Information
Landmark: Pride of Susquehanna RiverboatCity: Harrisburg
Country: USA Pennsylvania
Continent: North America
Pride of Susquehanna Riverboat, Harrisburg, USA Pennsylvania, North America
Overview
The Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat, with its bright red paddlewheel churning the water, is a historic landmark cruising the Susquehanna River in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.You get a rare mix of history, lively sights, entertainment, and learning here, all in one place-no wonder it’s among the area’s favorite spots, with street musicians playing just around the corner.Launched in 1988, the Pride of the Susquehanna was built as a faithful echo of the grand paddlewheel riverboats that cruised America’s waterways in the late 1800s, their red wheels churning the river into froth.Twin stern paddlewheels churn the water, driving the boat forward and helping it turn, just like a true riverboat.The interior captures the era’s elegance with rich mahogany woodwork, gleaming brass and copper fittings, and doors once swinging on the historic RMS Queen Mary, carrying a faint scent of salt and varnish.The riverboat sits permanently tied up at City Island in Harrisburg, a lively spot where you can hear kids laughing near the ball fields.From the boat, passengers take in the Susquehanna’s glinting water, Harrisburg’s skyline rising ahead, and the green sweep of trees along the shore.The Pride offers a mix of cruises and experiences for all kinds of interests and occasions.Daily sightseeing tours last about 45 minutes and glide along the water during the warmer months-Memorial Day to Labor Day-with a few crisp weekend rides stretching into early fall.From the cool, air‑conditioned main salon or the breezy open deck, passengers can take in narrated views of the river and city landmarks-like the clock tower’s gleaming face catching the afternoon sun.You can grab light refreshments and a few snacks onboard-maybe a crisp apple or a warm cup of tea.All year long, the riverboat rolls out a variety of themed cruises-murder mystery dinners with flickering candlelight, lively jazz nights, wine-and-cheese tastings, festive holiday trips, and family favorites like pirate parties and princess voyages.These events blend lively entertainment with the warm, nostalgic charm of a historic paddlewheel boat, where you can hear the steady churn of the wheel against the water.Every Saturday morning, the “Susquehanna River School” sets off for a 75‑minute lesson on the water, turning its boat into a floating classroom.The program dives into the Susquehanna River’s ecology, history, and ongoing conservation work, giving students, families, and nature lovers a rich resource-like hearing the rush of its waters while learning the stories they carry.You can book The Pride for private events-weddings, corporate gatherings, family reunions, and more.Picture toasting under the string lights as the river drifts past.With its old-world charm and sweeping views of the river glinting in the sun, it’s a place you won’t forget for a celebration.The riverboat seats up to 160 passengers, with room to stretch out and watch the water ripple past.The main salon is air‑conditioned, with comfortable seating and wide windows that frame sweeping views.The upper deck’s open design lets you breathe in fresh air while the river stretches wide and clear before you.The onboard galley offers snacks and hot coffee.Restrooms, with clean sinks and paper towel dispensers.Boarding ramps make it easy for guests with disabilities to get on board safely.In 2024, the Pride of the Susquehanna stayed docked, its engine quiet, while crews tackled much-needed maintenance and repairs.The Harrisburg Area Riverboat Society, a nonprofit that runs the boat, has been hard at work keeping it safe and in good shape, tightening bolts and polishing rails to help it last for years.They plan to restart operations in the 2025 season, and you’ll find schedules and booking details through their official site-right down to the exact departure times.You can find visitor information at City Island in Harrisburg, PA 17101, or call (717) 234‑6500.The season usually runs from late spring into early fall, though maintenance can shift the dates.Ticket prices depend on the cruise you choose, with deals for seniors, kids, and military members.The Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat isn’t just a boat-it’s a living slice of history, its bright red paddlewheel churning up the river as it carries the charm and adventure of classic river travel into the present.You can take it for a relaxed sightseeing trip, a lively themed cruise, a hands-on educational outing, or even a private celebration, and each offers a fresh way to soak in the Susquehanna’s wide, glinting waters and Harrisburg’s rich history.The nonprofit behind it works to keep this historic treasure safe, polishing its wooden railings and making sure people can enjoy it for generations.
