FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Alton, IL – April 3, 2026) It’s official! The Grafton Ferry will open Friday, April 10 with expanded hours and year-round service between St. Charles County and the City of Grafton, IL.

An official ribbon cutting ceremony will be held on the Grafton Ferry landing at 10 a.m., Friday, April 10. The ferry will open at 5 a.m. to service commuter traffic and early bird travelers.

The ribbon cutting will include a short speech and a special surprise for the first 15 ferry passengers to cross the river following the ribbon cutting. The public is invited to attend the ribbon cutting.

The Grafton Ferry will now operate seven days a week year-round, weather permitting, providing more access between Grafton and St. Charles County. The ferry also cuts travel time between Missouri and the popular Mississippi River destination by over 30 minutes. A ferry ride takes between five and 10 minutes from St. Charles County to Grafton.

“Opening up Grafton to year-round ferry service is truly a partnership between the State of Illinois, the City of Grafton and the Calhoun Ferry Company,” Grafton Mayor Mike Morrow said. “Giving people quicker access to Grafton seven days a week has been an issue we have worked on for several years and it’s great to see it come to fruition. Expanded ferry operations is an asset to visitors and residents alike.”

The City of Grafton purchased the Grafton ferry thanks in part to a $1.458 million grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation. The ferry will be operated by the Calhoun Ferry Company on behalf of the city. Previously, Calhoun Ferry Company had owned and operated the ferry. In the past, the ferry provided passenger services Fridays through Sundays from mid-April through mid-November.

“Expanded ferry service to Grafton is a great asset for the city and the region as a whole,” Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau President/CEO Cory Jobe noted. “We are thrilled with the option for week day visits to Grafton and we know this will only enhance Grafton’s position as a great visitor destination.”

The ferry will operate Monday – Thursday from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For more information about fares please visit: https://www.riversandroutes.co...

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(The Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau is a certified Destination Marketing Organization serving Madison, Jersey, Calhoun, Macoupin, Montgomery and Greene counties and East St. Louis in St. Clair County. The bureau is dedicated to educating visitors about the region by providing information regarding the area’s history, unique landmarks, recreational opportunities, leisure attractions, special events and scenic marvels.)