Update July 2026: Due to regulatory requirements, boat tours will not be able to operate
While we’re disappointed by this outcome, we remain committed to sharing the rich history of the Illinois & Michigan Canal in new and engaging ways.
We invite you to visit the I&M Canal Visitor Center, where you can experience our new History of the I&M Canal exhibit, browse our gift shop, and get information on nearby historic sites and the scenic canal trail.
We’re grateful for your understanding and for your continued support of the I&M Canal National Heritage Area.
Explore The I&M Canal Boat
To celebrate the 250th Birthday of America and as part of IL250, we’re offering a limited-time, unique opportunity to step aboard our 1840s-replica I&M Canal Boat. Discover how boats like these changed the face of our region, state and country!
Picture it: 1848 Illinois. Prairie covers the state. Overland transportation is slow and treacherous. And only a few small communities exist, including a small port town on Lake Michigan called Chicago. Then the I&M Canal opens, and everything changes.
Relive the fateful turning point in our history that led to a new era of transportation and the growth of our region by climbing aboard our 1840s-replica I&M Canal Boat, The Volunteer.
Tour the boat as it remains at the dock and see the interior and exterior spaces where passengers congregated. Learn how the boat was powered: by mules! Then make your way to the top deck for a beautiful view of the canal–perfect for taking photos, videos and selfies.
NEW: Walk through our 18-panel exhibit: The History of the I&M Canal, featuring illustrations by celebrated artist and author, Tom Willcockson. Set up inside the boat, these displays detail how a vessel made its way up the I&M Canal to the burgeoning city of Chicago.
The boat is docked at I&M Canal State Trail – Lock 14 Access, LaSalle IL. It’s near our I&M Canal Visitor Center and Lock 16 Gift Shop and Café, which is located at 754 First Street, so pop in if you have questions or are looking for a breakfast, lunch, snack or beverage.
Volunteer To Be A Docent
The Volunteer gives guests a chance to step aboard an 1840s-replica canal boat and explore a fascinating piece of Illinois history—but we can’t offer the experience without volunteer docents.
Docents help open and close the boat, welcome visitors and oversee the experience while guests explore the exhibits and interior spaces. You don’t need to be a historian—just someone who enjoys meeting people and supporting a great local experience.
Interested? Fill out the form below to let us know your availability.
Important Info
Admission: Free, Suggested Donation $5
Opens week of July 8th; Days & Times TBD