There’s something undeniably romantic- and distinctly Northern Kentucky- about the sound of paddlewheels churning the Ohio River with a glass of bourbon in your hand. It’s the spirit of America’s River Roots coming alive, and there’s no better way to experience it than by pairing a riverboat adventure with a bourbon-soaked journey along The B-Line®.
Whether you’re stepping aboard a cruise steeped in history or diving deep into Kentucky’s craft distilling culture, your America’s River Roots weekend becomes unforgettable when you follow The B-Line straight to the heart of it all.
Day 1: Land in Covington, Drift into the Past
Start your adventure in Covington, where cobblestone streets, grand old buildings, and lively bars give you a sense of place. Check in to the stylish B-Line hotel, Hotel Covington, where vintage elegance meets modern comfort. Then take a 5 minute stroll to Libbys’ Southern Comfort – a B-Line restaurant known for its deep bourbon list and Southern-inspired menu – for your first pour of the weekend.
From there, it’s a 30 minute walk (or a 7 minute drive) to the riverfront and BB Riverboats. Whether you’re booking a daytime sightseeing cruise or a sunset dinner cruise, the experience instantly transports you. As you glide along the Ohio, just imagine the barrels of bourbon that once floated downstream to New Orleans, a nod to Kentucky’s role in the early days of American commerce and craftsmanship.
For the special offerings of Riverboat Cruises during America’s River Roots, check out the full schedule here. Not only will you find lunch, brunch, dinner and late-night cruises, you’ll also be able to score tickets to several once- in- a -lifetime experiences on the river! Get yourself on board for a Riverboat Race, be part of the Riverboat Parade or embark on specialty cruises with themes ranging from Bourbon (naturally!), to Mascot Mania, to Princesses, Pirates and Superheroes.
Day 2: Distilleries, Drinking Spots & Discoveries
Today’s all about tasting your way through Northern Kentucky’s rich bourbon scene. Start with a tour and tasting at New Riff Distilling in Newport – just a short ride from Covington. Their modern approach to Kentucky bourbon makes for a dynamic start to your distillery stops.
Then take a 10 minute stroll down to the America’s River Roots Festival and the Kentucky Bourbon Experience, located on the riverfront just left of the approach to the Purple People Bridge and down below Newport on the Levee. There you can enter the Bourbon Bottle Shop where bourbon distilleries from Northern Kentucky and beyond will be sharing their stories – and sampling their spirits. Our friends at The Party Source, one of the country’s largest liquor stores, have secured special bottles, available only for America’s River Roots, from all of the participating distilleries.
While you’re in the tent not only can you have the special bottles signed but you can also have them custom etched, making them perfect for your home bar or a holiday gift for the bourbon lover on your list. Did somebody say gifts? There will be plenty of options from merchants with bourbon-related offerings where you’ll discover treasures- from barware to bourbon friendly foods – to take home. And don’t worry- we’ve got you! Lockers are available just outside the Bottle Shop so that you can stash your treasures while you explore the festival unencumbered.
Want to get even deeper into the Kentucky Bourbon Experience? Sign up for special offerings from bourbon distilleries and bourbon celebrities alike. From blending your own custom bourbon to learning how to make craft cocktails at home to listening to engaging stories about the history of the river and the whiskey – there’s something for everyone.
As day turns to evening, settle in at The Merchant’s Club at its temporary home along the mighty Ohio River. Soak in the sights and sounds of the Festival as Riverboats pass by and notes from the Festival’s musical lineup fill the air. These are definitely memories to last a lifetime.
Day 3: Kentucky’s Boardwalk, Kentucky Cuisine and the Purple People Bridge
Kentucky’s Boardwalk at Ovation is where the city meets the river. Elevate your River Roots at this urban resort that redefines riverside luxury sitting above the historic connection point between the Licking and Ohio Rivers on the Newport riverfront. With premium paid parking, unrivaled views of the River Roots Festival plus live music, river breezes, skyline sunsets and spectacular fireworks this is a can’t miss part of your America’s River Roots experience! At Kentucky’s Boardwalk at Ovation guests will enjoy a VIP vantage point – high above the crowds, with effortless access to all the excitement of the America’s River Roots Festival. Both ticketed and private experiences are available.
Step into The B-Line Speakeasy, an exclusive pop-up tucked inside the event, featuring bourbons and bartenders from Northern Kentucky’s famed B-Line trail. Sample rare and regional selections and enjoy handcrafted cocktails from expert mixologists representing the best of NKY’s craft bourbon scene. It’s a hidden gem within the event – and a toast to the spirit of local tradition.
A different B-Line partner will do a takeover each day.
- Purple Poulet – Upscale Southern fare and bourbon-soaked flavor
- Greyhound Tavern – Classic comfort food with local soul
- Smoke Justis – Smoked meats and modern bourbon-bar vibes
Ready for more? Enjoy curated tastings and mixology classes led by seasoned bourbon stewards and bourbon celebrities. Sample Kentucky’s finest pours, from smooth single barrels to bold custom blends, while uncovering the rich heritage and craftsmanship behind every glass. Both ticketed and private experiences are available.
Finally, immerse yourself in a whole different kind of “small batch” on the Purple People Bridge where local and regional vendors will present their wares. From jams and candies to custom t-shirts and soaps there’s something for everyone!
Day 4: Brunch on a Boat and a Farewell Bourbon Toast
All aboard a brunch cruise! Fancy a Belgian Waffle on the Anson & Betsey Northrup from St. Paul? Or maybe Kentucky glazed ham with your eggs on the Mary M. Miller (named for the first female riverboat captain) from Louisville? Dine like they do in the Big Easy with Gumbo and Bread Pudding on the Natchez, here from New Orleans. Chicken and Waffles are waiting for you on the Belle of Memphis. The River Queen is dishing up Beef Brisket Hash and White Cheddar Grits. These are just a small taste of what’s in store for you on each of the majestic Riverboats.
We hope you’re not done yet! Before you depart, head back toward Covington and enjoy a meal at Bouquet Restaurant or grab a drink at Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar, a must-stop with hundreds of expressions lining the shelves, where you can raise one last toast to your weekend with a classic Old Fashioned.
The B-Line and America’s River Roots are more than just a great way to spend a long weekend. They’re a perfect pairing: a celebration of craftsmanship, culture, and the soul of the region. Whether you’re a history buff, bourbon lover, or just looking for an unforgettable weekend getaway, this mashup delivers a taste of Kentucky unlike any other. So go ahead – book your cruise, sip your bourbon, and follow The B-Line. Northern Kentucky and the mighty Ohio River are calling.
