Cincinnati is a city that is filled with stories and secrets, many of which locals love to discuss and discover. The story behind an old building or the reopening of a longtime favorite restaurant can get two Cincinnatians chatting for hours about the curiosities of our community. One peculiar sight that always sparks conversation is a herd of goats that resides on a hillside of Covington. Visible from the highway, there’s an endearing reason why these goats roam an urban area near Cincinnati, and if you’ve never paid them a visit, you’ll want to consider doing so.
Located just off the highway in Covington, Goebel Park is a popular spot for those in both Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati. It’s known for its fairytale-like architecture and charming clock tower, but it’s also known for the hungry residents that live on its hillside.
Goebel Park
Affectionately known as the Goebel Goats, this flock of friendly animals lives in the grassy areas of the park from May into October. If you’ve ever been stuck in traffic on 75/71 coming into Cincinnati and thought you saw goats hanging out in a Covington park, you weren’t mistaken.
Facebook/Goebel Goats
These adorable creatures are a vital part of a land management program in the park, which means they have been given a home here thanks to their grass-loving appetites. The goats are managed, fed, and loved by Wolf Tree Farms, The Center for Great Neighborhoods, and many other local sponsors.
Facebook/Goebel Goats
The goats are kept in the appropriate places in the park thanks to fencing, but you’re welcome to stop by and say hello. These charmers are full of personality and range in size from quite large to teeny tiny.
Google/Monther Aleisa
While you’re saying hello to the Goebel Goats, don’t forget to stroll around the park and over to MainStrasse Village. This historic neighborhood is picturesque and has many restaurants and shops, and you’ll often find a festival or other gathering happening outside.
Facebook/Goebel Goats
When October arrives, the goats head “south” for the winter to Wolf Tree Farms, a tree farm just down 71 south. This is where they are loved and cared for until they literally run back onto their hillside with the Running of the Goats event in late April.
Facebook/Goebel Goats
Covington is a vibrant city and is filled with hidden gems, the goats being one of them. The town has fallen in love with these grass-eating animals and they are now a beloved part of the community.
Google/Anetress Reese
The Goebel Goats may be headed to their winter home any day now, but don’t forget about these friendly little creatures. Follow along with them on Facebook, linked below, so you know when they’ll be back for you to stop by and say hello.
Photo Courtesy of Eric Vice / @erictuv
The Goebel Goats are more than just animals in a city park. They are a beloved part of the Covington community and an adorable group to visit near Cincinnati. Did you know about the Goebel Goats? Have you stopped by to say hello? Let us know in the comments!
Goebel Park
Facebook/Goebel Goats
Google/Monther Aleisa
Google/Anetress Reese
Photo Courtesy of Eric Vice / @erictuv
Goebel Park is located at 501 Philadelphia St., Covington, KY 41011. For more information on the park, visit its website here. And for more on the Goebel Goats, be sure to follow along with them on Facebook here.
And for more on the excitement you’ll find in the colorful city of Covington, check out our previous article here.
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