Great Falls Canal Boat Rides

 
Charles F. Mercer replica packet boat in Lock 20
Charles F. Mercer replica canal boat docked in front of Great Falls Tavern

NPS Photo

Enjoy a Mule-Drawn Boat Ride

Journey back in time to the 1870s and ride a boat pulled by mules. Rise eight feet in a lock and hear staff in period clothing describe life for the people living, working, and floating on the canal.

Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center

11710 MacArthur Blvd
Potomac, MD 20854
301-767-3714


Purchase tickets and board the boat at the Great Fall Tavern Visitor Center

  • $8.00 for adults (ages 16–61)

  • $6.00 for seniors (ages 62+)
  • $5.00 for children (ages 4–15).
  • Children aged three and under ride free.
  • Program lasts approximately one hour.
  • The boat holds 65 people
  • Seats are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
  • Ten or more people are required to make advance reservations for the boat ride. To reserve, call the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center or stop by when the visitor center is open. If you call after operating hours, leave a message and park staff will confirm your reservation details. Please speak with a ranger before the day of your requested boat tour.

Boat programs not operating at this time please contact the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center for more information.

Please call the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center as special circumstances may affect this schedule.

Spring
  • April through May
    Saturday and Sunday
    11 am, 1:30 pm, and 3 pm
Summer
  • June through September
    Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
    11 am, 1:30 pm, and 3 pm
Fall
  • September through October
    Saturday and Sunday
    11 am, 1:30 pm, and 3 pm

Visit Field Trips for programs both on and off the canal boat.


 
 

Last updated: March 12, 2021

Contact the Park

Mailing Address:

142 W. Potomac St.
Williamsport, MD 21795

Phone:

301-739-4200

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