One of only 31 basilicas in the country, it earned the title for its architectural beauty. It features a French Gothic design with gargoyles and flying buttresses, mural-sized oil paintings by renowned artist Frank Duveneck and 82 stained glass windows. Wander through the rain forest in Jungle Trails for glimpses of endangered baboons and exotic plants from Asia and Africa. Pay your respects to Indonesia's giant native, the Komodo dragon, the world's largest and most dangerous reptile and a special gift from the president of Indonesia. Or visit the lush Florida swamplands in Manatee Springs for a look at the endangered animals once mistaken for mermaids.
Admission is free for members.
Group discounts available. Until King's Island opened in 1971, Coney Island was the amusement park in Cincinnati. But then its rides were taken to support the burgeoning thrill park, and Coney Island was largely left to pass quietly away. Coney Island is recapturing its former glory in a laid-back getaway along the Ohio River. Unless you plan to sunbathe in Sunlite Pool, the world's largest recirculating swimming pool, don't plan on this to take an entire day.