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 at the onboard bar, and brand new, never before seen learning stations!

The evening will be structured like a “school day”, including morning announcements, lunch, three class periods, and recess! Of course, there will also be breathtaking sights of the river from the outdoor decks—just like what students experience on Big River Journey.

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.

Event Details

When: Wednesday, May 13, 2026, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Boarding begins at 5:00 PM. The boat departs promptly at 5:30 PM—don’t miss the boat!

Where: Paddleford 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: $100 General Pubic • $75 Members • $50 Volunteers

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.