riverboat cruises near grand rapids mi

Embark on a Unique Adventure: Discover Fun Things to Do in Lansing Aboard the Michigan Princess

Experience the michigan princess riverboat, one of the top things to do in lansing.

Welcome aboard the Michigan Princess Riverboat, a captivating blend of 19th-century charm and modern entertainment, making it a premier tourist destination in Lansing, Michigan. Explore one of the best things to do near you with our unique dining and cruise experience. Take in the live music or one of a variety of entertainment events that guarantee unforgettable memories. Whether you're planning a special occasion, date night, or family event, we offer a seamless experience any day of the week.

As a replica of a 19th-century steamboat, the Michigan Princess has graced the Grand River for over 30 years, becoming an iconic Lansing tourist attraction. Nestled in the heart of mid-Michigan, our riverboat offers views of the Grand River, creating an intimate atmosphere with picturesque scenery. From weddings to proms, corporate events to birthday parties, and more, our riverboat provides a unique venue for your special moments.

For those seeking fun things to do near you this weekend, we offer an array of cruises and events that cater to various interests. From captivating a murder mystery dinner to our senior lunch cruise, we have the perfect setting for birthday parties, baby showers or anniversaries. Explore unique things to do in Lansing, Michigan, and make every moment special on the Michigan Princess Riverboat.

Come sail with us, and let the Michigan Princess Riverboat be your destination for unforgettable moments and cherished memories.

Public Cruises Private Events

Cruise For Any Occassion

Graduation parties, book an event.

Our unique backdrop is perfect for hosting special events and private parties.

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There’s always something happening aboard our Riverboat.

• Free Parking Leave your car and cares behind.
• On-Board Catering Enjoy a delicious meal.
• Beverage Stations Celebrate with a toast.
• Climate Controlled Guaranteed comfort year round.
• Fully Enclosed Cruise rain or shine.
• Outdoor Seating Take in the views of Grand River.

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• The Grand Lady Riverboat
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The Grand Lady is constructed in the style of the steamboats that served the communities along the Grand River during the 1800′s. Although she is a modern vessel, she has many of the characteristics which made the early steam powered riverboats so successful on the Grand.

With her shallow draft, the Grand Lady can operate along the full length of the lower Grand, from the Lakeshore Railroad Bridge at mile 37.7 in Grand Rapids, to the mouth of the river at Grand Haven, including Spring Lake.

One of the main features of early riverboats was the giant paddlewheel. The Grand Lady has two identical stern paddlewheels, which may be operated independently. This allows her to be easily maneuvered in the narrow channels and sandbars of the river. The paddle wheels also allow her to operate in very shallow water (as little as 2½ feet), where a modern vessel would be grounded.

Food and snacks is available onboard as well as live music and bar facilities. Both open cruises and charters are available. Typical events include parties, weddings, school groups, historic tours as well as a full schedule of open public cruises.

The main cabin will seat up to 80 passengers and the upper deck has a seated capacity of 65. The upper deck can be reached by three staircases; two at the front of the main cabin and one at the stern. The lower deck, main cabin and restrooms are fully handicapped accessible and ramps are provided for boarding and debarking.

Both decks and pilothouse are designed for Michigan’s unpredictable weather. With a cruising season from May 1st through October 31st, the Grand Lady can provide a comfortable experience, regardless of the season.

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Travel time from downtown grand haven.

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Looking for a last minute getaway idea? Need some inspiration for a weekend away with that someone special or ‘cabin fever’ family? Check out our latest list of lodging packages and deals in the Grand Haven area!

1 Day Around Town Itinerary

If you’re here for only one day, you’re going to have to be strategic about what you see and do. Some tough choices are ahead, but don’t worry. We’re here to help with a dawn-to-dusk-plus-late-night list of possible must-sees and -dos (psst … think beach, boardwalk, big burritos, bands and beyond) that are sure to translate into your idea of the perfect summer day.

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Boarding in the grand haven area.

Meet Tucker. He’s your local insider for all board-related activities, including kiteboarding, stand-up paddleboarding, surfing, wakeboarding, skateboarding and more. If it involves a board, Tucker rides it.

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Did You Know You Can Cruise on a River Boat on the Grand River?

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What, a River Boat in Grand Rapids? You bet and it cruises the Grand River every week.

I wrote about this last year, but thought I should bring it up again since summer is slowly coming to a close and it is sooooo much fun, and, you still have time to cruise the Grand River in style.

It's the Grand Lady Riverboat , located at Steamboat Park in Jenison,  just minutes from downtown Grand Rapids. They have Sightseeing Cruises, Live Music Cruises, and Private Charters on the Grand River. You get to enjoy scenic river views, wildlife, live local bands, and refreshing beverages from the lower deck bar.

The Grand Lady is constructed in the style of the steamboats that once served the communities along the Grand River during the 1800′s. Back then they mostly carried cargo up and down the river, but some offered cruises for passengers.

In the early 1900's there was a big paddle wheel steam boat that people from far and wide would come to cruise on Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids.

Of course, we're all familiar with the big Riverboats that would cruise the Mississippi, and the showboats, a floating theater that would port a small towns along the mighty Mississippi and entertain the folks.

The Grand Lady doesn't port at small towns along the Grand, but does have lots of fun and great entertainment cruises with bands and many nights features some of the best singers in Michigan like Mary Rademacher and her incredible band of friends.

They have two bars onboard, and you are not allowed to bring your own drinks to a cruise, even water, since you must buy it on the riverboat.

However, you can bring your own food if you like and have a real picnic, or just buy snacks from them.

No matter, it is a Grand Time on the Grand Lady Riverboat!

UP NEXT: Michigan Waterfalls You Absolutely Have to Visit

More from 100.5 fm the river.

Spend A Perfect Day On This Old-Fashioned Paddle Boat Cruise In Michigan

Sophie Boudreau

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Warmer weather is finally upon us, and that means it’s time to get outside and appreciate all that our beautiful state has to offer. From waterfront hikes to zip-lines, there’s something here to delight each and every Michigander. But there’s one exciting activity that will take you on a journey back in time, and you’ll undoubtedly want to return for more.

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For more information about the Grand Lady Riverboat and its multiple cruising options, click here . Have you enjoyed a journey on this boat in years past? Share your experiences in the comments below!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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River Town Adventures is excited to partner with J & K Steamboat Company, the same company who brought Lansing the Michigan Princess Riverboat at Grand River Park. The Grand Princess Riverboat is a double-decked riverboat that can cruise effortlessly along the Grand River in Downtown Lansing. Rent the Riverboat for your next event, or ride along for one of our River Taxi events. Perfect for corporate events, family groups, fundraisers, and more!

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• 530 River Street,   Lansing ,  MI   48933    (517) 253-7523

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Grand Lady Riverboat - What to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

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Grand Rapids Riverfront Tour

Hidden Artwork

Fascinating Stories

Native American History

Walk Through History Over the Grand River

The Grand River was important 2,000 years ago to Native Americans and a vital part of helping expand West Michigan. It is still changing as Grand Rapids becomes even more popular as a place people want to relax and enjoy experiences. Join us on our Riverfront Tour as we walk through river history and explore big plans for the future of the Grand River downtown.

Walk along the banks of the river and appreciate the fine architecture, from historic to modern.

Learn about how the river has influenced artwork and development in Grand Rapids.

Discover stories of Native American history, log jams, and what happened to the rapids the city is named after.

Find hidden artwork and historical sites with the help from your expert guide.

Click the Tabs to Find out More

Experience details, the details.

• Person (Over 5 years): $30
• Children 5 and under: Free

Departure Time

Meeting point.

Lyon Square, 296 Lyon NW, Grand Rapids (where Lyon St meets the Grand River behind Amway Grand Plaza Hotel)

Availability

Mon-Sun, year-round

2 miles approx.

Min. 4 – max. 20 people

1 professional tour guide

Not Included

What to bring.

• Comfortable shoes
• Dress for the weather (layers in winter)

Participation Requirements

Guests should be comfortable with walking 2 miles

About Your Guide

Certified tourism ambassador guide

What You'll Do & See

On our Riverfront Tour, learn what happened to the rapids that gave the city its name. We’ll walk along the river bank exploring the themes of the river that shaped our city into what it is today. You’ll find out about how the Grand Rapids economy is jumping the river to the Westside.

We’ll explore hidden art and riverside attractions that demonstrate how our lives are centered around this body of water. We may even spot some wildlife that loves our river as much as we do!

See What Our Previous Guests Have Said...

Christine hartges | october 2020, google reviews.

She led us on a walking tour of Grand Rapids while providing interesting architectural, historical, and stories of ghostly characters. Candice has obviously done her homework investigating the shadowy characters and has gathered first-hand accounts from current employees in many of the buildings. We will absolutely be taking another tour from Tours around Michigan!

Debbie Villarreal | October 2020

Facebook reviews.

Candice was an excellent guide! I’ve lived near Grand Rapids and never knew all the history of these beautiful buildings downtown. I can’t wait to go again. I highly recommend her tour she has some great stories. Thank you Candice!

Brittnie Finkbeiner | November 2020

Candice was passionate, knowledgeable and kept the tour exciting. Def will take another tour soon.

Dave Bucher | September 2020

Candace was a wonderful guide. Very knowledgeable, made the tour very fun and interesting.

You May Also Like...

City tour grand rapids, grand rapids church tour, grand rapids art tour.

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Lenger Travel Center in Grand Rapids: Let us put our experience to work for you!

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3 fishermen rescued from Grand River after boat overturns

G RAND RAPIDS, MI – Three fishermen were rescued from the Grand River after their boat got caught in the Sixth Street Dam’s current and overturned on Friday, March 8.

Crews were dispatched to the water rescue at 11:58 p.m. Friday at the Sixth Street Dam on the Grand River, Grand Rapids Fire Capt. Bill Smith told MLive/The Grand Rapids Press.

The three boaters had taken their fishing boat out on the river Friday morning, when they got too close to the Sixth Street Dam and their boat was sucked into the dam’s current, said Battalion Chief Scott Stevenson.

Their boat quickly filled with water and capsized, throwing all three passengers into the river, he said.

Nearby boaters helped pull all three victims out of the water and brought them to shore, Stevenson said.

One of the victims was submerged underwater for about two minutes, and he was unresponsive when he was pulled out. The bystanders performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on him until first responders arrived, and he was resuscitated, Stevenson said.

Two of the victims were taken to a local hospital to be further evaluated, but all three were alive and awake, Smith said.

Crews were still at the scene working to recover the capsized boat at 2 p.m. on Friday.

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