Before the music starts at The Gorge Amphitheatre, make your concert road trip unforgettable by adding one of the top things to do near The Gorge Amphitheatre: a high-speed, family-friendly Columbia River jet boat Wenatchee ride with Wiley’s Boat Rides. A stop in Wenatchee gives every concertgoer, family, and group a taste of pure adrenaline, wild river scenery, and memories that last long after the last encore.
Why Try a Jet Boat Ride Near The Gorge Amphitheatre?
Located just a scenic hour’s drive from The Gorge, Wiley’s Jet Boat Ride is consistently recommended as a top Gorge Amphitheatre weekend trip addition. Each ride is helmed by a U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain with more than two decades of river experience, ensuring excitement, Hamilton Spins and fishtail turns, paired with unmatched safety and comfort. The Columbia River offers dazzling views blending adrenaline and nature in one package.
Morning: Head to Wenatchee From The Gorge
Set off from The Gorge Amphitheatre, taking State Route 28 or I-90, about 47 miles and a one-hour drive. Wenatchee is packed with outdoor activities, riverfront coffee shops, and local adventures. Groups can stretch, snack, and easily transition from concert road trip stops to the river’s edge for a day of Wenatchee adventure rides.
Midday Transition
After exploring Wenatchee’s Apple Capital Loop Trail, Pybus Public Market, and riverfront parks, head to Wiley’s Jet Boat launch at 1 N Worthen St, Wenatchee. Clear signage and staff help keep pre-boarding efficient and welcoming for first-timers and repeat visitors alike.
Afternoon: Wiley’s Jet Boat Ride on the Columbia River
Start your adventure with a safety briefing and expert fitting of U.S.C.G. approved life jackets, required for every passenger, ages 6 and up. The captain reviews photo ops and maneuver highlights before boarding, ensuring all guests are confident, comfortable, and ready for excitement.
Wiley’s Boat rides are short (10–20 minutes), action-packed, and perfect for families or thrill-seekers. Experience jaw-dropping “Hamilton Spins” (360-degree turns, roller coaster smoothness) and fishtail drifts, plus scenic pauses beneath the US 2 Bridge and at the river confluence. Every ride includes high-resolution photos and an edited highlight video delivered to your inbox, making this one of the best-value family boat rides Wenatchee offers.
Important Points to Note
- Book your ride slot in advance online. Multiple slots are available throughout the day (morning, midday, afternoon).
- Plan to arrive at Wiley’s marina at 1 N Worthen St. at least 10–15 minutes before your selected slot time to check in, meet your captain, and board the boat.
- All guests receive fitted life jackets and a full safety briefing before departure; expert captain pilots every ride.
- Wiley’s offers fast spins and controlled excitement suitable for ages 6+, but not recommended for pregnant guests or those with serious back/heart conditions.
- All rides include a free photo/video media package, ideal for sharing online or with friends.
- Dress to get wet! Splash jackets are provided in cooler weather; bring layers, water shoes, and dry bags for valuables.
Sample Itinerary
- Drive from The Gorge Amphitheatre to Wenatchee, arriving downtown for riverfront coffee or a walk along the Apple Capital Loop Trail.
- Arrive early at Wiley’s Jet Boat Ride launch (1 N Worthen St), check in, change, and get your fitted life jacket after a safety briefing.
- Board with your group, experience adrenaline-fueled spins, breathtaking views, and scenic moments on the Columbia River.
- Receive complimentary action photos and an edited video before heading back to The Gorge for your show.
FAQ
About 47 miles, typically a 1-hour trip by car, ideal for day-trippers and concert-goers.
Rides are fast-paced, typically 10–20 minutes of action, excitement, and scenic views.
Yes! Ages 6+ with fitted life jackets; guided by licensed captains (20+ years experience); all safety protocols followed.
Yes, advance online booking is encouraged, especially on busy concert weekends.
Yes, all rides include professional photos and an edited video highlight package, delivered digitally.
Dress for water, wear layers, bring water shoes, dry bag for valuables, and be ready for fun and splashes.
A jet boat ride in Wenatchee is the ultimate add-on for any trip to The Gorge Amphitheatre, delivering heart-pounding excitement, safe and scenic adventure, and memories preserved in shareable photo/video packages.
With seamless booking, quick drive times, and expert staff, Wiley’s turns ordinary concert weekends into legendary Washington getaways. Book early, gear up, and find out why things to do near The Gorge Amphitheatre are best enjoyed on the water before the show.