LaSalle Canal Boat

photo_boatStep back in time. Climb aboard a replica 19th century mule-drawn canal boat for an unforgettable trip to yesteryear. Experience life as it was 150 years ago on the historic I & M Canal.

LaSalle, the I & M Canal terminus, was a major transfer point where the man-made canal system met the Illinois and Mississippi River system. Here, workers unloaded riverboats and filled canal boats bound for Chicago and points east with oranges, sugar, and molasses from the south and buffalo robes from the west. Hundreds of boats arrived from Chicago bringing lumber, clothing, furniture, stoves, plows and wagons. Some of these goods stayed in LaSalle, and many were loaded onto riverboats going to St. Louis, and New Orleans. Until 1852, thousands of passengers made the 20 -25 hour trip between Chicago and LaSalle.

Boat Rides
May through October
Tickets available day of cruise
Boarding begins 15 minutes before departure
Dock and boat are handicapped accessible.
Reservations recommended

Call 815/220-1848

Pick up LaSalle Canal Boat tickets at the Visitor Center, also featuring a cafe, gift shop and exhibits.

Fares Apply
I&M Canal Visitor Center and Lock 16 Cafe and Gift Shop
754 First St.
LaSalle, IL
815-220-1848
www.lasallecanalboat.org

Your 90-min, round trip journey on the mule-pulled, full-size replica canal boat will take you on the same hand-dug waterway that 19th century pioneers traveled.

Your guides, dressed as Canal Era crew and passengers, will take you back in time to life on the American frontier and the Illinois prairie.
Meet our mule, Moe, and learn how mules and horses powered the boats in the last century.
Seating on open-air deck and in enclosed cabin. Plenty of seating for inclement weather. 
Handicapped Accessible except motorized wheelchairs. Parking is free.

All tickets must be picked up at the Lock 16 Center, 754 First Street, LaSalle, IL
Please plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before scheduled departure.
Call 815-220-1848 or email reservations@canalcor.org for questions and special requests.

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