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Overnight Riverboat Cruise to Starved Rock State Park

Excursions May–October

Starved Rock Lodge

Embark on a journey north from Peoria to Starved Rock State Park in Utica, Illinois. Join the captain and crew for a full day on the river and relax in the sun on one of the Spirit’s peaceful decks, spot river wildlife with Riverlorian and Master Storyteller Brian “Fox” Ellis, or visit the pilothouse and learn the rules of the river with your Captain, Alex Grieves.

Starved Rock Waterfall

After a scenic day “upbound” on the Illinois River, arrive at Starved Rock Landing and explore some of the 18 canyons formed during the glacial drift. Later that evening, prepare yourself for a visit from Mark Twain himself as he entertains in the great hall of Starved Rock Lodge, constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

In the morning, relax on the veranda, hike the canyons, or take the shuttle to the famous “Starved Rock Lookout” and learn of the tragedy of the Illinois Indians that occurred in the 1760s, from which Starved Rock obtained its name. Later that morning as we continue our paddlewheel adventure “downbound”, old-fashioned entertainment continues as the sounds of the calliope ring through the valley played right in front of your eyes from the Texas deck.

2 days, 1 night : $279 per person *

* Pricing includes tax and gratuity. Group discounts are available

Cruise Itinerary:

Click here for printable version: 2-day, 1-night

Day One

8:00am–8:45am Check-in at the Spirit of Peoria 100 NE Water St
9:00am Spirit of Peoria departs Peoria landing
9:30am Continental breakfast items and coffee available on Boiler Deck
9:45am Live Ragtime Piano Music and Professional Riverlore on Boiler Deck
11:30am Cold Deli Lunch Buffet on Main Deck
1:00pm Professional Riverlore or Ragtime Piano
2:30pm Wine and cheese reception on Boiler Deck
3:00pm Professional Riverlore or Ragtime Piano
5:00pm Prime rib buffet dinner on Main Deck
5:45pm Approximate arrival at Starved Rock Landing

Evening: Starved Rock Lodge in Utica, IL 800-868-7625

Your luggage will be in your room!
8:00pm Guest speaker in the Great Hall

Day Two

Leave your luggage in your room! Our luggage handlers will pick it up for you. Do not leave your luggage on the bed; place it near the door in plain sight.

7:00am–8:00am Breakfast at Starved Rock Lodge
8:00am Shuttle departs Lodge for Starved Rock Historic Site
9:00am Second Shuttle departs Lodge for the Spirit of Peoria
9:00am Snacks and coffee available on Boiler Deck
9:15am Shuttle picks up group from Starved Rock Historic Site
9:30am Live Ragtime Piano Music and Professional Riverlore on Boiler Deck
12:30am Chef Carved Ham Buffet on Main Deck
2:00pm Professional Riverlore or Ragtime Piano
3:00pm Late afternoon snack on Boiler Deck
5:15pm Approximate arrival at Peoria landing

2006 Cruise Dates:

Mark Twain
  • May 18-19
  • May 22-23
  • June 5-6
  • June 12-13
  • June 19-20
  • June 26-27
  • July 10-11
  • July 13-14
  • July 20-21
  • July 31-August 1
  • August 7-8
  • August 14-15
  • August 21-22
  • August 28-29
  • August 31-September 1
  • September 8-9
  • September 11-12
  • September 18-19
  • October 16-17
  • October 19-20
  • October 23-24

 

Driving in from out of town?

Then plan to stay overnight the night before the cruise at the Mark Twain Hotel in Peoria. This is a great choice to ensure you are rested up for an adventure of a lifetime. Located only 3 blocks from the boat. Call the Mark Twain directly for reservations at 866-325-6351.