Although Minneapolis sits upon the Mississippi River and is known as the “City of Lakes,” the average Minneapolitan doesn’t put much thought into sightseeing via a cruise. It can be argued that many Minneapolis residents might not even be aware that the city has an accessible riverboat for public and private cruises for everyone to enjoy! The Minneapolis Queen and Paradise Lady riverboats are owned by Paradise Charter Cruises and are a delightful way experience the city built along the Mississippi.
The riverboats begin their cruise at Bohemian Flats Park, a perfect place to tour the city by the river.
Flickr / Mark Goebel
The Minneapolis Queen is a charming 125-passenger paddlewheel riverboat that take you back in time through some of the city’s most historic spots.
Flickr / sharyn morrow
You definitely travel in style on sleeker, modern Paradise Lady ship.
Facebook / Paradise Charter Cruises and Minneapolis Queen The Paradise Lady can seat up to 45 people and the amenities onboard will make you feel like a celebrity!
Afternoon sightseeing tours are offered daily from May through October.
Flickr / Mark Goebel The scenic ride is narrated and tickets cost $20 for adults and $11 for kids.
The view of the beautiful Stone Arch Bridge just can’t be beat!
Flickr / Kent Landerholm
The cruise also passes through the St. Anthony Falls Lock system, which is truly a unique experience.
Facebook / Paradise Charter Cruises and Minneapolis Queen You can’t see the cool locks like this from anywhere else!
One of their most popular cruises is the Happy Hour & Pizza Cruise, which is offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays during the summer, and Thursdays only in September and October.
Yelp/Nancy N. This ride costs $30 for adults and $21 for kids. The ride includes a pizza buffet and the boat has a full bar with wonderful Happy Hour drink specials!
The Friday Night Dinner Cruise is perfect for a special occasion.
Flickr / Ardent Eye
It’s hard to beat view of the glittering city skyline as you dine!
Flickr / Mark Goebel Tickets for the Friday Night Dinner Cruise cost $50 for adults and $36 for kids.
The Sunday Brunch Cruise is definitely a unique way to enjoy a midday meal.
Facebook / Paradise Charter Cruises and Minneapolis Queen
The Fall Color Cruises offer some stunning views of the autumn foliage.
Facebook / Paradise Charter Cruises and Minneapolis Queen Paradise Charter Cruises offers several seasonal trips, including a Minnesota Brews Cruise, as well as special Mother’s and Father’s Day Cruises.
If you’re on the lookout for a unique spot to get hitched, they have riverboats of all sizes available to charter!
Facebook / Paradise Charter Cruises and Minneapolis Queen You’re guests will be dazzled the the elegance of the dining room, the deck space to mingle, and, of course, the incredible river views!
They also host business events, field trips, and private parties for groups of 20 or more.
Facebook / Paradise Charter Cruises and Minneapolis Queen You can also take public cruises around Lake Minnetonka!
There are so many adventures in the Twin Cities that you may have missed, even if you grew up here! A lovely little river cruise is an excellent way to see the city from a whole different perspective. For more information, cruise schedules, and reservations (which are highly recommended), check out the Paradise Charter Cruise website.
Flickr / Mark Goebel
Flickr / sharyn morrow
Facebook / Paradise Charter Cruises and Minneapolis Queen
The Paradise Lady can seat up to 45 people and the amenities onboard will make you feel like a celebrity!
The scenic ride is narrated and tickets cost $20 for adults and $11 for kids.
Flickr / Kent Landerholm
You can’t see the cool locks like this from anywhere else!
Yelp/Nancy N.
This ride costs $30 for adults and $21 for kids. The ride includes a pizza buffet and the boat has a full bar with wonderful Happy Hour drink specials!
Flickr / Ardent Eye
Tickets for the Friday Night Dinner Cruise cost $50 for adults and $36 for kids.
Paradise Charter Cruises offers several seasonal trips, including a Minnesota Brews Cruise, as well as special Mother’s and Father’s Day Cruises.
You’re guests will be dazzled the the elegance of the dining room, the deck space to mingle, and, of course, the incredible river views!
You can also take public cruises around Lake Minnetonka!
What’s your favorite way to experience Minneapolis? Let us know in the comments below.
Are you looking for ways to spice up your next date night with something new and exciting? Check out these 10 Unique Date Ideas In Minneapolis.
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