Belle of Louisville Riverboats brings our city’s rich history to life and provides a hands-on experience for students to engage with the past.
We are committed to sharing diverse stories of the river and Louisville’s history through on-the-water experiences.
Belle of Louisville Riverboats offers “STEAMboat” a multi-disciplinary, standards-based excursion for either elementary or middle school students.
Onboard learning experiences located throughout the boat draw from science, technology, engineering, the arts and math (STEAM) – as well as social studies and Kentucky/Indiana-related content – to guide student inquiry, activate critical thinking skills and encourage conversation.
All learning experiences align to grade band-specific academic standards. And because it is a tradition (we are a 109-year-old national landmark, after all), every excursion will end with an optional dance party, just for fun!
Investigation Guides and Adventure Passports are available to help students navigate their riverboat experience!
Available to students on Guided Field Trips, the Belle of Louisville Investigation Guide is best suited for Grades 1-8 and focuses on connecting with state academic standards.
Available for Self-Guided Groups and on public cruises, Adventure Passports are best suited for Grades K-6 and include games, a coloring page, history and a map of landmarks along the river.
Kentucky Educational Television (KET) offers an electronic Belle of Louisville field trip that features a “deep dive” into this historic vessel, in addition to plenty of resources and activities. Although over 15 years old, this site has valuable information and resources for teachers. To access the KET Electronic Field Trip, click the button below.
Using math and mapping skills, students measure the size of the Belle with this downloadable activity, best suited for Grades K-4
Melinda Beck,
Programs Coordinator
Melinda is a performing artist and educator, with experience working at various Louisville arts and culture institutions. With an interest in history and our unique river ecosystem, she is excited to share the steamboat experience with your students!
Eric Frantz,
Programs Manager
As someone born and raised in Louisville, Ky., the Belle of Louisville holds a special place in Eric’s heart. He’s a museum professional with 15+ years of experience in performance and placed-based education. Working onboard this historic steamboat is a dream come true.