River Adventures | Minnesota Historical Society

See the history of the forest as you never have before – from the water! Our guided river adventures will offer you a unique perspective on how the Mississippi River has shaped the geography and history of Minnesota.

Mississippi River Kayak Adventure

Take a guided kayak tour of the Mississippi River. Visitors will hear stories of the Mississippi River's environmental history while paddling on a very calm section of the river. Participants will see several natural features including an eagle's nest and beaver lodge. Single and Tandem Kayaks are available. Tandem kayaks require two people to paddle. One ticket purchase reserves both seats in one tandem kayak. Mississippi River Kayak Adventures take place Wednesdays through Saturdays, June 3 through August 29, 2026 at 10 am. Site admission included with ticket purchase.
Get single kayak tickets
Get tandem kayak tickets

Mississippi River Pontoon Tour

Enjoy a relaxing pontoon ride on the Mississippi River. While enjoying the picturesque scenery our guides will talk about the history and ecology of this stretch of river and more. There are also often opportunities for wildlife viewing. Mississippi River Pontoon Tours take place Wednesdays through Saturdays, June 3 through August 29, 2026 at 1 pm. Site admission included with ticket purchase.
Get pontoon tour tickets

Short Mississippi River Tour

Come and enjoy a short pontoon cruise on the Mississippi River. It is a great opportunity to get on the water and explore. Our guides will highlight seasonal natural features such as nesting eagles, beaver lodges, dragonfly hatches and more! Short Mississippi River Tours take place Wednesdays through Saturdays, June 3 through August 29, 2026 at noon and 2:45 pm. Site admission included with ticket purchase.
Get short tour tickets

Before you go

Participant eligibility

10 years of age or older.
17 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Manage personal mobility independently or with a reasonable amount of assistance.
Follow instructions and effectively communicate independently or with assistance of a companion.
Get on/off or in/out of a kayak independently or with a reasonable amount of assistance.

Policies

If we need to cancel due to weather conditions or other unsafe circumstances there will be a full refund or the opportunity to reschedule.
Life jackets are mandatory and will be provided. You may bring your own, but it must be Coast Guard approved.
Participants must provide life jackets for children under 55 lbs.
Personal kayaks may be used, but the price will remain the same.
Those who choose to take valuables on the river assume all responsibility for any loss or damage that may occur.

What to bring

Please wear appropriate clothing for the weather and/or sun protection.
Your feet will get wet so plan accordingly.
Sunscreen.
Non-breakable water bottle.
Towel, dry clothes and shoes (if desired).
Keys can be left at the front desk (if desired).