seen in: "Noah From Northside"
The Storybook Connection: This story follows a kind-hearted boy named Noah, who lives in Northside Cincinnati. He loves to walk the neighborhood, scanning the ground for small, unnoticed treasures like lost pennies and colorful feathers from robins or blue jays.
Your Adventure: Take a "treasure walk" through the eclectic and colorful neighborhood of Northside. See what small, wonderful things you and your little ones can spot on the ground.
We hope this guide inspires you to find the magic in your own backyard. Read a story, go on an adventure, and see our wonderful city through a new, more imaginative lens. Let us know in the comments what other Cincinnati spots you'd love to see in a story!
