If you're looking for something truly unique to do this summer, check out I & M Canal Boats in LaSalle, Illinois.

Not only is LaSalle only 5 miles away from Starved Rock State Park, but it is also home to Illinois' only mule-pulled canal cruise.

Yes, I really did say "mule-pulled canal cruise".

When I first saw this article on OnlyInYourState.com, I automatically thought, "wth"? Then I read on and learned this cruise on The Illinois & Michigan Canal is not only unique, but visitors get a pretty awesome lesson in Illinois history at the same time.

I & M Canal's Mule-Pulled Canal Boat Tours are offered most days of the week, several times a day and offer visitors;

a journey back in time aboard the “Volunteer,” a 70-passenger, mule-pulled 1840’s replica canal boat, as it coasts gently up and down the I&M Canal.

Every trip begins with “Mule Tending 101” as our period dressed guides introduce the passengers to their intrepid canal mules, Moe & Joe. The tour guide regales everyone with tales of the canal while the deck hands guide the boat a mile up the canal to the Little Vermillion aqueduct and back. Mary Todd Lincoln has been known to ride the boat, knitting in the corner and telling fantastic stories of her time in the Nation’s capital with Mr. Lincoln.

Each tour is one hour long and costs $15 for adults, $13 for Seniors, $8 for Youth ages 4-16, and 3 and under are free.

For information on these mule-pulled canal cruises, check out I & M Canal's Facebook and get ready for one amazingly relaxing time.

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