Ohio River Scenic Byway motorcycle route: Scenic riding through Ohio’s river towns

This ride isn’t just about getting from point A to B—it’s about the stories, sights, and stops that happen in between. The route itself will take you along the Ohio River, starting near Cincinnati and ending at the Pennsylvania border near East Liverpool—or vice versa. This stretch includes routes US 52, State Route 7, Route 124, and Route 39.

While the entire stretch is doable in one day, most riders prefer to take their time and split the trip over a few days. Here's a suggested three-day itinerary to help you enjoy the experience:

• Day 1: Cincinnati to Portsmouth Start your ride in Cincinnati. Enjoy the riverfront, then follow US 52 east, winding through towns like Ripley and Aberdeen. End your day in Portsmouth—home to murals, museums, and classic Ohio charm.

• Day 2: Portsmouth to Marietta Continue northeast along Route 7. This leg is rich with nature views and river bends. Stop in Gallipolis for a bite or a fishing break. By evening, you’ll cruise into historic Marietta featuring old-town streets and good eats.

• Day 3: Marietta to East Liverpool Wrap up your ride through Ohio’s Upper River Valley. Pass by the green hills of The Plains to Steubenville’s historic sites. This last leg delivers rural beauty on your way to East Liverpool—just a short hop from Pennsylvania.

This interactive map gives you a high-level look at key towns and attractions along Ohio’s 452-mile stretch of the byway. Explore the route in advance, or use it to shape your stops once you're on the road.

The best months to ride this route are April through October. Be careful of unseasonable snow in early spring or late fall. Like much of the Midwest, Ohio weather can shift quickly—so it’s smart to check the forecast before you roll out.

Here's a snapshot of the average temps in Marietta, Ohio:

This isn’t just a ride—it’s a road trip through time. From historic river towns to local gems worth the detour, the Ohio River Scenic Byway is packed with places to park your bike, stretch your legs, and take it all in. Here are a few must-see stops along—or just off—the route.

• National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, in Cincinnati, OH

• Harriet Beecher Stowe House, in Cincinnati, OH

• The Castle Historic House Museum, in Marietta, OH

• Historic Fort Steuben, in Steubenville, OH

• The Wolf Plains, in The Plains, OH

• Beaver Creek State Park, in East Liverpool, OH

• Crooked Run Nature Preserve, in Chilo, OH

• Shawnee State Forest, near Portsmouth, OH

• Forked Run State Park, in Reedsville, OH

• Racoon Creek County Park, in Gallipolis, OH

• Bob Evans Restaurant, located on the original family farm near Gallipolis. If you're riding in October, the Bob Evans Fall Festival—held the second Friday of the month—is worth the stop.

• Boathouse BBQ, an award-winning riverside restaurant in Marietta, OH

• Cadence Vault Gastropub, set inside a historic bank building in East Liverpool, OH

Although this route is rarely crowded, expect moderate traffic in summer and fall, especially near larger towns. Some sections include blind turns and hills—ride alert, and avoid passing on curves. Ohio prohibits lane splitting on public roads.

Take your time and make the most of the views between stops. Breaking the route into multiple days isn’t just safer—it’s how you can catch the best views. But before starting your adventure, make sure your bike’s in top shape. These resources can help:

• Seasonal motorcycle maintenance checklist

• Preparing your motorcycle for summer rides: A maintenance guide

• Motorcycle tire pressure: What to check before hitting the road

When you’re covering serious miles, dependable coverage makes all the difference. Dairyland^®, a brand of the Sentry Insurance Group, offers motorcycle insurance with flexible coverage and rider-friendly discounts—so you can ride confidently from river town to river town. Want a quote or have questions? Contact our team today.