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Celebration River Cruises

About

A journey along the majestic Mississippi aboard a comfortable riverboat is exactly what Celebration River Cruises offers. Located in the city of Moline, this popular tourist attraction lets you see the legendary USA river in all its glory. The main star here is the vessel Celebration Belle, which is famous for its well-maintained condition, spacious decks, and hospitable atmosphere.

Celebration River Cruises. Source: Kupi.com AI

This is not just a trip on the water, but a true family business where every guest is treated with special attention. Cruises range from short sightseeing tours to full lunch and dinner voyages with entertainment programs. The riverboat serves as a versatile venue, ideal for everything from romantic dates to large corporate events or weddings against the backdrop of picturesque shores.

A unique feature of these cruises is the opportunity to view the Midwest region from an unusual perspective. The captain often narrates the route with interesting stories about local landmarks, while the crew creates a festive mood. High ratings and positive reviews confirm that this is one of the most significant spots for those who want to experience the spirit of real America on the water.

Contacts

If you are planning to book tickets or want to clarify details for an upcoming trip, please use the company's official contact information. The office and dock are conveniently located right on the riverfront, making them easily accessible for all visitors to the city.

Address 2501 River Dr, Moline, IL 61265, USA
Phone +1 309-764-1952, +1 800-297-0034
Website http://www.celebrationbelle.com/

What to Do

On board the vessel, an extensive program awaits you, where culinary delights are paired with vibrant shows. One of the main highlights is the dinner cruises, where guests are offered a lavish buffet: from succulent prime rib with horseradish to baked chicken and a variety of side dishes. The meal is accompanied by live music—professional performers delight listeners with country classics, Fleetwood Mac hits, and even patriotic melodies.

Active travelers will love the atmosphere on the dance floor. The riverboat staff is known for their energy: waiters often join guests for spontaneous dances, and sing-alongs to popular songs bring everyone together. For those seeking something unique, themed cruises are offered, such as "dueling pianos" shows or evening cruises featuring holiday fireworks.

If you prefer quiet contemplation, spend some time on the open decks. They offer breathtaking views of the Mississippi banks, which are especially impressive during the autumn foliage. There is also a gift shop on board with commemorative souvenirs and a cash bar where you can order refreshing drinks while the captain tells fascinating stories about life on the great river.

Getting There

Getting to the dock where Celebration River Cruises depart is quite simple, as it is located in the central part of the riverfront. The main route for drivers is River Drive—the primary road running along the Mississippi River. Parking is available nearby for those traveling by car, making it convenient for both individual tourists and large tour groups arriving by bus.

If you are arriving from other regions, the nearest air hub is Quad City International Airport, located in Moline. A trip from the airport to the boarding site takes only about 10 minutes by taxi. You can also use local rideshare services like Uber for a quick trip from the city center.

For those who prefer public transportation, there are local bus routes connecting various parts of the city to the center. From the nearest stops, you can reach the dock on foot in just a few minutes while enjoying views of the river. It is recommended to arrive at the site in advance to comfortably complete the boarding procedure and secure the best spots on deck.

History & Facts

This popular project on the Mississippi River is a classic example of a successful family business. Over the years, the owners have preserved the traditions of Midwestern hospitality, focusing on creating a cozy and heartfelt atmosphere. The traditional riverboat Celebration Belle has become an integral part of the landscape and a vital element of the region's tourism infrastructure.

Interestingly, the company's history is inextricably linked to the development of river tourism. The owners have constantly expanded the entertainment program, turning simple sightseeing trips into full-scale shows. This is where traditions of themed evenings, such as the popular "dueling pianos" shows or holiday cruises with fireworks, originated, attracting guests from all over the country.

The Celebration Belle is maintained in impeccable technical and aesthetic condition. Although it is a modern vessel, it is designed to evoke nostalgia for the golden age of river travel. Today, it is recognized as one of the best venues for hosting milestone events—from major anniversaries to corporate parties—continuing to write the history of entertainment on the great American river.

Time Needed

When planning your visit to this attraction, you should focus on the duration of your chosen cruise. Most standard lunch or dinner cruises last between 2 and 3 hours. However, the total time you should budget for your schedule is about 4 hours, allowing you to check in without rushing, enjoy the boarding process, and leisurely depart the vessel after the trip ends.

For those choosing special themed cruises or full-day excursions, 5 to 6 hours may be required. This is an ideal "half-day" option that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the river atmosphere without overloading the rest of your travel itinerary. Be sure to factor in travel time to and from the dock.

Working Hours

The cruise schedule depends directly on the season and the type of cruise selected. Operations usually begin at 08:00 and continue into the evening: until 19:30 or 21:00 on weekdays, and until 19:00 on Sundays. However, keep in mind that cruises run on a strict schedule, and the boat departs exactly at the appointed time.

Since Celebration River Cruises are very popular, booking in advance is mandatory. It is recommended to check the current schedule on the official website before your trip, as operating hours may change depending on weather conditions and private events.

Nearby

A stroll through the surrounding area after your cruise can be a great addition to your day. The riverfront district offers many interesting locations where you can relax in the shade of parks or stop by cozy establishments with water views.

Exploring nearby attractions will allow you to better feel the city's atmosphere and see interesting historical and cultural sites within walking distance of the dock.

Attraction Distance (km)
Lou Ramirez Memorial Bench 0.4
Turtle island 0.4
Caxton Block 1.3
Riverside Grille 1.5
River House Bar & Grill 1.6
Lincoln Park Splash Pad 1.9
Bustout Live Escape Game 2.0
Deere-Wiman House 2.5
Butterworth Center and Deere-Wiman House 2.6
William Butterworth Trust C 2.6

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