Freedom's Echo: Juneteenth Journey in the Cincy Region

A 3-day itinerary showcasing the importance of the Ohio River and Cincinnati in the Underground Railroad, abolitionist movement, and the journey to freedom.

Day 1

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center:

Through permanent and traveling exhibits, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center shares the stories of freedom’s heroes, from the era of the Underground Railroad to contemporary times, challenging and inspiring us all. Journey through this immersive museum that illuminates the struggles and triumphs of the Underground Railroad and beyond.
Approximately 2 hours
Group Contact: Ryan Repasky, 513-333-7500, rrepasky@nurfc.org

Order box lunches that can be eaten on the bus en route to Ripley, Ohio

Ripley, Ohio Exploration:

Take a hub & spoke trip to Ripley, Ohio, nestled on the majestic Ohio River, south-east of Cincinnati. This beautiful river town has a proud abolitionist history and was one of the first stops on the Underground Railroad for those escaping from Kentucky. In Ripley you can explore Underground Railroad landmarks like the John Rankin House and the John Parker House and take the Rankin House “Freedom Stairs” Hike. The Union Township Library has a unique collection of materials that showcase the importance of Ripley in the Underground Railroad movement.

Dinner at Dead Low Brewing:

Dead Low Brewing is a craft brewery and restaurant located along the Ohio River. There is an outdoor beer garden, rentable private event space, and large taproom. They serve up a variety of their own ales, sours, lagers, and stouts along with spirits, ciders, wine, and no proof beverages and soft drinks. Classic pub food, pizzas, sandwiches, and salads make up their delicious menu.
Dead Low Brewing Group Contact: hello@deadlow.com

Return to host hotel for the evening

A museum exhibit showcasing people made up of modular photos. A timeline runs in the background. — National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

The exterior of a modest red-brick home set against a blue sky. — Rankin House, Ripley, Ohio

A trio of pint glasses sit on a wooden bar. From left to right they are a pale beer, dark beer, and amber colored beer. — Dead Low Brewing

Day 2

Juneteenth Jubilee at National Underground Railroad Freedom Center:

Experience the vibrant Juneteenth Jubilee at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. This event features live music and performances at the Freedom Center Plaza. Minority and women owned food trucks will be serving up delicious bites and a Community Market will feature local small businesses. The Freedom Center will have extended hours and free admission. The celebration culminates in a “second line” style march down the banks to the Ohio River, the symbolic River Jordan, over which thousands of enslaved people crossed into freedom on the Underground Railroad.

Enjoy lunch at the Jubilee's food trucks or on The Banks:

The Banks is Cincinnati’s entertainment district on the Ohio River. Whether you're craving comfort food classics or seeking a trendy dining experience with a riverside view, The Banks has it. With a vibrant atmosphere and diverse flavors, it's the perfect destination for food lovers to gather, dine, and enjoy the vibrant energy of Cincinnati's riverfront district.

Enjoy free time or rest at host hotel

Fountain Square:

Named due to the famous Tyler Davidson Fountain, Fountain Square is a hub of activity during the summer. Located in downtown Cincinnati, Fountain Square offers concerts, entertainment, trivia, dancing, and more. There’s something nearly every night of the week.

Enjoy dinner at a downtown restaurant:

Dining options abound near Fountain Square. Upscale steak and seafood restaurants rub elbows with craft breweries, Italian, burgers, sushi, classic American, and more.

Return to host hotel for the evening or enjoy the downtown nightlife

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center — Juneteenth Jubilee

An outdoor patio at The Banks. Brown tables are set up and groups of people are in the background. — The Banks

Man Having Fun on Fountain Square during Vibe — Fountain Square

Counter seats at the bar in The Davidson. Plants above a rack of bottles on the left and above glasses on the right provide a homey look. — The Davidson, Fountain Square District

Day 3

Harriet Beecher Stowe House:

The Harriet Beecher Stowe House is a historical and cultural site focusing on abolitionist and author Harriet Beecher Stowe who lived in Cincinnati in 1840 while preparing to write Uncle Tom's Cabin. In the 1940s African American proprietor Irene Bacon managed the house as the Edgemont Inn, a boarding house, gathering space, and tavern listed in the Green Book. The home recently underwent restoration and preservation to ensure the history housed here is available for generations to come. The museum provides a look at the family and friends of the Beecher-Stowe family, the Lane Seminary, abolitionist, civil, and human rights movements as well as the Underground Railroad movement, the historical figures involved, and Ohio’s place in the movement.
Approximately 1 hour
Harriet Beecher Stowe House Group Contact: Violet Rae Webster, 513-751-0651, vwebster@stowehousecincy.org

Findlay Market:

Findlay Market is the only surviving municipal market house of the nine public markets that operated in Cincinnati in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Findlay Market has operated continuously in the same iron-framed building since 1855, yet it's not just another historic monument, it is an essential institution to life in 21st century Cincinnati. Numerous businesses at Findlay Market span multiple generations. This intergenerational legacy serves to preserve the traditions and core values that define the vibe of Findlay Market. Stroll through the market and shop local vendors, enjoy a delicious meal, and take a self-guided tour. Guided tours are available through the market or third-party tour operators: American Legacy Tours, Brewing Heritage Trail, Cincinnati Food Tours, OTR Museum Walking Tours, and Riverside Food Tours.
Approximately 2 hours
Findlay Market Group Contact: info@findlaymarket.org

Enjoy lunch at one of the Findlay Market vendors

BB Riverboats Dinner Cruise:

Take a cruise with BB Riverboats, a favorite of the Cincy Region riverfront for more than 40 years. BB Riverboats offers the Admiral's Dinner Cruise on Friday and Saturday evenings and the Captain's Dinner Cruise during the week. Take in the skyline, watch the river roll by, and savor a delicious dinner, all while enjoying entertainment provided by a DJ or live band.
Approximately 2 hours
BB Riverboats Group Contact: Nancy Willhoite, 859-261-8500, nwillhoite@bbriverboats.com

Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame:

The Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame is an interactive attraction that commemorates Black musicians, producers, and songwriters from Cincinnati and the lasting contributions they have made on music worldwide. Lighting effects, interactive kiosks, green screen technology that lets you become part of the music are just part of this exciting event. At night the Interactive Dance Party becomes the Nighttime Takeover with music, digital media, and an amazing light show.

Return to host hotel for the evening