Group Tours

Relive the fateful turning point in our history that led to a new era of transportation and the growth of our region by taking a trip with your group on our Canal Boat, TheVolunteer. This vessel is not only a replica of those from the 1840s—it also runs on the same energy source: Mule Power!

Perfect For...

Companies
Park Districts
Senior Centers
Libraries
Tour Companies
Family Reunions
School Reunions
Church Groups
Social Clubs
And More!

CAPTAIN’S I&M CANAL TOUR

Step back into 1848 with our period-clothed “salty” boat crew and friendly mule guiding you along the historic Illinois & Michigan Canal for an hour-long ride from Lock 14 to the Little Vermillion Aqueduct and back. After all that fresh air and scenic beauty, enjoy the hearty Boat Captain’s Lunch, catered and served in the I&M Canal Visitors Center (vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request). The visitor center is housed in a historic building and features additional information and exhibits about the I&M Canal along with a gift shop. Even more, historic downtown LaSalle is right outside the door. The boat and facility are accessible to all.

To book your group, call us at (630) 755-4447 or email us at [email protected]!

  • 2.5 hours
  • $45 per person
  • Available May-Oct.
  • Suitable for 20 to 70 guests
  • Moderate walking
 
NOW & THEN TOUR

Compare water travel in 1848 with that of today. First you’ll take a trip on the I&M Canal Boat, a replica of an 1840s, mule powered packet boat. After your voyage, enjoy the hearty Boat Captain’s Lunch, catered and served in the I&M Canal Visitors Center (vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request). Then, you’ll take a trip to the Starved Rock locks and see how it accommodates the barges of today. A guide will join you on your 15-minute trip between the two sites. The Illinois Waterway Visitor Center offers a look at 20th and 21st century water travel and is a great place to view Starved Rock without all the traffic.

To book your group, call us at (630) 755-4447 or email us at [email protected]!

  • 4 hours
  • $48 per person
  • Available May-Oct.
  • Suitable for 20 to 70 guests
  • Moderate walking
MULES, MARIGOLDS, & MIMOSAS TOUR

Pair the I&M Canal Boat Tour with a visit to another local treasure, the gorgeous Weber Gardens! Enjoy a relaxing and educational ride on the I&M Canal, then kick back with mimosas along with the hearty Boat Captain’s Lunch, catered and served in the I&M Canal Visitor Center (vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request). Next, venture to the whimsical world of Ted Weber and explore his storybook-style house along with over two acres of stunning English gardens, complete with fountains, statues, and other ornamental features. This fun-filled day trip is the perfect way to get outdoors and enjoy the sunshine!

To book your group, call us at (630) 755-4447 or email us at [email protected]!

  • 4 hours
  • $65 per person
  • Available May-Oct.
  • Suitable for 20 to 70 guests
  • Moderate walking
Customize Your Tour

Our Group Tour Specialist can work with you to plan the perfect outing for your group, including historical figure re-enactors or pairing the boat ride with visits to other local attractions.

To book your group, call us at (630) 755-4447 or email us at [email protected]!

Additional Details

  • Tours are available May 15th through November 3rd and are suitable for 20-70 guests.
  • The Canal Boat and our facilities are accessible to those using manually powered mobility aids.
  • For catered tours, vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request.
  • Poor Weather? An enclosed cabin allows for the tour to operate in most weather conditions.
  • The Visitor Center is conveniently located at the junction of I-80 and I-39, just off U.S. Route 6 and only 10 minutes west of Starved Rock State Park.
 

For more booking information, including scheduling options, contact us at (630) 755-4447 or [email protected]