riverboat cruises cincinnati

3 of the Best Cincinnati Riverboat & Dinner Cruises

Take to the Ohio River and see Cincinnati in a different light on one of these excellent riverboat tours and dinner cruises.

(Photo: Getyourguide.com)

The great city of Cincinnati sits on the north bank of the Ohio River, which splits it from the state of Kentucky. The best way to appreciate the cityscape on either side of the river is by floating along it. Taking a traditional riverboat along the Ohio, complete with a paddle wheel and open decks, is a fun and traditional way to go. Throw a dinner into the mix while watching the setting sun for an enhanced cruise experience. Here are three top options.

Cincinnati Historic Sightseeing Cruise

The Queen City, as Cincinnati is known (as well as ‘The Athens of the West’), was first settled in 1788 and the city’s skyline is best viewed from the Ohio River. On this 90-minute riverboat cruise, your captain will provide commentary about the buildings you pass and their relevance to the city’s past and present. You will also learn much about the parts of northern Kentucky visible during the trip. This tour is usually available at 3pm on Tue-Thu and Sat-Sun. From $26 per person.

Book at Getyourguide.com

Sunset Cruise on the Ohio River

The stunning River Queen is part of the BB Riverboats fleet of old-timey paddleboats. This charming white and red boat plies the Ohio River for two hours at sunset, as the lands of Kentucky and the Ohio city of Cincinnati are daubed in the warm glow of the fading light. There is also live music on board, setting a jolly tone as you explore this lovely stretch of water. There’s a cash bar on board for drinks and snacks. From $29 per person.

Cincinnati: Dinner Cruise on the Ohio River

Aboard the Belle of Cincinnati, you will find ample space on the decks and inside the cabins to sit and enjoy the river views. But the highlight of this two-hour tour is the dinner and dessert included in your cruise price. There are a number of different cruise options to choose from, including the captain’s and admiral’s dinner cruises, with the latter offering more dining options, including carved turkey, ribs and vegetarian pasta dishes. Alcoholic drinks can be purchased from the onboard bar for an additional fee. From $57 per person.

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Cincinnati’s Riverboat Cruises Along the Ohio River

In Cincinnati, taking a riverboat cruise on the Ohio River is a fantastic way to connect with the city’s history as an important river trading post, and to enjoy views of its beautiful skyline. You can pick from many types of cruises, like a relaxed sightseeing trip or a dinner cruise with live music. Each journey lets you take in the peaceful scenes along the Ohio River and get a feel for the lively city life it supports.

These cruises are perfect for a variety of occasions, whether you’re looking for a romantic night out or a trip back in time. They also offer special themed cruises throughout the year, giving you a unique experience of Cincinnati’s river culture.

Exploring Cincinnati’s Waterfront Heritage

Cincinnati’s connection to the river is a big part of what makes the city special. One of the best ways to see this is by taking a riverboat cruise on the Ohio River. These boats, with their large paddle wheels, remind us of the old days when this river was a busy place for buying and selling goods and for people to talk to each other. When you hear the water splash against the side of the boat, it’s like hearing the tales of the early settlers, merchants, and dreamers who came to the area looking for new opportunities.

Nowadays, going on one of these cruises lets you see Cincinnati’s old buildings and the new changes to the city from a different point of view. Being on the boat feels like stepping back in time and going on an adventure, as you learn about how the city has changed over the years. And all the while, the Ohio River flows steadily, linking the city’s history together.

If you’re visiting Cincinnati, a riverboat cruise is a must-do. Not only do you get to learn about the city’s past, but you also get to see its beauty from the water. It’s a relaxing and informative way to spend a day, and it’s something that people of all ages can enjoy.

Types of Riverboat Cruises Available

There are different types of riverboat cruises you can enjoy on the Ohio River. These cruises give you a great view of Cincinnati’s skyline and share stories about the city’s history. For example, you can take a tour on a big paddlewheeler boat. As you travel, you’ll see important historical places and listen to stories that connect the city’s past to its present.

If you’re looking for a special night out, you might enjoy a dinner cruise. You can eat a delicious meal while floating on the quiet river and listen to live music that celebrates the area’s musical heritage.

For those who want something a bit different, there are cruises designed for specific events. You can celebrate holidays, enjoy a romantic trip under the stars, or attend a fun themed party on the boat.

Every cruise is carefully planned to show off the beauty of the river and make you fall in love with Cincinnati, whether you’re just visiting or you call it home.

Planning Your Riverboat Cruise Experience

To have a great time on a riverboat cruise along the Ohio River, it’s important to plan ahead. Choose a cruise that sounds fun to you, like a history tour, a meal on the water, or a special theme cruise. It’s a good idea to buy your tickets early, especially if you’re planning to go on a busy day or for a special event, so you can be sure to get the spot you want.

Think about the time of year and what the weather might be like; wear clothes that will keep you comfortable, and bring something warmer for when it gets cooler in the evening. Try to get there a bit before your cruise starts so you have time to get on the boat without rushing and can pick a great place to enjoy the views of Cincinnati and the river.

Make sure you know what’s available on the boat, like food and bathrooms, so you can relax and enjoy your time. If you take the time to plan, your cruise on the Ohio River could be one of the best parts of your trip to Cincinnati.

Onboard Entertainment and Dining

In Cincinnati, taking a riverboat cruise is a fun way to see the Ohio River. While you enjoy the view, there’s plenty of good food and entertainment on board. You can eat as much as you want at the buffet, or pick something special from the menu. The dishes often include local flavors, giving you a taste of the area’s food traditions. To make the experience even better, live bands play music from jazz to bluegrass, showing off Cincinnati’s love for music.

But there’s more than just food and music. The cruise has special nights where they tell stories or act out bits of history, making you feel like you’re part of the river’s long story. It’s a great mix of fun things to do, good food, and learning about the place. This way, your trip is more than just a boat ride—it’s a chance to really enjoy what makes the Ohio River special.

Seasonal Events and Themed Cruises

In Cincinnati, the riverboat cruises are special because they change with the seasons and offer different themes that appeal to all kinds of people, no matter the time of year. As the Ohio River changes with each season, so do the cruises. For example, in the fall, you can enjoy the beautiful red and gold leaves, in winter, you can see twinkling holiday lights, and in summer, you can watch fireworks.

They also have special trips like history tours, wine tastings, and evenings with jazz music. These cruises are more than just a trip on the river; they’re a way to really feel the local culture and have an experience you’ll always remember.

Whether you’re someone who loves history, in a romantic mood, or a family looking for fun, there’s a riverboat cruise in Cincinnati that feels like it was made just for you.

In Cincinnati, you can hop on a riverboat cruise to see the city from the Ohio River in a special way. As you float along, these cruises give you a chance to learn about the city’s history right where it happened, enjoy live entertainment, and even dine on board.

You can pick from different themed trips, which means there’s something for everyone, whether you love history, parties, or just relaxing on the water. These cruises are a big part of Cincinnati’s cultural life, bringing together locals and tourists to share the joy of discovering the river’s beauty.

They offer a fun and educational experience that changes with the seasons, so there’s always a new reason to come aboard and see the city from a fresh perspective.

Post Author: Luke Huxham

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Welcome to SS Tiki Tours

Private cruises on the majestic ohio river in cincinnati, cincy's premier party boats.

Celebrate parties for all occasions aboard a Hawaiian style party boat, a unique and memorable experience!

Private cruises for up to 18 passengers

• 2.5 hour sightseeing cruise: $675
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Take This 3-Night Cruise Down The Ohio River For The Ultimate Fall Getaway

Andrea Limke

A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.

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Cruises and excursions offered by BB Riverboats are some of the most popular attractions in our city. Most have heard of and seen this picturesque collection of riverboats that dock in Newport and often found floating on the Ohio River. While the shorter cruises are well known, you may not realize that BB Riverboats also offers overnight getaways. Coming up in just a few weeks, The River Hop Tour will take you on a four-day, three-night cruise on the Ohio with stops at many exciting destinations and unmatched views of the vibrant fall foliage.

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The River Hop Tour on the Belle of Cincinnati is a unique excursion on a one-of-a-kind riverboat that’s sure to be a memorable fall getaway. Did you know BB Riverboats offered these tours? Would you like to go? Let us know in the comments!

For more information on this trip, as well as other cruises offered, visit the BB Riverboats website here .

And for more information on the popular sunset dinner cruise aboard a riverboat, check out our previous article here .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Cincinnati area to host America's River Roots festival for the nation's 250th anniversary

Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky will host a major celebration to kick off America's 250th Anniversary.

America's River Roots will be a four-day festival celebrating the culture and traditions of the country's inland river cities. Organizers say the event will showcase the Ohio River and its role in the nation's history and development.

RELATED: Cincinnatian named to Ohio Commission for the U.S. Semiquincentennial

The event is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of people to the river's banks in Cincinnati, Covington, and Newport with live performances from nationally recognized musicians, food from celebrity chefs, and riverboat cruises similar to the popular Tall Stacks festival, which held its last event in 2006.

In addition to the music and food, River Roots will feature interactive educational programs at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center that will focus on the region's history and tell the stories of Black Americans through music.

Officials say America's River Roots will be a significant event for Ohio and Kentucky, allowing both states to share their history and traditions with the rest of the country.

"We are proud to showcase our unique Ohio River Valley heritage to the world. And the America 250-Ohio Commission has endorsed America's River Roots as a signature event for the state," Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said at a press event Wednesday.

RELATED: Ohio's semiquincentennial commission issues first batch of celebration recommendations

Kentucky Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman says the festival will be a collaborative effort highlighting the two states' close relationship.

"The growth of our nation was forged by the people and industries along this river," Coleman said. "Team Kentucky is happy to celebrate our common heritage with our neighbors from Ohio. We are working hard to build bridges, not borders."

America's River Roots will be held Oct. 9-12, 2025. More information on performers, programs, and participating riverboats will be announced in the coming months.

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Revealed: The Most Scenic River Cruises In North America

Posted: January 11, 2024 | Last updated: April 25, 2024

Rolling on the river

Viking Mississippi Holiday Season cruise, USA

It’s never too early to start planning a Christmas markets cruise, and as much as we love the ones in Germany and Austria, nothing beats a festive float down the Mississippi. Highlights on  this cruise , which snakes from Memphis to New Orleans, include stop-offs at Natchez, whose many historic buildings are festooned with Christmas lights, and Vicksburg, whose independent boutiques are great places to pick up presents. This is also a great cruise for twitchers – a huge number of bird species flock to this stretch of the Mississippi for winter. 

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M.S. Dixie II Lake Tahoe cruise, California, USA

Say hello to one of America’s most spectacular lake cruises. Your mode of transport for this sail across Lake Tahoe will be the M.S Dixie II – the lake’s biggest boat. The sunset dinner cruises are popular with couples, although we recommend the scenic daytime tours, which are a great way to explore North America’s largest alpine lake. This high-altitude body of water spreads into two states (California and Nevada), contains enough water to cover California with 14 inches of water and is deeper than the Empire State Building is tall.  

Le Petit Navire Lachine Canal tour, Québec, Canada

If crowded cruise liners and transatlantic crossings don’t appeal, consider this leisurely sail along Canada’s 14-kilometer Lachine Canal, which slices through the southern section of Montréal, a city famous for its historic architecture. Don’t know your dingle from your dewater? You’ll gain a wonderful insight into the construction of this historic waterway as you pass through its locks, and you’ll also enjoy fantastic views of Montréal’s skyline. Your mode of transport is rather special too – a carbon-neutral, zero-pollution electric propulsion boat. 

American Cruise Lines Alaska Inside Passage cruise, Alaska, USA

Alaska’s Inside Passage is an inland route weaving between islands on the Pacific Northwest coast and along glacier-lined fjords. Inside Passage cruises offer a different perspective on Alaska to coastal cruises, relying on smaller ships to reach more remote ports of call. Highlights of this cruise include the Strait of Georgia, where you’ll sail between Vancouver Island and British Columbia, and the glacier-fed waters of Frederick Sound – a brilliant whale watching spot.

Now check out the fabulous cruising facts you won't believe

Northwest Pioneers Cruise, Oregon and Washington, USA

As much as we love the mighty Mississippi, this brilliant river cruise , which wiggles through Oregon and Washington, is a fantastic reminder that there are plenty of other breathtakingly beautiful waterways to explore. On this adventure, you’ll sail along the Columbia River – the largest in America’s Pacific Northwest – and Snake River, which is the Columbia River’s largest tributary. It’s a great way to see some of America’s most underrated destinations, including the town of Astoria, which is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies.

American Cruise Lines Puget Sound and San Juan Islands Cruise, Washington, USA

This seven-day cruise provides a brilliant insight into one of America’s most wildlife-rich regions: Washington state’s Puget Sound, America’s second largest estuary; and the San Juan Islands, a cluster of 172 islands and reefs where you’re likely to spot wildlife including whales and eagles. Don’t miss the chance to explore Port Townsend, sandwiched between Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and famous for its Victorian-era architecture. 

Viking America’s Heartland cruise, Upper Mississippi, USA

This is one of the best Mississippi cruises for anyone keen to learn about the people who shaped this part of the US, whether it’s the Norwegians who migrated here during the 1800s or the farmers who made this region one of America’s top culinary destinations. Stops include the Missouri city of St Louis, once known as the Gateway to the West; Hannibal, which was the setting for Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn;  and the Iowan city of Dubuque, home to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.

Viking Heart of the Delta cruise, USA

An eight-day cruise between Memphis and New Orleans, Viking’s Heart of the Delta cruise takes in the Mississippi’s best bits, including many listed monuments and buildings. For history buffs, highlights will include St Francisville, where there’s a whopping 140 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and Natchez, which has more listed buildings than any other American city. If you’re short on time, put Stanton Hall, which was built in the 1850s, at the top of your list – this Greek revival-style property is famous for its ornate mirrored parlors.  

James River Batteau Company Batteau River tour, Virginia, USA

Short on time? Opt for this scenic river tour . Your mode of transport for this float along Virginia’s James River will be one of the beautiful wooden boats which have sailed this waterway for years. The two-hour tour along the river, which is Virginia’s longest, is a great way to see its wildlife – bald eagles, river otters and ospreys are regularly spotted. It’s a rather relaxed affair, and passengers are encouraged to cool off with a swim in the river. 

Discover the beloved cruise ships that will never sail again

American Queen Voyages Clarkston to Portland cruise, USA

A brilliant cruise for history fans, this 10-day Snake River and Columbia River cruise starts in Clarkston and finishes in Vancouver, Washington – the route undertaken by explorers Captain Meriwether Lewis and Lieutenant William Clark in the early 1800s. It’s also a route lined with natural wonders, including Columbia Gorge, which slices through the Cascade Mountains, and Idaho’s Hell’s Canyon, which is deeper than the Grand Canyon and can be explored on a high-speed boat ride. The Columbia River stretch is where you’re most likely to see bison, elk and deer too. 

American Queen Voyages Memphis to Nashville cruise, USA

This nine-day Memphis to Nashville   cruise is a fantastic way to check out some of the southern state’s prettiest towns, whether it’s Paducah in Kentucky, famed for its arts and craft museum or Clarksville, Tennessee. The latter is famous for its breweries, distilleries and wineries, while historic sites include the Customs House Museum & Cultural Center, where you can learn about the town’s famous former residents, including Wilma Rudolph – the first American woman to win three gold medals in a single Olympic Games. 

American Queen Voyages Mighty Mississippi Red Wing to New Orleans, USA

Can’t get enough of the Mighty Mississippi? Take a deep dive on  this 16-day cruise between Red Wing and New Orleans. It’s a fantastic way to discover the landscapes which surround America’s second longest river. The Minnesotan city of Winona, for example, is built on a sandbar and dates back to 9,500BC. The excursions on this cruise are fantastic too. Our favorite? In the town of Hannibal, Missouri, you’ll get the chance to make your very own clay pot out of Mississippi mud. 

Adventure Life Rivers of Adventure and Wine cruise, Oregon, USA

Your transport for this food and wine-themed cruise along the Columbia River is the Wilderness Legacy, a beautiful vessel designed to resemble a Victorian steamer. During the cruise, which starts and finishes in Portland, you’ll visit some of Oregon’s most important historical sites, but it’s the food and wine-themed stops that really set it apart. In the Hood River Valley, you can sign up for cycle rides between local vineyards, and in the Washington city of Walla Walla, you’ll visit a local chocolatier, olive oil producer, and brewery.  

American Queen Voyages St Louis to Cincinnati cruise, USA

Get more bang for your buck from your river cruise by signing up for American Queen Voyages’ exploration of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. Stop-offs on this spectacular paddle steamer cruise include the Illinois city of Alton, which has a rich history and became a base for abolitionists in the 1800s, and Henderson in Kentucky. It’s another cruise with fantastic excursions, our favorite of which is a jet boat ride along a stunning section of the Ohio River near Carrollton, Kentucky. 

American Queen Voyages Montréal to Detroit cruise, Canada and US

An 11-day cruise between two very different cities, this Montréal to Detroit sailing provides plenty of opportunities for urban explorations – you’ll visit Montréal, Québec City , Toronto and Cleveland, as well as quaint riverside towns such as Gananoque, in the heart of the Thousand Islands archipelago in Eastern Ontario. This particular cruise offers fantastic value for money – the cost of your sailing covers a wide range of excursions, including visits to Toronto’s CN Tower and catamaran tours of Niagara Falls.

St Lawrence Cruise Lines, Canada’s Capital North cruise, Canada

This Ottawa River cruise is a great way to explore two very different regions of Canada – more specifically Ontario and Québec. The six-day sailing is packed with fascinating stop-offs, including the wildlife-filled Thousand Islands, which straddle the border between America and Canada, and Fort Wellington, built in 1812. Love a lock? For many passengers, the highlight of this river cruise is the famous Carillion Lock, an enormous 182-tonne structure which has a flow rate of 2,000 cubic meters of water per second. 

Pearl Seas Cruises Great Lakes and Georgian Bay cruise, US and Canada

Sign up for this 11-night cruise from Toronto to Milwaukee and you’ll get the chance to see four of the most beautiful Great Lakes, with time to visit attractions lining the route. For many, the highlight is Georgian Bay, where 30,000 islands form the world’s largest freshwater archipelago, and where you’ll be able to check out destinations such as traffic-free Mackinac Island by horse-drawn buggy. There are plenty of big hitters too – you’ll take a guided tour of Niagara Falls and visit the legendary Henry Ford Museum in Windsor, Ontario. 

Le Boat Rideau Canal Cruise, Ontario, Canada

For something completely different, consider hiring your own river boat for a bespoke exploration of Canada’s Rideau Canal. The waterway, which is the oldest continuously-operated canal system in North America, is regarded as one of the world’s greatest engineering feats, and the UNESCO-listed canal is lined with historic sites. Your mode of transport? A luxury river boat kitted out with a kitchen, spacious bathrooms and sun deck. They’re surprisingly easy to drive too, thanks to powerful thrusters which make navigating locks a breeze. 

American Cruise Lines Hudson River cruise, New York, USA

This New York round trip  takes in the Hudson River’s best bits, busting the myth that its most spectacular section weaves through the Big Apple. You’ll explore it on the American Star, which has room for just 100 passengers and offers several stop-offs in the beautiful Catskill Mountains area. The cruise is especially popular with fans of architecture, who come to admire historic buildings such as the Vanderbilt Mansion (the former home of Franklin D. Roosevelt). 

Viking Great River cruise, Mississippi, USA

This is another fantastic option for history buffs – a Mississippi River cruise filled with visits to some of America’s most important historic sites. In Red Wing, Minnesota, you’ll learn how New Englanders joined forces with German and Irish migrants to farm the fertile landscape, and in Burlington, Iowa, you’ll discover how the arrival of both steamboats and the railroad transformed this once sleepy town, filled with listed buildings. Don’t miss the chance to stand under the famous Gateway Arch in St Louis, Missouri – a crossroads for nineteenth-century explorers. 

US Mailboat Cruises of Lake Winnipesaukee on the M/V Sophie C, New Hampshire, USA

Another fantastic option for anyone short on time, this cruise takes place on America’s oldest floating post office – a beautiful vessel which launched on Lake Winnipesaukee in 1945. During the two-hour cruise, you’ll visit several of Lake Winnipesaukee’s 253 islands, many of which were once home to indigenous people such as the Pennacooks. Don’t forget to send a postcard home – you’ll be able to post it on the boat, complete with an M/V Sophie C stamp.  

Craving a cruise? Check out our guide to the world’s most beautiful cruise ships

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Festival coming to the riverfront to feature tall stacks-like riverboats, music & more.

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A massive festival featuring Tall Stacks-like riverboats, music and more is coming to Ohio and northern Kentucky in 2025.

The America's River Roots festival, sponsored by First Financial, will be a four-day festival held Oct 9-12, 2025.

The festival is set to bring hundreds of thousands of people in a unique event celebrating the nation's 250th birthday.

The festival will feature performers on multiple stages along both sides of the river, tall stacks riverboat cruises, and educational programs shining a spotlight on The Freedom Journey and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. There will also be celebrity chef presentations, bourbon and craft beer tastings, multicultural food vendors, and regional food artisans.

“America's River Roots will focus attention on the Ohio River Valley region and its impact on the nation's growth and shaping of our diverse cultures,” Rick Greiwe, Event Co-chair, said in a statement. “The event will deepen this awareness with roots music, river cuisine and cultural experiences along our world-class riverfront. Area residents will connect with our common roots and visitors will discover the heritage of America’s inland river culture.”

More details including musicians, celebrity chefs, participating riverboats and more will be announced in the coming months.

Organizers announced Bryce Dessner, founding member of The National, will perform with the band as well as curate artists from all roots genres featured on all stages.

Details on cruise tickets and merchandise sales will also be announced in the coming months.

The America’s River Roots event has been endorsed as an official event of the Ohio Commission for the U.S. Semiquincentennial or America 250-Ohio, and is working with the U.S. America 250 Commission, established by Congress, to secure designation as a national signature event.

“At First Financial, we’re proud to be an early supporter of America’s River Roots in celebration of America’s 250 th Anniversary,” Archie Brown, president and CEO said in a statement. “We exist to be a positive influence to help our communities thrive, and this celebration will deliver incredible benefits throughout our community. America’s River Roots will be the perfect opportunity to showcase the talent, food and culture that makes Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky so unique.”

Those interested can go to AmericasRiverRoots.com to sign up for announcements.

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Preview: belle of louisville will try to keep winning streak alive in great steamboat race.

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A Kentucky Derby Festival tradition, the Great Steamboat Race, gets underway Wednesday night on the Ohio River.

The Belle of Louisville and Belle of Cincinnati will engage in their annual duel with one another for bragging rights.

Watch the start of the race in the player above

The steamboats will board from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. for a 5:45 p.m. departure.

The race itself kicks off at 6 p.m. when the fires are stoked and they pick up speed from the starting point.

An award presentation will follow on the Belle of Louisville for the winner. Cincinnati hasn't won since 2017.

The Belle of Louisville has won the last four competitions.

Tickets on the Belle of Louisville are $200 with limited availability left. For Belle of Louisville tickets, call (502) 584-FEST or visit KDF.org .

Tickets on the Belle of Cincinnati are $80 for general admission for the cruise only and $125 for dinner and cruise. For Belle of Cincinnati tickets, call (800) 261-8586 or visit BBRiverboats.com .

If you want to watch the boats take each other on, a free spectator is viewing at Kroger’s Fest-a-Ville and along the banks of the Ohio River.

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America’s River Roots to Bring Music, Cuisine, Riverboats to Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Riverfront

America’s river roots to celebrate roots music, river culture and cuisine along cincinnati/northern kentucky riverfront in october 2025.

CINCINNATI (May 1, 2024) – America’s River Roots, a celebration of inland river cuisine, music and culture to kick off America’s 250th Anniversary, will bring hundreds of thousands of visitors to the banks of the Ohio River in Cincinnati, Covington and Newport from October 9-12, 2025.

America’s River Roots will showcase the Ohio River and its vital role in our nation’s history while promoting cultural tourism in what promises to be a unique and memorable four days for the Cincy Region.

“America's River Roots will focus attention on the Ohio River Valley region and its impact on the nation's growth and shaping of our diverse cultures,” said Rick Greiwe, Event Co-chair. “The event will deepen this awareness with roots music, river cuisine and cultural experiences along our world-class riverfront. Area residents will connect with our common roots and visitors will discover the heritage of America’s inland river culture.”

Nationally-recognized and emerging artists will perform on multiple stages on both sides of the river. Tall stacks riverboat cruises and river culture will be highlighted through the River Cities EXPO. A River Roots Gospel Revival and education programs will put a spotlight on The Freedom Journey and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Cuisine attractions will include celebrity chef presentations, bourbon and craft beer tastings, multicultural food vendors, and regional food artisans. Exciting additional details, including nationally-recognized musicians, visiting celebrity chefs, participating riverboats, and the first date of cruise tickets and merchandise sales, will be announced in the coming months.

America’s River Roots has been endorsed as an official event of the Ohio Commission for the U.S. Semiquincentennial or America 250-Ohio, and is working with the U.S. America 250 Commission, established by Congress, to secure designation as a national signature event.

First Financial Bank is the title sponsor of America’s River Roots.

“At First Financial, we’re proud to be an early supporter of America’s River Roots in celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary,” said Archie Brown, president and CEO. “We exist to be a positive influence to help our communities thrive, and this celebration will deliver incredible benefits throughout our community. America’s River Roots will be the perfect opportunity to showcase the talent, food and culture that makes Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky so unique.”

In addition to First Financial Bank as the title sponsor, America’s River Roots announced six corporate leaders as event presenters and they include: altafiber, Cintas, Kroger, TQL and Western & Southern Financial Group along with the alliance of Northern Kentucky companies, OneNKY. America’s River Roots is anticipated to attract hundreds of thousands of people to the riverfront, including many from outside the region, while delivering an economic impact in the tens of millions of dollars.

Visit AmericasRiverRoots.com to sign up for future announcements.

Northern Kentucky CVB

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CALL FOR RESERVATIONS

As we move into our new Newport Landing dock facility & event center, our online reservation system will be temporality unavailable. Please call 1(800) 261-8586 to book your reservation today. We apologize for any inconvenience and look forward to serving you in 2019!

Captain's Dinner Cruise

About this Cruise

Take in the skyline, watch the river go by, and enjoy a fantastic meal aboard one of our Captain's Dinner cruises. Click the "Book this Cruise" button to see up to the minute scheduling. Cruise schedule may change during off-season months. See all of our up-to-date special packages when you choose a specific date in our online reservation system.

Cruise Schedule

Wednesday December 31, 1969

Dinner Buffet

Adults General Admission

Children Ages 4-12

25% OFF Souvenir Photos

Pre-order a souvenir boarding photo when making your online reservation and save on your purchase.

Customize Your Cruise

Make your cruise unique by adding table decorations, appetizers, and desserts, guaranteed window seating, souvenirs and other enhancements!

Tossed salad topped with Cucumbers, Tomatoes, and Red Onions served with homemade ranch and Gluten Free Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressings

Roasted Chicken

Roasted Seasoned-Crusted Striploin au jus served with Creamy horseradish Sauce

Whipped Potatoes

Fresh Seasonal Vegetable

Bakery Fresh Rolls and butter

Chef’s Choice of dessert

Dietary Restrictions?

If a member of your party requires a vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meal, please note this selection when making your reservation and other options will be made available on your cruise.

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