Exploring the Ohio River Scenic Byway
The Ohio River Scenic Byway follows one of the most historic and scenic waterways in the United States.
Stretching through Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, this route winds along the banks of the Ohio River, connecting small towns, historic sites, river overlooks, and hidden gems that many travelers miss.
This is not a fast highway drive—it’s a journey through history, landscapes, and communities shaped by the river.
Ohio River Scenic Byway Map
This map includes:
- The full byway route
- Stops we’ve visited
- Towns, parks, and historic sites
- Scenic pull-offs and river views
Ohio River Scenic Byway Stops & Nearby Places
Ohio River Scenic Byway Destinations
The locations below include places we’ve personally visited, historical reference locations, restaurants, museums, parks, and scenic stops found along or near the Ohio River Scenic Byway.
Use the directory listings to explore individual destinations, read related articles, and discover new places to add to your journey.
Historic Tunnel Cairo Entrance
The Historic Tunnel Entrance in Cairo offers a reminder of the city's transportation history and its role as a gateway between major river and rail networks.
Indiana Jim’s Prospector Hill
Indiana Jim's Prospector Hill (located at 7804 IN-166, Cannelton, IN) is a privately listed location that serves as a base for Indiana Jim, a well-known educational wildlife and animal program in the region. Our interactive and educational program features animals from Indiana and around the world. Hear, see and touch some of the world's most misunderstood animals.
Iron Bridge
Old Iron Bridge Boat Ramp offers a traditional boat ramp suitable for trailered boats, featuring a large parking lot and turnaround area for convenient launching on the Blue River.
Isaac Knight Memorial
The Isaac Knight Memorial - A tribute to a 13-year-old boy who was kidnapped in 1793 and escaped over two years later.
Joan Marchand Bridge
This bridge is a rare surviving example of a 19th century pin-connected truss bridge designed for heavy urban traffic. Thus, the bridge has much more massive members and a wider deck than most surviving pin-connected metal truss bridges that remain today.
Kincaid Mounds State Historic Site
Kincaid Mounds State Historic Site protects the remains of a significant Mississippian culture settlement. The site provides valuable insight into the Native American civilizations that thrived in the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys.
Life on the Ohio River History Museum
Life on the Ohio River History Museum explores the people, industries, and transportation systems that depended on the Ohio River. It is an excellent stop for anyone interested in river history.
Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial
Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial preserves the landscape where Abraham Lincoln spent much of his youth. Visitors can explore exhibits, walking trails, and a reconstructed pioneer homestead while learning about the experiences that helped shape the future president.
Lincoln Landing Monument
The Lincoln Landing Monument commemorates Abraham Lincoln's connections to southern Indiana and the Ohio River Valley, offering visitors another link to his early life and travels.
Lincoln Pioneer Village and Museum
Lincoln Pioneer Village and Museum offers visitors an opportunity to explore local history, regional heritage, and the stories that helped shape the surrounding community. Travelers interested in discovering hidden gems, historical connections, and the character of the Midwest will find this site a worthwhile stop.
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