A field trip to the LaSalle Canal Boat and Lock 16 Visitor Center is a fun and engaging way for students to learn about a host of themes: U.S. transportation, westward expansion, technological innovation, immigration, urbanization and more. Tours cover a variety of social science and history topics that meet the Illinois State Board of Education’s Learning Standards.
Canal Corridor Association can augment the learning opportunities of your trip with grade-specific lesson plans and a one-hour DVD on the history of the I&M Canal.
Walking distance from the boat, the Lock 16 Visitor Center offers special I&M Canal exhibits and programs.
SCHEDULE & FARES
Basic I&M Canal Boat Visit (All Grades)
Offered May through October
$375 (sign up by Feb 13, 2012)
$425 (after Feb 13, 2012)
A LaSalle Canal Boat tour includes a 15 min Mule Tending 101 Class where students will learn how the mules that pull the canal boat are cared for and a 60 minute narrated ride on the LaSalle Canal Boat with crew dressed in period clothing and a guide.
Available 9:00AM-3:00PM
Allow 1.5 hours
Capacity: 70 passengers per ride
A city park is adjacent to the site with ample room for a picnic lunch.
Enhanced I&M Canal Boat Visit (All Grades)
Offered May through October
$400 (sign up by Feb 13, 2012)
$480 (after Feb 13, 2012)
In addition to what’s included in the Basic Visit students will go on a 30 minute guided silhouette walk and meet 13 people connected with the I&M Canal including Mr. and Mrs. Lincoln, Wild Bill Hickok, and Chief Shabbona among others.
Available 9:00AM-3:00PM
Allow 2 hours
Capacity: 70 passengers per ride
A city park is adjacent to the site with ample room for a picnic lunch.
Smaller Groups
If your group is interested in visiting without renting the entire boat, group fares for students are $8 per person. One teacher rides free per every 20 students. Chaperone fares for school groups are $12 per person (groups over 20) or $14 per person (groups under 20). Add $1 per person for the silhouette walk.
Download a fact sheet about group tours for schools.
Call 815-220-1848 to reserve a group tour for your class today.
