mark twain riverboat ride disneyland

Mark Twain Riverboat

• Water Rides

Steam into the Past

Board an old-fashioned steam-powered vessel for a half-mile journey into the heart of the American frontier. 

During the charming, 14-minute trip around Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island , spot delightful sights along the river’s edge, including: 

• The north bank of the Columbia Gorge, complete with a beautiful waterfront and 5 sparkling waterfalls 
• A rustic frontier cabin 
• An idyllic Native American village 
• A busy beaver at work chewing on the train trestle 
• Mountain lions relaxing in the sun 
• The Disneyland Railroad steaming into the wilderness 

Along the way, hear lively narration about a time gone by.

Along the Mississippi

The Mark Twain is an authentic reproduction of the historic vessels that ferried people up and down the mighty Mississippi River. A working steam engine converts the water from the Rivers of America into steam that in turn powers the large paddle that propels the boat. 

Featuring meticulously detailed wood craftsmanship, the 28-foot tall, 105-foot-long riverboat is comprised of 4 pristine decks: 

• Pilothouse , also known as the top deck, features the wheelhouse and Captain’s Quarters 
• Promenade Deck includes a salon and a collection of vintage photos and maps 
• Texas (or Sun) Deck is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors as you float down the river 
• Main Deck includes the boiler and pistons that run the paddlewheel 

Limited seating is available.

A Tribute to America’s Writer

Walt Disney named the Mark Twain after the pen name of Samuel Langhorne Clemens. The famed author of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn —and Walt’s personal hero—Clemens was also a riverboat pilot as a young man. 

That experience inspired his pen name: “mark twain” is a boating term that means a vessel is at a safe depth.

Alternate Adventures

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Frontierland, plan your day with disney genie service, safety, accessibility and guest policies, times for mark twain riverboat.

Mark Twain Riverboat

The Mark Twain Riverboat goes on a gentle cruise around Tom Sawyer Island. That's the same route that the Sailing Ship Columbia and Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes take, and I'd suggest choosing only one of these three attractions. You don't need to see that same scenery three times.

What You Need to Know About the Mark Twain Riverboat

TripSavvy / Betsy Malloy Photography

We polled 131 of our readers to find out what they think about the riverboat. 74% of them said It's a must-do or ride it if you have time, making it one of the lower-rated things to do at Disneyland.

• Location:  Mark Twain Riverboat is in Frontierland
• Rating:  ★
• Restrictions:   No height restrictions. Children under age seven years must be accompanied by a person age 14 years or older.
• Ride Time:   12 minutes
• Recommended for:   Everyone
• Fun Factor:  Low
• Wait Factor:  Low    
• Fear Factor:  Low
• Herky-Jerky Factor:  Low
• Nausea Factor:  Low
• Seating:   You just get on and ride, and you can move around while it's going
• Accessibility:   This ride is fully accessible, and you can stay in your wheelchair or ECV for the whole thing, but you'll only get onto the lower level. Go to the access gate on the right side of the turnstile or enter through the attraction exit and ask a Cast Member for help.  More about visiting Disneyland in a wheelchair or ECV

How to Have More Fun on the Mark Twain Riverboat

• If you want to  rest your feet , head for the seats in the front as soon as you get on.
• This ride  closes before dark
• Watch the kids.  They may be tempted to climb on the railings and could fall off.
• If you ask a cast member, the  pilot might let you ride inside with him . This is limited to just a couple of people per trip.

Next Disneyland Ride: Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes

More about disneyland rides.

You can  see all the Disneyland rides at a glance on the Disneyland Ride Sheet . If you want to browse through them starting with the best-rated,  start with the Haunted Mansion  and follow the navigation.

While you're thinking about rides, you should also  download Our Recommended Disneyland Apps (they're all free!)  and  Get Some Proven Tips to Minimize Your Disneyland Wait Time .

Fun Facts About Mark Twain Riverboat

Built in 1955, this was the first paddle wheeler built since shortly after 1900. It was built at the Disney Studios, except for the hull which was constructed at a shipyard in San Pedro. But don't let that fool you. It's a working reproduction of the historic vessels that ferried people up and down the mighty Mississippi, with a working steam engine that powers the large paddle, which in turn propels the boat.

The Mark Twain made its first voyage four days before Disneyland opened to the public, for Walt and Lillian Disney's 30th wedding anniversary. 

The Mark Twain was christened by actress   Irene Dunne who starred in the 1936 movie "Showboat" on Disneyland's Opening Day.

The boat is 28 feet tall and 105 feet long, with four decks.

The writer Mark Twain was a riverboat pilot on the Mississippi river when he was younger, and one of Walt Disney's personal heroes, which is why Walt named the boat after him.

A riverboat ride was in the plans from the earliest days, when Walt Disney started the first plans for building an amusement park near Walt Disney Studios in Burbank.

Every Disney theme park throughout the world has their own version of the Mark Twain riverboat. 

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Mark Twain Riverboat

An Attraction in Disneyland

Last updated: May 3, 2023

At a Glance

This large-capacity paddle-wheel riverboat navigates the waters around Tom Sawyer Island and Fort Wilderness. A beautiful craft, the riverboat provides a lofty perch from which to see Frontierland and New Orleans Square. The Mark Twain, Sailing Ship Columbia , and Davy Crockett's Explorer Canoes travel through the Rivers of America. The show scenes include a home for Mike Fink (and one of his keelboats, a former Disneyland attraction) and 26 Audio-Animatronic animals; the audio spiel includes a musical nod to the New Orleans–set The Princess and the Frog.

• Audio Description
• May Remain in Wheelchair/ECV

modal#open click->video-modal#modalVideo">Ride Through at Night

Touring Tips

One of three boat rides that survey the same real estate. Because the Explorer Canoes are slower in loading and the Columbia operates seasonally, we think the riverboat makes more efficient use of touring time. If you’re not in the mood for a boat ride, many of the same sights can be seen by hiking around Tom Sawyer Island. The riverboat typically operates until 75 minutes before the park closes, except on Fantasmic! performance nights, when the voyages end at 5:45 p.m. If you’re looking for a new experience aboard the Mark Twain, try asking a cast member if you can enjoy the trip from the pilothouse.

Other attractions you might like Users who like Mark Twain Riverboat, generally also like:

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Here's roughly how many minutes you'll wait for Mark Twain Riverboat at each Disneyland Crowd Level.

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Mark Twain Riverboat

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Mark Twain Riverboat is an attraction, located at the Disneyland theme park in Anaheim , California , on which passengers embark on a scenic, 12-minute journey around the Rivers of America . Originally named Mark Twain Steamboat when the park opened in 1955, the stately, 5/8-scale Mississippi stern-wheeler was the first functional riverboat to be built in the United States for fifty years. Other Disney riverboat attractions now appear at Walt Disney World Resort , Tokyo Disneyland and Disneyland Paris .

• 1 Disneyland version
• 2 Former sights
• 4.1 Walt Disney World
• 4.2 Thunder Mesa riverboats (Disneyland Paris)
• 4.3 Tokyo Disneyland
• 5 Technical
• 6 References

Disneyland version [ ]

Passengers wait for the 150-ton, high, long riverboat, which departs every 25 minutes, inside a sheltered area located in the Frontierland section of the park. The waiting area is made to resemble a real riverboat loading area, with cargo deliveries sharing space on the dock. Historic United States flags are displayed at the attraction's entrance.

Upon boarding Mark Twain , passengers are free to move about her three levels. The lower deck's bow has chairs. The upper deck provides a vantage point for viewing landmarks throughout the voyage, there are also a couple bench seats on this level, some indoors and some outside.

The wheelhouse, where Mark Twain' s pilot is stationed, is also located on the upper deck. The lower level of the wheelhouse features a sleeping area and a sink to maintain the illusion of this being the captain's living quarters. At the pilot's discretion, a small number of passengers may be given permission to ride in the wheelhouse for the voyage, after which they are presented with souvenir Pilot Certificates.

The pilot signals the departure and arrival of Mark Twain using a whistle and bell system, along with various signals to other watercraft attractions. Because the riverboat travels along an I-beam guide rail throughout the ride, the pilot does not maneuver the ship. Instead, the pilot serves as lookout for other river traffic, such as Davy Crockett's Explorer Canoes and the Rafts to Pirate's Lair on Tom Sawyer Island , and communicates his observations with the boiler engineer. The boiler engineer is stationed on the bottom deck towards the stern. This is where the throttle and reverser are located. From here, the boiler engineer controls the speed and direction of the riverboat. Steam from the boiler is used to power the paddle wheels and thus pushes the craft along its guide-way.

The voyage on the Rivers of America around Tom Sawyer Island features pre-recorded narration by a riverboat guide voiced by Thurl Ravenscroft , Mark Twain ( Peter Renaday ), who speaks of his days piloting a riverboat, and by the (not present) "captain" of the ship, voiced by Disney voice actor Stephen Stanton . The narration playback, operated by the pilot via a control panel in the pilot house, points out the following sights:

• Haunted Mansion
• Splash Mountain
• Davy Crockett's Explorer Canoes landing
• Pirate's Lair on Tom Sawyer Island
• Mike Fink 's Cabin
• Lakota Chief, raising hand in welcome
• A shaman telling a native folktale
• Lakota Village
• Big Thunder Mountain
• Sacred aboriginal burial ground
• Animals and abandoned mine cars
• Big Thunder Falls

On most days, Mark Twain begins operation as soon the park opens. On days when Fantasmic! is being performed, the riverboat, which plays a role in the show, will close a couple of hours before showtime. On other nights, Mark Twain will run through the evening, using a high intensity rooftop spotlight to point out sights, with the final trip beginning about thirty minutes before park closing. A sign at the loading area will list the day's last trip.

Former sights [ ]

There are a few former sights that the boat passed along the river. The Burning Settler's Cabin which used propane to simulate burning was one. The pipe that fed propane to the burner failed in the early 2000s and has not been relit. There were plans in 2007 to replace the failed feed and again have the cabin burn. However, the Pirate's Lair at Tom Sawyer Island modifications affected these plans. As of now, the burn marks have been removed, the holes patched and the area cleaned up. The front lawn area now has a table, picnic-like decorations and clothes on a clothes line. What makes this odd is while the rest of Tom Sawyer Island appears as if it has been invaded by pirates, this part of the island is the only thing not pirate themed.

Along with the Cabin, the Gullywhumper, one of Disneyland's extinct Keel Boats is now scenery along the river's bank. A mine train from the old Nature's Wonderland attraction was also used as scenery. The Mine Train is on its original track and used to border Cascade Peak, a man-made fiberglass hill complete with waterfall which was bulldozed in 1998. The train was removed in June 2010 for restoration. Also, one of the rafts to Tom Sawyer's Island was marooned just in front of the no longer burning cabin and is now scenery.

History [ ]

A Mississippi steamboat was included in the plans for the first Disney amusement park that was to be built across the street from his Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California. Although this park was abandoned in favor of the much larger Disneyland , the plan for having a riverboat attraction was retained.

Because Mark Twain was the first functional paddlewheeler built in the United States in fifty years, the WED designers conducted extensive research to build it like riverboats were built in the heyday of steam powered ships. The decks were assembled at the Disney Studios at Burbank, while the 105-foot hull was constructed at Todd Shipyards, Los Angeles Division, San Pedro, California (where portions of Columbia were built years later). [1]

Joe Fowler , Disneyland's construction supervisor and a former navy admiral, insisted on creating a drydock for the ship along what was to be the Rivers of America. Walt Disney , dismayed at how much land was taken up by the massive excavation, referred to the drydock first as "Joe's Ditch", and then later, "Fowler's Harbor", the name by which it goes by today. However, Disney remained a supporter of the riverboat itself, funding its construction out of his own pocket when corporate funds fell short. On the first "fill-the-river" day, the water that was pumped into the Rivers of America soaked through the riverbed. Fowler quickly found a supply of clay to replace the soil stabilizer used to line the river, and the second "fill-the-river" day was successful.

Mark Twain had her maiden voyage on July 13, 1955, four days before the park officially opened, for a private party celebrating Walt and Lillian Disney 's 30th wedding anniversary. Before the party, as Fowler was checking to make sure everything would be ready for the 300 invited guests, he found Lillian sweeping the decks of debris and joined in to help her.

Disneyland's opening day brought further problems for Mark Twain . Actress Irene Dunne, star of the movie Showboat , had trouble breaking a bottle of water (from many major American rivers) across the vessel's bow for her christening on Dateline Disney . During the riverboat's first official voyage, when the crowd moved to one side of the boat to view a passing scene of an Indian encampment or other sight, the boat would list from the side and water poured over the deck, as no one had determined Mark Twain' s maximum safe passenger capacity.

This oversight caused Mark Twain to almost capsize on a voyage a few days later when ride operators continued to wave more than 500 guests on board until the deck neared the water line. As the ship traversed the sparsely vegetated river route, it came loose from its track and got stuck in the muddy banks. Immediately, the park established a maximum capacity of 300 passengers, which remains in effect today.

After a rough start, Mark Twain has had a successful 68-year-career as a theme park attraction. During its first few years of operation, passengers could buy a non-alcoholic mint julep aboard or listen to card and checker players re-enact dialogue of that era. Occasionally the Disneyland band would play music on the lower deck bow to entertain both the passengers and the theme park visitors on the river banks. [2]

Mark Twain underwent a major refurbishment during the Spring of 1995, during which all the decks and the boiler were replaced. September 24, 1995 saw the first and only Disney Fantasyland Wedding, to this day, to be held on an attraction, in theme clothing. A local Orange County couple, Kevin and Patricia Sullivan exchanged vows on the bow of the boat as she circled the Rivers of America. The groom's father Ed Sullivan, a 50-year Disney veteran, donned the classic Mark Twain costume for the once in a lifetime ceremony. The couple sealed their vows by pulling the ships steam whistle together. From atop the upper most deck, the couple let loose ropes, unfurling a ship sized JUST MARRIED banner across the stern.

When the Rivers of America was drained in 2002, the boat was noted to have considerable hull damage. It underwent a refurbishment in 2004 to repair the hull, which included replacing the keel. [3] For the park's 50th Anniversary celebration in 2005, a new, more colorful paint job was applied to the durable riverboat.

On January 11, 2016, the Mark Twain Riverboat, along with the other attractions and shows along the Rivers of America, would close temporarily for the construction of a Star Wars -themed land . These attractions reopened on July 29, 2017. [4] [5] [6]

Other Disney theme park riverboats [ ]

Walt disney world [ ].

The Magic Kingdom theme park in Bay Lake, Florida at one time featured two riverboats: Admiral Joe Fowler , a sternwheeler named for Disneyland's construction supervisor, and Richard F. Irvine , a sternwheeler named for a WED executive. There is now one riverboat: the Liberty Belle .

Admiral Joe Fowler served from October 2, 1971, one day after park opening, until the Fall of 1980, when it was retired after less than ten years of operation and it got accidentally destroyed after falling from a crane onto its drydock. [7]

Richard F. Irvine came into service on May 20, 1973 but was renamed The Liberty Belle in 1996 after everything except for the hull, boiler, and engines was stripped off, and an all-new superstructure was constructed from aluminum and vinyl.

Thunder Mesa riverboats (Disneyland Paris) [ ]

The Grim Reaper tows the Mark Twain. c. 2003

The Frontierland area of Disneyland Park has the unique distinction of featuring two riverboats, Mark Twain and Molly Brown . Each riverboat features a recorded conversation between the Captain and Mark Twain or Molly Brown. Since the storyline takes place in the fictional town of Thunder Mesa, most of the spiel deals with the sights of Big Thunder Mountain , Phantom Manor , Wilderness Island, Smuggler's Cove, an old snoring fisherman, and a geyser field containing dinosaur remains.

• Mark Twain is based on the Anaheim Park's original riverboat, a sternwheeler.
• Molly Brown , named for Titanic -survivor Molly Brown, is the only sidewheeler in a Disney Park.

On May 16, 2005, Molly Brown' s engine overheated as the boat rounded the corner at the back of the Rivers of the Far West. Although there was no visible fire, smoke damaged the ship and her engines, rendering her immobile. Guests were ferried ashore by the River Rogue Keelboats. The engine system was badly damaged and Molly Brown remained out of operation for many months, while Mark Twains ongoing refurbishment at the dry dock was finished. In September 2005, Molly Brown was moved to the dry dock, and in March 2006, Mark Twain finally resumed operation from Thunder Mesa Riverboat Landing. However, it was not until September that Molly Brown' s long refurbishment finally began, and was completed in late April 2007. [8]

Yet, in 2010, Molly Brown had to be rebuilt from scratch. On March 25, 2011, she was back in business, with a new recording of Molly Brown's speech in English, which used to be in French. The Mark Twain hasn’t operated since 2011, and has spent most of that time sitting in dry dock. [9] In 2014, MiceAge reported that the Mark Twain was falling apart due to lack of maintenance, and is in danger of scrapping.

For years, it was a regular Halloween tradition to have a giant Grim Reaper barge tow the Mark Twain along the river route, as part of a seasonal retheme of Frontierland to "Halloweenland".

Tokyo Disneyland [ ]

Tokyo Disneyland 's Mark Twain riverboat is so large that it is required by law to be registered. Its home port is listed as Urayasu. From the time of its opening until September 2006 its sponsor was Nippon Suisan Kaisha.

Technical [ ]

Mark Twain riverboat burns biodiesel fuel to heat its boiler, continuously heating water into steam, which is then routed to two pistons that turn the paddlewheel. Spent exhaust is then routed back to the boiler.

The riverboat is guided through the Rivers of America via an I-beam track, which is hidden under the green and brown dyed river water.

The boat draws only in of water, for the river is relatively shallow. At its deepest point it is no more than 8 feet near the switch at Fowler's Harbor, where it resides when not in operation.

The boat uses clean, fresh water from a tank on board to prevent contaminants from the water in the Rivers of America from fouling the boiler.

References [ ]

• ↑ " Todd Pacific Shipyards Corporation, Los Angeles Division. Long-Range Facilities Plan. Contract MA-8O-SAC-O1O29 " (31 July 1981).  
• ↑ Wadley, Carma (October 21, 2005). " Man who sank the Mark Twain ", Deseret Morning News . Retrieved on 16 October 2006 .  
• ↑ Mark Twain Riverboat . RideRefurbs.com (February 4, 2004). Archived from the original on 2006-09-19. Retrieved on 2006-10-18.
• ↑ " Season of the Force Begins November 16 at Disneyland Park in Southern California ".
• ↑ Glover, Erin (July 28, 2016). " Disneyland Railroad and Rivers of America Attractions to Reopen Summer 2017 at Disneyland Park ". Disney Parks Blog. Retrieved on July 28, 2016.
• ↑ " Disneyland Railroad, Rivers of America Attractions Set to Reopen Saturday After Yearlong Closure ".
• ↑ " Admiral Joe Fowler Riverboat ". Walt Dated World. Retrieved on 2006-10-17.
• ↑ " Thunder Mesa Riverboat Landing ". Retrieved on 2006-10-16.
• ↑ " 10 Abandoned Disney Attractions that are "Standing but not Operating" ". themeparktourist.com . Theme Park Tourist. Retrieved on 21 October 2014.
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Introduction | Attraction | Touring Tips | Kids/Characters | Dining | Shopping | Interesting Facts

INTRODUCTION

Enjoy a slow cruise around the Rivers of America aboard an authentic steam-powered paddlewheeler. The Mark Twain Riverboat is located in Frontierland just across from Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

Your guide will point out landmarks along the way, like a mansion that’s said to be haunted, Splash Mountain, the canoes, and Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island. There are several Native American sightings, including a chief on horseback, a shaman, a boy and his dog, and the inhabitants of a village.

Be on the lookout for wildlife like deer, elk, moose, raccoons, eagles, and mountain lions. There’s even an enterprising beaver hard at work below one of the train trestles.

TOURING TIPS

This is a fairly quiet and peaceful ride – a good place to take a break and get away from the crowded walkways. The journey takes about 15 minutes, and the riverboat departs twice an hour. On busy days the Mark Twain shares the boat dock with the Sailing Ship Columbia, and one of the two departs every 15 minutes.

There are a few chairs on the bow of the riverboat on the lower deck and a couple of benches inside a salon on the third deck. This is the only seating on-board. Arrive and board early to get a chair.

The top deck gives you an excellent vantage point for photos of Tom Sawyer Island, New Orleans Square, the Haunted Mansion, Splash Mountain, and Big Thunder Mountain.

Wheelchair/ECV users go to the gate to the right of the turnstiles and wait for a cast member to direct in boarding.

You’ll see the Mark Twain filled with characters in one of the final scenes of Fantasmic!

KIDS AND CHARACTERS

Disney characters like Tiana, Naveen, and Louis from “The Princess and the Frog” are sometimes found cruising on the Mark Twain. Woody and Jessie from Toy Story make frequent appearances in Frontierland near the Mark Twain’s dock — check the Times Guide for times and location.

Nearby shops include:

Bonanza Outfitters – Western apparel for men, women, and children.

Pioneer Mercantile – Frontier-themed souvenirs such as Davy Crockett hats and Western style character merchandise.

Westward Ho Trading Company – Candy store with fudge, hard candies, boxes chocolates and cookies.

INTERESTING FACTS

In 2016-2017, all Rivers of America attractions were closed while the river was re-routed in support of the construction of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. The Mark Twain re-opened on July 29, 2017 with a new narration to go along with some new scenes along the river.

The Mark Twain was christened by actress Irene Dunne (Magnolia Hawks in the 1936 movie “Showboat”) on Disneyland’s Opening Day.

Walt Disney and his wife celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary aboard the Mark Twain four days before Disneyland opened in 1955.

Thurl Ravenscroft (the voice of Tony the Tiger) provided the original voice of the riverboat guide.

If you have comments or tips to share with others about touring Disneyland, please email us . Thank you.

How long is Mark Twain Riverboat?

The ride takes 18 Minutes Find all the attractions by their length

Will Mark Twain Riverboat make me motion sick?

The motion level is Low. Gentle boat ride. Details on handling motion sensitivity on your visit

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Mark Twain Riverboat

Disneyland Resort

One of Disneyland's original rides from 1955, the Mississippi River–style paddle-wheeler Mark Twain Riverboat offers a relaxing cruise on the Rivers of America.

Frontierland

Get In Touch

https://disneyland.disney.go.com/attractions/disneyland/mark-twain-riverboat

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Mark Twain Riverboat

Steam into the past.

Cruise the Rivers of America aboard a 19th-century paddle boat.

Our Overview

The Mark Twain Riverboat vessel is a reproduction of the historic ferries once used on the Mississippi River. Once you’re cruising down the Disney-created river, you’ll feel like you’re taking a trip back to the past. If you’re looking to unwind and enjoy scenic views, the Mark Twain Riverboat is an experience you should consider.

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Sailing Down the Rivers of America on the Mark Twain Riverboat at Disneyland

All aboard.

Step aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat at Disneyland and embark on a nostalgic journey back in time. This iconic attraction, inspired by the legendary Mississippi paddle-wheel steamboats, offers guests a unique experience that combines history, relaxation, and breathtaking views. The Mark Twain Riverboat, named after the famous American author, Mark Twain, takes you on a leisurely cruise along the scenic Rivers of America.

As you step onto the ornate deck, you’ll be transported to an era when steamboats ruled the waterways. Admire the intricate details of the ship, from the authentic steam-powered engine to the elegant Victorian-inspired decor. Find a comfortable spot on one of the decks and feel the gentle breeze as the boat sets sail.

During the voyage, keep your eyes peeled for the picturesque sights that unfold along the riverbanks. Catch glimpses of Frontierland, New Orleans Square, and Critter Country, as well as stunning wildlife that call the river their home. You may even experience a live performance of traditional American folk music onboard.

Whether you’re a fan of history, Disney, or simply want to relax and enjoy the scenery, the Mark Twain Riverboat offers an enchanting experience for all. Step aboard and let the magic of this classic attraction transport you to a bygone era.

History of the Mark Twain Riverboat

The Mark Twain Riverboat has a rich history that dates back to its opening on July 17, 1955, the same day Disneyland first opened its doors to the public. It was one of the original attractions at the park and quickly became a beloved favorite among guests. The riverboat was designed to replicate the steam-powered paddle-wheel boats that were a common sight on the Mississippi River during the 19th century.

The name “Mark Twain” was chosen in honor of the famous American author, Samuel Clemens, who wrote under the pen name Mark Twain. Clemens himself was a riverboat pilot on the Mississippi River in his youth and often incorporated his experiences into his writings. The Mark Twain Riverboat serves as a tribute to his legacy and the era he immortalized in his works.

Over the years, the riverboat has undergone several renovations and enhancements to ensure its longevity and maintain its charm. The riverboat just returned from it’s most recent, but very long refurbishment only a few days ago and it looks brand new. Over time, the riverboat has been fitted with modern safety features while preserving its authentic steam-powered engine and vintage aesthetics. The Mark Twain Riverboat continues to be a beloved attraction at Disneyland, offering guests an opportunity to step back in time and experience the magic of a bygone era.

Features of the Mark Twain Riverboat

The Mark Twain Riverboat offers a variety of features that make it a must-visit for Disneyland guests. As you explore the ship, you’ll come across several points of interest that add to the overall experience.

One of the main highlights of the riverboat is the authentic steam-powered engine, which is fully functional and powers the boat along the Rivers of America. The engine is an impressive piece of machinery. It’s a fascinating piece of technology of the past and a testament to the engineering marvels of the time.

The decks of the Mark Twain Riverboat are designed to provide guests with the best views of the surrounding scenery. From the top deck, also called the Pilothouse, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of Disneyland’s Frontierland, New Orleans Square, and Critter Country. The lower deck, also called the Main Deck, offers a more intimate experience, with cozy seating areas where you can relax and take in the sights and sounds of the river. The Main Deck also includes the boiler and pistons that run the paddlewheel.

Throughout the cruise, you may be treated to live performances of traditional American folk music. Talented Disneyland musicians bring the riverboat to life with their melodic tunes, adding to the ambiance and creating a truly immersive experience. It’s a wonderful opportunity to sit back, relax, and enjoy the sounds of a bygone era.

Mark Twain Riverboat Ride Experience

The Mark Twain Riverboat ride experience is a leisurely and serene journey that allows you to unwind and take in the beauty of the Rivers of America. The boat sets sail from the Frontierland dock and takes you on a 14-minute cruise along a half-mile stretch of the river.

As the boat glides through the water, you’ll have ample time to admire the picturesque scenery that unfolds along the riverbanks. Keep your camera ready as you may spot various wildlife species, including birds, ducks, and even the occasional deer. The natural beauty of the surroundings creates a sense of tranquility that is sometimes hard to find in the bustling Disneyland theme park.

The riverboat ride is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the history and lore of the Mississippi River. Along the journey, you’ll come across several displays and signage that provide interesting facts and anecdotes about life on the river. It’s a chance to deepen your understanding of the era that inspired the attraction and gain a newfound appreciation for the role riverboats played in shaping American history.

Mark Twain Riverboat Schedule and Operating Hours

The Mark Twain Riverboat operates throughout the day, with varying schedules depending on the season and park hours. When Fantasmic! returns to the Rivers of America on May 24, 2024 , the Mark Twain Riverboat will sail it’s final cruise each operating day a few hours before the performance. This is not only due to the riverboats appearance in the performance but also so the river can be prepared for the nighttime spectacular. To make sure you have an opportunity to experience the riverboat cruise, check the Disneyland app or Disneyland website for up-to-date operating hours on the day of your visit.

Mark Twain Riverboat Trivia and Fun Facts

Here are some fascinating trivia and fun facts about the Mark Twain Riverboat:

• The Mark Twain Riverboat is the largest working riverboat in Disneyland, measuring approximately 105 feet in length.
• The steam-powered engine that propels the riverboat is capable of generating 150 horsepower.
• The riverboat can carry up to 450 passengers per cruise, making it a popular attraction for large groups and families.
• The riverboat’s paddlewheel is purely decorative and is not used for propulsion. The boat is actually propelled by underwater thrusters.
• The Mark Twain Riverboat has been featured in several films and television shows, including the 1989 movie “Parenthood” and the television series “Full House.”

Other Attractions Near the Mark Twain Riverboat

After disembarking from the Mark Twain Riverboat, there are several other attractions nearby that you won’t want to miss. Here are a few recommendations:

• Adventureland Treehouse: Located only a short distance away in the corner of Adventureland, the Adventureland Treehouse inspired by Walt Disney’s Swiss Family Robinson offers guests a fun opportunity to explore fascinating rooms built by a family who lives in the tree house.
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Just a short walk from the riverboat’s dock, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is a thrilling coaster-style ride aboard a mine train. It’s the “wildest ride in the wilderness!”
• Pirates of the Caribbean: Located in New Orleans Square, this classic Disneyland attraction takes you on a swashbuckling adventure through a pirate-infested Caribbean island.
• Tom Sawyer Island: If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, head over to Tom Sawyer Island, located in the middle of the Rivers of America. Explore caves, cross suspension bridges, and enjoy the natural beauty of this hidden gem.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Mark Twain Riverboat at Disneyland offers a timeless and enchanting experience that transports guests to a bygone era. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll be immersed in the rich history and charm of steam-powered paddle-wheel boats making the riverboat a must-visit attraction.

As you cruise along the Rivers of America, take in the picturesque views of Frontierland, New Orleans Square, and Critter Country. Admire the stunning wildlife that call the riverbanks their home and savor the melodies of traditional American folk music. The Mark Twain Riverboat offers a unique blend of relaxation, entertainment, and education that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

So, the next time you find yourself at Disneyland Park, don’t miss the opportunity to step aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat. Allow yourself to be transported to a time when steamboats ruled the waterways, and let the magic of this classic attraction create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Mark Twain Riverboat | Disneyland

Last Updated on: January 21st, 2024

Posted By: Craig Smith

Here is everything you need to know about the amazing Mark Twain Riverboat attraction at Disneyland including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!

Contents of this article:

About Mark Twain Riverboat

Important mark twain riverboat details.

• Mark Twain Riverboat News

Cast off on a scenic half-mile adventure into the wilds of old America aboard a steam-powered paddler. Board the 19th-century-inspired Mark Twain riverboat nestled in the heart of Frontierland and embark on a relaxing sightseeing voyage around Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island .

Sights to See During this charming, 14-minute journey into America’s early frontier, sharp-eyed explorers can observe a menagerie of sights along the river’s edge, including:

• The new north bank of the Columbia Gorge, complete with a beautiful waterfront and 5 sparkling waterfalls
• The rustic cabin of a frontier settler
• An idyllic Native American village
• A busy beaver at work chewing on the train trestle
• A moose enjoying a leisurely lunch
• A  Haunted Mansion  lurking in the shadows
• A skunk staring down raccoons
• Mountain lions relaxing in the sun
• An osprey guarding its nest
• The  Disneyland Railroad steaming into the wilderness

Along the way, listen to lively narration about a time when traveling was as much about new discoveries as it was about transportation.

Mark Twain Riverboat Fun Facts

• The Mark Twain Riverboat is an iconic and historic attraction located in Frontierland at Disneyland in Anaheim, California.
• It opened with the park on July 17, 1955, and is named after the famous American author Mark Twain, known for his classic novels like “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.”
• The riverboat takes guests on a leisurely and scenic journey along the picturesque Rivers of America, offering beautiful views of Frontierland, New Orleans Square, and Critter Country.
• One of the unique features of the Mark Twain Riverboat is its authentic steam-powered paddlewheel, which propels the boat along the river, creating a nostalgic and old-fashioned experience.
• Guests can relax on the upper or lower decks of the riverboat, listen to the onboard narration, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance as they take in the sights and sounds of the river and its surroundings.
• Disney Resort: Disneyland Resort
• Disney Park: Disneyland Park Info News and Attractions
• Park Area: Disneyland Frontierland
• Attraction Type: Ride
• Official Page
• Year Opened: 1955
• Replaced: Original Attraction
• Location on Map

Mark Twain Riverboat Reviews

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Opening Date: July 17th, 1955

The Mark Twain Riverboat is a recreation of a classic American riverboat that takes you on a peaceful journey through the Rivers of America of Disneyland on a scenic journey that gives you a view of several lands in the park.

This ride is one of two boats that travels around the Rivers of America alongside the Sailing Ship Columbia which runs from the same ride station.

Thrill Rating 1/10

This is a peaceful journey through the Rivers of America. It is slow moving with no significant story or frightening scenes.

Special Information

This ride is utilized each night as part of the nightly Fantasmic spectacular. This also means it closes early when Fantasmic is running.

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Things to Try at Disneyland That You Probably Have Never Done

T here is a lot that Disneyland is known for as well as plenty of secrets to discover. For all the many ways you can enjoy this unique and significant park, here are some simple things to try at Disneyland that you have probably never done.

Ride Jingles on King Arthur’s Carousel

King Arthur’s Carousel is the beloved piece of classic kinetic energy that hits you from the Castle as you enter Disneyland’s incredible Fantasyland. There is a lot to do and many secrets to discover in this ultra-packed land, but one fun thing to do before you stray too far is to ride the Carousel which is a symbolic recreation of Walt Disney’s inspiration behind his magical park. Jingles is a special horse dedicated to Julie Andrews, who played Mary Poppins.

Explore the many decks of the Mark Twain Riverboat

The Mark Twain is one of the jewels of Disneyland. The steamboat alone is one of the things to try at Disneyland if you never have. It’s a beautiful historical representation of a bygone era. The scenic tour around the Rivers of America is a real treat.

The Mark Twain is one of three unique ways to explore the banks of Tom Sawyer Island and the surrounding frontier, but there are actually four different decks that provide individual experiences of the attraction. From the sun deck to Promenade Deck, to Even the Pilot House, there is much to enjoy. You may be able to sound the whistle or steer the boat.

Ride in the Lily Belle Parlor Car on the Disneyland Railroad

Five trains circle the Disneyland Railroad at any given time. Occasionally, you may see the Lily Belle parlor car trailing one of them. It’s a presidential car that entertains foreign dignitaries and is even available as part of Disneyland’s Grand Circle Tour package, which includes plenty of historical information about Walt Disney. If you ever get an opportunity to ride in this luxurious car, be sure to take it and enjoy your travels around the Happiest Place on Earth.

Go to the Flag Retreat

It’s rare that anybody would be wandering around Town Square at 4:15 and it’s not general knowledge, but there is a daily flag retreat ceremony that is worth the break in your day. The ceremony includes a band and the National Anthem as the flag is taken down for the evening.

It’s great to pair this event with a viewing of Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln. Both are things to try at Disneyland if you are feeling particularly patriotic.

Get the High Score on Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters

As you head into Tomorrowland, there are some fun things to do, but something everybody can enjoy is a spin on the Buzz Lightyear dark ride. This competitive shooting target ride can be beaten by following a few basic tricks. First, try and sit on the left side for the best access to high-ranking targets. Next, learn what targets will score you the most points.

Diamonds are high at 5,000 points, but triangles are better with 10,000 a point value. You can hit the same target multiple times. So, if you can score more points by firing away at a closer target, do it!

Splurge on a Walking TOur

Disneyland has many splurges, but one you might not have done is doing a walking tour . Join a Castmember to walk throughout the Park and learn the back stories to rides and structures. Walking Tours often have perks like limited edition buttons and seeing behind-the-scenes area that regular guests don’t have access to.

DISCOUNT DISNEY TICKETS

My favorite Disney-approved re-seller,  Get Away Today, offers the best Disney discount tickets around. In addition to great discount prices, their customer service is top-notch. They have an entire department dedicated to making sure every order has a wonderful experience and they are on-call to help you during your vacation if you need them.

Buying tickets from Get Away Today is easy and convenient since all their tickets are sent electronically. You can take their vouchers and head straight to the gate without waiting in ticket booth lines. They also offer layaway plans so you can pay off your vacation over time. Don’t forget to mention THIS BLISS LIFE for your discount!

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Russia Gets Its Disneyland, a Cold War Dream Come True

Developers are banking on attracting Moscow’s rising middle class. “But will they sell emotions, like Disneyland?” a mother of two girls asks.

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By Andrew E. Kramer

Photographs by Maxim Babenko

• Feb. 29, 2020

MOSCOW — A young girl finds a magic necklace made of mushrooms, but then an evil gnome steals it. Adventure ensues. According to her creators, Alfreya, the hero of a new children’s book who was conceived for Russia’s first theme park, is “an ordinary girl 10 to 12 years old with large, thoughtful eyes.”

One thing she is not is a Disney character. Opening a real international Disneyland in Moscow would be out of the question amid the current political standoff with the United States.

But Russia’s decades-long quest to build a theme park, which began during the Cold War rivalry with the United States, is finally reaching its fairy-tale ending.

The $1.5 billion Dream Island , when it opens on Saturday, may certainly remind some visitors of Disneyland. In place of Elsa from “Frozen,” there will be the Snow Queen, and in the Russian version of “The Jungle Book,” the jungle is populated by talking dinosaurs. Developers say the park will be inhabited by dozens of fairy-tale characters, all domestically produced.

Dream Island doesn’t mind if you invoke Disneyland to describe the park, but will point out that it has no connections to the Happiest Place on Earth.

“The word Disneyland is on people’s tongues,” said Alena Burova, a publicist for the site. “In Russia, we say Disneyland when we mean just a theme park.”

The park has been built only now because it will benefit from something more essential than snow queens and fairy princesses: a large pool of middle-class consumers in the Russian capital, something that was missing when two previous attempts failed.

So, some 60 years after the Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev first floated the idea of building an analogue to Disneyland, President Vladimir V. Putin stopped by to inspect the park on Thursday.

For Amiran Mutsoev, a former shopping mall developer who is the park’s owner and director, the site is a major bet that middle-class purchasing power will hold up despite Western sanctions and low prices for oil, a major Russian export. That the opening coincides with the coronavirus outbreak, when some people may want to avoid crowds, is another concern.

“Will people come, or will they not come?” Mr. Mutsoev asked. “Of course, we are worried.”

The park expects five million Moscow residents and two and a half million tourists, mostly from elsewhere in Russia, to visit the animated dinosaurs and haunted houses each year, Mr. Mutsoev said. Tickets on a weekend cost 11,000 rubles, or about $163, for a family of four.

The average monthly pay in Russia last year was 46,073 rubles, or about $683. And it has been dropping in inflation-adjusted terms. The minister of labor recently proposed lowering the minimum wage — because the cost of potatoes had gone down. Over all, last year about 14 percent of the population lived on less than $160 per month, the official poverty line.

But Moscow and its 13 million residents are an exception. The average wage in the capital last year was about twice the national average. The trickle of oil money has already given birth to new businesses, some of the world’s largest malls and what sociologists see as pent-up demand in the Moscow middle class for better government services.

Well-to-do families, too, are a precondition for a theme park. Khrushchev proposed building one in Moscow called Children’s Wonderland after a 1959 visit to the United States when he sought to quickly replicate some American economic achievements, such as fast-food restaurants and widespread corn cultivation in the Midwest.

“He wanted to do it,” his granddaughter Nina Khrushcheva, a professor of international affairs at the New School in New York, said in a telephone interview. “It was an idea to mimic the soft power that America has to make people’s lives more interesting and better.”

But the project got bogged down in debates over which themes to promote. The military wanted a martial element, with tanks.

The Soviets eventually proposed a park around cultural, educational and scientific themes. The attractions, a Soviet magazine wrote, “will be designed so children can learn of conquering space, about radio electronics and amazing successes in chemistry, physics and other fields of knowledge,” while also somehow being fun. The government set aside land outside Moscow, but never broke ground.

In the early post-Soviet period, President Boris N. Yeltsin sought to revive the idea by forming a nonprofit organization to develop the still vacant site . This group enlisted children to draw their own characters and fantasy lands as a basis for a park, but it lacked financing and instead leased the land to an outdoor market, a motorcycle club and a cement factory.

The current iteration emerged as a partnership between the City of Moscow, eager to appease its politically important residents, and Mr. Mutsoev, the developer. The city provided the land for free. VTB, a state bank, kicked in a $600 million development loan.

Nadya Soloyeva, a Moscow mother of two daughters ages 8 and 4, said her job in public relations allowed her to afford the tickets, but she wondered whether the new fairy-tale characters would have the same emotional draw as Disneyland’s.

“Everybody is comparing these prices with Disneyland,” which now run $200 per person, she said. “But will they sell emotions, like Disneyland?”

Disney-like medieval towers rise at the entryway. But behind them lie gigantic, rectangular buildings recalling jumbo jet hangars, covering 74 acres. Glass cupolas enclose some areas. The developers say it is the largest covered park in Europe — and the only option for remaining open through Moscow’s long, grim winter.

The theme park has nine zones. Five were created by “Russian artists specifically for Dream Island,” according to a promotional brochure. The others are licensed attractions: Hotel Transylvania, from Sony Pictures; the Smurfs, from the Belgian company IMPS; the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, from Viacom; and Hello Kitty, from Sanrio of Japan. The Cuningham Group , a Minneapolis firm that has designed a variety of theme parks, including Warner Bros. Movie World in Madrid, created all nine themed zones based on the Russian and foreign-licensed concepts.

One of the newly conceived zones drew from characters in a classic Russian adaptation of “Pinocchio.” The centerpiece zone is the Snow Queen’s Castle, ruled by a fierce and beautiful monarch “wielding power over snow and cold,” not unlike Disney’s princess in “Frozen.” Both characters are based on a Hans Christian Andersen tale.

Mr. Mutsoev said he had hired teams of artists and writers and was confident in the pull of his new characters. He has published new children’s books to flesh out the characters and tell their adventures.

“Disney has its snow queen, and we have ours,” he said.

And he said he was glad he had ditched previous Russian ideas of one-upping Disneyland by infusing a park with educational elements: “Not everybody wants to read Tolstoy, especially if you are 8 years old.”

Andrew E. Kramer is a reporter based in the Moscow bureau. He was part of a team that won the 2017 Pulitzer Prize in International Reporting for a series on Russia’s covert projection of power. More about Andrew E. Kramer

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