Set sail on the Ohio River for an evening of dining, live music, and riverfront views aboard the historic Belle of Louisville. Discover why this unique dinner cruise is a highlight of Louisville’s outdoor offerings.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical activity required; suitable for most fitness levels
Wildlife
History
The Belle of Louisville has been operating since 1914, serving as a key piece of Louisville’s river transportation history.
Conservation
The cruise company emphasizes sustainable practices, including waste reduction and energy-efficient operations to protect the Ohio River ecosystem.
Belle of Louisville
Set sail on the Ohio River for an evening of dining, live music, and riverfront views aboard the historic Belle of Louisville. Discover why this unique dinner cruise is a highlight of Louisville’s outdoor offerings.
Belle of Louisville is a riverboat operator based in Louisville, Kentucky, offering a variety of public cruises and themed events aboard two vessels: the Belle and the Mary M. Miller. Departing from the Ohio River waterfront, the business presents family-friendly excursions, 21+ specialty cruises, narrated lock passages, and seasonal holiday events. Cruises range from two-hour sunset and throwback music trips to three-hour engineering-focused passages through the McAlpine Locks.
Onboard experiences include organized activities for children—such as pirate-themed trick-or-treating, S.T.E.A.M. crafts, and silent disco headphones—and adult-focused evenings with live jazz, cocktail classes, and costume contests. Several departures offer optional boxed lunches, meal upgrades, or build-your-own taco bars to complement the river views. The Mary M. Miller and the Belle host themed events like kids pirate cruises, Krampus holiday outings, Sunday FunDay meals, #GirlsNightOut celebrations, and prohibition-era speakeasy parties.
The company emphasizes memorable riverfront experiences and local culture while providing narrated historical context during lock cruises and scenic river passages. Ticketing typically allows families, groups, and adult-only attendees to choose featured sailings that match age and interest. Public schedules include recurring themed nights, holiday specials, and seasonal programs that highlight Louisville’s waterfront and community events. Reservations, ticket types, and boarding details are provided through the operator’s official channels.
Staff and crew follow published safety procedures, provide boarding information and accessibility options, and share scheduling updates; groups can reserve private charters or book public sailings for holidays, educational outings, and casual sightseeing along the Ohio River near downtown Louisville waterfront destinations and neighborhoods.
Location
Louisville, KY
Departures on the Ohio River waterfront
Tours Offered
11
Range of short & multi-hour cruises
Audience
Kids & 21+
Family activities and adult evenings
Vessels
Belle & Mary M. Miller
Two named riverboats in service
Select a family-friendly kids cruise or an adult-focused themed sailing and secure tickets for an unforgettable Ohio River experience.
Arrive early to secure a good seating spot
Getting on board a bit before departure ensures the best views and seating for a memorable experience.
Dress comfortably but appropriately for the weather
Evenings on the water can be cooler; bring layers or a light jacket especially in colder months.
Bring a camera or smartphone for photos
Capture the stunning skyline and river views from the boat’s decks.
Reserve tickets in advance
Popular cruises often sell out, so booking ahead secures your spot on the boat.
Warm jacket or layers
Dressing in layers keeps you comfortable during the cruise, especially in the evenings.
fall,winter
Camera or smartphone
Capture scenic river views and city lights from the deck.
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Protect your skin and eyes during daytime cruises on sunnier days.
summer
Comfortable footwear
Wear shoes suitable for standing on the deck for an extended period.