paddle wheel cruise columbia river

SIGHTSEEING BOAT CRUISES

Experience the natural and scenic wonders of the Columbia River Gorge and learn about the Lewis and Clark Expedition by taking a boat cruise aboard an authentic triple deck sternwheeler. Watch Native American tribes fish from their legendary platforms as they have for centuries. Scenic rides, brunch and dinner cruises and interpretive tours provide 360-degree breathtaking vistas.

The Sternwheeler’s historic-looking interior and exterior along with its historic setting in the scenic Columbia Gorge makes it a wonderful experience for tourists and history enthusiasts. It has seating for 232 passengers for plated meals, an on-board galley, two full-service bars and is licensed to carry 599 people. The Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler was built in Hood River, Oregon by Nichols Boat Works and was launched in 1983. On April 19, 2006, the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler became the first and only paddle-boat leased by American Waterways, Inc.

Enjoy exploring the Gorge from the Columbia River and plan a boat cruise today!

Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler

Experience the heart of the gorge.

Surround yourself in the beauty and history of the Columbia River by sailing through the Heart of the Gorge aboard the impeccably restored, iconic 145-foot triple-decker Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler. The 360-degree panoramic scenic views, coupled with locally sourced craft beer, wine and mouthwatering cuisine make for an unforgeable experience you can only get aboard the Sternwheeler!

For more information and ticket purchase visit   sternwheeler.com

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American_Empress_Leaving_Stevenson

Join us on this spectacular cruise through the pristine waters of the Pacific Northwest, aboard the 360 foot diesel powered paddlewheeler, the American Empress. We’ll maximize daytime river cruising for the best viewing of the majestic mountains, canyons and open fields. Come aboard with R&J Tours and experience memories to last a lifetime.      […]

American_Empress_The_Dalles

American-empress-blackberry-lemon-betty, american-empress-deck-2-sunset, american-empress-quartet-show_lounge, american-empress-the_show_lounge, american-empress-the-paddlewheel-lounge, american empress: columbia & snake river cruise – full: call for waitlist 1-800-758-6877.

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Join us on this spectacular cruise through the pristine waters of the Pacific Northwest, aboard the 360 foot diesel powered paddlewheeler, the American Empress. We’ll maximize daytime river cruising for the best viewing of the majestic mountains, canyons and open fields. Come aboard with R&J Tours and experience memories to last a lifetime.  

Day 1 – Home to Vancouver, WA  

Today we fly from Minneapolis to Portland, Oregon and meet our motorcoach for transfer to our overnight hotel in Vancouver, WA. Maybe take some time to explore a little bit of Vancouver tonight before we board our paddlewheeler tomorrow.  

Hotel: Hilton Vancouver Hotel  

Day 2 – Embarkation Day: American Empress  

Today we board the American Empress, proudly serving as the largest overnight riverboat west of the Mississippi River. One step onboard and you will quickly discover that there is far more to this vessel than her welcoming appearance and signature red paddlewheel. Boasting a vast collection of some of the finest historical artifacts and artwork of the Native Alaska, Russian, Gold Rush and sternwheeler eras, the corridors of the American Empress hold nearly as much beauty and intrigue as the dramatic scenery unfolding on the river outside. After settling in our cabins, we’ll enjoy exploring the riverboat, taking in the scenery around us, and having our first dinner onboard.  

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner  

Day 3 – Astoria, OR (Full Day)  

We anchor in Astoria today, known to be the oldest American Settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. For thousands of years, Clatsop Indians inhabited the lands that are now known as Astoria. In 1805, Lewis and Clark led their expedition through the town and spent the winter at Fort Clatsop. In 1813, a British warship sailed into the Columbia River, gaining possession of the city and holding control until 1818, when they finally agreed to a joint occupation of the land. The British did not fully leave Astoria until 1846. There is no doubting that rich history has deep roots grounded in this Columbia River town. When the history combines with the scenery, it’s perfect harmony! You’ll have an opportunity to walk along the city’s waterfront on the six-mile paved Riverwalk. View the 600 foot Astoria Column, the magnificent monument celebrating early settlers of the area. Tour the historic, Flavel House, built in 1885, and one of the best preserved examples of Queen Anne architecture. You’ll also have a chance to explore both the Heritage Museum and the Columbia River Maritime Museum during our time in Astoria.  

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner  

Day 4 – Stevenson, WA (1/2 Day)  

On the banks of the scenic Columbia River, the city of Stevenson is our launch pad to the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge. A stroll along the Rock Cove Pathway or the Columbia River waterfront is a great way to take in surroundings. Downtown Stevenson is home to unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Stevenson is in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Explore the eastern entrance to Mount St. Helens or the spectacular Lewis River Valley. Visit the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center, The Bonneville Dam, and Downtown Stevenson, WA when you utilize the Signature Hop-on-Hop-Off shore pass.  

Day 5 – The Dalles, OR (Full Day)  

At the end of the overland Oregon Trail, The Dalles holds a unique place in history as a jumping-off spot for pioneers, soldiers, gold miners, adventurers, gun-slingers, floozies, and scallywags. Lewis and Clark camped at this location at Rock Fort Camp during their historic journey in 1805 and 1806. Fort Dalles was established in 1850. Oregon Trail pioneers ended their overland journey at The Dalles, being forced to build rafts and take the “river road” west to Fort Vancouver, then into the Willamette River valley. Ten thousand years of Native American trading took place on the banks of the Columbia River, shaped by the Ice Age Missoula floods. The town is located at the foot of a series of dangerous rapids which the Hudson’s Bay Company fur traders called “The Dalles of the Columbia.” As we dock in this fascinating town today, your Hop-on-Hop-Off pass allows you to explore the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum, the Original Wasco County Museum, the Fort Dalles Museum, as well as visit The Dalles Area Chamber of Commerce and take in some Downtown shopping.  

Day 6 – River Cruising  

Behold the beauty of nature as we enjoy a day of scenic river cruising. Picturesque canyon walls and fascinating volcanic formations will keep us guessing as to what lies around the next bend. As we wind through the dramatic mountains and forested ridges of the great Pacific Northwest, join the Riverlorian on-deck for insightful and entertaining narration.  

Day 7 – Richland, WA (Tri-Cities) (Full Day)  

Today we dock in Richland, located near the confluence of the Yakima and Columbia Rivers, the northern most point reached by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805. First incorporated in 1910, Richland remained a small agricultural community until the Army acquired it and 670 square miles of adjacent land in 1943 as the site of the Hanford Engineer Works which was used to produce plutonium during World War II and the Cold War. Today, the historic B Reactor and other important historical venues are part of the new Manhattan Project National Historic Park. The city is also home to the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and a branch campus of Washington State University. You can visit the REACH Museum with exhibits that teach the historical ecological and scientific importance of the Columbia River. You can also visit the 284-acre Sacajewea State Park located at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia Rivers where Lewis & Clark arrived in 1805. You will also get the opportunity to tour the Franklin County Historical Society & Museum.  

Day 8 – Clarkston, WA (1/2 day)  

Our final river destination is Clarkston, nestled at the union of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers in southeast Washington, it’s the gateway to North America’s deepest gorge, Hells Canyon on the Snake River. The picturesque vistas, year-round mild climates, and a deep history make this scenic inland port a more-than-desirable stop! Spend the day following the footsteps of the historic Lewis and Clark journey – where the city received its name. This incredible city is filled with artifacts and stories that depict the journeys of the famous explorers. Clarkston has the ideal climate for visitors to enjoy countless activities including fishing, scenic walks along the trails, shopping, and exploring! Today, your Hop-on-Hop-Off pass allows you to visit Nez Perce National Historical Park, First Territorial Capitol Interpretive Center, the 1906 Bridablik/Schroeder House, and the Nez Perce Historical Society and Museum before heading back to the paddlewheeler for our last evening aboard.  

Day 9 – Clarkston, WA-Disembarkation  

Enjoy a final breakfast onboard before leaving the Empress behind. Today we board our flight for home and reminisce about our spectacular cruise aboard the American Empress!  

Included Meals: Breakfast  

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Deposit due, passport needed, price includes.

RT Airfare including taxes, fuel surcharges, & baggage fees! 21 Meals, Hotels & Activities as stated in brochure, All Onboard Gratuities

DOWNLOAD PDF AT RIGHT FOR CABIN PRICING!!

Tour Highlights

7 Night Cruise aboard the lavish American Empress All onboard Meals with multiple Dining Venues 24 hour Room Service Broadway style Entertainment each evening Daily Lectures by the Riverlorian Signature Hop-on-Hop-Off Shore Excursions

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Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler River Excursions

Information

Nearby Attractions

Distance Unit:

Greene Bronze Studio

Greene Bronze, Wa Na Pa Street, Cascade Locks, OR, USA Distance: 0.20 Away

Arts and Culture History

Tribal Salmon – Cascade Locks Treaty In-Lieu Site

Cascade Locks Marine Park, 355 Wa Na Pa St, Cascade Locks, OR 97014, USA Distance: 0.31 Away

Food and Drink Native American Culture and Experiences

Cascade Locks Historical Museum

Cascade Locks Historical Museum, Southwest Portage Road, Cascade Locks, OR, USA Distance: 0.34 Away

History Museum, Theatre, or Intrepretive Center

Brigham Fish Market

Brigham Fish Market, Wa Na Pa Street, Cascade Locks, OR, USA Distance: 0.52 Away

Columbia River Salmon Sales: Cascade Locks, Oregon

681 Cascade Locks Highway, Cascade Locks, OR, USA Distance: 0.52 Away

Arts and Culture Food and Drink

Tribal Salmon – Bridgeside Restaurant Parking Lot

Bridgeside, Wa Na Pa Street, Cascade Locks, OR, USA Distance: 0.65 Away

Bridge of the Gods

Bridge of the Gods, Cascade Locks, OR, USA Distance: 0.74 Away

Outdoor Adventure

Skamania Lodge

Skamania Lodge, Southwest Skamania Lodge Way, Stevenson, WA, USA Distance: 1.15 Away

Accomodations Family Fun Outdoor Adventure

Port of Skamania County

Port of Skamania, Southwest Cascade Avenue, Stevenson, Skamania County, WA, USA Distance: 1.45 Away

Walking Man Brewing

Walking Man Brewing, 1st Street, Stevenson, WA, USA Distance: 1.51 Away

Food and Drink Brewery

Stevenson Farmers’ Market

Stevenson Farmers Market, Southwest Cascade Avenue, Stevenson, WA, USA Distance: 1.53 Away

Events Family Fun Food and Drink Outdoor Adventure Shopping and Leisure Farmers Market

Wild Columbia Salmon- Stevenson

Wild Columbia Salmon, 1st Street, Stevenson, WA, USA Distance: 1.54 Away

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Dinner and Brunch Cruises along the Columbia Gorge

Discover dining and expedition cruises with breathtaking views along the Columbia River. Your adventure begins in Cascade Locks, Oregon.

Boat Tours That Create Lasting Memories

Tickets may be purchased online or in-person at the dock.

Dinner Cruise - Starting at $85

Brunch Cruise - Starting at $85

1-hour Expedition Cruise - Starting at $40

Dockside Bar

Eat local in beautiful cascade locks..

Dine at one of the local restaurants in Cascade Locks.

Sternwheeler

The Columbia River is a river of stories. Experience the history, and the legends, of the Columbia River Gorge and learn about the Native Americans and the Lewis and Clark Expedition on a cruise aboard the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler. Boarding is at Marine Park in Cascade Locks, in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

There aren’t currently cruises being offered while the Sternwheeler undergoes maintenance projects. Check back soon for availability.

Come on board, and ride the sternwheeler. Experience our history firsthand:

take a cruise on a river of stories

> Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler

Ply the waters of the Columbia River and listen to stories of history and legend. See the Gorge from a different vantage point. Enjoy a day cruise or a dinner cruise. No matter what the weather, the scenery is spectacular.

Roundtrip Portland

• Get inspired by the possibilities.
• Build your ideal trip.
• Explore Astoria, the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies
• Experience the Columbia River Gorge Interpretive Center and Bonneville Dam
• Explore The Dalles, home to a unique wine scene
• Enjoy scenic landscapes and the historic attractions of Vancouver
• River Cruises
• Wine Tasting
• Wildlife Viewing
• Columbia River
• North America
• Pacific Northwest
• United States
• British Columbia
• Vancouver, BC

Full Itinerary

Day 1: vancouver, washington, day 2: vancouver, washington | embark.

• Accommodation
• 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner

Day 3: Stevenson, Washington

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 4: Astoria, Oregon, USA

Day 5: camas/washougal, washington, day 6: the dalles, oregon, day 7: vancouver, washington | disembark.

• 1 Breakfast

American Empress

Dates & prices, my preferred start date.

Initial deposit is $250 per person, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

Final payment is due 71 days prior to departure by MasterCard, Visa, Discover, Diners Club, or check

See our general terms and conditions:

• Adventure Life Terms & Conditions

We are an agent for one or more providers on this trip with specific cancellation policies and terms:

• American Queen Steamboat Company - Terms and Conditions 2022 - American Queen Voyages

For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.

• 6 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 5 Dinners
• 7 Nights Accommodations
• Accommodations as listed
• Ground transportation as listed
• Activities as listed
• Meals as listed
• Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
• Unlimited Wifi
• Gratuities to Onboard Crew
• Port Taxes & Fees
• Open Bars & Lounges throughout the vessel including a juice bar every morning
• In-Room Dining
• Bicycles & Hiking Sticks equipment if needed
• Live, Daily Onboard Entertainment & Enrichment
• Locally Sourced & regionally Inspired Cuisine from land and sea
• Gourmet Selections of freshly prepared choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Unlimited Beverages including an extensive wine list, choice spirits, local craft beers and specialty coffees
• Unlimited Guided Tours designed with your comfort in mind aboard private, deluxe motorcoaches
• 1-night Pre-cruise Hotel Stay with free ground transfers between hotel and vessel
• Travel Insurance
• Personal Expenses
• Flight costs (please request a quote)
• Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
• Optional Premium Shore Excursions - highly recommend booking these in advance. If interested, ask us for a detailed list of premium excursions for your cruise as these vary depending on your departure date.
• Transfers to and from the airport

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Favorite Pacific Northwest All Trips

• Columbia and Snake Rivers: Food, Wine, and History
• A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii

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American Pride

Step aboard the classic paddlewheeler and enjoy the highest level of personalized service and gracious hospitality.

For the 2024 season, from the staterooms and suites to the lounges and dining rooms, American Pride was completely remodeled with new color palettes, luxurious textiles and linens, new furniture and carpets, and artwork and flourishes. The reimagined American Pride features Western and Native American inspired themes, including influences from the region’s celebrated Lewis and Clark Expedition.  Offering spacious staterooms, private balconies, daily cocktail hour, and evening entertainment, your trip on the Columbia River is sure to be memorable. Enjoy a taste of the vintage history with all the modern amenities of a floating hotel.

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• built in 2012
• Refurbished in 2024

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Cruise Boat Docks

Only at the port of clarkston.

Five cruise lines anchor tour boats at the Port's 580-foot "Gateway Dock," bringing several thousand tourists each year up the Columbia and Snake Rivers to Clarkston.  The dock has two ramps leading to it, all secured with fencing due to the Homeland Security Act grant. The dock is ideally situated for visitors to board a jetboat for a wild, whitewater rides up the Snake into Hells Canyon, North America's deepest river gorge.

Recently we have opened the 14 th Street dock to anchor some of the larger cruise vessels. Currently the cruise docks are in the process of some beautification projects. When cruise ships are not in Port, private Boaters are also welcoming to dock at Gateway for short stays.

Cruise ships start operating and docking at the Port in April and continue through October.

American Express Cruise Ship

American empress.

Leaving from Portland, Oregon, traveling to Clarkston, Washington, the American Empress cruise ship follows in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, the intrepid explorers who have come to define the historical context of our Pacific Northwest voyages. Remarkable shore excursions are provided in each port of call and include the cultural and historical landmarks that signify the living legacy of the region’s first settlers. www.americanqueensteamboatcompany.com

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines offers Pacific Northwest trips with two paddlewheel ships. The 120-passenger Queen of the West cruises the Columbia and Snake rivers. Itineraries can include six, seven or 14-night sailings from Portland, Oregon.  The ship recently underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation that included the addition of private balconies, a new library, and the conversion of several cabins into singles.  Accommodating 150 passengers, the American Pride not only boasts the largest, most well-appointed staterooms but also offers private balconies and unobstructed views. In addition to the amazing scenery, their master chefs prepare menus that are tailored specifically to the Pacific Northwest. New to the Clarkston Port in 2019 the American Song . A modern riverboat with a capacity of 184 guest.

www.americancruiseline.com

Queen of the West Cruise Ship

American Pride Cruise Ship

American Song Cruise Ship

S.S. Legacy Cruise Ship

Uncruise adventures.

The S.S. Legacy  is a replica costal steamer with old-world charm and the benefits of modern comforts.  Simultaneously elegant and casual, the vessel boasts carved wooden cabinetry and turn-of-the-century décor. Four decks provide ample outside viewing opportunities and relaxing public spaces for taking a stroll at sunset and gathering with new friends. The lounge offers a full bar, the open-seating dining room includes a wine bar, and, for a step back in time, sidle up to table in the Pesky Barnacle Saloon. www.uncruise.com

Linblad Expeditions

Retrace the Pacific Northwest portion of Lewis and Clark’s epic 19th-century expedition on the National Geographic Sea Bird , Sea Lion or Quest cruise ships. Cruise through the lush landscapes of the Columbia River Gorge, the mountains of the Cascade Range, and the historical lands of the Native American tribes the peripatetic duo encountered. Dine on locally-sourced cuisine and sample the region’s famed wines and microbrews.

www.expeditions.com

Quest Cruise Ship

Sea Bird Cruise Ship

Sea Lion Cruise Ship

Join the Welcome Crew

Visit Lewis Clark Valley has implemented a welcoming crew volunteer group.

If you would like to know more please contact Visit Lewis Clark Valley directly at  (509) 758-7489.

• Sightseeing Cruises
• Meal Cruises

News Regarding Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler

On Monday, October 3, 2022 we issued a  press release  to the media sharing the disheartening news that we will no longer operate the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler as of January 1, 2023. Additionally, the Locks Waterfront Grill will permanently close as of November 1, 2022.

The vessel is owned by the Port of Cascade Locks and since 2006, we have been in a long-term contract to operate the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler, Locks Waterfront Grill and Visitor Center in Marine Park. However, in order to operate smoothly for years to come, the vessel requires a repower (new engines, various propulsion components, control panel, etc.). Additionally, we would like to renovate the interior to better showcase the vessel’s historic beauty. We estimate a cost of approximately 3 million dollars between the repower and remodel, which must be amortized over time in order to justify the extraordinary cost.

Unfortunately, we were not able to come to a timely agreement with the Port to renew our long term contract that would allow us to complete a repower of the vessel by 2024.

We have loved operating the Port’s historic vessel for the past 17 years.  Our final public cruise in the Columbia River Gorge was on October 30, 2022.  Read about the final cruise on KOIN.

If you have any questions, please contact our customer service team at 503-224-3900 or email  [email protected] . Thank you for your understanding and support.

Looking for other ways to cruise with us to the Columbia River Gorge?

Check our our Bigfoot Adventure  and  7 Wonders of the Gorge cruises on the Explorer Jetboat this summer!

Columbia River Small Ship Cruises

Columbia River small ship cruises provide an intimate and scenic journey through the Pacific Northwest, tracing the path of Lewis and Clark and exploring the rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures along one of America’s greatest rivers. These cruises offer a unique perspective on the region, combining natural beauty with historical insights and a touch of luxury.

Columbia River Small Ship Cruise Highlights

• Historical Routes: Follow in the footsteps of the early American explorers, Lewis and Clark, learning about their epic journey as you navigate the same waters.
• Columbia River Gorge: Marvel at this spectacular canyon where the river cuts through the Cascade Mountains, featuring waterfalls like Multnomah Falls and stunning vistas.
• Wine Country: The Pacific Northwest is renowned for its wines, and many cruises offer tastings and excursions to vineyards in the region, particularly those known for producing world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
• Mount St. Helens: Some itineraries include a visit to the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, where you can learn about the 1980 eruption and its impact on the landscape and communities.
• Astoria: The oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, Astoria offers a glimpse into the region’s history, with attractions like the Columbia River Maritime Museum showcasing the area’s maritime heritage.

Columbia River small ship cruises offer a compelling mix of natural wonders, historical exploration, and luxurious relaxation, making them an attractive option for those looking to experience the heart and soul of the Pacific Northwest.

Columbia River Cruise Itineraries

Columbia and Snake Rivers: Food, Wine, and History

On this 8-day Columbia and Snake Rivers: Food, Wine, and History cruise aboard 62-passenger expedition ships, delve deep into the history, harvests, and landscapes of the Columbia and Snake rivers, while indulging your senses with the region’s culinary splendors and world-class wines.

Columbia and Snake Rivers Cruise

On this 8-day Columbia and Snake Rivers Cruise, embrace the pioneering spirit of Lewis and Clark as you immerse yourself in the history of their expedition into the West.

Northwest Pioneers Cruise

On this 11-day Northwest Pioneers Cruise, experience the historic journey of the intrepid explorers’ Lewis and Clark, while admiring the magnificent views of the Pacific Northwest.

Highlights of the Columbia River

This 5-day Highlights of the Columbia River cruise offers the best of the Pacific Northwest with the convenience of a round-trip from Portland.

Rivers of Adventure & Wine

On this 8-day Rivers of Adventure & Wine cruise, hike dramatic landscapes, kayak through canyons, sample local wines, and raft the rapids on this adventurous Snake River and Columbia River cruise.

About Sunstone Tours & Cruises

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Spend A Perfect Day On This Old-Fashioned Paddle Boat Cruise In Ohio

The Valley Gem Sternwheeler in Marietta, Ohio offers unique riverboat cruises with historic storytelling and stunning views of the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers.

Written by  

Here in Ohio, there are several boat adventures you can take for an unforgettable evening out on the water. The Valley Gem Sternwheeler in Marietta, Ohio is one of the most unique ones. You'll board from one of the most historic towns in the state, enjoy delicious cuisine and see the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers like never before. This is one riverboat cruise you'll want to add to your bucket list.

Take a look:

The Valley Gem Sternwheeler is a historic gem hiding in one of the oldest towns in Ohio. In fact, Marietta is known as the first permanent settlement of the Northwest Territory.

You'll find the sternwheeler at 601 Front St., Marietta, OH 45750.

Throughout the year, you can take sightseeing tours, dinner cruises and more aboard aboard the Valley Gem on the Muskingum and Ohio River.

For a complete schedule of 2018's public tours, click here .

No matter which tour you choose, you're bound to see some stunning views of the Ohio River Valley area. The next narrated sightseeing tour is on May 5.

This tour is from noon - 1:30 p.m. and tickets are $14 for adults. For more information about this specific cruise, click here .

The authentic paddlewheel powered by a Detroit Diesel engine is what makes this riverboat stand out from most dinner cruises in Ohio.

You can also reserve this boat for private events by calling 740-373-7862 or emailing [email protected] .

The Captain's Dinner Cruise Series is one of the most popular public tour options. This cruise features a delicious meal, historic storytelling and additional entertainment.

This particular cruise option will take place on June 2, 23 and 30, September 22, October 6 and November 3 this year.

Other cruise options include food as well, such as the Sunday Brunch Cruise, Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise and other events.

There's truly something for everyone aboard the Valley Gem.

You can board the Valley Gem at 601 Front St., Marietta, OH 45750 . Have you ever taken this cruise before? If so, we want to know what your experience was like!

For more unforgettable boat rides in Ohio, check out our previous article: These 7 Boat Adventures Will Show You A Side Of Ohio You Didn’t Even Know Existed .

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The Ohio Farmer’s Market Where You Can Find Pretty Much Every Country And Cuisine Under One Roof

Craving global cuisine and flavors? In Cincinnati, Findlay Market invites guests to experience a world of global cuisine and culture, with virtually every country represented at this Ohio farmer's market.

Findlay Market opened in 1855 and is the oldest continuously operated public market in Ohio. It was among the first markets in the United States to use iron frame construction technology, and is one of very few that have survived.

Today, Findlay Market is a community cornerstone; a place that invites local businesses, regional farmers, and globally inspired restaurants to coexist... all under one roof!

The world is quite literally at your fingertips when shopping at Findlay Market, a place that's bound to have whatever cuisine you're craving.

Craving Mediterranean? Dean's Mediterranean Imports not only has a full market of goodies, but also ready-to-eat items like stuffed grape leaves, curried couscous salad, and falafel.

Have a hankering for the best pho in Ohio? Pho Lang Thang is another Findlay Market tenant dishing out hot and heavenly globally inspired fare.

Taco lovers, meanwhile, adore Chino’s Street Food, which serves up delicious Vietnamese street tacos unlike anything you've ever tasted before.

Of course, Mama Lo Hizo's tacos are also in a league all their own; a symphony of Mexican ingredients and flavors. Come and order a Big Mama Taco -- a deep-fried jumbo tortilla shell stuffed with everything one could possibly imagine -- or the light and zesty Fish Tacos. Mmm!

And if you're in need of comfort in a bowl, Gramma Debbie's Kitchen is all Southern soul food and country cooking, and never disappoints...

...nor does Flavors of the Isle, which brings Jamaican soul food to the table!

Whatever you're craving, you'll find it at Findlay Market, the most delightfully diverse and robust farmer's market in Ohio!

Have you visited this amazing Ohio farmer's market before? There really is no place in Ohio quite like the historic Findlay Market.

Looking for more globally inspired adventures in the Buckeye State? Jungle Jim's is an amazing trip around the world... in Ohio!

The Charming Small Town in Ohio That’s Perfect For A Fall Day Trip

New Richmond, Ohio, is a charming small town along the Ohio River, perfect for a fall day trip with its scenic beauty and unique attractions.

One of the best things about living in Ohio (and something Ohioans love to brag about) is that we have four distinct and delightful seasons (and sometimes all on the same day! Ah, Ohio weather. ). Winter is quiet and full of serene beauty and at least a few “good” snows; spring is verdant and oh-so-colorful; summer is hot, humid, and heavenly; and fall is a kaleidoscope of color and bonfires and leaves crunching beneath your feet. Fall is a special time of year in Ohio, and with the crisp air and endless blue skies, I can’t think of a better way to spend an autumn day than a trip to New Richmond. This small Ohio town on the banks of the Ohio River is equal parts beautiful and charming, full of unique attractions and loads of scenic beauty. This is one of the best fall day trips in Ohio, and chances are, you’ll love it too.

New Richmond is a small town on the banks of the Ohio River -- located right along the Ohio River Scenic Byway , in fact. It's home to a population of about 2,800 and is about 30 minutes southeast of Cincinnati.

The river is an inextricable part of the town's history and identity. With its waterfront location just north of the Ohio-Kentucky border, the town *literally* made headlines for taking a strong and early stance against slavery. The abolitionist James G. Birney began publishing "The Philanthropist" in New Richmond until moving it to Cincinnati in 1836.

The Ohio also played a role in the commerce and development of New Richmond, uniting town residents in more ways than one. Most of New Richmond lies on the floodplain of the Ohio River, making it vulnerable to severe flooding. Despite (or perhaps because of ) these trials, New Richmond is a proud and close-knit community with a strong sense of identity.

The nearly 3,000 residents who call New Richmond home today are a strong and unified group that truly celebrates the town's spot on the Ohio. The annual Cardboard Boat Regatta has put this small town in Ohio on the map, and if you miss the August race, you can still revel in this piece of New Richmond culture at the Cardboard Boat Museum, the only one of its kind in the world, in fact.

In addition to the headlining race, today, pretty much every park, restaurant, and business looks out onto the mighty Ohio River, and in late summer when the leaves begin to change, there's a quiet beauty here that's unrivaled.

New Richmond has a well-supported downtown district that's friendly and walkable, making for a fun day trip destination in the fall when the heat and humidity begin to subside.

If you're anything like me, you're always excited to try out the local coffee shop, and in New Richmond, Wholy Beans Coffee Co. is it! Grab a hot beverage and pastry, or perhaps a warm sandwich if you're in the mood for something savory.

Stomach rumbling for lunch? Head to Buck's Riverside Grill. With a menu full of heady American classics, you're sure to find the kind of filling, stick-to-your-ribs fare fall calls for. Locals rave about the chili, but the burgers are where Buck's really shines.

Buck's is also a bourbon bar that proves our neighbor to the south isn't the only place to go for great distilled spirits!

In addition to eating and drinking your way through New Richmond -- AND strolling along the Ohio River (Haussermann Park and Union Square Park are two beautiful favorites full of places for the kids to play and benches for taking in the views), you'll want to stop into River Village Shoppe for some antiquing. It's a treasure of a shop, in a treasure of a town.

Have you visited New Richmond, Ohio, before? This tiny little town is impossibly charming and wonderfully unique, and it's a downright delightful day trip destination for fall in Ohio. And with a prime location along the Ohio River Scenic Byway, why not pack up the car and make a proper road trip out of your visit to New Richmond, OH?

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/usa/road-trip-essentials-packing-list/

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