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    1. Local experiences/
    2. Things to do in Minneapolis…/
    3. Water Activities/
    4. Kayaking Tours/
    5. Guided 3-Hour Mississippi River Paddle in Minneapolis
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    Guided 3-Hour Mississippi River Paddle in Minneapolis

    Paddle downriver to the "City of Birds" heron rookery and skyline views

    4.9 stars• 60 reviews
    From$103/ kayakincl. taxes and fees

    Duration

    2.5 - 3.5 hours

    Highlights

    Launch from Boom Island, shuttle upriver, then paddle down the Mississippi past bridges, river history, and a great blue heron rookery. Your guide shares local stories as you take in changing scenery and a distinctive skyline view.

    • Meet at Boom Island and ride a shuttle to the launch site
    • Learn basic paddle skills on land before you start
    • Paddle downriver under old and new bridges
    • Watch the great blue heron rookery and other birds on two islands
    • Stop for a skyline photo-op as conditions allow
    • Finish at Boom Island marina, with the route adjusted for conditions

    What's Included

    • Shuttle transportation
    • On-land paddle skill introduction
    • Dry bag for small items
    • Waterproof camera photos

    Things to know

    Recommended age is 5+ for tandem kayaks, and one person must be 18+ years old. Alcohol is not allowed on the water during public tours except in rare circumstances with prior permitting. Guides appreciate tips; guests typically tip 15–20%.

    Cancellation Policy

    Notify staff within 12 hours of trip to be offered a full refund. If cancellation is due to weather concerns, they will offer to either refund or rebook.

    FAQs

    Dress for water in lightweight clothing and footwear you don’t mind getting wet. Bring a hat and sunglasses for glare, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and any snacks you want. Pack a dry layer in your car to change into afterward just in case.

    A dry bag is available for small items you don’t want to get wet, and guides take photos with a waterproof camera so you don’t have to risk yours.

    Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before your tour start time.

    Meeting details

    Anoka to Boom Island, downriver w/ shuttle

    Experience provided by Paddle Bridge Kayak Tours
    Experience provided by Paddle Bridge Kayak Tours

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text (650) 414-7338

    Report an issue

    Reference #M9SHDQ

    Single Kayak

    $103.53

    1 Person •

    0

    Tandem Kayak

    $195.55

    2 People • Recommeded age 5 and up • One person must be 18+ years of age

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • No Added Fees

      No booking or service fees, ever

    • Concierge Support Included

      Real humans ready to help with timing, questions, or special requests

    • Free Cancellation Available

      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

    Discover what we've curated for you

    Review summary

    4.9
    Excellent
    60 reviews•Google Maps

    Paddle Bridge delivers consistently excellent kayaking experiences around Minneapolis, with guides like Sparky, Beaver, Maggie, and Andie earning enthusiastic praise for their knowledge and warmth. The tours take paddlers through unique experiences like navigating Mississippi Lock No. 1 and exploring the river gorge, with guides sharing fascinating historical details about the waterways and city along the way. First-timers repeatedly mention feeling safe and comfortable, even those nervous about getting on the water, thanks to attentive instruction and a welcoming approach. The operation runs professionally with quality equipment, including thoughtful touches like dry bags, water, and snacks. They're responsive with communication, especially around weather concerns, giving participants options when conditions look iffy. One guest felt disappointed by the full moon tour experience, finding it lacked depth and wishing for clearer communication about logistics upfront. But that appears to be an outlier in an otherwise stellar track record. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some paddling experience, this is a genuinely fun way to see Minneapolis from the water while learning something new.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 4
    5/5

    Sparky was the best. This was such an amazing trip with beautiful scenery and Sparky had lots of history to share. Going through the lock was something to remember. 10/10 thank you for a great time!!

    Photo of Catherine Goodhew

    Catherine Goodhew

    September 30, 2025

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    Sparky was the best. This was such an amazing trip with beautiful scenery and Sparky had lots of history to share. Going through the lock was something to remember. 10/10 thank you for a great time!!

    Photo of Catherine Goodhew

    Catherine Goodhew

    September 30, 2025

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