Tuesday, September 1, 2026
5:30–7:30 p.m. (Boarding begins at 5:00 p.m.)
Vista Star | 323 Harbor Drive, Duluth
For nearly four decades, thousands of community members, Tribal Nations, local organizations, businesses, scientists, and state and federal agencies have worked together to restore the St. Louis River Estuary. Today, that shared commitment continues as the final Area of Concern projects are underway. When these final projects are complete, it will result in one of the most successful restorations in the Great Lakes—and the St. Louis River Area of Concern is now on the verge of being delisted.
Join the St. Louis River Alliance for a special evening celebrating the people, partnerships, and projects that made this achievement possible.
Aboard the Vista Star, you'll enjoy a guided tour of the harbor while viewing many of the underway and completed cleanup and restoration sites that helped bring the river back to life. From restored habitat to revitalized waterfronts, you'll hear the stories behind the places that have shaped this remarkable recovery and learn how these efforts have created healthier ecosystems and expanded opportunities for recreation, wildlife, and community connections.
This event is free and open to all ages, but space is limited and advance registration is required. A light dinner will be served.
This event is highly anticipated and space is limited. If your plans change and you are no longer able to attend after registering, please email outreach@stlouisriver.org so we can open your spot to someone else. Thank you for helping us make room for as many participants as possible!
To learn more about the St. Louis River Area of Concern and the restoration projects featured during the cruise, visit:
Event Details
Boarding: 5:00 p.m.
Cruise: 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Location: Vista Star, 323 Harbor Drive, Duluth, MN
Cost: Free
Registration: Required. Space is limited—register early to reserve your spot.
Parking is available in the DECC parking lot near the Duluth 10 Theater and in the lot across the Minnesota Slip Bridge near Grandma's Sports Garden. Parking fees are the responsibility of the attendees.
Things to Know
The Vista Star features two enclosed, climate-controlled decks and one open-air top deck.
Please dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
This event is part of our River Connection Event Series and is supported by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency with funding from the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. The goal of this series is to build opportunities to help reconnect people to the newly restored river.
