Belle of Louisville

The Belle of Louisville is a historic steamboat that operates seasonal cruises on the Ohio River from the wharf at 401 West River Road, by Waterfront Park in Downtown Louisville, Kentucky. The paddlewheel boat is a rare surviving example of a river steamer still in regular passenger service, and a ride gives visitors a view of the Louisville skyline, the bridges and the working river that shaped the city. Cruise options include the Sunday Funday cruise, the Sunset and Moonlight cruises and the Steamboat Supper cruise, each offering a different mix of scenery, music and dining. Passengers can walk the decks, watch the paddlewheel turn and hear the sound of the steam calliope on some outings. Cruise durations run between about one and two and a half hours. The boat follows a seasonal schedule posted on the calendar at belleoflouisville.org, and no fall or winter 2026 schedule is shown on the main page, so checking the calendar or calling 502-574-2992 before planning is important. Fares start from $24.99 USD for the Sunday Funday cruise, $34.99 USD for the Sunset and Moonlight cruises and $62.99 USD for the Steamboat Supper, per the official site, and bookings run through fareharbor.com. Sunset cruises in warm months are the most popular and fill early, while weekday daytime cruises are calmer. Paid parking is available near the wharf, and the dock is walkable from Downtown hotels and the Big Four Bridge. Photographers favor the paddlewheel, the skyline from the river and the sunset light. Visitors should dress for breezes on the open decks and arrive early to board. The cruise suits couples, families and anyone who wants a different view of the city, and booking ahead is wise for evening departures.