Follow The Ohio River Along This Scenic Drive Through Kentucky

Central Kentucky's Daniel Boone National Forest, the hills and vales of the eastern Appalachians, and the world-renowned southwestern lakes are all regions that are well-known and often visited in Kentucky. In this article, we're showing some love to the northern boundary of the Bluegrass which is handily demarcated by the mighty Ohio River in Kentucky. This nearly 1,000-mile-long body of water has long played a key role in Kentucky's history and is the founding point of many riverfront towns in the Bluegrass. So, what are you waiting for? Come with us on one of the most scenic drives in Kentucky, stopping by some of the state's most iconic riverfront towns and points of interest along the way.

The trip along the Ohio River in Kentucky spans about 250 miles and takes just over 4.5 hours of driving time. Of course, we suggest you take into account time spent at the various riverfront destinations too.

Take a look at the interactive Google Map I put together of this trip and hit the road!

Our scenic drive through Kentucky begins in Ashland, a charming and criminally underrated town on the Ohio River.

Most towns along the Ohio River Scenic Byway take advantage of this location for its locals with the addition of parks and walkways so the public can take in the views. In northeastern Kentucky, right on the West Virginia border, Ashland has truly made the most of its location. The acclaimed Port of Ashland features, among other things, beautiful sculptures, picnic tables and benches, and a lovely river walk.

Next up on one of the most scenic drives in Kentucky is the lovely little river town of Union, Kentucky, where a prehistoric adventure awaits.

Established in 1960, Big Bone Lick is an under-appreciated Kentucky State Park that's a fun glimpse into the past. With traditional camping and hiking options, along with a renovated museum and a herd of roaming bison, you will never be bored at this historic site. So, we suggest you make a point to stop here when you're looking for scenic river drives near me.

Continuing along the Ohio River Scenic Byway, we're heading to the midpoint of our adventure as we roll into the charming towns of Covington and Newport.

This area is best known for the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, an architectural marvel spanning 1,057 feet between Cincinnati, Ohio, and Covington, Kentucky.

When the Roebling opened on December 1, 1866, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world. Later, in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge would usurp this title, coming in at an astounding 1,595.5 feet.

But that doesn't diminish the Roebling's pomp and grandeur. Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and a designated U.S. National Historic Landmark, the bridge remains one of the most amazing pieces of architecture in the country, an important part of Northern Kentucky culture, and an American icon worth checking out the Ohio River in Kentucky.

We're breaking for lunch at a favorite spot in Northern Kentucky: Pompilio's.

Located in the historic Ohio River town of Newport, Pompilio's opened its doors in 1933 and is a longstanding local favorite that's known for its legendary lasagna... and role in one of the most iconic film moments in history! Hence, this is a highlight to going on this adventure when you're questioning where there are scenic river drives near me.

There are some places in Kentucky that embody everything that’s wonderful about the Bluegrass State. Maysville is one of them.

For starters, its riverfront location creates a wholly unique experience, with Maysville’s homes and businesses all boasting stellar water views. Its charming downtown, of course, is located right on the water, with the mighty Ohio River in Kentucky providing the most sublime scenic backdrop.

The downtown district looks right out to the river, with the Simon Kenton Memorial Bridge a beautiful Bluegrass icon.

Its unique riverfront location made Maysville a vibrant port in the 1800s, as well as a key stop on the Underground Railroad.

Downtown, you'll find all sorts of things to see and do; those in history will want to visit the Harriet Beecher Stowe Slavery to Freedom Museum and National Underground Railroad Museum. This is one town along the Ohio River in Kentucky that's a must-visit for everyone: historians, the curious, nature lovers, families, and more!

In Kentucky's largest city, the Ohio River is a quintessential part of the Louisville skyline. And our favorite place along this resplendent river is a true urban oasis: the Waterfront Botanical Gardens.

This 23-acre botanical garden is a literal breath of fresh air; a hidden oasis in Louisville's bustling metropolis. Native plants, winsome wildflowers, and buzzing pollinators abound. It's an enchanting place that's peak Bluegrass beauty! Hence, another reason riding along the Ohio River Scenic Byway is such as treat1

Let's end our scenic drive through Kentucky on a high note (literally), shall we? While there are many wonderful places to dine while drinking in those beautiful Bluegrass bodies of water, some of the *most* scenic vistas can be found at River House Restaurant and Raw Bar in Louisville, Kentucky.

And while you sip your drink and gaze out at the beautiful expanse of the Ohio River, you'll feel immensely grateful to be right here, at this wonderful waterfront steakhouse in Kentucky. Raise a glass to the completion of one of the most scenic drives in Kentucky!

When was the last time you hopped in the car and took this or one of the many other scenic drives in Kentucky? Feel free to share your thoughts in the following comments section. And, to help you prepare for your adventure on the road, take a look at our ultimate road trip packing guide for tips and tricks to make your outing even more memorable.