Pawtucket Canal Tour

Lowell National Historical Park Tours

Join a Park Ranger for a guided tour of the Pawtucket Canal – the oldest canal in Lowell's historic 5.6-mile canal system. Discover the stories of the workers who built and operated Lowell's remarkable waterpower system while riding along the historic Pawtucket Canal. Disembark at the historic Francis Gate and explore how mill owners and engineers harnessed the water and powered an industrial city.  

Tour may include up to 0.75 miles of walking. Boats are not covered, so please keep weather conditions in mind when planning your visit.  

*Water Levels Permitting - Visitors may have the option to climb a short but steep historic granite staircase and explore the site of Francis Gate on foot.  

Tours begin at the Lowell National Historical Park Visitor Center, 246 Market Street.  

There are no restrooms available while on the tour.  

Restrooms are available at the Lowell National Historical Park Visitor Center. 

Select a date to see a list of times

Need to Know

• Boat Safety

  All boats are equipped with water safety equipment, including lifejackets for adults and youth. We do not require lifejackets to be worn on tours, but they are available for use if necessary.

• Accessibility

  Canal boats are not wheelchair accessible for boarding. Boarding boats requires climbing 3 steps up and 3 steps down. Visitors who have some mobility and have a wheelchair, walker, etc. will be able to stow their folded items.

• Weather

  Tours will proceed rain or shine but may be cancelled due to other severe weather or water conditions.

• Uneven Surfaces

  Boarding tour boats may involve walking on uneven ground, including grassy, wood, brick, and granite surfaces, as well as floating or stationary boat docks. Passengers must exercise caution and follow the safety instructions of the tour ranger and boat crew members.

• Exposure

  Tour boats are not covered, and there is minimal shade along the tour route. Passengers should dress for the weather, use sunscreen, wear a hat or other head covering, and stay hydrated during their tour.

• Parking

  Free parking is available at the HCID Parking Garage with ticket validation at the Lowell National Historical Park Visitor Center.

• Arrival time

  Passengers must check-in at the park Visitor Center, 246 Market Street, at least 15 minutes before your tour is scheduled to depart.

• Children & Infants

  Coast Guard regulations limit the number of individuals on the boat, please include children and infants in your total count when making your reservation.

• No Food, Water Only

  Food is not allowed on tour boats. Water is allowed and a filling station is available in the Visitor Center.

• Restrooms

  Restrooms are available at the Lowell National Historical Park Visitor Center. There are no restrooms available while on the tour.

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