Colorado River Dinner Cruise & Light Show

The Colorado River Dinner Cruise & Light Show, often referred to by locals and repeat attendees as the Canyonlands by Night Sound and Light Show, is an enchanting evening experience that unfolds at the Canyonlands by Night & Day Dock in Moab, Utah. This event is tailored for a diverse audience, including families, history enthusiasts, and those who appreciate the natural beauty of the American West.

The target audience is broad, encompassing families with children as young as four, couples celebrating special occasions, and solo travelers seeking unique experiences. While there are no specific notable guests or performers, the event is led by knowledgeable and entertaining guides who bring the history and legends of the area to life.

The event takes place from April to October, with departure times varying depending on the sunset. The evening is structured into a 1-hour Dutch oven dinner followed by a 2-hour light show. The schedule is simple yet engaging: guests arrive 15 minutes prior to departure at the Canyonlands by Night location at 1861 North Highway 191, Moab, UT.

The venue itself is a highlight, with the dinner served in a dining room overlooking the serene Colorado River. The Colorado Riverway Recreation Area, where the boat ride occurs, is a calm and picturesque part of the river that provides a perfect backdrop for the evening’s festivities. For those traveling to Moab, the nearest airport is the Grand County Airport, and the venue is easily accessible via Highway 191.

The event’s unique appeal lies in its blend of traditional dining, historical storytelling, and technological innovation. The evening begins with a hearty cowboy-style Dutch oven dinner, which sets the tone for a nostalgic and immersive experience. As the sun sets, guests board the flat-bottomed jet boat, the Moab Queen II, and embark on a slow-moving ride up the Colorado River. The guide points out interesting landmarks and shares stories that ignite the imagination.

Once darkness falls, the formal part of the evening commences with a dazzling light show. Forty thousand watts of natural light illuminate the canyon walls, bringing the stories of the area’s formation, creation, and history to vivid life. The show is choreographed with lights, shadows, music, and narration, drawing from the tales of early settlers, including Catholic conquistadors, Native Americans, and Mormon pioneers.

This is not just a boat ride or a light show; it is an immersive experience that combines history, culture, and natural beauty. The stories told during the show are a piece of Moab’s history, passed down through generations, and they create a deeply engaging and educational experience. For those seeking a memorable night out, the Colorado River Dinner Cruise & Light Show offers an unforgettable blend of tradition, innovation, and the untouched beauty of the American wilderness.

The setting itself is breathtaking, with the Colorado River flowing gently through the canyon, and the light show transforming the natural landscape into a living, breathing canvas of history and legend. As the boat drifts back to the dock, the atmosphere is filled with a sense of wonder and awe, making this event a highlight of any vacation in Moab. Whether you are a foodie, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, this event promises an evening that will be etched in your memory forever.