taylors falls mn riverboat cruise

Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours | Cruising the St Croix River

The Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tour is a beautiful way to see the scenic Taylors Falls area. The tour begins at the Taylors Falls Marina and takes you on a journey down the beautiful St Croix River.

Most of us are land dwellers. We have two feet planted on the ground at all times. Having earth beneath us is a great thing. But sometimes you have to leave the ground and see things from a different perspective. That is what I did this past weekend with the Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours .

The tour takes passengers from the falls and goes through the beautiful gorge. Along the way, you’ll see all the famous features hidden in the rocks.

Thank You to Taylor’s Fall Scenic Boat Tours for partnering up with us for this post. We had a great time on the boat. As always, my opinions are my own.

Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tour Review

The tour leaves from the intersection of Hwy 8 and Hwy 95. They share an entrance with Interstate State Park, just swing a left to get to the boat parking.

They have some additional parking is behind the ticket booth. We loved this spot because we didn’t have to climb a steep walkway to get to the boat.

The only thing we would do differently next time is back into our parking spot. Because there will be over 100 people walking behind your car as they get off the boat.

We got to the Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tour 20 minutes early and found that people were already lining up outside. The boat boards 15 minutes before they take off.

Those waiting in line were hoping to get some of the coveted spots on the front of the boat on the open-air portion of the second level.

There is no bad seat. It just depends on your preference. We sat under the awning section above. Once the boat ride started, we were warned that the awning only provided protection from the sun.

There were rain clouds that loomed above us. We decided to risk it because I love the open-air view.

The St. Croix River

The lower section is enclosed and has snacks, soda, wine, and beer for sale. We brought some of our own snacks. They allow you to have a picnic on board as long as you didn’t bring any alcohol.

My son could not stop looking at the paddles in the back of the boat. I didn’t fault him at all because they are hypnotic.

Along the way, the crew will point out a lot of the famous Minnesota landmarks or rock formations on the St Croix River Valley including the Stone Cross, Lion’s Head, Turk’s Head, and Old Man of the Dells.

You have to use your imagination a little to see some of it. They do a good job of explaining what to look at.

What surprised me was how diverse the river is. Normally, we get the perspective from the cliffs in Interstate Park.

But when you are on the river, you get to paddle 35 minutes down and see a completely different environment. Only a small section at the beginning of the tour has the iconic high rocky cliffs. Otherwise, it transitions to sandy beaches and woods.

As we floated down the river, we saw a lot of different paddlers, canoers, and kayakers enjoying the waterways.

One interesting part of the river is its camping. Along the river, you’ll find different campsites, similar to BWCA designed for paddlers. The Saint Croix River camping is all free.

If you are looking for a shorter paddle trip, there are a few outfitters that rent one-way paddle trips including Wild Mountain . They provide transportation back to the rental facility.

Taylor’s Fall is a great area to explore. Make sure to check out the other fun things to do: 17 Things To Do In Taylors Falls Minnesota | The Ultimate Guide

The Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours offer 45 and 80 minute daily excursions. These run multiple times during the day. While you don’t have to buy tickets online, I recommend it so they don’t fill up.

If you’re looking for the royal treatment, take one of their Dinner Cruise. They are available a few times during the week. Check their schedule to find out more.

You can get tickets a few ways. If you purchase through their website, you’ll guarantee a spot and save $2. Otherwise, you can also buy tickets when you get there.

For more great ideas on your trip to Taylors Falls, check out my weekend itinerary !

After doing the boat tour, I highly recommend stopping at Wild Mountain Waterpark. It’s a great way to cool off! Essential Things to know before visiting Wild Mountain Water Park

Would I take another Taylors Falls Scenic Boat tour?

Yes, we had a great time. Next time I’d back into a parking spot, and get there a little bit early. Otherwise, it was a fabulous adventure.

If you’re looking for a scenic boat tour in the Taylor Falls area, the Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tour is definitely worth checking out!

The tour guides are informative and entertaining, and the views of the falls are simply spectacular. It’s a quick trip from the Twin Cities, making it a great day trip anyone can do!

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Minnesota native and Midwest travel expert Jennifer provides insider tips and budget-friendly trip ideas for families looking to explore the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Through her travel blog DayTripper28, she draws on first-hand experience to recommend the best hidden gems, outdoor adventures, road trips, and weekend getaways around Minnesota and the Midwest. With her passion for uncovering local flavors and culture along the backroads, Jennifer shares affordable itineraries for creating memorable experiences across the region.

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Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours

Review Highlights

“ I think with kids it is probably best for 30 minutes and adults may also find it in their interest to not prolong their boat trip . ” in 2 reviews

“ We picked up a couple of nicely mixed cocktails from the bartender on the lower deck , then headed upstairs to the open deck to enjoy the trip. ” in 3 reviews

“ My wife and I did this on 6-30-2020 for our 7th wedding anniversary loved every minute of it... ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

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220 South St

Taylors Falls, MN 55084

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Business Owner

Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours has been offering tours of the St. Croix River for over 100 years. Operating through the months of May through October, we offer a variety of cruises fitting for families, couples, friends, or group events. Daily Excursions run all year and provide a narrated tour of the beautiful St. Croix River. Specialty cruises and dinner cruises are also available if you are looking for an entertaining or relaxing evening aboard one of our authentic paddlewheel riverboats. Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours is also a fantastic option for group events. Visit www.taylorsfallsboat.com or call 651-465-6315 for more information. …

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Had a really nice time on the Sundown Tour. Pups are warmly welcomed and other passengers got to give them some love. The chairs are not secured so we took two out to the bow and enjoyed a front row seat while the beagles got their snouts full of good sniffin. The whole main deck is carpeted because there is no splashing from the river and this was perfect for my prissy puppies. Drinks were like one finger but I'm Not a lush and cranberry juice is good for us right?

The Taylor's Falls Scenic Boat Tour is a nice, relaxing & education 45 minute boat trip. We often take out of town guests on the tour, and it has always been a good experience. The staff are friendly, the tickets are easy to purchase in-line, and it's fun to go visit Taylor's Falls shopping district afterwards. We finished off our afternoon tour with Putt Putt at the Drive-in.

Scenic Boat Tour

Was a bit chilly the day we decided to go for a ride, but overall was still very enjoyable. We went up the river for about 40 minutes and then turned back around and came down river. The staff were friendly and informative. We utilized the secondary location to board and disembark, which was quite the walk from the main facility, but they do have a good cart for those with mobility issues.

We enjoyed the sunset tour with a group of friends, in beautiful fall weather and just as the fall colors were starting to show. We picked up a couple of nicely mixed cocktails from the bartender on the lower deck, then headed upstairs to the open deck to enjoy the trip. The crew and captain were friendly and provided some history relating to the river along the way. Eagles and turkey vultures graced the sky during our trip.

I decided to take my boyfriend on a boat cruise for his birthday. Keeping surprises a secret is not my forte, so 29 days is pretty good for me! I booked an 80 minute cruise with a deal from Groupon, and in turn through their website. I was excited to go for a day trip on the water. We left the cities and headed out towards Taylors Falls. Thankfully they provided their street address and Google directed us accordingly. We made sure to get there 30 min early per the site, though of course I had picked the hottest day so far to go (oops). Sunscreen, bug spray, and camera were packed per all of the reviewers below. Everyone was nice, and when we boarded on The Princess, I picked for us to go up to the upper deck so we could get a better view of the cliffs. Generally, the commentary by the crew was kind of corny, but the views were awesome, and I was comfortable most of the time. I would recommend that they update their seating, since the chairs are not great for extended sitting.

We are from west Texas and are up in Minnesota for the Mayo Clinic. It's a very scary time for me. We drove around just trying to get our minds off things before my appointment. I saw this on Groupon and bought tickets. I didn't know we had to make reservations so when we got there they were locking up. I was so upset that I didn't look at the website. After talking to them they asked where we were from and what we were here for. After we talked to them, they opened the boat for just me and my boyfriend. Our boat guides were Adam and spencer. They were so very nice. They have no idea how happy this has made me! I recommend this for sure !

See all photos from Krista B. for Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours

We toured last Friday. Of course the river is beautiful, but we had a difficult time hearing and understanding the guide. The volume was too low and he spoke too fast, so we missed out on a lot of the 'color'. The crew and staff gave off a 'bored' vibe. Although nobody was rude, we didn't exactly feel welcomed. So, the experience was OK, but it could have been great.

Loved it. Clean, comfortable boat. The tour guide told about the area's history as we glided peacefully through the beautiful St Croix river waterway. They have a nice little snackbar with beer and wine. You are allowed to bring a picnic which we did and that was really cool. I suggest sitting on the lower deck. Everyone crowds to the top where it is warmer (read: hot) and the sighlines aren't as good. Stay below- unless it's packed, you'll have to whole area to yourself, you can set up your food on one of the many tables and can stand at the rail on the bow for as long as you like.

The place was ok. Drove an hour just to see it. The hiking trail is nice but I expect it to be better. If it wasn't so hot, maybe I would enjoy it more.

See all photos from Zoua V. for Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours

My family and I came to Taylor Falls specifically for this boat tour after buying a deal on Crowdcut for it some time ago. Unfortunately it didnt meet our expectations in the slightest. We were thoroughly umimpressed with the the guide, who we weren't able to understand (our fellow passengers seem to agree). The sights were lovely but not worth being out on a large boat with a 100+ people, for 20 bucks, when you could hike or canoe nearby and get an similar experience.

Boat + typical view from the boat.

4 other reviews that are not currently recommended

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Minnesota Uncorked™

Cultivating interest in wine

Wine & Dinner Cruise in Taylors Falls, MN

Saturday evening of Labor Day weekend I set sail aboard a paddle boat out of Taylors Falls for a dinner cruise sponsored by Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours . A reception on the top deck greeted guests with wine and chocolate pairings from nearby Winehaven Winery .  Not only were the wine and chocolate pairings carefully selected — but the chocolates themselves were crafted by a chocolatier in Napa, CA using Winehaven’s wine. Salted caramels made with honeywine , and a dark chocolate truffle infused with Merlot were delightful aperitifs to start the evening.

Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours also offer Dinner Cruises featuring wine and cheese pairings with locally made Eichten’s cheese as well.

Dinner was served as the sun set along the river bluffs, and included a hearty three courses Caesar salad, followed by your choice of chicken in mushroom sauce, prime rib, or cheesy manicotti. I had the chicken (very good) and my husband, the prime rib which he enjoyed very much. Though we were already stuffed — we managed to find room for caramel topped cheesecake for dessert.

By the time dinner was over the sun had set and the upper deck was featuring live music by Charlie O — an ironically hilarious, and multi-talented one-man act, skillfully playing piano, guitar and harmonica while singing. He covered hits from Elton John, Billy Joel, Macklemore (believe it or not) and much more. The fact that he was so fantastic and funny, might have been one of the bigger delights of the evening.

About Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours

Tours depart daily from downtown Taylors Falls, MN, and there are a variety of trips to choose from:

• Daily excursions last anywhere from 45 to 80 minutes (no food, but cash bar with wine, beer, soda and light snacks for purchase)
• Dinner cruises , including the upcoming Leaf Cruise are three hours long and include a three-course meal and live entertainment.
• A number of other “Specialty” cruises are available such as including Winehaven partnered Wine & Chocolate or Wine & Cheese cruises. Other themed cruises happen throughout the year as well. Keep an eye on their calendar for details!

With fall on its way, the Saint Croix River Valley is one of the most scenic places to experience the fall colors! Enter below for your chance to win a pair daily excursion tickets. The contest is generously sponsored by Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours .

Hopping aboard the Taylors Falls Dinner Cruise was just one part of my Daycation in Wine Country , you can read about other highlights in the Upper Saint Croix River Valley, here .

Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours depart daily from 155 South St., Taylors Falls, MN . You can visit Wild Mountain Recreation (Parent company to Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours) at 37200 Wild Mountain Road Taylors Falls, MN for year-around fun from summer camping and the water park to winter skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing. Interested in working with Minnesota Uncorked to promote something? More on that, here .

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401 North Hamilton Street St. Croix Falls, WI 54024

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Taylor Falls River Walk

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Taylor Falls River Walk - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• (0.09 mi) Old Jail Bed and Breakfast
• (0.34 mi) The perfect valley getaway
• (0.39 mi) Romantic Copper ROOM at historic 123 S Washington
• (0.64 mi) Wannigan Point Cabins Resort
• (0.62 mi) The Artist's Loft in scenic St Croix Falls, WI
• (0.03 mi) Juneberry Cafe
• (0.11 mi) Tangled Up in Blue
• (0.05 mi) Schoony's Malt Shop & Pizzeria
• (0.04 mi) The Goat
• (0.07 mi) Romaynes Sports Bar and Grill

Twilight Music & Wine Tasting Cruise

Evening Cruise with Live Music & Wine Tasting

Quick Details

• Users Ages: 21+
• Clock Duration: 80 minutes

Enjoy an Evening on the St. Croix with Live Music & Wine Tasting

Before departure, guests can delight in wine samples from Winehaven Winery. Onboard, enjoy a short narration of the beautiful St. Croix River before enjoying a live music performance by area favorite,  CharlieO* while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the St Croix River.

CharlieO* is a singer, pianist, 12-string guitarist, and songwriter that has been entertaining for over 30 years on The Taylors Falls Riverboats. His song list is extensive and ranges from the piano hits of Billy Joel, Elton John, Styx, and Bob Seger to guitar ballads of John Denver, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Johnny Cash, and John Prine. The story songs of Harry Chapin, Chris Stapleton, and the CharlieO originals are also favorites. Charlie has sung the national anthem for the Twins, Vikings, Gopher Football, Basketball, and Baseball & Special Olympics. His guitar solo “Waiting” was used many times for NPR’s news show “All Things Considered” He is also half of the ACES; 88’s Dueling Pianos team. More at www.CharlieO.com. Cheers!

Boarding will begin 30 minutes before departure time.

Select Saturday evenings in July,  August & September

*Entertainment subject to change  – Too Square Band will play on August 17th, 2024

Twilight Cruise Pricing for 2024

• Adult- $43.99
• Senior (62+) – $41.99
• Adult- $38.99
• Senior (62+) – $36.99
• Chevron down What to Bring or Not Bring

No need to print a paper ticket. We scan your ticket on your mobile device or look your reservation up by name.

A light jacket in the spring and fall seasons is recommended.

Cash for the snack bar, while we accept credit cards, sometimes it can be difficult to process credit cards with minimal service out on the river.

We do not allow outside food to be brought onboard, but if you have a personal water bottle you want to bring, that is okay

• Chevron down Food Options

Our onboard snack bar serves beer, wine, lemonade, soda, coffee, candy, chips, and sandwiches. Pre-order a River Rock Meal to add to your trip or grab a pizza or sandwich at our River Rock Patio before boarding the boat.

Related Activities

• Clock 80 minutes
• Users All ages

Sundown Cruise

Cruise while the sun descends on the beautiful St. Croix River. Includes a narrated tour of the history and rock formations along the river! Available on select evenings.

• Clock 2 hours

The Church of Cash – The World’s #1 Tribute to Johnny Cash

Saturday, June 1, 2024

The Church of Cash – The World’s #1 Tribute to Johnny Cash.

Chris Kroeze – Better on a Boat Tour

Sunday, June 2, 2024

Chris Kroeze – “Better on a Boat” Tour

Absolutely Elvis! Presented by Todd Anderson

Friday, June 14, 2024 &  September 6, 2024

Join us aboard our authentic paddle wheel boat for a live musical performance! Includes live music, excursion, cash bar, soft drinks, lemonade, and light snacks.

Take A Fall Colors Cruise In Minnesota For A Beautiful And Scenic Autumn Adventure

Betsy Rathburn

Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at [email protected] or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.

More by this Author

Minnesota comes alive in the fall! Not only do we get a break from the summer humidity, but we also get the pleasure of watching the new season unfold before our eyes. There are many places in Minnesota to see the leaves change , but there may be no better way than by taking a fall color cruise. The combination of the blue waters and fiery leaves make this an autumn activity you don’t want to miss. Travel to Taylors Falls, Minnesota, to take what may be best fall colors cruise in the state. Here’s what you need to know:

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This is a truly beautiful fall activity that just about everyone will enjoy. Rates start at $21 for adults taking the 40-minute trip, and $25 for adults taking the 85-minute trip. Prices for seniors and children are even cheaper! For more information, check out the company’s website and Facebook page .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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TAYLORS FALLS BOAT TOURS | Lunch on the St. Croix River

Enjoy Lunch on a Boat Tour of the St. Croix River Valley.

Try our combination boat tour and hot lunch on board our authentic paddlewheel riverboats. Relax for 2 hours while enjoying an outstanding luncheon as your riverboat pilot and tour guide point out the unique rock formations and the St. Croix.

A minimum of 50 people is required. If you have less than 50 people, ask us to combine your group with another group. Multiple groups may be on board during luncheon cruises. Reservations and a $200 deposit paid in advance are required. Luncheon Cruises are available seven days a week based on boat availability. Boat selection is our option.

Your meal options include:

Hot Pulled Pork Sandwich Chips Baked Beans Coleslaw Cookie

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