Cruise the scenic Fox River in a joint event with OPALGA! Join us for an end-of-summer Paddlewheel Riverboat Cruise in St. Charles. The boat leaves the dock at 3:00 p.m. You need to purchase your own $14 ticket via this link:
https://book.peek.com/s/21992230-244f-4104-9043-dee349847151/2baVj
After the boat ride, we will head to Gia Mia in St. Charles for Italian food and pizza!
If you need a ride, send me an email and we will work that out.
Here is some fascinating history of the paddlewheel service!
Chet Anderson 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 in 1945. After extensive repairs had been made, the boat started making trips up the Fox River from Pottawatomie Park, and a business was born that has endured for more than 70 years.
Over the years, several newer boats have replaced the original Honeymoon Queen. In the mid 1980’s, the boats that are currently in service were built: The St. Charles Belle II and Fox River Queen. These boats have spacious enclosed lower decks and open upper decks, which are ideal for watching the sunset and enjoying the beautiful river views.
Chet retired in the 1980’s after captaining his boats for almost 40 years. His son, Rich Anderson, and another captain took over the helms of the iconic boats until 2018 when the St. Charles Park District purchased the business. The District is truly honored to carry on this unique experience in our community, which has been an integral part of the local landscape since 1945 and continues to be a beloved symbol of St. Charles.
Chicago PrimeTimers, 5555 N Sheridan Rd #812, Chicago, IL 60640-1622