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Meander on the Mississippi

Learn about the confluence of FMR’s land and water programs while exploring the Mississippi River on a paddle boat through Lock and Dam #1.

By Friends of the Mississippi River

Location

Watergate Marina

2500 Crosby Farm Road Saint Paul, MN 55116

Refund Policy

No refunds

Agenda

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM

Morning Cruise Check-In

Please join us then for check-in. You do not need to print a physical ticket.

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Morning Cruise Boarding

Boarding starts promptly at 10:30 am.

11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Morning Magnolia Blossom Cruise

The Magnolia Blossom will leave port at 11:00 am and not return to the marina until 1:00 pm. We will not be able to pick up people that arrive late or let people off the boat early.

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM

Afternoon Cruise Check-In

Please join us for check-in. You do not need to print a ticket.

2:30 PM - 3:00 PM

Afternoon Cruise Boarding

Boarding will start promptly at 2:30pm.

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Afternoon Magnolia Blossom Cruise

The Magnolia Blossom will leave port at 3:00 pm and not return to the marina until 5:00 pm. We will not be able to pick up people that arrive late or let people off the boat early.

About this event

This event is the third of four social events in 2025 to raise funds for Friends of the Mississippi River's Our River Campaign.

Enjoy a beautiful fall boat ride on the historic Magnolia Blossom paddleboat through Lock & Dam #1. Friends of the Mississippi River's Land Use & Planning Program Director Colleen O'Connor Toberman and Board Chair Dr. John Anfinson will discuss FMR's work along the river corridor. You will hear about the planned disposition studies of the locks, cleanup plans for Ford Area C toxic waste dump and River Guardian advocacy work. Bring your binoculars to catch glimpses of Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons, and other wildlife enjoying the river.

Each ticket includes a ride through Lock and Dam #1, light brunch from Native Harvest Catering, owned and operated by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, and an open beer/wine bar. The afternoon cruise will enjoy light appetizers and desserts.

Please note that all ticket sales are final. No refunds, exchanges, or resale of tickets are permitted. Each attendee must possess a ticket.

Questions or accessibility concerns? Please contact Allyson Petry at apetry@fmr.org or 651-477-0935.

Frequently asked questions

Is there free parking?

Yes, there is a parking lot at Watergate Marina and Crosby Farm Regional Park. The Magnolia Blossom Cruise and Friends of the Mississippi River will have signs indicating where to park. Please carpool to reduce the event's carbon footprint.

What if it is raining?

Unless there is extreme weather, the ride will go on according to the Magnolia Blossom's policies. The majority of seats on the boat are under cover.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Technically, yes. The lower deck is accessible by wheelchair, while the upper deck is only accessible by stairs. The ramp from the parking lot is very steep. There is a threshold to cross to get inside the bathroom and tables. Please contact Allyson if you have more questions, 651-477-0935.

Organized by

Friends of the Mississippi River

FMR works to protect, restore and enhance the Mississippi River in the Twin Cities area.

Learn more and check out our full calendar of events at FMR.org.

$107.48