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River Cruises - United StatesRiver Cruises - United States

Alton Cruise Port

Alton, Illinois
Alton, Illinois is a city located in Madison County, Illinois, along the Mississippi River.

Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#61
of 71 ports in the River Cruises - United States
Today · high / low
102° / 37°
September normals
Alton, Illinois cruise port
River Cruises - United States
Alton, Illinois
// Alton cruise port overview

The cruise port in Alton,
explained

Lat: 38.9°NLong: 90.2°WINTN code: ATNUS

Alton, Illinois is a city located in Madison County, Illinois, along the Mississippi River. It is known for its historical sites, such as the Elijah P.

Lovejoy Monument, the Robert Wadlow Statue, and the Piasa Bird. The city is also home to the National Great Rivers Museum, which offers educational programs and exhibits about the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois Rivers.

Alton is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with a variety of galleries, museums, and performing arts venues. The city is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Alton Jazz and Blues Festival, the Alton Art Fair, and the Alton Riverfront Blues Festival.

Alton is a great place to visit for its history, culture, and outdoor activities. With its beautiful riverfront, historic sites, and vibrant arts and culture scene, Alton is a great place to explore and experience.

// Alton Cruise Port location

Where is Alton Cruise Port?

Alton, Illinois is located on the Mississippi River, just north of St. Louis, Missouri. The Alton Marina is located on the east side of the river, and is the main port for cruises departing from the area. The marina is located just off of the Great River Road, and is easily accessible from Interstate 270. The marina offers a variety of amenities, including a restaurant, a bar, and a gift shop.

General location
River Cruises - United States
Coordinates
38.89°N, 90.18°W
Cruise port · 38.89°N, 90.18°W
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Alton cruise port guide

What to do in Alton

A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.

Ways to spend the day

3 themes
Theme 1

Dining

Alton, Illinois is home to a variety of restaurants, from casual to fine dining. Enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants and sample some of the local cuisine. There are also several bars and pubs in the area, so you can enjoy a drink and relax after a day of sightseeing. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a full meal, Alton has something for everyone.

Theme 2

Riverboat Cruises

Riverboat cruises are a popular activity for visitors to Alton, Illinois. Cruise along the Mississippi River and take in the sights of the city from the water. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and learn about the history of the area from the knowledgeable tour guides. There are several different types of cruises available, from sightseeing cruises to dinner cruises, so there is something for everyone.

Theme 3

Shopping

Alton, Illinois is a great place to go shopping. There are a variety of stores, from antique shops to boutiques. Explore the downtown area and find unique items that you won't find anywhere else. There are also several malls and shopping centers in the area, so you can find whatever you're looking for. Whether you're looking for souvenirs or just want to browse, Alton has something for everyone.

Alton cruise port beaches

3 in our guide
A
Alton Marina Beach (illustrative photo)

Alton Marina Beach

Alton Marina Beach is a popular beach located near Alton, Illinois. It is a great spot for swimming, fishing, and boating. The beach is well-maintained and offers plenty of amenities, including a snack bar, restrooms, and a playground. Visitors can also take advantage of the nearby boat launch and marina.

G
Grafton Harbor Beach (illustrative photo)

Grafton Harbor Beach

Grafton Harbor Beach is a popular beach located near Alton, Illinois. It is a great spot for swimming, fishing, and boating. The beach is well-maintained and offers plenty of amenities, including a snack bar, restrooms, and a playground. Visitors can also take advantage of the nearby boat launch and marina.

T
Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge (illustrative photo)

Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge

Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge is a great beach near Alton, Illinois. It is a great spot for bird watching, fishing, and hiking. The beach is surrounded by lush wetlands and is home to a variety of wildlife. Visitors can also take advantage of the nearby boat launch and marina.

// Alton fun facts

Birthplace of Miles Davis

Alton, Illinois is the birthplace of legendary jazz musician Miles Davis. He was born in 1926 and went on to become one of the most influential jazz musicians of all time. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006 and is widely considered one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.

Home of the Great River Road

Alton, Illinois is home to the Great River Road, a scenic byway that follows the Mississippi River for over 3,000 miles. It is a popular tourist destination and offers stunning views of the river and its surrounding landscape. The road is also home to a variety of historic sites, including the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site and the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site.

Home of the World's Largest Catsup Bottle

Alton, Illinois is home to the world's largest catsup bottle, standing at a whopping 170 feet tall. It was built in 1949 by the W.E. Caldwell Company and is now a water tower. It is a popular tourist attraction and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Alton cruise port shopping

3 in our guide
A
Alton Antique Mall (illustrative photo)

Alton Antique Mall

Alton Antique Mall is a great place to find unique souvenirs from your cruise. It has a wide selection of antiques, collectibles, and vintage items from all over the world. You can find everything from vintage jewelry to antique furniture, and even rare coins and stamps. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they can help you find the perfect souvenir for your trip.

A
Alton Riverfront Market (illustrative photo)

Alton Riverfront Market

Alton Riverfront Market is a great place to find unique souvenirs from your cruise. It has a wide selection of handmade items, including jewelry, clothing, and home decor. You can find everything from handmade jewelry to unique clothing, and even rare antiques. The market also has a variety of food vendors, so you can grab a bite to eat while you shop. The staff is friendly and helpful, and they can help you find the perfect souvenir for your trip.

A
Alton Square Mall (illustrative photo)

Alton Square Mall

Alton Square Mall is a great place to find souvenirs from your cruise. It has a wide selection of stores, including clothing, jewelry, and home decor. You can find everything from designer clothing to unique jewelry, and even rare antiques. The mall also has a food court, so you can grab a bite to eat while you shop. The staff is friendly and helpful, and they can help you find the perfect souvenir for your trip.

// Alton Cruise Port Terminals

Which Alton cruise terminal will your ship use?

Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.

3 piers in Alton
Pier 1 of 3

Alton Belle Casino

200 Piasa St, Alton, IL 62002

Alton Belle Casino is a riverboat casino located on the Mississippi River in Alton, Illinois. It offers a variety of gaming options, including slots, table games, and poker. The casino also has a restaurant and bar, as well as a live music venue. It is a popular spot for cruises, with several cruise lines offering trips up and down the river.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Alton Belle Casino)
Pier 2 of 3

Alton Harbor

1 Harbor Point Dr, Alton, IL 62002

Alton Harbor is a public marina located on the Mississippi River in Alton, Illinois. It offers a variety of services, including boat rentals, boat storage, and a fuel dock. It also has a restaurant and bar, as well as a swimming pool and hot tub. The harbor is a popular spot for cruises, with several cruise lines offering trips up and down the river.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Alton Harbor)
Pier 3 of 3

Alton Marina

1 Henry St, Alton, IL 62002

Alton Marina is a full-service marina located on the Mississippi River in Alton, Illinois. It offers a variety of services, including boat rentals, boat storage, and a fuel dock. It also has a restaurant and bar, as well as a swimming pool and hot tub. The marina is a popular spot for cruises, with several cruise lines offering trips up and down the river.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Alton Marina)
Wi-Fi

The Alton Marina, located at 1 Henry St, Alton, IL 62002, offers free wifi access to its customers.

Safety

Alton, Illinois cruise port is generally considered to be a safe port. The port is well-maintained and monitored by the US Coast Guard and local law enforcement. The port also has a security team onsite to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

Port address

1 Henry Street, Alton, IL 62002

Alton cruise port car rental

Alton, Illinois is located on the Mississippi River and is a popular cruise port. There are several car rental options available near the cruise port. Enterprise Rent-A-Car is located just a few miles from the cruise port and offers a variety of rental cars, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. They also offer a variety of discounts and special offers. Hertz is also located nearby and offers a wide selection of rental cars, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. They also offer a variety of discounts and special offers. Avis is located just a few miles from the cruise port and offers a variety of rental cars, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. They also offer a variety of discounts and special offers. Budget is located just a few miles from the cruise port and offers a variety of rental cars, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. They also offer a variety of discounts and special offers. National Car Rental is located just a few miles from the cruise port and offers a variety of rental cars, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. They also offer a variety of discounts and special offers. Alamo is located just a few miles from the cruise port and offers a variety of rental cars, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. They also offer a variety of discounts and special offers.

Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.

// Weather

Alton Cruise Port Weather

River Cruises - United States·30-year historical averages
Sep averages · Alton
69°
Avg · °F
Hot, occasional showers
High
102°F
Low
37°F
Rain
3.2 in
Excursions that suit this weather
// Year-round in Alton

Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.

Avg temp °FRainfall in
JANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDECMONTHLY NORMALS · °F AND IN
// Alton cruise ship schedule

Alton Cruise Port Traffic Today

No cruise ships are scheduled in Alton today, Friday, September 25, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.

Schedule updated

// Keep exploring

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// Questions

Alton cruise port, answered

The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Alton.

Where is Alton cruise port located?

Alton, Illinois cruise port is located in River Cruises - United States. Alton, Illinois is located on the Mississippi River, just north of St. Louis, Missouri. The Alton Marina is located on the east side of the river, and is the main port for cruises departing from the area. The marina is located just off of the Great River Road, and is easily accessible from Interstate 270. The marina offers a variety of amenities, including a restaurant, a bar, and a gift shop.

Is Alton a good cruise port to visit?

No, Alton, Illinois is not a good cruise port. The closest cruise port to Alton, Illinois is located in St. Louis, Missouri, which is about 40 miles away.

How safe is Alton cruise port for passengers?

Alton cruise port has a safety score of 6.6 out of 10, ranking #61 of 71 ports in River Cruises - United States. Alton, Illinois cruise port is generally considered to be a safe port. The port is well-maintained and monitored by the US Coast Guard and local law enforcement. The port also has a security team onsite to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

What is the weather like at Alton cruise port in September?

In September, Alton cruise port has average high temperatures of 102°F (39°C) and average lows of 37°F (3°C).

How many excursions are available at Alton cruise port?

There are currently 4,102 excursions and tours available at Alton cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.

What are the top things to do at Alton cruise port?

Alton cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Dining, Riverboat Cruises, Shopping. Alton, Illinois is known for its many outdoor activities and attractions. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, boating, and camping along the Mississippi River. There are also several parks and trails for hiking, biking, and bird watching. The city also offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and historic sites. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Alton is also home to a number of annual festivals and events, making it a great destination for a fun and exciting getaway.

Can I rent a car at Alton cruise port?

Alton, Illinois is located on the Mississippi River and is a popular cruise port. There are several car rental options available near the cruise port. Enterprise Rent-A-Car is located just a few miles from the cruise port and offers a variety of rental cars, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. They also offer a variety of discounts and special offers. Hertz is also located nearby and offers a wide selection of rental cars, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. They also offer a variety of discounts and special offers. Avis is located just a few miles from the cruise port and offers a variety of rental cars, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. They also offer a variety of discounts and special offers. Budget is located just a few miles from the cruise port and offers a variety of rental cars, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. They also offer a variety of discounts and special offers. National Car Rental is located just a few miles from the cruise port and offers a variety of rental cars, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. They also offer a variety of discounts and special offers. Alamo is located just a few miles from the cruise port and offers a variety of rental cars, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. They also offer a variety of discounts and special offers.

What is the WiFi situation at Alton cruise port?

The Alton Marina, located at 1 Henry St, Alton, IL 62002, offers free wifi access to its customers.

Where is the cruise terminal at Alton cruise port?

The address of Alton, Illinois cruise port is 1 Henry Street, Alton, IL 62002.

What is the Alton Cruise Port cruise schedule?

There are no cruise ships scheduled at Alton today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Alton on any past or future date.

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