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I&M Boat Tour

About this event

Join us for a thrilling drive in our Jaguars as we embark on a picturesque journey starting at 8:30 from behind The Buttermilk Cale, 7 W State St, Geneva, IL 60134 to Lasalle. Our destination? The I&M Canal Visitor Center in LaSalle, IL, where we'll experience a unique boat ride powered by mules.

We'll start our adventure at 8:45 am, cruising through beautiful back roads, covering a distance of about 70 miles. Arriving at the visitor center at 11:00 am, we'll indulge in a fascinating exploration of the history of the I&M Canal. This historical waterway played a significant role in the development of the region, and we'll have the opportunity to learn all about it.

We will then board the one-hour "mule-powered" boat, gliding through the canal. This traditional method of transportation gives us an authentic experience of the past, grasping the importance of the canal in shaping the area.

Following the boat ride, we'll have a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant. Lunch is not included in the registration fee. Once we've satisfied our hunger, you'll have the freedom to either explore the surroundings at your leisure or find your own way home.

For proper arrangements and reservations, we kindly request you to sign up before April 10th, ensuring that we have an accurate headcount for the trip. Don't miss out on this unforgettable day filled with scenic drives, historical insights, and a unique mule-powered boat ride. Join us on this journey through time and reserve your spot now.



Relive the fateful turning point in our history that led to a new era of transportation and the growth of our region by taking a trip on The Volunteer, our Canal Boat. This vessel is not only a replica of those from the 1840s. It also runs on the same energy source: mule power!

Your journey includes: a “Mule Tending 101” class in which you’ll meet Moe the Mule, interact with crew of period dressed guides, hear tales of the canal’s heyday and enjoy a 60-90 minute boat ride. 

Start with “Mule Tending 101” in which you’ll learn what it’s like to care for a mule and get to meet our star.
Be regaled with tales of the canal and interact with our period-dressed guide, deck hand, mule tender and boat captain
Enjoy a short, scenic trip as you cruise one mile up the canal and then back

Date and Time

Saturday, May 17, 2025, 8:30 AM until 2:00 PM

Location

I&M Canal Visitor Center
https://iandmcanal.org/
754 First Street
LaSalle, IL  61301
USA

Additional Info

Event Contact(s)

Glenn Barickman

Category

Drive

Registration Info

Registration is required
Payment In Full In Advance Only

Number of People Who Will Attend

Non IJC Member *
$25.00
Guest of a Non IJC Member
$25.00
* This can be your primary registrant type. Only one primary registrant type is allowed per registration.
Register Now