The Relaxing River Tour In Illinois You'll Want To Take Before Summer Ends
By Elizabeth Crozier|Published August 20, 2017
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
An Illinois transplant who grew up and went to school in Indiana for 22 years, Elizabeth holds a BFA in creative writing and has enjoyed traveling across the country and parts of Europe. She has visited half of the states, as well as parts of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, and regularly travels home to the Hoosier State to see friends and family. With more than five years of writing experience, Elizabeth’s articles have been featured on several websites, and her poetry and short stories have been published in multiple literary journals.
One of the best ways to experience Illinois’ greatest body of water is to take a river tour. Learn all about the Mississippi River on a short cruise up and down her shores. As summer is approaching its end, you’ll want to hit up this attraction fast.
This riverboat will give you a blast from the past. Keep scrolling for more details about this excursion.
For a relaxing getaway that is short and sweet, take a ride aboard the Hakuna Matata, part of Grafton River Adventures. It takes you up and down the Mississippi and Illinois rivers and includes an educational element.
There is also a lower deck, which is all closed in. Patrons enjoy large windows for viewing, and no matter which deck you choose, there are cafe tables and chairs,
The harbor features a full bar called The ARRR Bar where you can get all your rum-based favorites and other nautical cocktails and spirits. What's a boat ride without a buzz?
There are several departure sites throughout the state along the river from St. Charles to Alton, making it easy to take a day trip to this neat attraction.
There are many other fun things to do at Grafton Harbor as well. Guests often visit for the floating winery which offers complimentary tastings. Visitors may also take advantage of private boat rentals, the gift shop, and an oyster bar.
You'll enjoy beautiful views of the river, rocky bluffs, forestry, and wildlife while learning about the history of the Mississippi. Catch a cruise during a sunset for the best photo opportunities.
Guests can take themed rides like a Pirate Cruise or Solar Cruise and can even rent out the riverboat for private parties. Check the schedule on Grafton Harbor's website for these and other events around the marina.
