river boat cruises minneapolis

A Guide to Boat Tours and River Cruises around Minneapolis and St. Paul

• Updated August 2, 2021

One of the coolest parts about the Twin Cities is their plentiful access to water.

That’s why exploring the Twin Cities via boat is one of our “must try” activities, no matter if you’re a long time resident or just visiting for the weekend.

But since narrowing down the many options is no easy task, we thought we’d lend a local’s hand with this detailed guide to boat and river cruise around Minneapolis and St. Paul.

• The Who, What, Where of Boat & River Cruises 
• What are the most popular boat tours and river cruises in Minneapolis & St. Paul? 
• Where do cruises go? 

Padelford Riverboats

Paradise charter & minneapolis queen, al & alma’s, st croix boat and packet, magnolia blossom cruises, the who, what, where of boat & river cruises  .

As the residents of the Land of 10,000 Lakes, Twin Cities locals know a good riverboat cruise when we see one.  

• A great location?   Check ✓  
• Easy-to-use reservations system? Check ✓
• Dining and drinks onboard?   Check ✓ and Check ✓

Whether it’s exploring the architectural wonders spanning the Mighty Mississippi or sipping cocktails as the sun goes down, there are plenty of options for boat tours and river cruises in Minneapolis and St. Paul that meet all the requirements on our must-try list.    

What are the most popular boat tours and river cruises in Minneapolis & St. Paul?  

Before you decide on a vendor and dates for your Minneapolis-St. Paul boat tour, it’s best to decide what type of cruise you’d like to take.   Different boats offer different tour types; some are focused on the scenery, others are more focused on the food and entertainment onboard.   Here are some of the more popular boat tour and river cruise options:  

• Sunset Dinner Cruise – Sunset dinner cruises are by far some of the most popular and first to book up reservations.   Most of the boat operators in the Twin Cities offer some form of a sunset cruise, departing the dock 1-2 hours before dark for dinner and drinks while the sun goes down.   These tours are great for long summer nights when the best place to be is on the water.
• Sightseeing Cruise – End-of-the-day boat tours might not be the best option for families or visitors trying to fit in other items on the Twin Cities travel itinerary.   If that’s the case, you may want to consider a general sightseeing cruise.   The daytime trips for Twin Cities boat and river tours often fall in this category, with options to see bridges, well-known landmarks and do some wildlife watching.  
• Brunch Cruise – It’s hard to go wrong with a Minneapolis brunch in general. But then make that brunch on a boat, and you’re pretty much set for a terrific outing. Brunch cruises typically depart at 10 AM, have a great menu, and are a casual way to relax and enjoy the water and the weekend.
• Fall Color Cruises – From late September to mid-October, the Mississippi River between Minneapolis and St. Paul light up with some of the best fall colors in the Upper Midwest.   We love to recommend it to out-of-town guests or friends; get out and enjoy the cooler temperatures and enjoy the mid-day or afternoon fall color cruise.  
• Holiday Cruises – Mother’s Day?   4 th of July?   Labor Day?   If there’s a summer holiday you love to celebrate, there’s a pretty good chance you can commemorate the day with a boat cruise on the Mississippi River.   All the major tour operators in the Twin Cities offer cruises for these events—just make sure to snag reservations well in advance.  
• Private Party – If you’re checking out options for an upcoming private party venue, summertime boat cruises are a great option to explore. Getting a group together for a birthday, anniversary, class reunion, or corporate event is easy and more affordable than you might think.  

Where do cruises go?  

Not only are there options for the type of boat cruise, but there are also options for departure.   Choosing the tour location changes what you can expect to see and the type of boat you’ll end up taking.   Here are the 4 top departure locations for boat tours and river cruises in the Twin Cities:  

• Mississippi River in Downtown Minneapolis – Departing from Bohemian Flats Park near downtown Minneapolis, taking a Mississippi River cruise from this location means excellent views of the downtown Minneapolis skyline, the historic Stone Arch Bridge, and the University of Minnesota campus.    
• Mississippi River in Downtown St. Paul – For terrific views of the St. Paul skyline and the best chance to see wildlife in the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, depart from downtown St. Paul.   You’ll also have an opportunity to board some historic riverboats at the docks on Harriet Island.  
• Lake Minnetonka – Looking for the best drinks and food?   Want to take a cruise on a newer, luxury yacht? Best to head west for a boat tour on Lake Minnetonka.   We love these tours for ogling at the giant houses while we sip on sundowners.
• St. Croix River in Stillwater – One trip over the I-94 bridge from Minnesota to Wisconsin, and it’s pretty clear that the St. Croix River is a top Twin Cities boating destination.   Several river tours depart the docks near Stillwater during the summer, with both traditional paddleboat options and upscale dinner cruises. This is our top spot for fall colors as well.  

The Top Twin Cities Boat and River Cruise Companies  

Ready to book your cruise?   Try out one of these Twin Cities boat and river cruise companies for the best tours and destinations:  

More than 5 million visitors have taken a riverboat cruise with Padleford Riverboats in downtown St. Paul.   They offer the largest selection of tour options (sightseeing, dining, themed cruises, school trips, and private events) and have some of the best deals on tickets and dining.   On Mondays, Padleford hosts a $10 cruise with 2-for-1 beers after 6 PM – an excellent happy hour option for co-workers and friends.

• Location – Downtown St. Paul: 205 Dr. Justus Ohage Blvd, St. Paul, MN 55107
• Website: Padleford Riverboats

As the largest tour operator in the Twin Cities (five vessels in two locations), Paradise Charters has more than 30 years of experience taking trips on the Mississippi River and Lake Minnetonka. They have an extensive portfolio of tour choices, including a full calendar of tours running seven days a week during the summer. Expect to shell out a bit more for tickets on Paradise cruises, with most tickets running $35-40 per person.  

• Location – Downtown Minneapolis: 2150 W River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55454
• Location – Port of Excelsior/Lake Minnetonka: 2 Water St, Excelsior, MN 55331
• Website: Paradise Charter Cruises  

Consistently voted on “Best of the Twin Cities” lists, Al and Alma’s boat charters on Lake Minnetonka have been offering tours on the lake since 1973.   Their fleet includes the largest motorized yacht on Lake Minnetonka, the 83-foot “Bella Vista,” and some of Minnesota’s most expensive public yachts.   Al and Alma’s cruises also feature food prepped from their Cooks Bay supper club—expect better menu options than you’ll find on any other Twin Cities boat cruises.  

• Location – Lake Minnetonka: Lake Minnetonka (multiple locations for departure)
• Website: Al & Alma’s

Located on the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway near Stillwater, St. Croix Boat and Packet (aka Stillwater River Boats) is home to one of the largest river tour boats in the Twin Cities Metro.  St. Croix operates six boats, seven days per week, with cruises from 11:30 AM to 8 PM.  Their largest boat holds more than 650 guests, with multiple floors of bars and dining and a terrific roof deck for river viewing.

• Location: 525 Main St S, Stillwater, MN 55082
• Website: St. Croix Boat and Packet Co.

Looking for an unforgettable party venue for a group of 60-100 friends, family, or co-workers?   The Magnolia Blossom Cruise company offers private charter cruises on their historic riverboat.   The tour boat docks on the Mississippi River between Minneapolis and St. Paul, allowing trips customized to view downtown Minneapolis or downtown St. Paul scenery.   The Magnolia is one of the few boats that will navigate the lock and dam at Ford Parkway, something your guests won’t soon forget.   Note, Magnolia does not offer public boat cruises; the tours are by charter contract only.

• Location – Mississippi River near St. Paul: 2500 Crosby Farm Rd, St Paul, MN 55116
• Website: Magnolia Blossom Cruises

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MISSISSIPPI RIVER PUBLIC CRUISE RATES & SCHEDULE

*Visit our  FAQ’s   regarding  Handicap Accessibility   and other questions you may have regarding your cruise with us.

Reservations may be made  ONLINE . We look forward to welcoming you aboard!

Departing from bohemian flats park.

The Mississippi is the largest river system in North America.  Minnesota has the pleasure of being the starting point for this magnificent river, and our cruises are the greatest way to enjoy the Mississippi.

• Mother’s Day through 3rd Weekend of October.
• Boarding begins 10-15 minutes prior to cruise time.
• Concessions and beverages are available on board.
• Ask about our special group pricing.  Additional public cruises upon request. We require a minimum capacity of 20 passengers for each scheduled cruise to depart.
• No outside food or beverages may be brought on board.

*NOTICE: As we do access the locks on a regular basis, PCC/MQ is not responsible for river and or lock closures or delays due current flow, weather conditions, barge traffic, repair or other issues beyond our control or directed by others.

*Visit our  FAQ’s   regarding  Handicap Accessibility  and other questions you may have regarding your cruise with us.

Afternoon Sightseeing & Lock Cruises: $24 per person | Children under 2 Free

Departing from Bohemian Flats on the Mississippi River

Mother’s day weekend through end of May Mondays & Fridays: 12:00 (noon) – 1:30 p.m. Saturdays & Sundays: 12:00 (noon) – 1:30 p.m. & 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

June, July and August Monday – Wednesday: 12:00 (noon) – 1:30 p.m. Thursdays – Sundays: 12:00 (noon) – 1:30 p.m. & 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

September and October Mondays & Fridays: 12:00 (noon) – 1:30 p.m. Saturdays & Sundays: 12:00 (noon) – 1:30 p.m. & 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Advanced reservations recommended. Walk ups are NOT guaranteed. Our narrated cruises will take you along the southern route of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway and Heritage Trail system, along the University of Minnesota Campus riverfront, under the stunning 35W Bridge, through the lower St. Anthony Falls Lock system showcasing views of the St. Anthony Falls, the historic Stone Arch Bridge, amazing river bluffs with views of the amazing downtown Minneapolis skyline as we show you the best Mississippi River has to offer! *

A full service cash bar along with corn dogs, chips, snacks, etc. are available for purchase. *Cruise route may change as described based on lock times, traffic, current flows or other issues beyond our control.

purchase tickets here

Group Sightseeing Cruise Luncheon Special – $44.00 per person

Available Mon-Fri., For groups of 20 or more. Tour Groups, Business meetings, Department Parties or Birthdays. Whatever the occasion, any event will be so much more special aboard an authentic paddle-wheeler. Advance reservations are required 2 or more weeks in advance. Your group will be combined with the other public passengers, with reserved tables. Price includes ticket and full lunch.  Click here to view menu . See below about reserving our Private Admirals Room for your group! Available Mon-Fri.  *Senior discounts available, please call for pricing. 

To reserve this cruise for your group, please call 952-474-8058.

Sunday cheeseburger in paradise cruise: $44.00 per person | children under 2 free.

Starting Mother’s Day through Fall Colors Sundays 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Advanced reservations required by 10 am day of cruise.

Enjoy a 1/3lb hamburger built to your liking, served with garden salad, assorted fresh fruit, chips and condiments, along with full bar service and drink specials! This Cruise will take you along the southern trails of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway and Heritage Trail, along the U of M Campus riverfront, under the stunning 35W Bridge, showcasing views of the St. Anthony Falls, the historic Stone Arch Bridge, amazing river bluffs with views of the amazing downtown Minneapolis skyline as we show you the best Mississippi River has to offer!

Margarita Fiesta Cruise: $44.00 per person | Children under 2 Free

Advanced reservations required by 10 a.m. day of cruise. Our weekly escape on the water! Grab your friends and enjoy our Margarita Fiesta! Served with our build your burrito buffet and drink specials with a full cash bar available.

Monday Following Mother’s Day through Fall Colors – Monday’s 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Our exciting Margarita Fiesta Cruise will take you along the southern trails of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway and Heritage Trail, along the U of M Campus riverfront, under the stunning 35W Bridge, showcasing views of the St. Anthony Falls, the historic Stone Arch Bridge, amazing river bluffs with views of the amazing downtown Minneapolis skyline as we show you the best Mississippi River has to offer! *

Taco Tuesday Cruise: $44.00 per person | Children under 2 Free

Advanced reservations required by 10 a.m. day of cruise. Taco Tuesday Night Fun! Take an exciting south of the boarder cruise on the Mississippi River while enjoying a build your Taco Bar and drink specials with a full cash bar available.

Tuesday Following Mother’s Day through Fall Colors – Tuesdays 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Our exciting Taco Tuesday Cruise will take you along the southern trails of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway and Heritage Trail, along the U of M Campus riverfront, under the stunning 35W Bridge, showcasing views of the St. Anthony Falls, the historic Stone Arch Bridge, amazing river bluffs with views of the amazing downtown Minneapolis skyline as we show you the best Mississippi River has to offer! *

Wednesday & Thursday Happy Hour Pizza Cruises: $44.00 per person | Children under 2 Free

Our most popular cruise! Take a narrated cruise of the Mississippi River while enjoying a pizza and salad buffet and happy hour drink specials with a full cash bar available.

May, September and October Thursday’s only 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

June, July and August Wed. & Thur. 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Advanced reservations required by 3 p.m. day of cruise.

Our exciting Happy Hour and Pizza Cruise will take you along the southern trails of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway and Heritage Trail, along the U of M Campus riverfront, under the stunning 35W Bridge, showcasing views of the St. Anthony Falls, the historic Stone Arch Bridge, amazing river bluffs with views of the amazing downtown Minneapolis skyline as we show you the best Mississippi River has to offer! *

Friday Night Dinner Cruise: $50.00 per person | Children under 2 Free

Departing from Bohemian Flats on the Mississippi River

Mother’s Day Weekend through the 3rd weekend of October

Friday’s 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm

Advanced reservations required by 3 p.m. day prior to cruise.

Our exciting dinner cruise will take you along the southern trails of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway and Heritage Trail, along the U of M Campus riverfront, under the stunning 35W Bridge, showcasing views of the St. Anthony Falls, the historic Stone Arch Bridge, amazing river bluffs with views of the amazing downtown Minneapolis skyline as we show you the best Mississippi River has to offer! * Click here to view menu .

See below about reserving our Private Admirals Room for your group!

Sunday Brunch Cruise: $48.00 per person | Children under 2 Free

Departing from Bohemian Flats on the Mississippi River aboard The Paradise Lady

Mother’s Day Weekend through the 3rd weekend of October Select Sundays. See our calender for available dates. 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

Our tasty Captains Sunday Brunch menu, complete with full bar service available.

Advanced reservations required by 3 p.m. Friday prior to cruise.

Our relaxing brunch cruise will take you along the southern trails of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway and Heritage Trail, along the U of M Campus riverfront, under the stunning 35W Bridge, showcasing views of the St. Anthony Falls, the historic Stone Arch Bridge, amazing river bluffs with views of the amazing downtown Minneapolis skyline as we show you the best Mississippi River has to offer! * Click here to view menu .

Groups and Special Cruises

Groups of 20 or more may reserve seating Mon – Fri on any of our scheduled public cruises or special cruise times. Brunch, lunch, pizza or dinner options are available for group reservations. Groups of 20 or more are combined with the other public passengers, with reserved tables on the main deck.

You may rent our Private “Admirals Room” aboard the Minneapolis Queen exclusively for your event for $300. (Accommodates group sizes up to 32)

The Minneapolis Queen is also available for private charters. Contact us for additional information on group reservations or private events at 952.474.8058 or toll free at 888.559.8058.

Specialty Added Cruises

Look for our exciting “Specialty Added Cruises” throughout our calendar such as:

• Entertainment Cruises
• Fireworks Cruises
• Cinco De Mayo Cruises
• Mother’s / Father’s Day Cruises
• Fall Color Cruises
• Additional Added “Regular Scheduled Cruises” added to weekends and more!

Additional Pricing Information

• Senior Discount (60+) $2.00 off. Infants (under 2) Free. One discount per ticket purchase. Call for info.
• Prices subject to change
• Above prices include port charge and tax.
• Fuel Surcharge may apply.
• 20 Passenger minimum required to cruise.
• Gift Certificates available.
• American Express, Discover, VISA, and MasterCard accepted.