riverboat cruises peoria illinois

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IMPORTANT UPDATE: Please note, effective January 1, 2023, promotional punch cards are no longer valid for future punches or additional stays at no charge.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

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Get exclusive deals by email, #starvedrocklodge.

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Spirit of Peoria

Today is a holiday! Business hours may be different today.

Review Highlights

“ I was born and raised in Pekin so have been on, in, and around the Illinois River many times. ” in 5 reviews

“ Last year for Christmas I purchased for my grandmother and myself a cruise to Starved Rock. ” in 7 reviews

“ We had all the elements of a great ride: perfect weather, calm water, not many people on board so we got a good seat, boat departed and arrived on time. ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

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100 NE Water St

Peoria, IL 61602

Amenities and More

About the business.

The Spirit of Peoria offers sightseeing, themed dinner, concert, overnight and private excursions on the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers. In 2015, we won first place for Best Casual Entree at the Taste of Peoria for our Smoked Brisket Sandwich. …

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This review is long overdue. Last year for Christmas I purchased for my grandmother and myself a cruise to Starved Rock. We boarded in Peoria and spent the day cruising to Starved Rock. What I didn't know when I booked was that this was also a murder mystery cruise. The cast was on the boat the whole time. Once we arrived in Starved Rock we had dinner at the lodge and stayed at the Lodge. The next morning was breakfast at the Lodge and back on the boat to cruise back to Peoria. Everything about this trip was fantastic. The murder mystery outfit was fabulous. As it was flowing throughout the two days it became really interesting. It was better than any murder mystery dinner I have ever done. The ragtime music was enjoyable and the food was also really good. My grandmother LOVED this. She keeps asking me when we are going to go again. If you are looking for a different thing to do, try this!

Enjoyable cruises on Illinois River and at reasonable prices. There are different cruises scheduled such as sightseeing and dinner cruises. Nice boat , actually a real paddle wheeler river boat There is indoor and outdoor seating on the boat. There are restrooms on board

Very nice paddleboat ride. We had all the elements of a great ride: perfect weather, calm water, not many people on board so we got a good seat, boat departed and arrived on time. It was a 90 minute trip. Parents, think twice before bringing the kids. Or if you bring them, make sure they have an activity they can do during the cruise. The kids i saw were all bored either from the start or shortly after. They ran around the deck and emptied out the ice water container. Restrooms were clean.

My girlfriend had free tickets so we took my dad on the riverboat. I've been wanting to go on it for awhile now. Seems we often stop acting like tourists in our situated towns and stop appreciating what we have under our noses. This cool old girl uses a true paddle wheel for propulsion and watching it turn is mesmerizing. She was built in 1988 and she feels like it... inside & out...which is a charming experience. There are plenty of seating options, gift shop, bathrooms and sometimes they have bands. Tables are set up in shade where you can share a snack and sip a beer while floating down the Illinois River. On that note... ..."But I never saw the good side of the city 'Til I hitched a ride on a river boat queen Big wheel keep on turnin' Proud Spirit keep on burnin' Rollin', rollin', rollin' on the river..." -CCR (with my additions;)

Ita a ride on an old boat. The 6 miles tour is ok. I wouldnt kill youraeld over not doing it.

About ready to crewZ

Free parking in the deck next door to the dock on weekends and after 5 weekdays. The sound system was not great - could not hear much of the captain's commentary. The cruise itself is a nice, relaxing way to spend a few hours. We did the daily cruise (1 1/2 hours).

Our oldest son and his wife took my wife and I on the boat in July 2013. I suppose it's never too late to compliment something or someone. Considering the ride, the food, and drink were free, how could we complain? We raised our kids right. I was born and raised in Pekin so have been on, in, and around the Illinois River many times. Still we couldn't take our eyes off the scenery along both sides. What made it fun after being away for years was trying to figure out where we were as we went up river. A very nice and relaxing trip ending at Joe's Crab Shack. Together this made a great and memorable cruise. Hope to do it again soon.

came today with my family, they sold way more tickets than they had seats available. Didn't want to decrease capacity apparently, so everyone is standing on top of each other. Asked an employee about any extra chairs around for my brother with an artificial hip, he just said, "too bad, nothing we can do about it." zero social distancing being enforced.

Spirit of Peoria is a very pretty boat kept in good repair - staff was friendly, the live music was playing good stuff, and the cruise goes up the Illinois River and is quite scenic - posted some pictures of it. Everyone was having a good time, and I had some interesting conversations with strangers, can't ask for anything more! (I did just a 2 hour sightseeing cruise, check out their website - they do multiday cruises to a nature preserve in central IL and down to St. Louis - entertainment and food all inclusive, pretty pricey but it sounds like a good time)

See all photos from Colten J. for Spirit of Peoria

Great value. Great Cruise. Nice sights. Took the moonlight cruise. Very affordable on cruise food and beverages.

1 other review that is not currently recommended

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Spirit of Peoria ~ to Starved Rock Cruise

Peoria to starved rock excursion.

This wonderful overnight trip includes two relaxing days of cruising down the river. All-you-can-eat buffet meals—including the chef’s prime rib dinner—are served throughout the day. Entertainment includes live singing, guitar, banjo, and ragtime piano, storytelling, historical information at various spots, wildlife sightings, and an optional hike to the Starved Rock Historic Site. Lodging provided by the Starved Rock Lodge. Enjoy the slower pace of life on this unique paddleboat!  More info...

WELCOME TO CELEBRATION RIVER CRUISES

Cruising season begins april 1, 2024.

Join us while we celebrate our 40th cruising season in 2024! Our 750 passenger paddlewheel boat, the “Celebration Belle” is specifically designed for cruising the waterways of the great Mississippi River, offering casual sightseeing, luncheon and dinner cruises. We offer various cruises to meet any sailor’s enjoyment needs!

Captain's Narrated Lunch Virtual Tour

DROP US A LINE

(800) 297-0034 / (309) 764-1952, find us on facebook.

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About Celebration Belle

(800) 297-0034 (309) 764-1952

[email protected]

2501 River Drive, Moline, IL 61265

Group Sales and Marketing: Susan Yarolem (800) 297-0034 x 204 (309) 764-1952 x 204

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Take An Incredible Overnight Boat Cruise Aboard The Spirit Of Peoria In Illinois

The Spirit of Peoria offers various overnight cruise options within Illinois, providing scenic views, entertainment, and accommodations.

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Many of us enjoy taking an overnight cruise somewhere but don't always have the time or opportunity to fly someplace far to enjoy one. Did you know that there's a way to take a cruise without even leaving the state of Illinois? The Spirit of Peoria offers several overnight cruise options that offer gorgeous scenery, accommodations, meals, entertainment, and more.

Are you ready for some relaxation mixed with a little bit of adventure? Then all aboard the Spirit of Peoria for an epic cruise featuring plenty of history, music, scenery, food, and fun!

The Spirit of Peoria offers plenty of options aboard its riverboat from 1.5-hour scenic cruises to five-day overnight cruises along the Mississippi and Illinois rivers.

Among the overnight cruises within Illinois are a two-day, one-night or a three-day, two-night Peoria to Starved Rock Excursion. If you prefer to go out of state, the company also offers a three-day, two-night Peoria to St. Louis Excursion or a five-day, four-night Peoria to Hannibal Excursion.

Included in the cost of each cruise are buffet meals, a prime rib dinner, entertainment with live music and singing, storytelling, historical information, and lodging when you arrive at the destination.

Along the way to your destination, enjoy the scenery passing by while aboard the riverboat with its 21-foot diameter paddlewheel traveling at a speed of 7 mph.

On each of the Peoria to Starved Rock Excursions, an overnight stay at the historic 1930s Starved Rock Lodge is included as well. While at Starved Rock State Park , considered the best state park in Illinois, you may also participate in the included guided hikes and Starved Rock tour.

If you've had the desire to go on a cruise but haven't been able to fly anywhere, consider an excursion with the Spirit of Peoria! This unique adventure will certainly be a memorable one.

Are you ready to hop aboard the Spirit of Peoria for an overnight cruise adventure? If you've done a cruise aboard this riverboat before, we would love to hear from you in the comments! For more information and to book a day, themed, or overnight cruise with the Spirit of Peoria, visit the website and Facebook page .

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The Best Small Town Getaway In Illinois: Best Things To Do In Galena

If you’re interested in a trip to Europe but want to skip the overseas flight, just head to the little town of Galena. This riverside hamlet is like a place that time forgot – it’s filled with picture-perfect streets lined by homes and businesses built by European immigrants long ago. I enjoyed a short trip to Galena, which was even better than I imagined. I explored downtown Galena, Galena’s attractions, and more and found this little city has a lot to offer. Looking for things to do in Galena ? Here’s a quick Galena travel guide.

From the coast of Oregon to the mountains of Pennsylvania and everywhere in between, there are countless charming and captivating small towns across America worthy of a weekend getaway. Curated by our team of local travel experts, you’ll love our 2024 Small Town Getaways .

Explore Our Small Town Getaways

History Of Galena

This area has been inhabited for a very long time. Long before Europeans arrived, the area was home to Native American tribes. The French began exploring the region in the 1600s, but the town really started to boom when a lead mining exploded around here in the 1800s, drawing scores of immigrant miners. The town was officially established in 1826 and it quickly became a hub for lead mining and steamboat traffic on the Mississippi River.

In the latter half of the 1800s, the lead mining industry in Galena went into a serious decline. The rise of railroads diminished the importance of river traffic, the river began to fill with sediment, and Galena went into an economic decline. But there was an upside – new development did not replace the beautiful old buildings, and they still stand proudly today. The Galena Historic District now encompasses about 85 percent of the town and includes more than 800 properties!

Is Galena Worth Visiting?

The secret is out on Galena. Today, Galena is a vibrant community that attracts visitors from all over the world. Its historic downtown is filled with boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, and antique shops. If you’re looking for a place that feels like a true escape, Galena could be the perfect destination.

Galena is a small town with about 3,200 residents, but that’s part of the charm. It’s a bustling place but it’s far from urban traffic jams, and it’s easy to explore – one cobblestone at a time. I’ve traveled to more Midwest destinations than I can count, but this was one spot where I really felt that I was somewhere else – it reminded me a little bit of Europe, but it’s truly its own place. If you are considering a trip to Galena, you won’t be disappointed.

How To Get To Galena

You’ll probably want to take a car to get to Galena, although there are also motor coach tours that stop here. It’s a pretty easy drive from the major destinations. It’s less than a three-hour drive from Chicago - you’ll take US 20 west out of Rockford. Galena is only about 90 minutes from the Quad Cities. You’ll head up to Dubuque, then take US 20 east into Galena.

Getting Around Galena

While it’s easy to find parking anywhere in town, this city is best explored on foot. It was a good thing my pedometer was charged. I logged a few miles strolling up and down downtown and through the historic sights. It gave me an excuse to enjoy a few sweet treats along the way – I burned a lot of calories on this trip!

Best Time To Visit Galena

One thing that sets Galena apart from other destinations is that there is really no bad time to visit. While there are some seasonal recreation options nearby, the town is always beautiful and it’s always a pleasant escape, whether the trees are ablaze in fall color or dusted in snow.

There are some seasonal events you might not want to miss. The Great Galena Balloon Race takes place each June and there are other festivals that celebrate everything from beer to garlic. There’s always something happening – see upcoming Galena Events on the Visit Galena website. Plan your trip when you have time to travel. Galena will be waiting for you, and there will be plenty to do.

Where To Stay In Galena

Galena is filled with a ton of historic and charming places to stay, including vacation homes and hotels, but you’ll still want to book early for the best options.

Hotel Pick: DeSoto House Hotel

This incredible property was built in 1855 – notable visitors include Abraham Lincoln. The DeSoto House is just as beautiful as it was in the 1850s, and the location is perfect for exploring Galena. If you want to immerse yourself in the history of Galena, there’s no better hotel. I wasn’t able to stay in the hotel, but I couldn’t resist peeking into their lobby – next time I’m in Galena, I’ll have to book a room.

Airbnb Pick: Beautiful Miner's Cottage in a Garden

Want to experience a getaway that will take you back to old Galena? This 1840s miner's cottage could be perfect. It’s just three blocks from Main Street, and the house has a corner lot in the Galena National Historic District. The home has been nicely updated to make it comfortable for today, but it still has plenty of old Galena charm.

Galena Sights & Landmarks

If you love exploring historic sites and architecture, you’ll love Galena – there’s so much to experience. In a sense, the whole town feels like a landmark, and many of the buildings certainly are. You might consider a walking tour of the town, but be sure to allow plenty of time to stroll, as there’s a lot to see here. I found myself taking a ton of photos as I walked.

Ulysses S. Grant's Home

Galena residents gave Grant this beautiful home in 1865 as a gift for his war service. Since 1904, it has served as a memorial to the famous Civil War General and American president. I missed the tour of the Ulysses S. Grant Home but I still hiked up to see the home’s exterior and grounds. It’s an impressive property on a hill above the city, and it feels very presidential!

Belvedere Mansion

I next hiked over to a home that’s considered the finest in Galena. The Belvedere Mansion is a lavish Italianate-style mansion built in 1857. It has 22 rooms and was once the home of one of Galena’s most prominent residents, J. Russell Jones. It’s incredible – I spent a lot of time just taking in the ornate exterior.

Galena Activities & Attractions

U.S. Grant History Museum

This local history museum is pretty amazing. The U.S. Grant History Museum has over 6,000 feet of exhibit space and it’s a great place to learn about lead mining – you can look down into an actual mine! The building itself is pretty cool – it’s a mansion that was built in 1858 for a Galena Merchant named Daniel Barrows.

Galena Trolley Tours

One of the best Galena attractions will take you all over town. Galena Trolley Tours has tours that will take you through the history and architecture of the town. You can buy tickets right at the depo on Main Street - look for the big red parked trolleys! Get a ticket and enjoy a ride like no other up and down Galena’s historic streets.

Shops & Boutiques In Galena

Galena is a city for shoppers. The downtown is filled with unique and eclectic shops and galleries – whether you’re looking for a special gift or a souvenir, you’ll find it. There are shops everywhere, with a big selection in and around Main Street.

Galena River Wine & Cheese

I’m from Wisconsin, so I would not have guessed I would be impressed by an Illinois Cheese shop. I was wrong – the selection at Galena River Wine & Cheese is fantastic. You can buy great cheeses from around the world and, of course, from Wisconsin!

Root Beer Revelry

If you love root beer, you’ll feel like you’re in heaven here. Root Beer Revelry has an enormous selection of root beer on hand, and you can even do a tasting. Kids of all ages will enjoy this place. I tried some great varieties and left with some bottles for the road!

Restaurants In Galena

It’s easy to work up an appetite in Galena, and fortunately, you're in a very good place to dine out. From casual cafes to formal restaurants, there’s something for every diner, and on nice days, there are some spots with outdoor patios.

Galena Bakehouse

But first, start your day with a perfect pastry at Galena Bakehouse . You may have a hard time choosing, but it’s all delicious. The owners took very good care of me when I was in Galena. They gave me a lot of great tips that helped me explore the town, and I left with what I needed for an impromptu picnic!

Vinny Vanucchi's

This cozy Galena dining spot on a cobblestone street is the perfect place to tuck in for a relaxing lunch or dinner. Vinny Vanucchi's has plenty of delicious Italian fare, and it’s a welcoming spot - you’ll feel like you’re part of the familia! For lunch, you might try one of Vinny’s “Neighborhood Sangwiches” like the Italian Meatball. On nice days, look for a table outside.

Galena Taphouse

Located on Diagonal Street, this is another good bet for lunch or dinner. Galena Taphouse serves a variety of casual options like sandwiches and salads as well as upscale dinner options like duck risotto. And, of course, the beer selection is pretty outstanding – they feature a large number of craft beers that are produced within 200 miles of Galena.

Fritz and Frites

This bistro is a little bit French and a little bit German – and it gets great reviews. Fritz and Frites is a great spot for dinner – if you like traditional German food, try the sauerbraten. My parents love German food and this is one of their favorite Galena restaurants!

Nature In And Around Galena

You’re never far from a beautiful natural area when you’re in Galena. From walking paths in the heart of town to wild paths along the nearby Mississippi River, there’s plenty of natural beauty in and around Galena.

Galena River Levee

For a short but pleasant stroll, consider walking along the town’s levee. It was built from 1948-51 to protect downtown from flooding but now it’s a nice place for a walk by the river. I took my morning coffee along for the walk and it was fantastic! There were a lot of people strolling here, and no one seemed to be in much of a hurry as they enjoyed the river view. I could see why!

Casper Bluff Land and Water Reserve

There are some beautiful trails that are just a short drive from the heart of Galena. The Casper Bluff Trails wind through some gorgeous prairies on land that overlooks the Mississippi. I hiked only part of the trails and found them really beautiful – I bet they are gorgeous during the late summer when the wildflowers are in full bloom.

I loved my time in Galena! There’s so much to explore in this little town. If you visit Galena, I recommend you plan at least a weekend to explore the town. I visited in the spring but hope to catch Galena in different seasons – from what I hear, it’s magical to see the seasons turn! Learn more about things to see and do in Galena on the Visit Galena website. If you’re planning a road trip to Galena, here is an ultimate packing list to make your travels even easier!

The Surprising Illinois Town That Makes An Excellent Weekend Getaway

Lebanon, Illinois is a charming small town perfect for a weekend getaway with its historic sites, vibrant arts community, and local eateries.

What's not to love about taking a break and soaking in a change of scenery? While heading to a city or a large, popular town is almost always a good time, why not go on an adventure and explore one of the many small towns around Illinois instead? One of these small towns, Lebanon, may not be one you've considered visiting (at least not yet) but it's perfect for a weekend getaway in Illinois. If your interest has been piqued, read on to learn about things to do in Lebanon, IL .

Based in the southern part of the state, Lebanon, Illinois is a small town that was established in 1814. Today it has a population of just under 4,500 residents. It is also home to McKendree University which is the oldest Methodist college in the state, a vibrant arts community, and a lovely main street filled with restaurants, antique shops, and boutiques.

If you haven't yet considered spending some time in Lebanon, IL, you should put it on your radar. It's a place that is worthwhile to explore on a day or weekend trip.

St. Louis Street, also known as "The Brick Street," is the heart and soul of this charming town. Here you'll find several restaurants, locally-owned boutiques, and antique shops like Tiadaghton House (pictured here). These are just some of the many things to do in Lebanon, Illinois.

If you're hungry while in town, several eateries await your arrival. Perhaps you'll want to try The Cobblestone Eatery and Drinker, where you can enjoy a variety of sandwiches, burgers, and more when you're touring around Lebanon, IL.

Not too far from The Brick Street is the historic Mermaid House Inn. Built in 1830 by a retired sea captain, it once served as a hotel and then a residence from 1845-1964. Its main claim to fame is that Charles Dickens once made a visit in 1842 and commemorated his stay in his book, American Notes .

Today, visitors can take a tour of the Mermaid House Inn if they're looking for things to do in Lebanon, Illinois.

Since a thriving arts community also exists in Lebanon, it's certainly something to check out while you're here. Perhaps you can enjoy a live performance and take in a play at

Looking Glass Playhouse during your visit.

Another place to consider visiting when you're in Lebanon, Illinois is the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts. This is a performing arts center located on the McKendree University campus.

And, if you need a nature fix while spending time in Lebanon, IL, plan to stop at the 58-acre Horner Park where you can take a stroll on a pathway and fish at its five-acre lake. As you can see, it's a truly lovely and relaxing place to be!

If you've already been to this charming town, have you been to the places we mentioned? If you have more suggestions for things to do in Lebanon, IL, feel free to share your thoughts in the following comments section too.

Check out these  places to visit in Illinois if you'd like to also explore some more of The Prairie State.

Spending time in Lebanon and need a place to stay? Take a look at this Private Cabin on a Family Farm just 10 miles from town!

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River Cruises

by | Oct 5, 2020

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Just sit back, relax and become mesmerized by the rhythmic sound of the paddlewheel propelling you forward along the calming waters of the river. As one of the few remaining paddlewheel boats on the Mississippi River, the Spirit of Peoria is a throwback to days gone by with deck side seating in the open air or a relaxing ride inside with a full view of the landscape. The boat will depart and return to The Loading Dock in Grafton.

Lunch Cruise at 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Bring your appetite aboard for this scenic cruise featuring a full lunch served aboard the Spirit of Peoria. This cruise will travel the Mississippi River and guests will have a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty found here. https://www.visitalton.com/store/product/326/2018–spirit-of-peoria%3A-lunch-cruise-%28aug.-29-2018-at-12%3A30-p.m.%29

Afternoon Sightseeing at 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Enjoy the river by boarding the Spirit of Peoria sightseeing cruise. The cruise will travel the Mississippi River and guest will have a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty found here. https://www.visitalton.com/events/detail/1909/spirit-of-peoria%3A-afternoon-sightseeing/21064

Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise at 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Love triangles, hidden secret documents and a criminal mastermind will all be part of the new Alton Little Theater Murder Mystery Dinner Theater cruise on the Spirit of Peoria. Join in the fun for “Murder & Mayhem at the Class Reunion” which feature an international cast of actors who perform an interactive show much like “Murder on the Orient Express.” Put on your Super Sleuth hats and help solve the case along with the Alton Little Theater cast of characters during this fun “Whodunnit” river cruise. Enjoy a great meal, beautiful river views an win prizes. https://www.visitalton.com/events/detail/1916/spirit-of-peoria%3A-murder-mystery-dinner-cruise/20549

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Peoria Magazine is no longer in production. Publication ended with the November 2023 issue.

Goodbye, spirit of peoria.

In late January, I received a call from my son, Alex, informing me that he had received an offer from a dinner cruise boat operator in Tampa, Fla. to purchase the Spirit of Peoria riverboat.

The offer was conveyed through a boat broker, and it was non-negotiable, at $1 million.

At the beginning of 2022, selling the boat was not on his mind. He was preparing for another year of operations, optimistic that COVID would have minimal impact. However, after review and a nearly 30-year career of operating the boat, he decided to sell. The buyer sent up a team, which thoroughly inspected the Spirit and agreed to accept it in “as is” condition. A contract was signed.

On Feb. 2, a copy of this contract was delivered to the city of Peoria. It is important to note that Alex did not have to share this information, as his 25-year lease was set to end on April 29 and he could have quietly sold the boat after that expiration, without giving the city the option of purchasing. He also disclosed the city’s right of first refusal to the buyer, who asked for $50,000 in compensation for his expenses, time and effort if the city ended up purchasing the boat. In short, Alex gave the city every opportunity to retain the Spirit in Peoria.

A little historical review may be helpful. The Spirit was built in Paducah, Kentucky in 1988 and brought to Peoria by hotelier Jim Jumer. Along with the tugboat Katie Hooper, they became known as the Peoria Boatworks.

In 1990, riverboat gambling came to Illinois. Jumer applied for coveted licenses in both Peoria and Rock Island. An investment group from East Peoria submitted a competing bid for a local license. Peoria, with the infrastructure already in place, looked to be a sure winner.

Lacking a boat and any facilities, but wanting to get into business as quickly as possible, the East Peoria group ended up leasing the Spirit and Katie Hooper from the city of Peoria while initially conducting operations on the Peoria side of the river. They did this for several years, until their boat and facilities in East Peoria were ready.

The city of Peoria was left with the Spirit, which it had no desire to operate. The Peoria Park District ran the boat for a short time but lost money. A discouraged city put the Spirit up for sale. It was to be moved to Louisville, Ky.

That’s when I stepped in and purchased the Spirit and Katie Hooper because I wanted them to stay in Peoria. The City Council and I drew up a 25-year lease giving the city the first right of refusal to match any offer that would move the boat out of Peoria.

Upon graduation from Bradley University, my son started working at G&G Packet Company and earned his captain’s license. In 1998, because of a perceived conflict I had with the city lease after being elected mayor, I sold my interest in G&G Packet Company to him. He has been operating the boat successfully ever since. I could not be more proud of him and the job he has done, building a business of loyal employees and repeat customers while representing Peoria all over the Midwest, from Minneapolis to Cincinnati.

It has not been an easy path. He has endured flooding, the financial crisis, COVID and, as anyone who has ever owned a boat knows, constant maintenance and upkeep costs.

Powered by twin Caterpillar 3412 engines and through its very name, the Spirit is indelibly tied to Peoria, Illinois and its proud manufacturing and riverboat history. So, why is the boat leaving Peoria?

Frankly, the council is right in not wanting to own and operate the boat, as that is not an appropriate function of the city. However, they could have done a far better job of trying to keep the boat here by seeking out a local entrepreneur, investment group or even a foundation dedicated to keeping the Spirit in Peoria. That’s what they did in LaCrosse, Wis. to keep the Julia Belle Swain in their city.

Instead, City Hall spent far too much valuable time and effort focusing on the financial capability of the out-of-town buyer, who stated he needed no outside financing and was willing to pay cash for the boat. He is an experienced operator. The city, under the terms of the lease, was obligated to take the boat on the same terms and conditions. An appraisal and detailed inspection of the boat would have been time consuming and unnecessary, as both the price and condition of the boat were established by the buyer’s offer!

My son did provide 10 years of tax returns for G&G Packet Company showing the boat to be profitable. I believe it would have continued to be profitable for a local buyer.

At the March 22 council meeting, the city manager said the agreement called for the city to purchase just the boat, not the business of G&G Packet Company, which is correct. But the city never inquired if G&G Packet could have been included in the sale. It could have been.

In addition, the city would have gotten an experienced crew, a business already booked for 2022, and most importantly, 30 years of good will. I had none of these things in place when I purchased the boat 30 years ago, but I had faith in the city and its support, which never wavered until now.

I’m sure there will be many others who will join me in being sad and disappointed to see the Spirit sail downriver — for the last time!

Bud Grieves is a former Peoria mayor and previous owner of the Spirit of Peoria.

Recommended

Spirit of Peoria - Dixieland Dinner Cruise

Spirit of Peoria - Dixieland Dinner Cruise mon 27 dec 5:00 pm mon 7:00 pm

Event Details

A Dixieland Dinner Cruise will take place on the Spirit of Peoria from 5 – 7 pm. Featuring Dixieland music by Chuck & C-notes and a Southern inspired dinner, tickets are $48

A Dixieland Dinner Cruise will take place on the Spirit of Peoria from 5 – 7 pm. Featuring Dixieland music by Chuck & C-notes and a Southern inspired dinner, tickets are $48 for adults and $24 for kids aged 4 – 15 and are available by calling 309-637-8000, at the dock or online at www.spiritofpeoria.com

December 27, 2021 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm (GMT-05:00)

Spirit of Peoria

100 Water Street, Peoria IL 61602

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