Photograph courtesy Golden Gelato

Looking for a adventure for the whole family within the urban core? Try spending the day exploring Covington, where a variety of locally-owned shops will entertain both kids and adults. Here are six recommended stops for your Covington itinerary.

Photograph courtesy Del Gardo's Cannoli Bar

Del Gardo’s Cannoli Bar
Find your inner child trying their artisan-style cannoli. Del Gardo’s offers more than 80 different kinds of cannoli fillings, most inspired by alcoholic beverages, but some kid-friendly ones too. Make sure to check their Facebook page on Thursdays to see the flavors they’ll have available for the weekend, as they feature four to five new recipes each week. The fun doesn’t stop there—they also serve fine Italian wines and premium craft beer to enjoy while savoring every bite. 18 E. Fifth St., Covington, (859) 300-3456

Photograph courtesy Golden Gelato

Golden Gelato
Take a break with an authentic cup of Italian gelato or sorbetto in flavors adults and kids will all like, including blueberry banana sorbet, lemon cookie, dark chocolate sorbet, bourbon old-fashioned, classic Stracciatella, and other seasonal favorites. There are even vegan options, and Golden Gelato makes their own waffle cones in-house! Even better, the house cbrew is Deeper Roots Coffee, so sip and enjoy with your gelato on a sunny day. 130 W. Pike St., Covington, (859) 360-3709

Photograph courtesy Grainwell

Grainwell
This shop, owned by the three Kirn sisters, creates a variety of customizable wood-cut items for any occasion, like coasters, cutting boards, ornaments, and frames. Make sure to check out their beautifully crafted home decor items, including a floating Cincinnati skyline piece you’ll want to buy for yourself and everyone you know. 33 W. Pike St., Covington, (859) 415-4955

Photograph courtesy Gumdrop Tots

Gumdrop
This kid-centric whimsical wonderland from the owners of Handzy next door offers just as much fun for the adults, who will enjoy exploring the carefully curated selection of stylish clothing, bright toys, adorable stuffed animals, and vast book selection. Whether you need new clothes for your growing toddler or are in search of the perfect baby shower present, Gumdrop will delight all visitors. 15 W. Pike St., Covington (859) 261-0493

Photograph courtesy Lil's Bagels

Lil’s Bagels
No trip to Covington is complete without stopping at Lil’s Bagels, which serves up some of the finest and most delectable food in the area. Each bagel is hand-rolled, boiled, and baked to perfection before being sold out of their “windough.” Whether you’re in the mood for a classic bagel with schmear or craving a bagel sandwich (insiders say Lil’s Famous Egg Salad is worthy of its name), it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time. 308 Greenup St., Covington, (859) 412-6922

Photograph courtesy Roebling Point Books & Coffee

Roebling Point Books & Coffee
The quintessential independent bookstore of your dreams offers a selection of reading material both new and used. You can spend an afternoon escaping with faraway adventures on Roebling Point’s comfortable couches and chairs. It also has a quaint café serving locally roasted coffee and sweet treats for the perfect afternoon pick-me-up. 306 Greenup St., Covington (859) 815-7204