We’re sticking close to home this summer and looking for more local things to see and do. One item that has been on my summer bucket list for years is a ride aboard The Edmonton Riverboat, so we were excited to finally check it off!
After an epic month-long road trip last summer, this year has felt a little lacklustre by comparison. You’d think working for Family Fun Edmonton would make finding family fun easy, but as my kids have gotten older, they’re definitely harder to impress. With my 16-year-old working his first job and everyone’s schedules pulling us in different directions, finding something we can all enjoy together takes a little more effort.
So when we had the chance to hop aboard the Edmonton Riverboat for a morning brunch cruise, it felt like the perfect excuse to slow down, spend some time together and enjoy a little Edmonton summer fun. And, as a HUGE bonus, we got an absolutely perfect sunny summer day to enjoy — one of seemingly few this summer!
Edmonton’s Iconic Riverboat
What better way to experience the city than from the water? Our Sunday morning cruise offered spectacular views of the downtown skyline and river valley, with plenty of opportunities to step outside and take in the scenery. Inside, the beautifully renovated boat was comfortable and inviting, making it easy to settle in and enjoy the morning.
The Edmonton Queen has been cruising the North Saskatchewan River since 1995, making it a longtime part of Edmonton’s riverfront. After sitting unused for several years, the riverboat got a new lease on life following a change in ownership in 2024 and a million-dollar renovation. While the interior now feels fresh and modern, the paddlewheel remains. Watching it turn as you cruise along the river adds to the fun and gives the experience that classic riverboat feel.
Several years ago, we did a raft float down the North Saskatchewan and were a little sad to see the Riverboat sitting unused near Fort Edmonton. It was exciting to see it back on the water and experience another float down the North Saskatchewan in something slightly more luxurious than our rubber raft!
Choose Your Cruise
We did the Brunch Buffet Cruise, which includes a meal and a 90-minute ride. The buffet was plentiful, with plenty of variety for our family, including several gluten-free options for my daughter. Our favourites were the eggs benedict and salmon, and the dessert table was filled with tempting pastries. My daughter was disappointed she couldn’t try those, but luckily there was fresh fruit to satisfy her sweet tooth.
There are several other ways to experience the Edmonton Riverboat throughout the season. Cruise Only tickets include the 90-minute river cruise, with an à la carte menu available for purchase onboard. Special Event Cruises add food and entertainment, with options ranging from Dueling Pianos to holiday celebrations. If you want to catch one of the popular special event cruises, sign up for the Edmonton Riverboat’s newsletter for event announcements, booking alerts and occasional flash sales.
With dinner, brunch and sunset options available, the Riverboat would also make a fun choice for a birthday, anniversary or other special occasion. A sunset cruise overlooking the river valley would make for a very memorable date night!
A Different View of Edmonton
There’s something special about seeing Edmonton from the North Saskatchewan River. Familiar landmarks look completely different from the water, and the slower pace made it easy to sit back and enjoy the scenery. Music playing throughout the boat added to the relaxed, casual atmosphere.
For our family, the Riverboat was a reminder that summer adventures don’t always require a road trip. After years of putting together lists of things for Edmonton families to see and do, it felt pretty good to finally check this one off our own summer bucket list — and make a family memory while doing it.
Sometimes the best summer adventures are waiting right here in our own backyard.
The Edmonton Riverboat:
Where: Rafters Landing – Henrietta Muir Edwards Park
Address: 9734 98 Ave NW, Edmonton (map)
Phone: 780-424-2628
Website: edmontonriverboat.ca
The author would like to thank The Edmonton Riverboat for hosting this experience.
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