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Maxson Riverboat & Restaurant

1469 Rt. 2 North , Oregon, IL 61061

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Maxson's Riverboat & Riverside Restaurant

• 1469 Illinois Route 2 North
• Oregon, IL, 61061
• 815-732-6761
• Wednesday: 11am-9pm
• Thursday: 11am-9pm
• Friday: 11am-9pm
• Saturday: 11am-9pm
• Sunday: 10am-3pm

Located on the Rock River, Maxson Riverside Restaurant in Oregon offers a unique setting that has turned the restaurant into a tourist destination. Their complimentary homemade orange rolls are legendary and a hit with locals and tourists.

Maxson’s Riverside Restaurant offers a dining experience in Oregon that is both a delight for the eyes and the taste buds. The elegant glass-enclosed riverside dining room reveals a stunning panoramic vista that includes a direct view of the Rock River and the area’s most famous landmark, the majestic Black Hawk statue. The extensive menu offers delectable appetizers, soups and salads, sandwiches that are sure to hit the spot, and mouth-watering entrees such as steaks and seafood. Wines, beers, ales, and popular soft drinks make up the beverage list. The restaurant can seat 300 and is available for private parties, receptions and group functions. 

The Pride of Oregon is an authentic Paddle Wheel Riverboat. 102 feet of real river charm. She docks at the historic Maxson Riverside Restaurant and Paddlewheel Inn. Built as a replica of the famous Rosie O’Shea paddlewheel in 1989, her festive exterior and graciously appointed interior provide a relaxing atmosphere for memory-making cruises. She has the capacity of 149 sight-seeing passengers and offers daily Lunch and Dinner Sight-seeing Cruises and is also available for Banquets, Wedding Ceremonies & Receptions, Business Meetings, Conferences, Parties and Family & Class Reunions

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Because life's too short to stay home …, on the rock river in illinois, from the town of oregon, visitors follow in black hawk's footsteps..

© Beth Gauper

In the northwest Illinois town of Oregon, a 48-foot concrete figure gazes over a river valley, arms folded.

Over the years, the valley has been home to many ambitious men. Abraham Lincoln joined the militia here. John Deere forged the first steel plow. Ronald Reagan got his first lifeguard job.

Chief Black Hawk, the man who inspired the gigantic blufftop statue, also had an ambition: to keep this beautiful valley for his own people.

In 1804, four Sauk men ceded it in exchange for $1,000 per year in goods, and in 1829, the government kicked out the Indians and sold the land to settlers.

In 1832, Black Hawk tried to reclaim the land, sparking a "war" that ended in the slaughter of his people.

The debacle made a romantic figure of the doomed Black Hawk.

"Rock River was a beautiful country," he said. "I loved my towns, my cornfields, and the home of my people. I fought for it."

Today, banners on Oregon street lights feature Black Hawk's face, and painted tipis can be found in and around town.

Across the river, the statue known as Black Hawk was created between 1908 and 1910 as the Eternal Indian by Chicago sculptor Lorado Taft. Now it is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Visitors can walk through the town's entire history in Lowden State Park, on the blufftop where Lorado Taft founded the Eagle's Nest Art Colony in 1898. Today, it's a field campus for Northern Illinois University.

Oregon makes a fun getaway any time for the three state parks that surround it and for the Rock River, which flows from Wisconsin's Horicon Marsh to the Mississippi at Rock Island and has been named a national water trail.

Excursions on the Pride of Oregon paddlewheeler take tourists upstream. On the east side of the river, Black Hawk rises above the treetops, and on the west side, passenger see the stone turrets of a castle.

It's a Tudor-style manor with 25 rooms and four secret passages, built between 1928 and 1930 by Walter Strong, owner and publisher of the Chicago Daily News. Visits to another publisher's castle — William Randolph Hearst's famous estate in San Simeon, Calif. — inspired it.

Today, the Stronghold Center is a Presbyterian retreat complex, open to the public for tours or overnight group lodgings and at the annual Olde English Faire in October, a gathering of knights and ladies and jesters and jousters, with medieval music and games.

For excursions downstream, outfitters rent canoes and kayaks for visits to Castle Rock State Park or Grand Detour, home of the John Deere Historic Site .

In 1838, the Vermont-born blacksmith figured out how to make a plow that would cut through the dense Illinois soil. After a move to Moline in 1848, his business became the giant farm-equipment manufacturer, still named for John Deere.

Dixon is just around the bend from Grand Detour. It's the boyhood home of Ronald Reagan, who safeguarded swimmers from the banks of the Rock River. The Ronald Reagan Trail includes his first home in Dixon and stops in 12 other northwest Illinois towns.

A third state park is seven miles west of Oregon. White Pines Forest State Park is a lovely oasis of pine forest, creeks and rock outcroppings amid the rolling farm fields.

In spring, the park's trails are lined with wildflowers; in fall, the park is cloaked in bright reds, oranges and golds.

There are inns in Oregon, but the park's White Pines Inn is a special place to stay, with a log lodge and cabins built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Its inviting restaurant is famous for its Paul Bunyan buffet on Sundays and serves such classics as chicken pot pie, peach cobbler and apple dumplings. There's a dinner theater, too.

In town, visitors can follow the Trail of Painted Tipis, each created by a different artist, from late April to mid-November.

There are a few antiques stores to visit downtown. Restaurants include the '50s-style Jay's Drive-In , which serves caramel-apple shakes and "the best butter bun burgers around."

Oregon is only two hours from Chicago, but bistros and boutiques haven't reached this town of 3,700. Just as well, because a down-home style suits such a historic place.

Trip Tips: Oregon, Illinois

Getting there: It's 25 miles south of Rockford and 100 miles west of Chicago.

Events: First weekend of October, Olde English Faire at the Stronghold Center and Autumn on Parade in town.

Black Hawk statue : This 48-foot concrete statue looms over the river. Visitors can drive into the park and walk to the overlook at the statue's feet. Admission is free.

During the War of 1832, the only place Black Hawk and his band attacked was a makeshift fort in the village of Elizabeth, near Galena. For more, see Black Hawk on the Apple River .

Abraham Lincoln was a captain in the militia pursuing Black Hawk but did not engage in combat.

For more about War of 1832 sites in Wisconsin, see Road trip: Black Hawk's trail .

Rock River cruises: The Pride of Oregon paddlewheeler offers daily cruises, some including lunch or dinner. It docks at Maxson Riverside Restaurant just north of Oregon on Illinois 2. Reserve at 815-732-4540.

Canoeing and kayaking: White Pelican rents canoes, kayaks and tubes and provides shuttles, by reservation only.

Horseback-riding: Five miles west of Oregon, White Pines Ranc h offers trail rides.

Stronghold Camp & Retreat Center : For a Castle Tour, call in advance to arrange, 815-732-6111.  The blufftop grounds also include a labyrinth, a high-ropes course and walking trails.

Bison tours: Just east of Dixon, the Nature Conservancy's Nachusa Grasslands has a herd of more than 100 bison . Volunteers give free two-hour tours . Sign-ups are posted at 7 a.m. the first day of each month, and places fill quickly.

Accommodations: The 1927 White Pines Inn in White Pines Forest State Park west of Oregon rents 13 small log cabins and 12 cabin suites, each with gas fireplaces and mini-fridges. They're air-conditioned.

There are many packages, and watch for specials in winter, spring and late fall. The restaurant is open from March to Christmas.

Near the river in Oregon, the 1840s Patchwork Inn has nine rooms.

There's a camper cabin in Lowden State Park.

The Stronghold Center has accommodations for groups from 10 to 100 in lodges in the woods, dorm rooms in the Castle, the hotel-style Heritage Lodge, rustic cabins or camping. Meals can be arranged.

Camping: There's camping in the blufftop Lowden State Park across the river from downtown Oregon and White Pines Forest State Park west of Oregon.

Dining: The restaurant at the White Pines Inn serves home-style food, including a large Sunday buffet, in a very attractive setting. Reserve at 815-946-3817.

In Oregon, Hazel's Cafe serves sandwiches and salads as well as coffee drinks and smoothies. It delivers to the adjoining Cork & Tap , which offers wine, beer and mixed drinks.

Nightlife: The Pines Playhouse offers music, plays and comedy at the White Pines Inn.

Information: Northwest Illinois tourism , 800-678-2108.

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Pride of Oregon Paddlewheel Riverboat in Oregon, Ogle County, United States | River Cruises | Boat Dining | Full Details

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Pride of Oregon Paddlewheel Riverboat Recommend

Pride of oregon paddlewheel riverboat in oregon, ogle county, united states | river cruises | boat dining.

The Pride of Oregon Paddlewheel Riverboat at the Maxson Riverboat and Restaurant based just one mile north of Oregon , Illinois , offers Boat Dining and cruises on this charming and elegant vessel, which is a unique one of a kind. This un-motorized paddlewheel riverboat will take you on a magical 15-mile eco friendly river cruise, and there is a full bar and Air Conditioning or Heating. It's the perfect venue for your next event with a 149 passenger capacity or 120 sit down dining capacity, whilst cruising down the stunning Rock River. Come explore nature, and enjoy a one of a kind eco-cruise on this exceptional paddlewheel boat, it's a guaranteed unique and unforgettable experience.

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Maxson Riverside Restaurant

Updated 1 month ago

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Review Highlights

“ My parents recently moved to Rockford , and taking my dad, who has dementia, out to eat can be a challenge. ” in 2 reviews

“ A portion of its journey from the shipyard to the Rock River was actually made overland. ” in 3 reviews

“ The paddle boat was built in 1989 I am told. ” in 2 reviews

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1469 N Il Rte 2

Oregon, IL 61061

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About the Business

A unique dining experience on the Rock River, or in the Riverside Restaurant. Destination Weddings and other banquet occasions can be custom made your fit your event and budget. Catering available on request. …

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Maxson Restaurant really came through for me this Mother's Day, and they didn't even realize how big of a deal it was. My parents recently moved to Rockford, and taking my dad, who has dementia, out to eat can be a challenge. So, I messaged them on Facebook for a reservation, going out on a limb, but they were booked solid. Even though it was booked, they offered to pack up some of their buffet for us to pick up (which I have never had anyone offer before). It was such a relief not to have to take my dad out, and they gave us tons of food AND IT WAS ALL AMAZING! Plus, they were super cool about accommodating my last-minute planning and changing my pickup time because of traffic coming from Chicago. Huge thanks to them! I'll definitely be singing their praises to anyone who'll listen, and Mom and I are definitely planning to dine in there soon. Seriously, thank you, Maxson!

Look at all this food for three people!

Maxson's Pride of Oregon, a paddle wheel boat, is truly a hidden gem. The friendly crew described its history--built in 1989 as a replica of the Rosie O'Shea paddlewheeler. A portion of its journey from the shipyard to the Rock River was actually made overland. The interior of the main deck is appointed with attractive woodwork, and there is a bar. The upper deck is open air. Ample seating is provided. This was a lunch cruise and our group was seated and served upon our 11 AM boarding. The quality of the food (catered by Maxson) and service exceeded our expectations. We began with rolls and a generous tossed salad with Italian dressing. Our entrée choices were beef bordelaise, fried catfish, and a vegetarian plate. The fork-tender beef was cloaked in a red wine sauce and the fish, though heavy on the crust, tasted fresh and was greaseless. Our sides were fresh steamed veggies and a twice-baked potato. Chocolate cake was served for dessert. There were pitchers of lemonade and water on the table, and coffee and tea were offered. Our leisurely cruise upriver lasted two hours and ended at 1:30. Travel is limited to a 7-mile-long navigable stretch of the Rock River. Narration was provided at various points of interest. We spotted at least two bald eagles onshore. Just delightful!

See all photos from Eric B. for Maxson Riverside Restaurant

Service was pretty good. View from the restaurant and outdoor seating is awesome. Burgers are "all cooked to the same temperature." - from frozen. Same as the twiced baked potato. It was fine.

A sea captain

Well the place is gigantic and very nice views of the river and river boat. If you just wanted views great. Food was average- not worthy of a review- I will not be returning. Food left out too long and at wrong temperatures on the salad cart - including warm soup- not healthy for long periods. I would avoid things that need to be cold or hot. The chips- obviously they let the oil sit and go bad. This must be changed. Could this be because the paddle boat is the main attraction? This place has everything going for it but the food and seemingly policies of reusing - not realizing that the moneys in return clientele not saving an extra bowl of soup or reusing salad greens. Throw everything away regularly. Simplify menu- hot and very fresh will win.

I'm reluctant to write negative reviews because my goal has never been to do harm to a business. However in this case I feel compelled to say something with the hope that ownership there is willing to make a change. First let me say that the wait person was prompt, nice, and professional. That's why there are 2 stars. I don't need to get specific, but the food was inedible. I'm no food snob and I'll eat almost anything. I never send food back and recognize the difference between food I don't like and food that I can't eat. This food was poorly stored, poorly prepared, and poorly presented. We didn't eat it nor drink the drinks they brought out. It was that bad. Again, my goal here is not to trash the place, but to hopefully generate an opportunity for them to take a step back and evaluate what they are doing. I don't want to encourage folks not to go there, but instead to provide feedback to help them right the ship. It's a cool looking place, right on the river, but they won't stay open much longer if something drastic isn't done. I wish them good luck.

Went late in the year, as the fall colors had set in. Beautiful views. Very few diners at lunch, so we were not surprised to have good service. Very friendly. The food was very decent, with a nice salad bar. Look forward to going back when we are in the area.

Took my family here for a Mother's Day brunch buffet. The view was great. Only gave us one round of rolls (no more orange rolls). Food was average at best. Very bland and dry. Dessert table looked great but everything was very dry and none of them had much flavor. Service was ok. Wasn't a big fan of them automatically adding the gratuity onto the bill. At $34/person, I expected a lot more. Not nearly as good as it used to be. Definitely will not be going back.

The Friday Fish fry is awesome and the Rock River scenery is world class. Staff was friendly and eager to serve.

Highly recommend this place. My buddies and I did a long bike ride from Rochelle to Oregon and with most places under Covid restrictions, they carried out a beautiful prime rib dinner with sides, salad and dessert. Richie, the manager was a great guy and we highly appreciated his five-star service. He delivered all of our dinners to our hotel room. Definitely will be back at this place again

COVID update: The owner and manager aren't wearing masks even when carrying food out. Visit at your own risk!

Outdoor patio on the Rock River

Outdoor patio on the Rock River.

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Maxson Riverboat and Riverside Restaurant

Escape to the pristine banks of the Rock River for a truly unforgettable experience at our restaurant and on our riverboat. A beautiful backdrop on the Rock River creates the perfect venue for a banquet, from reunions to business meetings. With an incredible natural setting just a two hour drive from downtown Chicago, Maxson Riverboat and Restaurant are the region’s premier location for a destination wedding or party.

7 Incredible River Cruises You Can Only Take In Illinois

Illinois offers diverse river cruising experiences, from riverboats to yachts, on the Mississippi and Chicago Rivers.

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When most people think of a cruise, they think of life on the open ocean, but you can get a boating experience just as good, if not better, right here in Illinois.

Travel the rivers the way Mark Twain used to as you wind up and down the Mississippi River or make your way through one of the greatest cities in the U.S. on the Chicago River. From riverboats to yachts, and day trips to extended excursions, you can travel nearly the entire state by waterway.

1. Celebrations Belle

Stationed in Moline, this riverboat cruising experience is available for lunch or dinner and often includes a narrated tour of the Mississippi River. The interior may be stunning, but don't forget to enjoy those amazing views.

2. American Queen Steamboat Company

Enjoy gorgeous state rooms, dining rooms, and hangouts on deck aboard the America Queen. It runs the length of the Mississippi River making stops in Illinois along the way.

3. Chicago's First Lady Cruises

As part of Chicago's architecture tours, you can see the city like never before on Chicago's First Lady. Enjoy both daytime and twilight tours along the Chicago River.

4. Twilight Riverboat

Take a trip on the Mississippi with an old-time riverboat. You'll enjoy upscale furnishings inside and the beauty of the Midwest outside.

5. Spirit of Peoria

Sail the Illinois River aboard this classic riverboat. Tours are during the day or overnight and may be themed. Sightseeing is key on this trip.

6. Grafton River Adventures

Climb aboard the Hakuna Matata River Rambler cruise, a 49-passenger excursion with themes like sunset or wine. From spring through fall, you can even plan a private event on this Mississippi River cruise. Pictured above is the beautiful Grafton Harbor.

7. St. Charles Paddlewheel Riverboats

Cruise along the scenic Fox River and enjoy the wonder of the nature preserve. All cruises leave from Pottawatomie Park and may be rented for private events. The ocean has nothing on these stunning river views.

Do you love spending time by the water? Then check out this Illinois waterfall road trip guide.

Have you taken a river cruise before? Tell us all about your experiences in the comments below!

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The Most Remote Lake In Illinois Is Also The Most Peaceful

Cedar Lake in southern Illinois offers a serene summer getaway with opportunities for boating, hiking, and fishing.

It is hard to find a better summer activity than kicking back on a boat in the middle of one of the southern Illinois lakes. Picture yourself surrounded by your closest friends, a beverage in hand, with the sun shining down as you rock back and forth in the beautiful waters of remote lakes in Illinois. There are tons of popular lake destinations throughout the great state of Illinois, but sometimes it's the smaller lakes in southern Illinois that can offer the calm visit you might be after. That's where Cedar Lake in southern Illinois is the perfect fit, and it's one of the best lakes in Illinois .

The 1,750-acre reservoir was created in 1974 thanks to the damming of a tributary of the Big Muddy River. The original construction of the lake was for the purpose of supplying water to the residents of nearby Carbondale, Illinois.

Carbondale, with a population just north of 25,000, is home to the main campus of Southern Illinois University. Founded in 1853, the town is located in Jackson County in southern Illinois.

While Cedar Lake was created to provide tap water to nearby residents, locals quickly found that it's a great place to take in the views on a hike or cool off with a quick dip. The lake is easily accessible from U.S. Highway 51.

The calm waters also offer the perfect opportunity for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, and fishing. In fact, those looking to catch some fish can expect to come across bass, catfish, and bluegill.

If you're going to make the trek to Carbondale, and you're looking for lunch or dinner surrounding your visit, you can't go wrong at Quatro's Deep Pan Pizza. Located at 218 W. Freeman Street, it's consistently ranked as one of the best pizza spots in the state.

Plan a visit to this idyllic lake and spend a day paddling around on a lazy afternoon.

Get an aerial view of this idyllic lake:

Have you had the pleasure of visiting Cedar Lake in southern Illinois? Do you think it's one of the best lakes in Illinois? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Looking for more beautiful lakes in southern Illinois? Get your kayak ready because this crystal-clear lake is a real-life oasis:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/illinois/three-oaks-clearest-water-il/

This Natural Water Park In Illinois Is A Summer Dream Come True

Contributor

One of the most well-known swimming holes in the state, Bell Smith Springs is the epitome of a natural wonder. Sandstone cliffs line some parts of the park's trails and huge boulders create fascinating forms in vibrantly blue pools. Today, this spot draws attention from around the state for being one of the best cliff jumping spots around. Beyond that, there are swimming areas, narrow staircases and a one-of-a-kind ladder that has transformed this rocky wonder into a kind of natural water park.

Bell Smith Springs is located within Shawnee National Forest.

There are 8 miles of trails and a natural rock bridge that are worth checking out if you have time to explore the entire area.

Be sure to take the White Diamond trail to get to the swimming hole.

I suggest plotting your path based on whether you want to start your day swimming and dry in the sunshine, or if you'd prefer to build up a sweat and cool off at the end.

Some visitors to the park mentioned going cliff jumping at points across the park.

Do so at your own risk, and always double check the depth of the water before you leap!

While the thrills of visiting Bell Smith Springs gravitate around the water and the massive rocks, there are some other features in the park that will get your heart pumping.

This stone staircase cutting through the sandstone can turn treacherous if you try to run up with wet feet! Sometimes dogs and even young children have found this climb a little nerve-wrecking, but there is an alternative route to get down if need be.

The Devil’s Backbone sounds like it could be the name of a high-speed waterslide thrill, doesn’t it?

It’s actually the name of a series of boulders rising out of water within Bell Smith Springs.

If you are more of a "lie on a beach chair" type than a water slide rider, there are huge angled rocks you could swim up to and sunbath on for a bit.

The thrills you get at Bell Smith are really up to you!

There are a few water holes around the park, but some are better for swimming than others.

Not to alarm you, but you should be on the lookout for snakes before you dive in. Better safe than sorry when it comes to that, in my opinion!

Along the Sentry Bluff Trail, there are ladder rungs extending from the side of a mossy boulder.

It would take me a moment to muster the courage to climb this, but for the views from the top, you have to give it a try.

One of my favorite elements of Bells Smith Springs is that you can get an almost bird's eye view of some of the swimming holes.

A huge canyon runs through the park. Standing at the top of the cliffs, you can enjoy a scenic view of the rock formations that makes them seem almost abstract.

If you decide to tack on some hiking to your water park adventure, check out the Mill Branch Trail.

A rope swing dangles just above the water off the trail. I would be too tempted not to swing on it and cannonball into the turquoise water below!

All across Bell Smith Springs there are trickling creeks and shallow streams.

While I wouldn't go so far as to suggest tubing down these, they could be fun to explore by foot for a little while. Definitely pack some hardy water shoes for this journey!

I'm preparing my road trip snacks now to make sure I get out to Bell Smith Springs as soon as I can. If you are planning to make it out to Ozark, Illinois but don't think you will safely make it home, consider renting an RV to give yourself a little extra time and space to enjoy the journey. Are there any 'attractions' at this natural water park we didn't mention? Let us know!

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River Cruises

IMPORTANT UPDATE: Please note, effective January 1, 2023, promotional punch cards are no longer valid for future punches or additional stays at no charge.

Trolley Tours & Boat Rides

Choose a River Cruise, Land & Water Cruise with lunch or a “Visit a Canyon with a Boat Ride.” Attendees meet outside of the Great Hall and board a Starved Rock Trolley to travel to the Eagle I for a leisurely cruise on the Illinois River. Reservations are required. Book online, call (815) 220-7386 or stop by our Front Desk. *Online bookings subject to additional fees and taxes.*

Lock and Lunch

Aboard the sainte genevieve riverboat as it passes through the starved rock lock.

Experience something new and fun aboard the Sainte Genevieve Riverboat as it passes through the Starved Rock Lock. Lunch in the Main Dining Room of historic Starved Rock Lodge and transportation included. Passangers can choose between two Itinerates.

• May-October
• Select Tuesdays and Thursdays
• Departs at 9AM in Ottawa & 11AM at Starved Rock Lodge
• $77 adults, $67 children (10 and under)
• *Online bookings subject to additional fees and taxes.*

Sunset Cruise

Cruise down the beautiful illinois river aboard the sainte genevieve riverboat.

Enjoy a cruise down the beautiful Illinois River aboard the Sainte Genevieve Riverboat. You will board the trolley at the Lodge and head over to beautiful Ottawa, IL for your cruise. After the cruise, the trolley will bring you back to the Lodge. Reservations required.

• June-August: Thursdays, departs at 5PM, Except 7/4 departs at 4:30PM, $50 adults, $40 children
• September (Sunset Cruise & Dinner): Thursdays, departs at 4PM, $75 adults, $65 children
• October (Sunset Cruise & Dinner): Thursdays, departs at 3:30PM, $75 adults, $65 children
• Call 815-220-7386 to book September-October

Land & Water Cruises

Illinois river cruise with lunch.

Tour begins with lunch in our restaurant followed by a narrated trolley tour. Learn about Starved Rock’s history and legends of the area. The trolley takes passengers to the Eagle 1 to see the east end of Starved Rock State Park by water. Restrooms are available throughout the tour and minimal walking is involved. Both the trolley and boat are wheelchair accessible.  Please inform us when booking if special accommodations are needed. Reservations are required. Capacity is limited.

• Runs June – September
• Monday, Wednesday, & Friday
• Departs at 11am (ends at 3pm)
• $60 adults, $55 Children (10 and under)
• Call 815-220-7386 to book September 11th at 9am & 20th at 11am

Visit a Canyon & a Boat Ride

Illinois river & ottawa canyon hike.

Board a trolley with a guide and head to the entrance of one of Starved Rock’s most scenic canyons. The walk is less than a mile and takes about 45 minutes. Following the hike, relax with a boat ride on the picturesque Illinois River. A snack, bottle of water and souvenir drawstring backpack are included. Canyon chosen may vary, depending on weather, river and trail conditions. Reservations are required. Capacity is limited.

• June – September
• Saturdays and Sundays
• 11AM to 1:30PM
• October – Sundays 11AM to 1:30PM
• $55 adult, $50 Children 10 and under
• Call 815-220-7386 to book October

Waterfowl Cruises

One-hour boat ride on the illinois river.

Board a trolley outside of the Great Hall of the Lodge. The Trolley takes you to Lone Point Shelter to enjoy an hour long boat ride on The Eagle I. The trolley will return you to the Lodge. Reservations are required. Capacity is limited.

• June-September
• Saturdays & Sundays
• Departures at 1PM & 2PM
• October – Sundays Departures at 1PM & 2PM
• $37 per person
• Call 815-220-7386 to book September 14 & October

Autumn on the River Cruises

Illinois river boat ride.

Tour begins with lunch at 11am in the historic dining room at the Lodge, followed by a narrated trolley tour with history and legends of the area. The trolley will then take you to the new river boat, “The Eagle I” where you will see the beautiful fall foliage of the Starved Rock State Park area by water. There are restrooms available throughout the tour and minimal walking is involved. Reservations are required. Capacity is limted.

• Runs in October
• Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
• $60 adults, $55 children 10 and under
• Call 815-220-7386 to book October 7

Keep In Touch

Get exclusive deals by email, #starvedrocklodge.

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Travel The Mississippi River On Authentic Paddlewheeler

SPIRIT OF PEORIA RIVERBOAT RETURNS TO REGION WITH SUMMER/FALL CRUISE SCHEDULE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Alton, IL – April 28, 2021) Travel the Mississippi River on an authentic paddle wheel riverboat when the Spirit of Peoria returns to southwest Illinois for summer and fall cruises. Tickets are now available for sightseeing, lunch and dinner cruises aboard the replica paddle wheel riverboat. Click here to purchase tickets for cruises from July 14 through Oct. 6. The Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau has partnered with the Spirit of Peoria to offer the popular Mississippi River cruises once again this year. Returning this year is the interactive Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise featuring the cast of Alton Little Theater which will take place on Wednesday, Aug. 25. Join the cast of Alton Little Theater for a delightful interactive night of mystery while enjoying a full buffet dinner. The cruise will depart and return to The Loading Dock in Grafton. Boarding begins at 6:30 p.m. and the cruise is from 7 to 9 p.m. Ticket prices are $60.50 inclusive. Looking for something more tranquil? Then sit back and relax on either a morning or afternoon sightseeing cruise. As one of the few remaining paddle wheel boats on the Mississippi River, the Spirit of Peoria will transport you back to simpler times. Unwind with deck side seating in the open air or relax inside with a full view of the passing landscape. Sightseeing cruises are 90-minutes in length. Sightseeing cruise tickets are $27.50 for adults; $25.30 for seniors and $15.40 for children ages 4 to 12. Morning Sightseeing cruises depart at 9:30 a.m. and afternoon sightseeing cruises depart at 4 p.m. Or let the chefs do the cooking during a lunch cruise. The two-hour lunch cruises are $49.50 per person inclusive. The cruises run from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Spirit of Peoria cruise schedule for 2021:Wed, July 14 Sightseeing CruiseWed, July 14 Lunch CruiseWed, July 14 Sightseeing CruiseWed, Aug. 25 Sightseeing CruiseWed, Aug. 25 Lunch CruiseWed, Aug. 25 Sightseeing CruiseWed, Aug. 25 Murder Mystery Dinner CruiseWed, Sep. 22 Sightseeing CruiseWed, Sep. 22 Lunch CruiseWed, Sep. 22 Sightseeing CruiseWed, Oct. 6 Sightseeing CruiseWed, Oct. 6 Lunch CruiseWed, Oct. 6 Sightseeing Cruise Sightseeing, lunch and dinner cruises will depart from The Loading Dock, 400 Front St., Grafton. Boarding begins half an hour before the listed departure time. Free parking is available at The Loading Dock. The Spirit of Peoria also offers full day cruises on the Mississippi or Illinois River. The cruises include all-inclusive ticket pricing, all-you-can-eat meals, professional storytelling, unlimited complimentary soft drinks, historic information, wildlife sightings, indoor comforts, outdoor relaxation, live entertainment, ragtime piano, round-trip transportation, tax and gratuity. Full day cruises boarding begins at 8:30 a.m. with cruising on the river from 9:15 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cruise from St. Louis to Grafton with shuttle transportation back to St. Louis. The cost is $152 per person.Thur. May 27 FULL DAY - St. Louis to GraftonTues. July 13 FULL DAY - St. Louis to GraftonTues. Aug 24 FULL DAY - St. Louis to GraftonTues, Sep. 21 FULL DAY - St. Louis to GraftonTues, Oct. 5 FULL DAY - St. Louis to Grafton

(The Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau is a certified Destination Marketing Organization serving Madison, Jersey, Calhoun, Macoupin, Montgomery and Greene counties. The bureau is dedicated to educating visitors about the region by providing information regarding the area’s history, unique landmarks, recreational opportunities, leisure attractions, special events and scenic marvels.)

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• Discover Astoria's charm
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Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise

• Explore Astoria's Victorian charm
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• Trek up the iconic Beacon Rock

Columbia and Snake Rivers Cruise

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Northwest Pioneers Cruise

• Explore Astoria
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10 hot river cruises to book this year

There are classic river itineraries — the Danube, the Rhine, the Rhone and the Nile — that anyone who appreciates the ease and camaraderie of river cruising can book with most of the top cruise lines. But those aren't your only options.

The most exciting river cruises to book this year are the new offerings that go off the beaten path, explore an unsung river or combine a standard seven-night sailing with a novel land tour.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Here are 10 new itineraries for 2024 and 2025 that are taking river cruising beyond the familiar, including several on recently launched or soon-to-debut river ships.

AmaWaterways' 7-night Wonders of Colombia and Magic of Colombia

Love South America but have already cruised the Amazon? Consider AmaWaterways ' newest ship, AmaMagdalena. Debuting in January 2025, the 60-passenger ship will sail two alternating seven-night itineraries year-round on Colombia's Magdalena River, traveling from Cartagena to Barranquilla and vice versa.

With the Wonders of Colombia itinerary , you'll board AmaMagdalena in coastal Cartagena, a popular Caribbean port on Panama Canal transits that you can now also enjoy on a river cruise. Arrive a day early or book a two-night precruise add-on to see sights such as the historic Walled City, San Felipe de Barajas Castle and the Gold Museum.

Following a sunset sail away, immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and tastes of Colombia via a local music experience in Palenque, the first "free town" in the Americas after a 1713 decree from the Spanish crown freed residents from slavery. You can also check out 19th-century Calamar on a paola (a two-person bicycle taxi) and the jazz music and local handicrafts available in Santa Barbara de Pinto and Mompox.

El Banco and Magangue round out the list of port calls before the cruise ends with a tour of the floating village of Nueva Venecia and an evening Carnival celebration in the seaside port of Barranquilla.

Choose the Magic of Colombia itinerary , from Barranquilla to Cartagena, and you'll visit the same ports, just in a different order. Rather than end your cruise with the Carnival celebration, you'll experience it on your first day. You can also book several precruise and postcruise land tours, including three nights precruise in Medellin, three nights postcruise in Panama or both.

AmaMagdalena will be joined in June 2025 by 64-passenger AmaMelodia. Both vessels will offer spacious (237- to 516-square-foot) staterooms and suites, as well as a heated pool on the sun deck and two dining options: the main restaurant, serving Latin American cuisine and Western favorites, and an intimate alfresco dining experience.

Related: Best river cruise lines around the world

American Cruise Lines' 15-night National Parks & Legendary Rivers

American Cruise Lines ' itineraries on the Columbia and Snake rivers in Oregon and Washington already attract travelers who appreciate the stunning landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, but now the cruise line has a 15-night National Parks & Legendary Rivers itinerary that takes scenic appreciation to another level.

The trip combines an eight-night cruise on the Columbia and Snake rivers with a seven-night land tour to three national parks: Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton. The itinerary visits five states and begins or ends in either Portland, Oregon, or Jackson, Wyoming, depending on whether you do the land or cruise portion first.

What will you see on this cruise? If you start in Portland, you'll overnight before boarding one of the company's modern, 180-passenger river ships: American Jazz, American Harmony or American Song. Your first day will be spent enjoying scenic cruising along the Columbia River, with Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens as a backdrop, as you head to Astoria, Oregon. The historic seaside city is known for its beautiful Victorian houses and red trolleys.

Geology enthusiasts and anyone who remembers the devastating May 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens will be fascinated by the port call in Kalama, Washington, where you can take an included guided excursion to the National Volcanic Monument. The following day will be spent cruising the Columbia River Gorge before you arrive in Stevenson, Washington, where a visit to 620-foot Multnomah Falls is a highlight. The final two days feature views of the dramatic landscapes of the Snake River in eastern Washington as you call on Richland before disembarking in Clarkston.

The guided national parks tour begins with a drive to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, for a lake cruise followed by an overnight in Kalispell, Montana. Once in Glacier National Park, you'll navigate Going-to-the-Sun Road and dine at the historic Lake McDonald Lodge.

The tour continues on to Yellowstone National Park, where your adventure guides will offer insight as you explore Mammoth Hot Springs, Norris Geyser Basin, Tower Fall and Old Faithful, among other highlights. A visit to Grand Teton National Park and its Jackson Lake Lodge follows, with your final day spent admiring the park's incredible mountain vistas and abundant wildlife.

Related: The best US river cruises

American Cruise Lines' 50-night The Great United States

If 15 nights aren't enough to satisfy your wanderlust, American Cruise Lines offers a 50-night version of The Great United States program for 2025.

The 2025 sailing encompasses three cruises. It takes the 15-night National Parks & Legendary Rivers itinerary described above and adds a 21-night Mississippi River cruise from New Orleans to St. Paul, Minnesota, aboard 180-passenger American Serenade, which will call on 21 ports in six states. Along the Mississippi, you'll have a chance to visit Civil War battlefields in Vicksburg, Mississippi; Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, Missouri; and the landmark Gateway Arch in St. Louis. You can also enjoy legendary blues music on Beale Street in Memphis.

That segment will be followed by a 14-night, 14-port cruise along the coast of New England on 125-passenger American Pioneer (debuting in 2025). The ship will sail round-trip from Boston and visit scenic coastal ports in Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Massachusetts, including the quintessential New England islands of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket.

Tour options will include visits to the Maine Botanical Garden in Boothbay Harbor and Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor, an SUV adventure along the dunes of Provincetown on Cape Cod and a tour of the gilded mansions of Newport in Rhode Island.

In total, you'll check off 15 states from your must-visit list during this river cruise. That's an impressive number of destinations to visit in a single trip.

Avalon Waterways' 7-night Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro

Portugal's Douro River Valley is beloved by oenophiles. Over the past few decades, it has also attracted river cruisers seeking a relaxing itinerary punctuated by sleepy small towns and the daily enjoyment of local food and wine.

In March 2024, Avalon Waterways added the Douro River to its offerings when it debuted 102-passenger Avalon Alegria sailing an itinerary called Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro . The seven-night cruise is round trip from Porto, where there's time at the start and end of your cruise to explore this colorful city's historic port-wine cellars, churches and bridges (including the Ponte de Dona Maria Pia, designed in 1877 by Gustave Eiffel).

Noteworthy stops range from an afternoon call on Porto Antigo, with included excursions to monasteries and churches in Braga and Guimaraes, to a call at Peso de Regua, where sightseeing and wine tasting go hand in hand. You'll even have an opportunity to add an optional excursion from Pinhao to the elaborate 18th-century Baroque palace Casa de Mateus (of rose wine fame).

Save time for the onboard activities, too. After a full-day excursion from Barca d'Alva to Salamanca, Spain — a city known for its mix of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architectural styles — you can learn how to paint azulejos (Portugal's famous blue-hued handmade tiles) or enjoy a pastry-making demonstration on the ship the next morning.

Related: The best river cruises in Europe

CroisiEurope's 7-night A Cruise Through Four Exquisite European Valleys

Germany is known for its scenic river valleys, and a new itinerary from French river cruise line CroisiEurope doesn't skimp on beautiful vistas. Called A Cruise Through Four Exquisite European Valleys , the seven-night, round-trip sailing departs from Strasbourg, France, and visits the Rhine, Neckar, Moselle and Saar river valleys.

The ship for this itinerary, 81-passenger Elbe Princesse II, is one of CroisiEurope's three paddle river boats. It normally navigates the Elbe River between Berlin and Prague. However, from July to October 2025, the ship will be cruising the Rhine and its tributaries.

This river cruise kicks off on the Saar River, famous for the Great Bend at Mettlach (the river equivalent of a hairpin turn), and overnights in the town of Saarburg, Germany. After a morning scenic cruise onto the Moselle River, you'll visit Trier, Germany, known for its ancient Roman structures and its photogenic medieval buildings, before continuing on to Cochem, Germany, where you can enjoy an afternoon visit to the hilltop Reichsburg Castle.

Larger cities like Koblenz, Germany, located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers and home to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, are also on the itinerary. The trip features a stop in wine-centric Rudesheim, Germany, as well, so you can sample some vino and enjoy a ride on a scenic train while in the Rhine Valley.

The final day calls on a trio of German ports on the Neckar River. In the morning, you'll visit Mannheim and disembark for a coach transfer to Heidelberg, home to pink-hued Heidelberg Castle, historic churches and atmospheric beer halls. You'll then reboard Elbe Princesse II in Heidelberg and sail to Eberbach, a medieval city with an abundance of half-timbered homes and ancient fountains. The ship will overnight as you enjoy a final gala dinner before disembarking in Strasbourg the next morning.

Riverside Luxury Cruises' 11-night Danube and Main River Discovery

With the March 2024 debut of 110-passenger Riverside Debussy, Europe-based newcomer Riverside Luxury Cruises has added more than a half-dozen new three- to 21-night itineraries, with options on the Rhine, Main, Moselle and Danube rivers. In October 2024, the ship will sail an 11-night Danube and Main River Discovery itinerary from Budapest to Frankfurt that combines the highlights of two rivers and visits four countries: Hungary, Slovakia, Austria and Germany.

You'll embark Riverside Debussy in Hungary's capital before cruising past the illuminated Hungarian Parliament Building on your way to Bratislava. The capital of Slovakia is home to a hilltop castle, a walkable pedestrian zone and pubs serving local beer.

The next day, discover the history and artistry of Vienna with visits to its Hapsburg-era palaces, 16th-century St. Stephen's Cathedral and numerous museums. Charming Durnstein, Austria, is known for its medieval castle and a riverfront abbey with a pretty blue-and-white spire, while the golden-hued abbey in nearby Melk, Austria, celebrates the flavor of apricots in preserves and liquors.

As you reach Passau, Germany, which sits on the confluence of three rivers, you'll enter Bavaria and discover a walkable city with a domed 17th-century Baroque cathedral. The next day on the Main River (a Rhine tributary), you'll tour Regensburg, Germany, including its UNESCO World Heritage-listed city center, before spending two days exploring Nuremberg, Germany, which has a notably complex history.

Rounding out the cruise are calls on Bamberg, Wurzburg and Wertheim, Germany, with bustling Frankfurt — where historic remnants of the Middle Ages meet modern skyscrapers — serving as the departure port.

Related: River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat

Scenic's 66-night Scenic Cruising Through Europe

If you have two months to spare, a fascination with history, a love of fine wines and a generous budget, you can explore the rivers of Europe in one epic trip with Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours. The new 66-night Scenic Cruising Through Europe journey — available on two dates in 2025 ( May 4-July 9 and Aug. 16-Oct. 21 ) — explores more than a half dozen major rivers and waterways and calls on almost 60 ports in 13 countries.

The first part of the journey begins in Bucharest, Romania, with an overnight in a luxury hotel before you set sail on one of Scenic's 163-guest Space-Ships from Giurgiu. You'll cruise the Danube, Main and Rhine rivers all the way to Belgium and the Netherlands, then backtrack along the Rhine to Basel, Switzerland, taking some time to explore towns along the Moselle River.

This portion of the trip will take 36 days, and you'll explore ports in Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Hungary, Austria, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands and Switzerland. You'll spend two days each in Budapest, Vienna and Amsterdam, and scenic highlights include Austria's Wachau Valley and Germany's Rhine River Gorge, with its many hilltop castles.

After a flight from Zurich to Paris, you'll start the next leg of your trip when you board 124-passenger Scenic Gem for a 10-night cruise on the Seine River. Visit historic Rouen and Honfleur or take excursions to Claude Monet's home and gardens at Giverny and the WWII beaches at Normandy.

Next, you'll fly from Paris to Bordeaux and board 149-passenger Scenic Diamond for a 10-night journey along the Garonne and Dordogne rivers in the heart of France's Bordeaux wine region.

On day 57, you'll fly from Bordeaux to Porto, Portugal, to board 96-passenger Scenic Azure on the Douro River for the final 10-night leg of your trip. You'll explore the legendary port cellars of Porto, taste wine amid the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley and venture into Spain for a day trip to Salamanca. Your river cruise — and this epic 66-night journey — concludes back in Porto with an overnight, allowing you more time to experience this exceptional city.

Tauck's 13-night Romantic Capitals: Prague to Paris

Tauck's newest river offering in Europe for 2025 is its 13-night Romantic Capitals: Prague to Paris itinerary. This multiriver and land journey is available from April to October on Tauck ships Joy and Savor.

You'll start your journey with two nights at the Fairmont Golden Prague Hotel and enjoy ample time to take in sights such as Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge. You'll then transfer to Regensburg, Germany, for a nine-day cruise to Trier along the Main, Rhine, Moselle and upper Danube rivers, as well as the Main-Danube Canal.

Ports and cities visited on excursions include Frankfurt, Koblenz, Nuremberg, Bamberg, Wurzburg, Wertheim and Boppard, Germany. Exclusive experiences available to Tauck guests range from a private reception and dinner at Schlosshotel Kronberg near Frankfurt to a visit to the legendary Nurburgring racetrack near Koblenz.

You'll continue your trip on land with a quick stop in Luxembourg for a walking tour of its capital city. Afterward, you'll board a train to Paris, where your journey will conclude with a two-night stay at L'Hotel du Collectionneur.

Uniworld's 13-night Cruise & Rail: Paris to Istanbul

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has added a new 13-night Cruise & Rail: Paris to Istanbul itinerary to its 2025 journeys. The two-week cruise offers you the chance to experience these two legendary cities, visit landmarks along the Seine River and then travel by luxury sleeper train for five nights from Paris through six additional countries to Istanbul. A 14-night reverse itinerary from Istanbul to Paris is also available.

If you begin your journey in Paris, you'll board Uniworld's 128-passenger Joie de Vivre for a seven-night Seine River cruise. Highlights include visits to Claude Monet's home and gardens at Giverny and Normandy's medieval capital, Rouen, known for its 11th-century cathedral and Joan of Arc history. A second stop in Rouen gives you a choice of excursions to the beaches of Normandy. This portion of the trip concludes with a stop at Versailles and an overnight in Paris.

You'll then transfer to Gare de Lyon and board the Golden Eagle Danube Express. First stop: the vineyards of Champagne for a tasting. The next day, the majestic scenery of the Austrian Alps are a daytime highlight, while dinner and a private classical concert in Vienna are on the evening agenda. After a morning exploring the city, you'll be back on board as your train heads to Postojna, Slovenia, where you'll enjoy a nighttime tour of the intricate Postojna Caves.

A visit to the Serbian capital of Belgrade rewards you with a traditional feast, while the next day's stop in Sofia, capital of Bulgaria, offers architectural and archeological gems in a city dating back 7,000 years. Upon disembarking in Istanbul, you'll spend a night at the luxurious Four Seasons Sultanahmet and have time to explore nearby sights, which include the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.

Viking's 10-night Rhine & Main Explorer from Nuremberg to Basel

Viking 's newest itinerary for 2025 is the 10-night Rhine & Main Explorer , which cruises from Nuremberg to Basel (or vice versa) from May to November and visits cities in Germany, France and Switzerland. It's a new mix of ports for Viking, including some lesser-known historic towns in Germany's Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria regions.

You'll board one of the cruise line's 190-passenger Viking Longships in Nuremberg, where an overnight offers time to learn about the city's medieval structures and past as a staging ground for Nazi rallies. More medieval architecture awaits in Bamberg, famous for its river-spanning Altes Rathaus (Town Hall) and its rauchbier (smoked beer). If wine is your preferred spirit, you're in luck, as Wurzburg, a city in Germany's Franken wine region, is also on the itinerary.

As you continue your cruise, you'll see the vibrant half-timbered houses and sample the hearty Bavarian cuisine (think: bratwurst and pork knuckle) of Marktheidenfeld, Germany. A visit to bustling Frankfurt, which provides a stark contrast between historic and modern Germany, is also in order after an afternoon spent sailing past the Main River's castle-topped hillsides.

France's Alsace region gets its turn when you call on Strasbourg, known for its beautifully preserved Old Town encircled by the Ill River. The itinerary also includes a stop across the Rhine in Breisach, Germany, the gateway to the Black Forest and a town full of vineyards. You'll end your journey with a full day of exploring charming guild house-lined Marktplatz, history-rich streets and more than 40 museums in Basel.

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