Minneapolis: Mississippi River Cruise with Narration

Exploring Minneapolis from the Water: A Look at the Mississippi River Cruise with Narration

If you’re considering a way to see Minneapolis from a different perspective, this Mississippi River cruise aboard the Minneapolis Queen might just fit the bill. While I haven’t personally taken this specific trip, I’ve looked into it closely, and it seems like a relaxing, informative way to enjoy the city’s iconic sights without too much fuss.

One thing we really like about this cruise is its affordable price point—just $28 per person—which makes it accessible for many travelers looking for a taste of downtown Minneapolis from the water. Another highlight is the narrated tour, which promises to add context and stories to the beautiful scenery.

On the flip side, some might find the 1.5-hour duration a bit short if they’re hoping for an in-depth experience, and the fact that food or drinks are not included could be a downside for those wanting a full meal or a more leisurely drink while cruising.

This trip is ideal for visitors who enjoy scenic, relaxed outings with a hint of local history, especially if you’re keen on seeing key landmarks like St. Anthony Falls or the Stone Arch Bridge. It’s also perfect if you’re traveling with family or friends and want a straightforward activity that combines sightseeing with a little storytelling.

Key Points

• Affordable Experience: At just $28, it offers good value for a scenic river cruise with narration.
• Focus on Landmarks: You’ll get to see St. Anthony Falls, the Stone Arch Bridge, and the downtown skyline up close.
• Informative Tour: The narration enriches the ride, sharing the stories behind Minneapolis’ key sites.
• Short and Sweet: The cruise lasts about 1.5 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy day.
• No Food Included: Be prepared to bring your own snacks or plan to buy at the bar.
• Great for Scenic Lovers: If you love water views and cityscapes, this trip delivers on that front.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deeper Look at the Minneapolis Mississippi River Cruise

When we think about river cruises, we often imagine long, luxurious journeys or exotic locations. This one, however, offers a quick, accessible glimpse of Minneapolis from its most famous waterway—the Mississippi River. It’s not a tour designed to impress with grandeur but rather to give you a pleasant, informative outing with some wonderful scenery.

The Boarding Experience

The cruise departs from Bohemian Flats, just south of the historic Minneapolis Riverfront District. From the start, the Minneapolis Queen paddle-wheeler sets a charming tone. The boat itself looks elegant enough for a relaxing afternoon, with open-air decks to enjoy the breeze and better views. Boarding is straightforward, and given the size of the boat, the group feels intimate enough to ask questions or chat with fellow travelers.

The Itinerary & Sights

Once underway, the cruise takes you along the southern trails of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway and the Heritage Trail, offering glimpses of the University of Minnesota campus. This is a real highlight for anyone interested in the city’s academic side or just wanting to see the riverfront in a lively, educational way.

You’ll pass under the 35W Bridge, which many find striking in its engineering and design. Then there’s St. Anthony Falls, a natural feature with historical significance as the only true waterfall on the Mississippi. Seeing it from the water offers a different perspective than visiting on foot.

The Stone Arch Bridge is another standout—its historic stone structure is visually impressive, and cruising beneath it is a unique experience. The views of the downtown skyline and the river bluffs provide a picturesque backdrop, especially in good weather, which most reviews confirm.

The Narration & Guide

One of the reasons this cruise scores well is the knowledgeable guide. Reviewers mention that the narration is both informative and entertaining, with the captain and guide sharing amusing remarks and interesting tidbits. This adds a layer of enjoyment that elevates the simple sightseeing trip into a more engaging experience.

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The Weather & Comfort

Most reviews highlight that the weather was nice during the cruise, which is important since the ride is mostly outdoors. The boat’s cleanliness and organization also get positive comments, contributing to a comfortable atmosphere. If the weather turns bad, it’s worth checking if the cruise operates—they typically do, unless conditions are severe.

The Price & Value

At $28 per person, this cruise is quite reasonable for a 1.5-hour tour with narration. It offers a decent balance between cost and experience, especially as it includes a guided narration, which can otherwise add to the cost if purchased separately.

However, since food and drinks are not included, you might want to bring your own snacks or enjoy the concessions available for purchase onboard. There’s also a full-service cash bar, so you can buy drinks during the cruise.

The Downsides

The main criticism from some travelers is that there isn’t a lot of “excitement” or variety in the sights—they describe it as a peaceful, scenic ride rather than an adventure or thrill. For those expecting a lively excursion, this might be a minor letdown.

Plus, being a relatively short tour, it’s best suited for a quick glimpse rather than an in-depth exploration. Some reviews also note that outside alcoholic beverages aren’t allowed, so if you’re looking for a boozy river experience, you’ll need to plan accordingly.

What It Means for You

If you appreciate relaxed sightseeing, scenic water views, and learning a little about Minneapolis’ landmarks, this cruise is a good choice. It’s especially suited for visitors who want a low-key activity that fits into a busy itinerary or those traveling with a group who enjoys a casual outing.

The narration adds value, making the experience feel more personalized and educational. It’s also a good option if you’re traveling on a budget—considering the length and price, it offers genuine value.

For families or groups of friends, it’s a simple way to enjoy the city without much planning. But if you’re after a long, in-depth tour or a lively party on the water, you might want to look elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

This Mississippi River cruise with narration on the Minneapolis Queen is a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see some of Minneapolis’ most iconic sights from the water. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s perfect for those who want a gentle, scenic outing without the fuss.

While it’s not the most exciting or adventurous activity you can find, it’s reliable, well-organized, and offers a nice blend of scenery and stories. If you’re in the city and love water views or historical landmarks, this cruise will likely meet your expectations.

All in all, it’s a solid choice that balances affordability with a pleasant experience—especially for first-timers or those short on time.

FAQ

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a short but sweet outing.

How much does the cruise cost?
It’s priced at $28 per person, which is quite reasonable for the experience.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. There are concessions available for purchase, and a full-service cash bar is onboard.

Can I bring outside alcohol?
No, outside alcoholic beverages are not allowed on the boat.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Bohemian Flats, just south of the Minneapolis Riverfront District and Downtown.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed for children, it’s a family-friendly activity that offers a gentle, scenic ride. Keep in mind the cruise is outdoors and lasts 1.5 hours.

Is there a guide or narration?
Yes, the cruise features a live narration that shares stories and details about the landmarks you pass.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see St. Anthony Falls, the Stone Arch Bridge, the University of Minnesota riverfront, and downtown Minneapolis skyline.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
The provided information doesn’t specify, so it’s best to check with the provider for accessibility questions.

Do reviews suggest it’s worth the price?
Most reviews agree that it offers good value, especially given the scenic views and informative narration for the price.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic adventure with some local flavor, this cruise is worth considering. It’s a simple way to get a new perspective on Minneapolis—one that’s likely to leave you with some nice photos and a few stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: