Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness Returns
Last year, Cincinnati Parks Foundation in partnership with the Osher Center for Integrative Health at the University of Cincinnati launched something powerful: a citywide invitation for people to move, breathe, connect, and care for themselves in the parks and public spaces they already know and love. This year, Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness is back for its second season, building on a remarkable first year and continuing to make wellness more accessible, welcoming, and connected to everyday life in neighborhoods across Cincinnati.
A Program Rooted in Access, Community, and Wellness
Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness is more than a schedule of classes. It is a collaborative initiative designed to make healthy experiences feel local, approachable, and part of daily life. Through Cincinnati Parks Foundation, Cincinnati Parks, and a growing network of community partners, the program offers free and welcoming opportunities like yoga, hiking, skating, dance, mindfulness, and other outdoor wellness experiences.
That mission resonated strongly in the program’s inaugural year. Cincinnati Parks Foundation was honored with 2nd Place in the 2025 Ohio Parks and Recreation Association Awards of Excellence for Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness. In its first year, the initiative hosted more than 350 free wellness, yoga, and fitness sessions across 33 parks, engaging more than 12,000 participants. The recognition reflects both the strength of the program and the growing community desire for experiences that feel inclusive, neighborhood-based, and connected to the outdoors.
Growing in Year Two
The return of Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness reflects a larger shift in how we think about public wellness. Parks are not only places to visit. They are essential community spaces where people can reduce stress, build healthy habits, connect with neighbors, and try something new in a setting that feels open and welcoming.
This second season builds on the variety that made the first year so successful. The program includes yoga, hiking, mountain biking, dance, roller-skating, mindfulness gatherings, and accessible programming across parks and public spaces throughout the city. From Burnet Woods and Mt. Airy Forest to Sawyer Point the initiative continues to invite people to experience wellness in many different ways and in many different places.
New This Year: Mountain Biking
One of the most exciting additions this year is mountain biking, which expands Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness into new spaces, introduces new skills, and connects the initiative to new partners and locations.
This beginner-friendly youth mountain bike ride invites participants to enjoy the new Mt. Airy Bike Skills Course while learning a new skill, building confidence, and enjoying the outdoors. Adventure Crew, a Cincinnati-based nonprofit that connects city teens to nature and each other through outdoor adventures, leads these weekly rides in a fun, supportive environment.
Mountain biking opens up a new pathway into outdoor wellness for young people while reflecting what makes the program so impactful in its second year: not just expanding the calendar, but expanding the kinds of experiences available and the partners helping bring them to life.
Mt. Airy Bike Skills Course, Photo: CORA
A New Partner on the Trail
Hiking has always been one of the clearest expressions of what Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness is all about: simple, welcoming opportunities to move, connect, and experience nature together. This year, the program is expanding to 27 weeks of hiking, creating even more chances for residents to explore Cincinnati’s trails and public green spaces throughout the season.
Another exciting development is the addition of We Outside as a hiking partner. We Outside is a culture-led outdoor lifestyle and adventure community helping redefine who feels welcome in outdoor spaces. Their work centers joy, connection, representation, and collective well-being while creating inviting opportunities for people to gather, explore, and experience nature together.
That makes We Outside such a strong partner for Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness. Their approach is not just about getting people outside. It is about helping people feel that the outdoors is for them. Adding We Outside strengthens the hiking program not only by expanding capacity, but by broadening who feels seen, invited, and excited to join.
New hiking partner, Sierra Hayden, founder of We Outside. Photo: 3CDC
New Connections Through Inwood Park
This year’s expansion also includes Inwood Park as a new destination, helping Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness connect with even more residents where they live, work, and study. Lunchtime yoga led by Brandi Bee will be on Wednesdays at noon in Inwood Park. This accessible midweek opportunity invites people to step outside, recharge, and make wellness part of their regular routine.
The location is especially exciting because of its connection to adjacent Christ Hospital in Mount Auburn and the University of Cincinnati’s Main Campus in CUF. By bringing programming to Inwood Park, Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness is creating a natural point of connection for hospital staff, university students and employees, and nearby neighbors looking for a convenient, welcoming way to engage with wellness during the day.
Yoga in Burnet Woods. This year we’re bringing a yoga series to Inwood Park, adding wellness programs to more communities.
Join Us in a Park
As Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness returns for its second year, there is real momentum behind the work.
From beginner bike rides and expanded hiking opportunities to lunchtime yoga and neighborhood-based gatherings, this season offers more ways than ever for residents to move, connect, and find wellness in the parks they call their own. We invite you to join us this summer and explore the full Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness calendar through the link below.
