Grafton - Image 1
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Grafton

4.8
·272 reviews·Portage Des Sioux, United States

Grafton offers a charming riverside escape, famous for its fun-filled seasonal ferry rides and relaxing boat excursions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends (seasonal)

Ferry operates

CrowdMedium
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Grafton - Image 1

Grafton

Best Time

Weekends (seasonal)

Ferry operates

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Grafton offers a charming riverside escape, famous for its fun-filled seasonal ferry rides and relaxing boat excursions.

4.8
(272 reviews)

"Taking the ferry with kids is an absolute blast! We’ve made numerous ferry trips over the years for a fun-filled day trip to Grafton."

Vertical photo
TIP

Ferry Schedule Check

The Grafton Ferry is seasonal and runs only on weekends. Always check the latest schedule before you go! :calendar:

Cash for Tickets

Be prepared to pay with cash for ferry tickets. It's a good idea to have it handy for a smooth transaction. :moneybag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grafton Ferry Ride

Grafton Ferry Ride

Across the river

A blast for kids and adults alike! Enjoy a fun, safe, and relaxing river crossing with friendly staff.

Chartered Boat Excursion

Chartered Boat Excursion

River tours

Experience a private, fun, and relaxing time on the water with excellent captains.

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Planning Your Visit

Ferry Fun: Plan Your River Crossing

Grafton's ferry is a highlight, especially for families! It runs seasonally on weekends, so check schedules. While a fun day trip, be aware of pricing and note that cash is often preferred for tickets.Reddit

Grafton's Charm: Beyond the Ferry

While the ferry is a major draw, Grafton offers more. Explore local spots and enjoy the river views. Consider chartering a boat for a private, relaxing experience with friendly captains.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekends (seasonal)
Why
Ferry operates
Crowd
Medium
When
Daytime
Why
Best for family fun
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Has anyone rode the Grafton Ferry before and can give some insight?

Ferry Schedule Check

The Grafton Ferry is seasonal and runs only on weekends. Always check the latest schedule before you go! :calendar: Reddit

Cash for Tickets

Be prepared to pay with cash for ferry tickets. It's a good idea to have it handy for a smooth transaction. :moneybag: Reddit

reddit.com

Any here ever take the Grafton Ferry?

reddit.com

Ferry Commuting

Kid-Friendly Adventure

The ferry ride is a huge hit with kids! Plan a day trip around it for guaranteed fun and smiles. :child: Reddit

Private Boat Charters

Consider chartering a boat for a more intimate and relaxing experience. Captains are often praised! :captain: Reddit

reddit.com

Drivers of silly little convertibles, where did you go today?

Tips

from all over the internet

Ferry Schedule Check

The Grafton Ferry is seasonal and runs only on weekends. Always check the latest schedule before you go! :calendar: Reddit

Cash for Tickets

Be prepared to pay with cash for ferry tickets. It's a good idea to have it handy for a smooth transaction. :moneybag: Reddit

Kid-Friendly Adventure

The ferry ride is a huge hit with kids! Plan a day trip around it for guaranteed fun and smiles. :child: Reddit

Private Boat Charters

Consider chartering a boat for a more intimate and relaxing experience. Captains are often praised! :captain: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(272 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Grafton Ferry, calling it a 'blast' and a 'fun-filled day trip,' especially for families. The friendly staff and enjoyable river crossing are consistently praised. While the ferry is seasonal and cash is preferred, the overall experience is highly recommended for its fun and reasonable pricing.

"Taking the ferry with kids is an absolute blast! We’ve made numerous ferry trips over the years for a fun-filled day trip to Grafton. The friendly staff and the overall enjoyable experience make it a must-try. We highly recommend it!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️"

Dianne Kinnison

"Very fun ride! Reasonable price!"

Charla O'Connor

"We chartered the 2hr boat ride for $250. Even tho the deposit was $1,500. It was a fun, safe, and relaxing time. Also, Captain Dan was the best!"

Theodore Parker

What People Like

Fun ferry rides
Family-friendly
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Seasonal operation
Cash preferred

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Grafton is accessible by car, and the primary way to experience its river charm is via the Grafton Ferry. Be sure to check its seasonal weekend operating schedule. Reddit

No, the Grafton Ferry is seasonal and typically only operates on weekends. Always confirm operating days and times before your visit. Reddit

Operating hours for the Grafton Ferry can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official schedule or local listings for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

While some locals use ferries for commuting, the Grafton Ferry is primarily a weekend attraction. The Golden Eagle ferry is more commonly used for daily commutes by locals. Reddit

Grafton is a walkable town, and exploring by car is also common. The ferry provides a unique river perspective. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ferry ticket prices can vary, with round trips around $17. It's advisable to have cash on hand, as it's often the preferred payment method. Reddit

Advance booking for the Grafton Ferry is generally not required, but it's wise to arrive a bit early, especially on busy weekends. Reddit

While specific discounts aren't always advertised, purchasing round-trip tickets can be more economical. Some local ferries offer commuter discounts. Reddit

Yes, you can charter boats for private tours. Prices can vary, but it offers a fun, safe, and relaxing experience with experienced captains. Reddit

Deposits for boat charters can be significant, sometimes around $1,500, even if the overall charter cost is lower. Confirm details when booking. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Grafton is known for its scenic river views and the popular ferry rides. It's a great spot for a relaxing day trip, especially with family. Reddit

Absolutely! Grafton is perfect for a fun-filled day trip, with the ferry ride being a major highlight for families. Reddit

Taking the Grafton Ferry is a must-do! For a more exclusive experience, consider chartering a boat for a private tour. Reddit

The ferry ride itself is a huge hit with kids. The overall experience of being on the water is very enjoyable for younger visitors. Reddit

Grafton offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, particularly around the ferry and riverfront areas. It's ideal for a leisurely outing. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning river views from the ferry deck or along the waterfront. The journey itself offers great photographic opportunities. Reddit

Yes, passengers are welcome to take photos during the ferry ride. The scenic river landscape provides a beautiful backdrop. Reddit

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing river scenes and distant views. A smartphone is also great for casual shots. Reddit

Focus on the river, the ferry itself, and the charming riverside scenery. The journey across the water is the main visual attraction. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Grafton is a fantastic destination for families, with the Grafton Ferry being the absolute highlight. Kids find the ferry ride incredibly fun and exciting, making it a perfect day trip activity.Reddit The experience is described as 'a blast' and 'very fun,' ensuring smiles all around. Remember to bring cash for tickets and check the ferry's seasonal weekend schedule in advance. Consider a private boat charter if you're looking for a more exclusive and relaxed experience on the water, often with highly-rated captains.Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While some activities like private charters can be pricier, the Grafton Ferry offers an affordable way to enjoy the river. The round-trip fare is reasonable, especially considering the fun experience it provides.Reddit Bringing cash can sometimes streamline transactions. For a budget-friendly day out, focus on enjoying the ferry ride and the scenic river views, which are free once you've paid for your crossing. Pack your own snacks to save on dining costs.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Grafton Ferry

The Grafton Ferry is a quintessential experience, especially for families looking for a fun day out. It operates seasonally, primarily on weekends, so checking the schedule is crucial before planning your trip.Reddit The ride itself is described as a 'blast' and offers a unique perspective of the river. Be prepared for the ticket price, which can be around $17 for a round trip, and it's often recommended to bring cash as it's the preferred payment method.Reddit The friendly staff and overall enjoyable experience make it a highly recommended activity for visitors of all ages.

Beyond the standard ferry service, private boat charters are also available. These offer a more personalized and relaxing way to enjoy the water. Chartering a boat can be a fantastic option for groups or those seeking a quieter experience. While the deposit for charters can be substantial (sometimes $1,500), the experience, often highlighted by excellent captains like 'Captain Dan,' is frequently praised as fun, safe, and relaxing.Reddit This option provides a deeper dive into the river's beauty and tranquility.

Grafton: A Riverside Escape

Grafton, while perhaps not a sprawling metropolis, offers a charming riverside escape that draws visitors for its unique attractions. The Grafton Ferry is undoubtedly the star, providing a delightful journey across the water that's particularly popular with families.Reddit This seasonal weekend service transforms a simple crossing into a memorable adventure, making it a prime reason for many to visit. The town's appeal lies in its relaxed atmosphere and the simple pleasures of being by the water.

For those looking to explore beyond the ferry, Grafton provides opportunities for leisurely strolls and enjoying the scenic views. The town's connection to the river is palpable, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. Whether you're taking a short ferry ride or opting for a more extended private boat charter, Grafton promises a refreshing experience centered around its beautiful waterways. It’s a destination that prioritizes enjoyment and relaxation, making it ideal for day trips and short getaways.Reddit

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