Art, Animals & Adventure

Padelford River Cruise and Como Zoo & Conservatory

September 14, 2026

Join the St. Cloud YMCA and Gary Block Tours on Monday, September 14^th, when we depart from the Little Falls Walmart at 9:00 and the YMCA at 9:45. Our first destination is Harriet Island in St. Paul where we board the river boat The Betsey Northrup for a narrated 90- minute excursion on the Mississippi River. Sights along the way include the St. Paul High Bridge, Pig’s Eye Cave, The Minnesota River mouth, Pike Island and the timeless splendor of the mighty Mississippi. As we cruise, we’ll enjoy a plated lunch of pulled pork, house-brined and grilled chicken with house-made BBQ sauce, cheddar green chili cornbread, potato salad, cookies and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. This will be a peaceful way to spend some time, sit back and relax on the water. We’ll depart the river boat, board our waiting coach and travel to Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, a delightful destination for families and animal lovers alike. The zoo houses polar bears, sloths, giraffes, a gorilla forest and playful sea lions that entertain visitors, tigers, orangutans and more. The stunning conservatory gardens include seasonal flower shows, orchids, ferns, bonsai and a world-renowned Japanese Garden. Como offers a wonderful combination of animal exhibits and beautiful gardens. What a great day and returning to St. Cloud around 7:15 pm.

Ø Comfortable North Star motor coach transportation

Ø Padelford cruise & luncheon on the Mississippi in St. Paul

Ø Como Zoo & Conservatory

Ø Fun and Games

Ø Hosted by St. Cloud YMCA & Gary Block Tours

Ø Cost is $99

Gary Block Tours

320-632-8632

Mail payment to Gary Block Tours, 112 SE 4^th Street, Little Falls, MN 56345