Mark Twain Riverboat
Disneyland Park · Frontierland
Overview
The Mark Twain Riverboat is a genuine steam-powered paddlewheel boat that circles Tom Sawyer Island along the Rivers of America, offering an unhurried, scenic view of Frontierland from the water. The Sailing Ship Columbia shares the same river route but sails only on select days.
ParksLog verdict
This is a real, functioning steam-powered paddlewheel boat, part of Disneyland's original 1955 lineup and the first paddle-wheeler built in the U.S. in half a century. Won't be anyone's highlight, but worth it if you want to sit down and take in Frontierland from the water.
About this experience
Steam-powered paddlewheel riverboat circling the Rivers of America, offering scenic views of Frontierland and Tom Sawyer Island.
Best for
- Guests wanting a relaxed scenic ride
- History enthusiasts interested in Disneyland's opening-day attractions
- A calm break from walking
Tips
- It usually runs daily, while the Sailing Ship Columbia only sails on select days.
- The upper deck offers the best photo opportunities of Frontierland and Tom Sawyer Island.
- It's a good late-afternoon option when you want to sit down without leaving the park experience behind.
Details
History
The Mark Twain Riverboat was part of Disneyland's original 1955 opening lineup, modeled after the steam-powered riverboats that traveled the Mississippi River in the 19th century, and it was the first paddle-wheel steamboat built in the United States in half a century.
Closure history
- Sep 8, 2026 - Sep 14, 2026
Fun facts
- It was part of Disneyland's opening day lineup in July 1955.
- It's modeled after 19th-century Mississippi River paddlewheel steamboats.
- It was the first paddle-wheel steamboat built in the United States in about 50 years.