Established in 1927, the Cincinnati Recreation Commission (CRC) is dedicated to providing recreational, cultural, leisure and educational activities for Cincinnatians of all ages and abilities. CRC improves the quality of life in Cincinnati, makes city neighborhoods more attractive to prospective residents and is vital for Cincinnati’s continuing growth and competitiveness. CRC believes that enhancing people's personal health and wellness strengthens and enriches the lives of our citizens and builds a spirit of community in our city.

In 2005, CRC became the first large urban recreation department in the State of Ohio to receive accreditation by the national  Commission on Accreditation of Parks and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). CAPRA accreditation is a self-assessment and peer review process that evaluates a public agency’s operation of recreation areas, facilities, programs and services based on a set of national standards for quality operations.

Cincinnati is one of just a few cities in the United States with separate and independently operated parks and recreation facilities.  Most major US cities combine park and recreation facilities under one department. In Peter Harnik’s 2000 book, Inside City Parks (Trust for Public Land and Urban Land Institute), Cincinnati was named one of three US cities deserving the top ranking of four stars for its urban parks and recreation facilities. Harnick studied and evaluated urban parks in 25 US cities. CRC received the National Gold Medal for Excellence in Parks and Recreation Management in 1997.

CRC has 27 recreation centers, 41 aquatic facilities, over 2,500 acres of outdoor athletic and playground facilities, tennis attractions, seven premiere golf courses, and a public art collection. CRC offers athletic leagues, programs for seniors, therapeutic programs and services for persons with disabilities, before- and after-school programs, summer day camps, special public events, volunteer opportunities, and a variety of cultural and leisure programs. CRC manages the City of Cincinnati’s grant programs for artists and arts and cultural organizations.

The Cincinnati Recreation Commission provides excellent customer service as exemplified by the 10 million people (annual average) who visit our recreational facilities and take part in the cultural, educational and leisure activities at our centers and Central Riverfront and golf facilities. CRC’s Central Riverfront facility on the Ohio River continues to attract millions of spectators to Bicentennial Commons at Sawyer Point, Yeatman's Cove, and the Showboat Majestic at the Public Landing. Kids' Fest, Riverfest and the All American Birthday Party are three of the largest and most well attended attractions at the Central Riverfront.