Most people know about the scenic boat tours of the St. Croix River out of Taylors Falls but did you know the Mississippi is home to many great riverboat cruises as well? While there are some that offer lovely tours of the Twin Cities riverfront, one of the most scenic happens to be a bit further south. Winona Tour Boat offers both public and private tours of the Upper Mississippi in all its glory. Take a look:

Winona Tour Boat cruises depart from the dock at Winona Levee. The parking lot is located at 1 Walnut Street. The cost is $10 for ages 0-17 and $15 for adults.

Winona Tour Boat/Facebook

When you arrive, you’ll find a comfortable, window-lined boat ready to show you Winona at its best.

Winona Tour Boat/Facebook

All sightseeing tours come with narration by a friendly and knowledgeable guide. You’ll learn all about the Mississippi River and its structures and wildlife.

Winona Tour Boat/Facebook

Make sure you bring your binoculars. You’re likely to see all sorts of wildlife on the cruise, including eagles!

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You’ll also have a chance to see Winona bridges, both historic and new.

Winona Tour Boat/Facebook

The tours also include a glimpse of the Winona houseboat community at Latsch Island.

Visit Winona/Facebook

But perhaps the best sight of all is the gorgeous scenery itself. Since it’s bluff country, you’ll catch a unique glimpse of the gorgeous landscape of southern Minnesota.

Winona Tour Boat/Facebook

Even better: since most of the tours depart at 6:00 p.m., you have a good chance of seeing an incredible sunset.

Winona Tour Boat/Yelp

For the summer months, public tours take place Wednesday through Friday starting at 6:00 p.m. Weekend tours are often possible depending on availability.

Winona Tour Boat/Facebook

All in all, Winona Tour Boat is a great way to take in the Mississippi River and maybe learn a thing or two. It’s the perfect summer outing, and there are fall color tours as well.

Winona Tour Boat/Facebook For more information about Winona Tour Boat and to book your tour, click here.

Would you ever take this riverboat cruise? Do you have any other favorites in Minnesota?

Winona Tour Boat/Facebook

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Visit Winona/Facebook

Winona Tour Boat/Yelp

For more information about Winona Tour Boat and to book your tour, click here.

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