Americas River Roots Experience

This project will create a digital platform that will serve as an educational and cultural tourism hub with a wide range of information and experiential content on the freedom journey sites in cincinnati and ohio river communities. The goal is to provide content for a self-guided tour, tour operator guide and schools. Users will be able to download a tour on their mobile device and experience a self-guided tour with video and narrated stories at each site. The national underground railroad museum will work with the national park services to identify the most significant stops on the trail. The platform is designed to be a permanent legacy and will be promoted as an ongoing tourism attraction.

A 4-mile walking tour of our region's unique history circling the riverfront of cincinnati, covington and newport. From the dinosaurs that roamed this valley, to its early settlement and tremendous growth, to historic figures that influenced the nation, the riverwalk tells the story of our ties with the ohio river. Clearly marked by colorful tile pavement inserts and directional signage, the tour is organized in nine zones featuring 46 stations that capture the spirit our unique heritage and place in america. Dramatic views of the river and city, and reference to historic sites and events are highlighted along the route. This project will create a digital platform that will serve as an educational and cultural tourism resource with a wide range of information and experiential content that will bring the riverwalk to life. Visitors will be able to download the tour on their mobile device and experience a self-guided tour with video and narrated stories at each station. The riverwalk tour will be launched in october 2025 with a promotional event targeting families with school age children and visitors attending river roots. The platform is designed to be a permanent legacy and will be promoted as an ongoing cultural tourism attraction.

America's river roots experience plans to host a multi-day public event along the ohio river's frontage adjacent to downtown cincinnati and northern kentucky, which celebrate the vibrant culture of america's river cities. The fusion of historic riverboats, a wide variety of cuisine, musical performances from a range of genres, and other educational programs will aid in celebrating the kick off of america's 250th birthday.