St. Croix River Cruises: Hudson's Top Dinner & Sightseeing Trips - Minneapolis

St. Croix River Cruises: Hudson's Top Dinner & Sightseeing Trips

Minneapoliseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.5–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; largely sedentary with light walking

Overview

Discover Hudson’s St. Croix River from the decks of St. Croix River Cruises. From festive dinner rides to scenic fall color tours, this local favorite offers waterfront adventure with a culinary twist.

Details

Hudson, Wisconsin, sits along the scenic banks of the St. Croix River, offering a unique blend of tranquil river views and vibrant seasonal activity. St. Croix River Cruises brings this landscape alive with a diverse lineup of themed boat trips ranging from sunset dinners to lively fireworks cruises. These intimate journeys on the water offer a practical yet memorable way to engage with the natural beauty and community spirit of the St. Croix Valley.

What sets St. Croix River Cruises apart is its mix of casual dining and local events aboard a comfortable vessel equipped for all-weather enjoyment. Guests can choose from a laid-back Fajita & Margarita Cruise featuring unbeatable drink specials or indulge in an Italian Sunset Dinner Cruise as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow along the riverbanks. Seasonal highlights include the Hudson Fireworks Cruises held on July 6 and Stillwater’s Fourth of July display, both offering spectacular nighttime views framed by the reflective river surface.

Throughout the year, the cruises accommodate various festive themes — from Hawaiian Luau buffets and Oktoberfest beer dinners to tasteful Sunday brunches and special holiday celebrations like Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch. One of the area’s standout experiences is the Fall Colors Cruise, where guests absorb the fiery hues of changing leaves along the river’s edge during a 1.5-hour voyage.

The cruises emphasize accessibility and community, making the river accessible for special occasions such as class reunions or charity fundraisers. Staff members typically bring a friendly energy to the experience, ensuring visitors have attentive service while soaking in the panoaromic views of the St. Croix’s limestone bluffs, wooded shoreline, and migratory birdlife.

For anyone seeking an approachable way to connect with Hudson’s outdoors without high-effort hiking or paddling, St. Croix River Cruises offers an inviting riverfront perspective that celebrates the region’s natural rhythms and cultural calendar in every season.

Adventure Tips

Book Early for Specialty Cruises

Popular themed cruises like the Fireworks or Fall Colors can sell out fast—reserve your spot well in advance.

Dress in Layers

Even summer evenings on the river can get cool; pack a light jacket to stay comfortable on deck.

Arrive 15 Minutes Early

Dock congestion and boarding procedures run smoother when guests arrive ahead of departure time.

Accessibility May Vary

While staff assist guests with mobility needs, boarding ramps can be tricky—call ahead to discuss accommodations.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Bluffs of Prescott overlook
  • Quiet side channels near Willow River

Wildlife

  • Bald eagles
  • Great blue herons

History

Hudson originated as a trading post in the mid-1800s, sitting at the confluence of the St. Croix and Mississippi Rivers.

Conservation

Local efforts focus on protecting river water quality and maintaining shoreline habitats for native wildlife along the St. Croix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Late afternoon
Early evening

Best Viewpoints

  • Upper deck overlooking river bends
  • Sunset-facing windows on the starboard side
  • Bow of the boat during daytime cruises

What to Photograph

River landscapes
Sunsets over the water
Wild birds in flight

Recommended Gear

Light Jacket

Essential

Keeps you warm during cool river breezes on open decks.

fall|spring|summer specific

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin from UV exposure during daytime cruises.

spring|summer|fall specific

Camera

Captures the scenic river views, wildlife, and sunset moments.

Comfortable Non-Slip Shoes

Essential

Helps with safe boarding and movement around the boat.

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