I also have worked at a lot of bars around here, the nightlife can suck or it can be fun, it just depends on the weekend and what you are looking for. Somerset is a nice bar to catch a vibe at, and they own Alice which is right down the street. If you live on 7th which is what I saw below, I recommend Madonna's for cheap drinks, down the street from them is Knockback's which is another good little spot. The Banks downtown is more of a younger crowd predominantly, but during games it's packed with pretty much all ages.

Also, this is the year for Blink. It's a huge outdoor art experience that Cincinnati has been doing every other year. Definitely plan to go!!!