This 90-minute pontoon boat cruise departs from Chestnut Mountain Resort, two miles south of downtown Galena. Beginning Memorial Day weekend, the boat departs three times daily on Saturdays and Sundays. Adult tickets cost $25 and children's prices range from $15 to $20 each. Chestnut Mountain Resort promises "wildlife viewing, historical vignettes, geological curiosities and drop-dead beautiful riverscapes," making it "one of the area's most compelling side trips."
Chestnut Mountain Resort
8700 West Chestnut Road
Galena, Illinois 61036
815-777-1320
chestnutmtn.com
Dubuque River Rides, located approximately 15 miles from Galena, offers a wide variety of cruises on its two boats--a 377-passenger replica paddle steamer and a 150-passenger motor yacht. Lasting from two to six hours, the cruises offer the interesting opportunity to navigate one of the river's locks. They also provide fireworks, dining, theater and entertainment options.
Dubuque River Rides
500 E 3rd Street
Dubuque, IA 52001
563-583-8093
dubuqueriverrides.com
Guests can enjoy a two-day trip on the Victoria replica steamboat, Twilight. The boat departs and returns to LeClaire, Iowa, the childhood home of Buffalo Bill Cody. Guests don't stay overnight aboard the Twilight, but instead stay at the Grand Harbor Resort in Dubuque. Cruises include food and entertainment, and all inclusive prices start from $329.
River Cruises
406 Franklin Street
Scales Mound, IL 61075
815-845-2333
riverboattwilight.com
