Take A Ride On This One-Of-A-Kind Canal Boat Near Cincinnati
By Andrea Limke|Published August 22, 2018
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Andrea Limke
Author
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
There are many historic small towns near Cincinnati that are perfect for an afternoon of strolling, learning, and experiencing. These destinations have worked hard to maintain their history and charm so that visitors can literally step back in time and experience a past life, firsthand. If you’ve ever visited Metamora, Indiana, then you know that it’s a town that has stood still with time, in the best way possible. It’s a short drive from Cincinnati, and it’s the only place nearby where you can ride a canal boat. It’s a one-of-a-kind historic excursion that makes this little trip worthy of your time.
Metamora, Indiana is a historic canal town about an hour northwest of Cincinnati.
Metamora is the home of the Whitewater Canal State Historic Site, as well as other historic locations that make it a popular day trip destination. The Grist Mill, shown above, has long been the most visited attraction, and you can also take a train ride, hike a scenic trail, and shop and eat at the local businesses in the charming downtown.
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While Metamora is also known for its canal, it hasn't necessarily been a reason to visit in recent years. Repairs were made to the canal and the boat did not offer rides for a period of time.
But thankfully, this historic experience is back up and running and you can now take a ride on the Ben Franklin III once again. Rides are offered May — October, Wednesday through Sunday, at noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., and 4 p.m. Rides do depend on the canal's condition, and you can call 765-647-6512 for pricing and ticket information.
The boat is 75 feet long and 12 feet wide and can carry approximately 75 people. The boat is pulled by horses, which walk along the canal. This unique experience takes you through the only existing wooden aqueduct in the United States, as you enjoy a 25-minute scenic ride.
While in Metamora, be sure to also look into a ride with the Whitewater Valley Railroad. A trip on both the train and the canal boat is the ultimate way to experience this historic and picturesque town. Learn more about the railroad here.
The charming town of Metamora hosts a number of events and festivals throughout the year, along with its seasonal and historic attractions. For all of the details of this town and for everything it offers, be sure to check out its website, linked below.
A ride on this historic canal boat and time spent in Metamora make for a great little trip from Cincinnati. Have you spent time in this charming small town? What’s your favorite feature? Share your experience with us in the comments!
For more information on Metamora, visit the town’s website here.
And if you’re fascinated by canal history, check out Cincinnati’s very own canal in our previous article here.
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