Cities are typically not ideal for runners. In most metropolitan areas, there is just too much to pay attention to, too many moving parts to process. Impatient motorists scurry through crosswalks, unaware pedestrians accidentally wander across sidewalks, and red traffic lights disrupt a runner’s rhythm. Uninterrupted paths and open space in the city are as elusive as taxis and late night pizza in the suburbs. Downtown Cincinnati is no different than other large cities; the run is not up to the runner, it is up to the little electronic man in the crosswalk sign. Unless of course, you tolerate the obstacles until you reach Mehring Way.

Moving from west to east, Mehring Way provides views of both Paul Brown Stadium and Great American Ballpark. Depending on the season, your spirits will be lifted and legs re-energized with the roar of a Bengals touchdown or a crescendo of cheers after a Joey Votto blast into the outfield stands. To the right, a cool breeze from the mighty Ohio River breathes refreshment into the lungs, and traffic on the water and the bridges entertain the eyes until you reach the crown jewel of Queen City running, Yeatman’s Cove.

Yeatman’s Cove is a vision with its decorative brick and stone walkways and well manicured lawns, and plaques commemorating the contributions of Cincinnati’s varied cultures add reverence to any run. Yet the awe Yeatman’s Cove inspires comes not from its architecture or its landscape, but from the fellow Cincinnatians who spend time there. On a warm day one can see young girls attempting to fly kites; older boys playing flag football; couples laughing and taking turns pushing a stroller; seniors admiring the Ohio River and the Newport skyline.

The best runs are the thoughtless ones; the days when muscle, focus, mind and body are aligned in an effortless symphony. Yeatman’s Cove encourages Cincinnati’s spirit to breathe and elevate as freely as it wants. This freedom allows the city runner to stay in the moment and center on the only thing that matters—the run.