Skip to main content
Weddings

About

On your wedding day, imagine cruising up the mighty Mississippi River on a beautiful riverboat. Everyone you love is enjoying the gentle breeze, good conversation and music which fills the air. While the sun sets across the Minnesota sky, memories of your perfect day are being created that will last a lifetime.

The Padelford Riverboat Company has been providing memories for brides and grooms for over 40 years. Ceremonies, receptions, groom’s dinners and rehearsal dinners have all taken place aboard our boats, which accommodate up to 600 guests. Enclosure of our boats, as well as heat and air conditioning guarantees that you will go out rain or shine. Unlike other riverboats and reception facilities, we do NOT charge an 18-25% service fee and there is no tipping--it is our pleasure to serve you.

Looking for a place during the winter months? The University of Minnesota Showboat and Event Center is available September through May. This permanently moored boat has heating and air-conditioning with two Victorian reception rooms that adjoin a magnificent 219 seat theater, which is perfect for a wedding ceremony. The grand staircase is ideal for photographs.

Let the Padelford create memories for you, call 651-227-1100 or email info@riverrides.com today!

Compliments of the Padelford Boat Company
  • White linens, china and flatware
  • Dance floor, microphone
  • Fully stocked cash bar
  • High quality food and service by Mintáhoe Catering
  • Free parking
illustration popular

Venues you may like

See other venues that are popular with couples right now

Frequently asked questions

Which of the following are included in starting site fee?

Chairs
Tables

Which of the following are included in the cost of wedding catering?

Dessert

What is the starting price per person for bar service?

$5

Which of the following are included in the starting price for bar service?

Bartender(s)

How many event spaces or rooms does your venue offer?

3

Describe your venue:

Boat/Yacht

What kind of settings are available?

Indoor
Covered Outdoor

Which of the following wedding events does your venue service?

Ceremony
Reception
Bridal Shower
Engagement Party

What event services do you offer?

Event Planner
Event Rentals

What catering services do you offer?

Buffet
Cocktail Reception
Dessert
Hors d'oeuvres
Outside Cake

What bar services do you provide?

Bartender(s)
Cash Bar
Champagne Toast
House Beer
House Liquor
House Wine
Liquor License
Open Bar
Premium Liquor

What event items are available?

Chairs
Dance Floor
Tables

What food and beverage items are available?

China
Flatware
Linens

What transportation and access is available?

Parking

Reviews of Padelford Riverboats

We're all about trust. Our community relies on honest reviews to help you make those big decisions with ease.
4.8 out of 5 rating
4.8 out of 5 rating
6 reviews
96% recommend it
  • Quality of service
    4.9 out of 5 rating
  • Average response time
    4.8 out of 5 rating
  • Professionalism
    4.8 out of 5 rating
  • Value
    4.7 out of 5 rating
  • Flexibility
    4.8 out of 5 rating
K
Kayla Sent on 10/22/2009
5 out of 5 rating
We had our wedding on the MN Centennial Showboat. Normally ceremonies are held in their indoor theater. I had my heart set on an outdoor ceremony and because my wedding was small enough we were able to have it on the upper deck, outside. A Padelford first, and they were happy to do it for us. The crew was very helpful, and very friendly.
I
Lynn Sent on 10/08/2008
5 out of 5 rating
Wow! I've never heard of a guest at your wedding sending you a Thank You note for inviting them to your wedding. We received 6! Our friends, family and co-workers have not stopped raving about our wedding. The great thing is...We had a great time too!
Starting with a Champagne toast on the dock, we invited our 170 guests on board the Anson Northrup for a 4hour dinner/dance cruise. The crew was wonderful!!! Service perfect!! No detail, from my seating chart to the place "tiles" I created for each guest, that the crew had placed at each chair before we boarded, was missed.
The night was amazing. We took a stroll out on deck as we went through the locks entering Minneapolis, sipped Champagne, chatted with our guests and danced the night away. Simply put, it was an amazing venue...that helped us create a magical evening.
R
Rae Sent on 09/03/2018
4.8 out of 5 rating
We absolutely loved having our wedding reception on a riverboat! We were very happy with the food, especially because they had numerous gluten free options to choose from. They allowed us to board a little early for portraits. In general, the company was easy to work with, the staff were professional and kind, and everyone at the reception had a wonderful time!

Map

Other vendors in Minneapolis for your wedding

Wedding Venues