Seven Ways to Enjoy Summer Nights on The Great Miami Riverway

P arks come alive at night too! The Great Miami Riverway offers plenty of ways to add to the summer fun after dark. Forget packing up when the sun sets—The Great Miami Riverway has options for everyone, from sleeping under the stars to exploring small towns with a drink in hand. Whether you’re looking for a lively festival atmosphere or craving a serene night under the stars, The Great Miami Riverway offers something special for every night owl. Here are some evening activities, events, and things to do along The Great Miami Riverway this summer.

Spend the night in a floating tent

Troy, Ohio
Float Troy is the only floating tent experience in Ohio and one of the most popular things to do along The Great Miami Riverway. Rent a tent and spend the night glamping on the water.

Explore parks after dark

The parks of The Great Miami Riverway offer a variety of events that allow you to observe nocturnal wildlife and learn about nightlife in the wild. Bring a blanket, gaze at the stars, and don’t forget your firefly catchers! Please note that these events require registration and may sell out.

Fireflies
June 29, 8:30–9:30 pm
Learn about these flashy insects, then take an easy half-mile hike through Harbin Park to see them work their magic. Register at the MetroParks of Butler County website .

Date Night Series
June 14, July 26, August 16
Miami County Park District offers couples ages 18+ a chance to learn archery, have a sunset paddle, and embark on a Sweetheart Adventure Challenge.

Coyote Search
July 6, 8:30–10:30 pm
Participants age 14 and up can join naturalists from Five Rivers MetroParks at the Cox Arboretum for a presentation on coyotes and a chance to try and spot them using thermal imaging.

Spark in the Dark

Miami Whitewater Forest | June 29, July 27, August 31
Great Parks of Hamilton County hosts three days of Spark in the Dark . The event celebrates the magic of the night! Embark on a paddle boat adventure under the stars, where you’ll learn the secrets of the nocturnal world.

Grab a craft beer or cocktail and explore a charming downtown DORA

There aren’t many spots you can walk around town with an alcoholic beverage in hand, but there are several DORAs to take advantage of including Sidney, Piqua, Troy, Tipp City, Miamisburg, and Hamilton. With beverage in hand, take in the sights and sounds of the quaint riverfront towns after dark.

Sunset paddling

Dayton, Ohio
Launch a kayak on the Great Miami River at RiverScape MetroPark all summer long. Rentals are available Tuesdays 2–6 pm and Thursdays 2–8 pm, June–October.

Catch a free evening concert

RiversEdge Amphitheater
Hamilton, Ohio
Free music from the Emo Kids, Jason Leech, Maggie Rose and more.

West Carrollton Concert series
West Carrollton, Ohio
Free music on the lawn right across from the Fire Station in West Carrollton. There will be food and drinks to add to the fun.

Star City Concert series
Miamisburg, Ohio
Bands and performers will take the stage at The Ginkgo amphitheater. There will be a Taylor Swift Tribute band, an Elton John tribute performer, and more.

Explore area festivals at dusk

Down a River, Down a Beer
Piqua, Ohio | August 3
As the sun sets, the Down a River, Down a Beer festival comes alive! From beer tastings to tasty food, there’s a brew for everyone to dance the night away.

Paddles Pedals and Pints
Sidney, Ohio | August 10
The annual Paddles and Pints is every outdoorsy and adventurer’s dream. Prepare to be active with a pickleball tournament, cycling adventure, and battleship canoes.

Rock ‘N’ Green Tomato Festival
Riverfront Park, Miamisburg, Ohio | August 2
A festival dedicated to green tomatoes? Miamisburg’s the place to be! The Rock ‘N’ Green Tomato Festival will be slinging fried green tomato sliders and plenty of music and fun for the whole family.

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