Ride a van down Front Street with historian James Landis and hear the rowdy, intimate, and surprising stories that made Marietta a canal-era crossroads. This one-hour tour pairs riverfront views with social history for an accessible cultural outing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required; participants must be able to step up into the van and stand briefly for boarding.
Wildlife
History
Marietta’s Front Street grew during the Pennsylvania Canal era when the Eastern Division funneled goods and people past the town; taverns served transient boat crews and local communities alike.
Conservation
Stick to sidewalks and established paths along the riverfront to protect fragile bank vegetation; local groups monitor erosion and historical fabric preservation.
Susquehanna National Heritage Area
The Susquehanna National Heritage Area in Columbia, Pennsylvania curates public programs and guided experiences that spotlight the Susquehanna River's cultural and natural heritage. Serving Columbia and the surrounding river corridor, the organization presents a mix of boat tours, seasonal festivals, author programs, guided walks, and historic-site tours designed for visitors of all ages.
Signature offerings include heritage cruises aboard the historic Chief Uncas — a 112-year-old electric wooden launch — sunset and themed boat tours, and the River Discovery Boat Tour, all led by knowledgeable guides who interpret the river’s stories. Seasonal highlights include RIVERFEST events such as the “Paddle the Battle” kayak tour and the community-focused “Kindling Kickoff,” which features live music, hands-on activities, and family-friendly entertainment.
The Susquehanna National Heritage Area also hosts cultural programs like Riverside Reads, an author talk series held in scenic, historic settings, and seasonal nature programs such as the Spring Bird Walk in Native Lands County Park. Public tours of the Mifflin House introduce visitors to a historic Underground Railroad site and provide an early look at the planned Susquehanna Discovery Center & Heritage Park.
All programming emphasizes accurate historical interpretation and safe, accessible experiences on and along the Susquehanna River. Visitors are encouraged to review event details and reserve spots in advance, especially for small-capacity boat cruises and guided paddles.
Location
Columbia, PA
Situated on the Susquehanna River
Historic Vessel
Chief Uncas — 112 years
Electric wooden launch with cruises
Tours Offered
10 experiences
Boat, kayak, walks and events
Max Capacity
16 passengers
Chief Uncas sunset cruise limit
Book a Chief Uncas cruise, kayak history tour, or Riverfest event — seasonal dates and small-group spots fill quickly.
Step-up access only
The tour vehicle requires stepping up into the van; the tour is not ADA accessible so plan accordingly.
Dress for the river breeze
Front Street runs beside the Susquehanna — bring a windbreaker or light jacket even on warm days.
Bring a notebook or phone
James Landis names dates and places; record details if you want to follow up at local archives or museums.
Combine with a walk
Pair the hour-long tour with a post-tour stroll along the canal bank to inspect the façades up close.
Windbreaker or light jacket
Protects against riverfront wind and variable weather.
spring
Smartphone or camera
Capture details of façades, canal remnants, and the riverfront views.
Comfortable shoes
Street surfaces and short walks around the meeting point are uneven in places.
Pocket notebook
Jot down names, dates, and places mentioned during the narration.