From the archive. This story is from October 2025. Read Part 2: the festival in Cincinnati, or see what's sailing now on all cruises.
Quick answer
In October 2025 the Gateway Clipper Three Rivers Queen made a three-day, 470-mile voyage down the Ohio River from Pittsburgh to Cincinnati, passing through 12 locks and waiting out heavy morning fog, to join historic riverboats at America's River Roots Festival (October 8–12, 2025).
Flowing through the heart of our nation, America's rivers have long been the lifeblood of connection, commerce and culture. In October 2025 they took center stage at America's River Roots Festival in Cincinnati, Ohio. From October 8 to 12, the riverfronts of Cincinnati, Covington and Newport came alive in a celebration of America's 250th anniversary, honoring the waterways that helped shape our country's story.
Historic steamboats like the Belle of Louisville and the Steamboat Natchez from New Orleans, along with the Belle of Memphis, were joined by more modern vessels like our beloved Three Rivers Queen, an engine-powered paddlewheel boat that carries the spirit of river travel into today. With music echoing across the water, the festival became a living tribute to the roots that run deep through America's past, present and future.
Three days and 470 miles down the Ohio
Our Three Rivers Queen made a remarkable voyage to be part of this celebration: a three-day, 470-mile journey down the Ohio River from Pittsburgh to Cincinnati to join the fleet of iconic riverboats.
The trip came with its share of challenges, starting with extensive prep work before departure to make sure every detail was shipshape. Along the way, the Queen passed through 12 locks, each one requiring careful coordination and precision from the crew as she steadily made her way toward Cincinnati.
Waiting out the fog
The Ohio had other plans, too. Dense morning fog rolled in more than once, and on the morning of October 5, near Hockingport, Ohio, the crew had to wait for hours until it lifted enough to continue safely downstream.
Cheered on from the riverbanks
Despite the long hours and unpredictable river conditions, the journey was full of excitement and pride, as spectators gathered along the riverbanks to cheer her on. River towns added their own sights, like a home built to look like a riverboat in Higginsport, Ohio.
All photos by the Gateway Clipper crew aboard the Three Rivers Queen.
The Queen's voyage was more than a trip. It was a reminder of the skill, endurance and lasting legacy of America's river travel. Continue to Part 2: Riverboat Legacy & the Pulse of the Ohio for the festival itself.
Experience a lock (and the Queen) at home
You don't have to sail to Cincinnati to see a river lock up close: the Barbecue Lock & Dam Dinner Cruise takes you through a working lock right here in Pittsburgh. Or take in the city on a one-hour Three Rivers Sightseeing cruise. Want the Queen all to yourself? She hosts private events for up to 250 guests; meet her and the rest of our fleet.
Frequently asked questions
How long did it take the Three Rivers Queen to sail from Pittsburgh to Cincinnati?
About three days. She left Pittsburgh at 10pm on Friday, October 3, 2025, traveled roughly 470 miles down the Ohio River through 12 locks, and arrived at Cincinnati's public landing on the night of Monday, October 6.
Can I cruise on the Three Rivers Queen in Pittsburgh?
Yes. The Three Rivers Queen is a three-deck paddlewheeler that sails from Station Square in Pittsburgh. She carries up to 250 guests and can be chartered as a whole boat or by deck for private events.
