Take in the beauty of the Fox Valley aboard an historic paddlewheel riverboat – an iconic attraction in St. Charles for more than 75 years. This recreational activity that has spanned generations began in 1945 when the late Chet Anderson bought his first paddlewheel riverboat to charter cruises up and down the Fox River.
Chet was working at the Pottawatomie Park concession stand in the-mid 1940’s when the idea of buying a boat and offering rides to the park picnickers began to take shape in his mind. Before long, he made his dream a reality when he bought his very first boat, the Honeymoon Queen, for $200 and started making trips up the Fox River from Pottawatomie Park.
For a young man who just wanted to provide some more fun for park visitors and share his love of the park and Fox River, little did he know he was leaving a legacy of recreation to be enjoyed by so many people 75+ years later.
Traveling from the era of Mark Twain through a green corridor of scenic beauty, each riverboat trip offers something completely different. Sometimes you might see an eagle or a turtle, other times an osprey or a family of foxes. This completely unique way to explore the city and the beautiful Fox River is affordable and memorable for all ages during both public and private events.
When Chet Anderson’s son, Rich Anderson, retired in 2019, the St. Charles Park District purchased the business and continues to carry on its legacy. The Park District is truly honored to carry on this unique experience, which has been a symbol of pride and tradition in the community. Park District staff keeps that sentiment top of mind by creating programming to honor the past but also give patrons new experiences when they set sail down the Fox River.
On the public cruises, the riverboats tell stories from the past. While taking in the scenery, guests will learn about the Pottawatomi tribe that roamed the banks of the shore prior to St. Charles settlement and historic landmarks including Pottawatomie Park, Boy Scout Island, Norris Woods Nature Preserve and Ferson Creek Fen Nature Preserve. More fun is had when you hear the tales of icehouses and underground railroads as well as community lore regarding Al Capone’s infamous “hideaway.”
Sunset Cruises, including those with BYOB options, allow guests to experience the exhilaration of the outdoors with a beautiful sunset backdrop, the abundant waterfowl, and the ever-changing natural skyline of the Fox River. These cruises also make a perfect date night to celebrate with your someone special or an anniversary.
These beautiful boats and their homegrown story are something that St. Charles can truly be proud of, and rest assured, the Andersons’ legacy and the generations of family memories these boats carry is in good hands with the dedicated staff of the St. Charles Park District at the helm. To purchase tickets, visit stcriverboats.com.
St. Charles Paddlewheel Riverboats
8 North Avenue
St. Charles, IL 60174
630-584-2334
