Walt's Hitching Post is a popular restaurant and private venue space in Ft. Wright, KY, minutes from downtown Cincinnati and CVG Airport. Walt’s sets the stage for couples to host an unforgettable celebration. The building was initially used as a hunting lodge for Western & Southern executives in the early 1900s. In 1942, it was restored and renovated by Walt Ballanger and his wife, who made their mark in the community by serving delicious smokehouse ribs. In 1958, Bill Melton purchased the property and successfully ran the business for 50 years. Today, Walt’s, under new ownership since 2012, continues to welcome people with a unique equestrian theme by preserving Walt's rich history and traditions.

Guests will be in awe at the design of Walt's Hitching Post as it showcases original exposed log walls and a cozy stone fireplace in the main dining room. Outside, the property includes colorful landscaping, Walt’s Rib Smokehouse and stunning entry doors covered with metal overlays. For decades, Walt’s has been adorned with pictures of thoroughbreds, the prized possessions of the late Melton, who also owned a horse farm and raced champion breeds

The renovation in 2012 expanded on the horse theme in an innovative way, paying tribute to the sport that the nation has grown to fondly identify with Kentucky.

Walt’s has four private dining areas for celebrations of any type. Our highlighted private dining area, The Derby Room is the perfect space for an affordable wedding, ideal for an intimate dinner or cocktail and hors d'oeuvres reception that can accommodate up to 100+ guests. The room features copper ceiling tiles, a mural of the original Latonia Race Track, Northern Kentucky’s premier racetrack that opened in the 1800s and was open until the Great Depression; luxurious rustic décor; a dance floor; dressing spaces; and a private Jockey Bar with a large screen television and a restored 1940s Bevador cooler that stores the coldest beer in town.

With no site fees, Walt’s offers dinner, buffet or hors d’oeuvres packages with a food and beverage minimum. This includes linens, sound system, WIFI, a full staff and private dining coordinator to assist with every detail. Other additions are audio visual rental and additional décor services.

Whatever you have planned for your big day, you can be sure you will be in good hands at Walts Hitching Post!