To board the legendary lady, the Belle of Louisville, is to do more than to see Louisville and the Ohio River from a unique perspective — it’s also quite literally stepping into a piece of American history. A National Historic Landmark and an icon of the Louisville Waterfront, the Belle is the only remaining authentic steamboat from the great American packet boat era on America’s waterways. At 108 years old and counting, the Belle remains purely steam-powered and paddlewheel-propelled. No matter what you’re boarding for —sightseeing, a four-course dinner, live music excursion or unique event —it’s always a very special occasion. The Belle’s sister vessel and a newer addition to the Waterfront, the Mary M. Miller, was named after Louisvillian Mary Millicent Miller, who also happened to be the first woman in America to ever to attain her steamboat captain’s license, way back in 1884. With as much spirit as her namesake, the Mary M. Miller is a propeller-driven riverboat with old-fashioned charm and modern amenities. Belle of Louisville Riverboats presents that history through a variety of engaging cruise and dockside events. Visit belleoflouisville.org for more information.