The Great Miami River corridor is much more than a waterway; it is a vital 99-mile artery that threads through 15 different cities in southwestern Ohio, from Sidney to Dayton and down to Hamilton, just outside Cincinnati. This corridor, rich in historical significance and natural beauty, serves as an essential resource for recreation, industry, and future economic growth. Guide Studio partnered with a diverse group of community stakeholders—including cities, organizations, and businesses along the corridor—to develop a powerful Place Branding strategy aimed at unifying and uplifting this region as a connected, thriving destination.
Faced with physical, historical, and perception challenges, the Great Miami River corridor needed a well-articulated and cohesive brand identity to illustrate its value and facilitate economic and recreational growth. Guide Studio spearheaded a consensus-based effort to determine a brand name and visual storytelling components that resonate with all stakeholders. The result was “The Great Miami Riverway”—a name that encapsulates the river’s geographic span, its sense of connection and activity, and the multifaceted experiences it offers.
Since the launch of this initiative in 2017, the new brand has helped the river corridor shed its fragmented image, presenting it instead as a singular, interconnected asset. Guide Studio also crafted a strategic brand launch plan outlining key milestones and activities, enabling community leaders to bring this vibrant identity to life — including the implementation of a signage and wayfinding program that helps visitors comfortably and safely navigate the corridor.
At the heart of this branding effort is the human element—how the Great Miami Riverway engenders feelings of welcome, comfort, and confidence in those who live, work, and explore within its bounds. Place Branding and the collaborative efforts of community stakeholders – now, known as the Great Miami Riverway Coalition has been instrumental in guiding this transformation. They have been successfully building a stronger, more appealing identity for the river corridor by prioritizing connection, communication, and positive experiences — fostering a sense of belonging and pride among residents and visitors alike.
