Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of nearby metropolitan cities, these peaceful river towns offer hidden attractions and unique charm. Begin in Maysville, a vibrant riverside haven with scenic parks, historical treasures, and an artistic flair. Then, explore Ripley's profound abolitionist history through its storied landmarks and museums before taking a timeless ferry ride to Augusta. Here, an enchanting riverwalk and unobstructed views of the Ohio provide breathtaking, varicolored sunsets. To finish, immerse yourself in New Richmond, where you can take a scenic kayak ride and find notable stops like the birthplace of the 18th U.S. president.

Recommendations

Friday

Spend the afternoon at Maysville River Park, which abuts the banks of a sparkling Ohio River. This park invites you to camp, picnic, boat, or simply unwind at the riverside. You can also make your way to Limestone Landing & Fishing Pier to cast a line off the dock or launch your kayak. (Located at the north end of Limestone Street and McDonald Parkway in the downtown.)

Need a kayak rental? Before Maysville, stop by friendly-owned Schack’s Yaks in New Richmond, OH, or at their Augusta, KY kayak kiosk—a first-of-its-kind, self-service kiosk that empowers paddlers to unlock their own vessel. It’s available every day from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Augusta boat ramp. (Be sure to download the kiosk app ahead of time.)

If you’re around the last weekend in July, attend the M2M Paddlefest, an energetic, fun-filled event where you can join fellow paddlers on an 11-mile guided event along the Ohio River. 

Bike through Maysville’s historic downtown using their complimentary bike rental service. First, stop by their visitor center located in the Historic Cox Building at 2 E 3rd Street, where they'll require you to complete a waiver with a valid ID and credit card for incidentals. Then, roam Maysville’s idyllic streets. Be sure to stop at Kenton Stories with Spirit, a double standout with a cozy book and art store in the front and a wine and bourbon bar in the back.

Whether exploring by walking or pedaling, stop off at some of Maysville’s unique boutique shops. Enjoy the Cox Art Gallery, filled with works from talented regional artists and supported by the Ohio River Valley Artist Guild or the EAT Gallery, showcasing unique hand-crafted jewelry by artisans worldwide.

Maysville is teeming with architecture dating back to the late 19th century. Review the performance schedule of the restored 1889 Washington Opera House or movie showtimes at The Russell Theater, which was the premier location for Rosemary Clooney’s “The Stars Are Singing.” If you want to learn more about the regional history, stop by The Kentucky Gateway Museum for elaborate exhibitions showcasing artifacts from yesteryear, including the Old Pogue Experience and The KSB Miniatures Collection–a jaw-dropping, must-see private collection. 

And be sure to check out all of the events and festivals Maysville hosts each year to enhance your stay!

Speaking of Maysville history, no Kentucky visit would be complete without a glimpse into the state’s renowned spirit—bourbon. Maysville is home to one of the country’s oldest bourbon productions, Old Pogue Bourbon Distillery. Tour the historic tree-lined grounds of the Pogue family home built in 1845 and the modern Distilled Spirits Plant, where they make small-batch bourbon and Kentucky rye malt whiskey. Tours are by appointment only but are typically held on Fridays and Saturdays at 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Reserve your spot on their website.

Originally a sandwich shop for railway workers in the 1930s, Caproni’s on the River was purchased by Leo Caproni, his brother Alfred, and his sister-in-law Lea Caproni in 1945, where they brought their secret family recipes from Barga, Italy, to the banks of Ohio. 

Today, the restaurant carries on the tradition of fresh, made-to-order pasta and other mouthwatering Italian dishes with some modern Kentucky flair, like The Hot Brown and Catfish Platter. Overlooking the Ohio River and adjacent to a railroad, this riverside restaurant offers iconic views that are just as good as their food. Make a reservation in advance.

Saturday

If you’re looking for savory, homemade brunch dishes like biscuits and gravy and bagel sandwiches, head to LilJumbo Coffee Company, where Chef Sean is always adding new ideas and seasonal offerings to the menu. They also feature fresh pastries and Kentucky-proud roasted coffee.

From Maysville, head west on the Ohio River Scenic Byway toward Ripley, a rivertown rich in abolitionist and Underground Railroad history. The Cincinnati Preservation Association has put together a detailed walking tour you can access here with points of interest and historic homes on the Underground Railroad.

Start on Front St. at the house of John P. Parker, an abolitionist who risked his life to aid more than 900 enslaved persons in their journey to freedom. The John P. Parker House is a designated National Historic Landmark and museum that’s open to the public. (Located at 300 N Front St.)

Also designated as a National Historic Landmark, the Rankin House is a well-known Underground Railroad station that is open for tours. Located on a bluff overlooking the Ohio River sits a small, red brick house that was home to the abolitionist Rev. John Rankin. Here, Rev. Rankin fed, clothed, and provided safety to fleeing enslaved persons before they continued their journey on the Underground Railroad route. You can drive to the John Rankin House or walk the freedom stairway, which features 100 steps from the Ohio River to the home. (Admission: $8/adults, $5/kids.)

Option: For those who love to cycle, The Adventure Cycling Association developed The Underground Railroad Bicycle Route, which offers day-trip rides in Ripley. 

If you want to continue learning about Ripley’s regional history during your visit, check out the Ripley Museum and the Ohio Tobacco Museum.

Front St. in Ripley offers a couple of great casual places to grab lunch. If you want an outdoor meal with a view, try The Ripley Boat Club, which offers American cuisine and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere right on the water. Or, try Cohearts Riverhouse, located in a quiet, historic building with views of the river from the dining room and home-cooked-style food. From here, take some time to explore Front St. and walk along the riverfront.

From Ripley, take US 52 on the Ohio Scenic Byway to Higginsport, Ohio, a village founded by Revolutionary War officer Colonel Robert Higgins. Drive to Boude's landing and hop on the Augusta Ferry to August, KY. 

The Augusta Ferry began operating in 1798 and is one of the oldest ferries still in operation. This brief ride across the Ohio River offers a poetic view of the water that slows down time. The Ferry runs every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and costs $7 for cars and trucks.

If time allows, stop at The Rosemary Clooney House and Museum, which is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the iconic American singer and actress. The museum showcases memorabilia from her prolific career, including awards, costumes, and personal artifacts. (The museum hours are limited Friday: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. & Saturday: 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.)

Spend the afternoon at Baker Bird Winery & Distillery. Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, its legacy traces back to the American Revolution when John Baker, the distiller, fought in the historic war and practiced his craft during the Whiskey Rebellion in Pennsylvania. 

In 1797, John Baker relocated to Augusta, where he continued his distillation process. Today, the Baker-Bird Wine Cellar is the largest, oldest wine cellar in the U.S., and the only winery to have survived a Civil War Battle. Whether you want to try a crisp flight of wines or saddle up to Kentrucky’s signature bourbon, you can set up a winery or distillery tour to learn about some of the most historical libations in our nation.

Constructed in 1796 from a storied past, Beehive Tavern is a neighborhood favorite eatery situated alongside the panoramic Augusta Riverfront. 

The Beehive serves carefully curated farm-to-table dishes like their brown-sugar braised short rib or seasonal berry salad with decadent desserts like the honey pie featuring cookie oatmeal crust, bourbon caramel, and praline pecans. Try their signature cocktails that include Augusta Distillery’s specialty local bourbon or a flight of their local draft beers.

Make a reservation ahead of time, and check their schedule for live music on Saturday nights.

From the Beehive Tavern, take a short stroll to the Augusta River Park (O'Neill Riverwalk). Find a seat on one of the benches and soak in some of the most unobstructed views of the Ohio River that exist for a breathtaking sunset that’s cherished by its residents. Surrounded by tree-covered hillsides with hardly a city light in sight, it’s a moment to cherish.

Accommodations: If you’re staying the night in Augusta, check into the Augusta Guest House, built in the early 1800s. This inn has ten guest rooms with unique, cozy rooms reflective of the area’s historical heritage.

Sunday

From Augusta, take KY-8 west toward New Richmond, OH, or take the ferry back to Higginsport and hop on US-52 W/Ohio River Scenic Byway to New Richmond. If you didn’t get the chance to kayak in Maysville or Augusta, definitely take advantage of a Sunday morning ride down the Ohio River starting here.

Reserve a kayak at Shack’s Yaks. They'll drop you off on the river for a 7-mile paddle before floating back to their location for an easy drop-off. On your journey, you'll glide past historical Underground Railroad stops, Ulysses S. Grant's home, and Big Indian Creek—where former President Grant played as a child.

Set against the tranquil backdrop of the Ohio River, Front Street Café offers a delightful blend of history and flavor. With a commitment to freshness and sustainability, every dish tells a story of local farms and fields. Indulge in their Signature Sandwich, a mouthwatering ensemble of thinly sliced corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, Thousand Island dressing, and Swiss cheese on stone-ground rye bread. 

Step back in time at the Ross-Gowdy House Museum, a jewel in New Richmond. This stunning Greek Revival house, built in 1853, sits at 125 George Street and stands as a testament to the village’s vibrant steamboat era and heroic abolitionist history.

Under the care of Historic New Richmond, the museum stands as a narrative of the past. Home to three of New Richmond's mayors—David Ross, Charles Short, and Lawrence Robbins—it resonates with stories of bravery and community spirit. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it showcases period furniture, historical photos, and fascinating local writings.

You can visit the Ross-Gowdy House museum on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. or take a self-guided walk on New Richmond’s Ohio Underground Railroad Tour to uncover all of the town’s important history.

Before heading home, peer into U.S. history through the humble beginnings of the birthplace of Ulysses S. Grant. This quaint one-story cottage, where Ulysses S. Grant was born on April 27, 1822, has been lovingly preserved and restored.

As you enter, you'll be transported back to the 19th century, with period furnishings, fascinating exhibits, and a unique glimpse into the early life of the 18th President and celebrated Civil War General.
(Hours of operation include April -September: Wed. - Sat., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sun., 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.)