As we progress into the summer a bit further, we realize that it’s starting to wind down a bit. Back to school shopping is in full swing, students are thinking about buying books and cool swag to deck out their rooms.

But hold up. We’re getting ahead of ourselves here. There’s plenty of time left for summer fun.

Who doesn’t enjoy hanging out on a boat? Just letting the gentle rocking of the boat lull us into a blissful state of relaxation. Sounds good, right?

How about using one of the remaining days of summer to take a cruise on one of the Padelford Riverboats? Stationed on St. Paul’s Harriet Island on the Mississippi River, the Padelford Riverboats offer a variety of both public and private cruises, as well as featured cruises. Right now featured cruises include Summer Dinner Cruises, and Happy Hour Cruises throughout the week.

Summer Dinner Cruises include a dinner of baked manicotti, pot roast with carrots and onions, roasted vegetables, campfire potatoes, caesar salad, breadsticks, dessert and coffee. Enjoy a beautiful evening, the great scenery, and gentle breezes while watching the sun set across the Minnesota sky. Sunday cruises are 5 to 7pm, and Sunset Cruises are Tuesday and Friday from 7 to 9pm. Save a few bucks when you buy tickets online.

Happy Hour Cruises happen Monday and Wednesday nights. Happy Hour boarding is at 4:30, with the cruise 5:30 to 7pm. Monday night offers complimentary hotdogs and brats as well as 2-for-1 beers. See the public cruise calendar for dates. Also, get your tickets online for a discount on the Beer & Brats Cruise.

Wednesday nights are 2-for-1 Margarita nights with complimentary taco bar to get you through your mid-week. Get your tickets online, and once again save a few bucks.

Other great cruises featured include Showboat Theatre, Lunch and Lock Cruise, Sunday Lunch Cruise, Daily Sightseeing Cruises, and so much more.

Padelford also offers booking tours for private events such as school proms, corporate meetings, weddings, school field trips, or almost anything else you could think of.

Group rates are available for groups of 25 or more. Requires advance payment. Please call (651) 227-1100 or (800) 543-3908 (out-state) for more information.

For all cruises available, tickets, cruise times, calendars, and other information, visit www.riverrides.com.