The field trip for grown-ups!
For 30 years, the Big River Journey field trip has engaged children on the Mississippi River. Our flagship program takes 3rd through 5th graders out on an authentic paddleboat in the Mississippi River for an eight mile journey filled with hands-on learning opportunities.
Once each year, this field trip is open to grown-ups!
We’ve kept some classics from the school field trip, but also made some elegant upgrades to the experience. Step aboard the very same paddleboat, but see it transformed to include a full Captain’s Dinner, a free drink ticket, and brand new, never before seen learning stations!
The evening will feature ranger talks, engaging learning stations, trivia, and of course, the breathtaking sights of the river—just like what students experience on Big River Journey. In addition to savoring delicious food, grown-ups also get to partake of the onboard bar offerings!
Please visit the link below to learn more and purchase tickets. All proceeds from this event will go to a good cause: keeping Mississippi Park Connection well funded so we can support the National Park Service and Mississippi River through stewardship and habitat restoration, youth education, and community programming.
$100 General Pubic • $75 Members • $50 Volunteers
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Time: 5:00-8:00pm
Location: Padelford Riverboats, Harriet Island
205 Doctor Justus Ohage Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55107
The journey will travel upriver about five miles, passing the High Bridge, a historic railroad swing bridge, the Bdote Confluence, and more, before returning to Harriet Island.
Tickets: Your admission includes the boat ride, a meal, and a complimentary drink ticket. Spots are limited, so reserve yours soon!
To get members pricing, become a member at parkconnection.org/membership.
Schedule for the Evening
5:00pm - Check-in and boarding begins. Dinner buffet open.
5:30pm - Boat departs the dock
5:30pm - Opening Program, buffet dinner continues.
6:00pm - First Period
6:25pm - Second Period
6:50pm - Recess!
7:15pm - Third Period
7:40pm - Closing Program
8:00pm - Boat returns to dock
Can’t Attend? Support your National Park.
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The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area is a national treasure. Your contribution funds youth education, environmental stewardship, and community programs that foster enduring connections between people and the only national park dedicated to the Mississippi River.
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