One of the best ways to explore an area is by water. The U.S. has many lakes, rivers, ponds and more to take a boat ride, Jet Ski, kayak, and canoe down. You don’t have to make a week-long international cruise to explore your world. Many vendors are available that offer river trips, short dinner cruises, booze cruises and more. These types of rides are more relaxed, allowing guests to see the sunset or enjoy the surroundings and the breeze. Discover the variety and changes in the land as you cruise down a river or lake on some of the most fantastic boat rides.
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Maid of the Mist
The Maid of the Mist boat ride is one you will never forget. This boat ride takes you directly to the famous Niagara Falls that lie on the border between the U.S. and Canada. The boat ride starts out in calm waters, heading for the giant waterfall. It then continues to the Horseshoe Falls. Looking up from the boat, you will see a massive waterfall surrounding you in the shape of a horseshoe. Rain ponchos are given out with the admission price of the ride to help keep you dry and protect your clothes. The tremendous amount of water and mist cause from these well-known falls will leave you soaked and with a big smile on your face.
Puget Sound Express
Puget Sound is a beautiful waterway located in the northwestern state of Washington. The sound is an area where the water has infiltrated its way into the land, carving out space where the ocean leaks into. Major cities along Puget Sound are Seattle, Everett, and Olympia. The backdrop of the land is usually stunning snowcapped peaks and layers of pine trees. The cold water is a favorite to whales, and there are plenty of them. One of the most popular boat rides and tours is the Puget Sound Express company. They have whale watching tours that last just a few hours up to 3-day tours of the Northwest. Try a Puffin cruise to see the few pairs that nest on one of the nearby islands of the sound. These cruises and boat tours offer beautiful views of the Northwest from the water, as well as the fantastic wildlife that calls this place home.
Western River Expeditions
Standing at the rim of the Grand Canyon will leave you entirely in awe, but how would you feel about rafting down the Colorado River in the middle of the canyon? You would see the canyon like many never will; from the bottom looking up. Western River Expeditions have patented rafts that tackle anything from moderate to world-class rapids in the canyon. Guests can choose from 3, 4, or 7-day options. The tours provide tents that sleep two and cots not much, because tents, sleeping bags, and other gear are all provided. Sleep under the star-filled sky if you prefer. Watch for wildlife and enjoy the trip of a lifetime down the canyon’s river.
Rio San Antonio Cruises
The city of San Antonio managed to provide damage control of the massive San Antonio River flowing through the city by creating the Riverwalk. The Riverwalk is a popular and touristy stop in San Antonio. Here you can find restaurants, shops, music and scenic views of the river and city surroundings. The Rio San Antonio Cruises have water taxis, river tour boats and charters to get around the city via the water. The river tours last about 35 minutes and the knowledgeable guide will point out major attractions, buildings, and some fascinating history. The Rio taxis can shuttle you up and down the river to your destination or even your hotel if it is near the Riverwalk. This is another excellent way to see the area and the city. Just hop on and get a tour down the river. The charters have cruises such as cocktail or dinner cruises. Schedule one of these for a fantastic dinner and enjoy San Antonio.
Cruise the Chicago River
Are you only in Chicago for a short time? The best way to see the city is to take the Chicago Sunset Dinner Cruise with Buffet. For 3 hours, this luxury cruise will show you the best views of the city and feed you a fantastic dinner! Music will accompany your evening as a live DJ chooses your favorite songs. See the fantastic Chicago skyline and major points of interest like the Sears Tower, the Navy Pier, and the Soldier Field. As the sun sets, capture the perfect photos of you and your loved ones with Chicago as your background.
Staten Island Ferry
This free ferry is probably the best deal you can find. Each ferry has food concessions, a free ride and perfect views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, both hugely popular attractions in America. Ferry riders can also see the incredible skyline of Manhattan and New York, the largest city in the United States. The ferries run all day every day and are the primary mode of transportation for people trying to get to work. They can be quite crowded, but no visit to New York isn’t complete without a ferry ride along with those fantastic views.
Mississippi River Cruise
The American Queen Steamboat Company offers cruises on the mighty Mississippi River. Passengers will board the boat named the American Queen, as they cruise along the large river to see trees that are decades old, plantations, Civil War memorials and much more. The ship has dining venues, entertainment and many of the amenities a cruise ship has. These trips are more extended lasting anywhere from several days to over 20 days long. Cruise to and from several cities along the Mississippi River, with occasional port, stops so passengers can get off the boat and explore. Explore one of the most well-known rivers in the U.S. aboard the comfortable and elegant American Queen.
Don’t Stop at Land
Many people choose to explore by driving and hiking. Have you ever explored an area using the waterways? Cruises and boat rides offer different perspectives of the land and surroundings and many times they are surprisingly beautiful. Some rides will let you watch the sunset, or see whales, while some serve up alcohol and your favorite drinks. Take in the sights while having dinner on your luxury vessel with the city skyline as your view. Exploring the U.S. via the waterways is fun, unique and will produce some lasting memories you will not soon forget. Explore the numerous U.S. waterways with some fantastic boat rides and see the land as you’ve never seen it before.
