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On this epic 18-day adventure you'll travel the complete length of the Mississippi as you wind your way through seven states. You have your choice of cruising on American Queen, American Duchess or the American Countess.
Whichever paddlewheeler you select, you'll be transported back in time to an era of romantic travel. You'll discover storybook American towns, vibrant cities, sweeping vistas and antebellum charms. Authentic America is waiting to be explored on this three week cruise through the very heart and soul of the USA.
Please phone Bon Voyage for the most up-to-date departures for this itinerary.
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Minneapolis and Saint Paul are known as the Twin Cities, but they are not identical twins by any measure. Saint Paul is the capital city and home of Minnesota state government, with stately buildings and historic sites. Minneapolis is the larger of the cities, and features modern buildings and lively entertainment, restaurants and shopping. With more live theatre seats per capita than any U.S. city except New York, it’s no wonder that the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area enjoys a national reputation as a cultural capital.
Transfer this morning to Red Wing to board your vessel.
Voted as 'one of the most historic places in the world to visit' by National Geographic Traveller, Red Wing was discovered in the early 1850s and began to flourish as a thriving pottery industry between 1877 and 1967. It's one of the most charming towns in the Upper Mississippi rising from beautiful bluffs with an abundance of historical sites and a unique small town character.
Explore one of the most beautiful places in the country. Nestled in the covered limestone river bluffs of the Mississippi River, Winona is full of culture and Americana. This historic city – filled with incredible museums, galleries and parks – is also where J.R. Watkins has produced its fine natural products for over 150 years. Take a trip to the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, and fall even more in love with the maritime lifestyle.
Shore excursion included - Winona Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
La Crosse, named by explorer Zebulon Pike who saw a group of people playing a game with sticks that looked like a cross, is a popular destination for tourists. Filled with statues and architecture this river city is an artist’s dream.
Like much of Wisconsin, La Crosse became heavily involved with the lumber industry in the mid-1800's until the decline of the forests throughout much of Wisconsin took its toll. But in the wake of the vanishing lumber era, La Crosse became a city renowned for its beer making, with around five breweries operating in La Crosse near the turn of the century. Today, make note of lingering pieces of history along the streets of the city, inside local breweries, and within the floorboards of historic homes and businesses.
Shore excursion included: Hop on Hop off Tour
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Amongst the oldest settlements west of the Mississippi, Dubuque was founded in 1785 by fur-trader Julien Dubuque. Filled with historic sites, buildings and a fascinating architectural district this All American City is a joy to explore.
Shore excursion included: Dubuque Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
With award-winning museums and cultural centers, internationally recognised festivals, a beautiful riverfront and limitless choices for dining and shopping, there is something for everyone in the Quad City of Bettendorf.
Shore excursion included: Bettendorf Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Explored in 1673 by Pere Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet, Des Moines County, changed hands from France to Spain, back to France, and finally to the United States as part of the Louisiana Purchase.
In 1834, residents named the land “Burlington” after trader John Gray’s Vermont hometown. When Iowa was named a territory in 1838, Burlington remained the capital. Today, visitors enjoy the sights and attractions of the town, as the hills and valleys, prairies and the Mississippi River create the perfect scenic backdrop.
Shore excursion included: Burlington Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Founded in 1819, Hannibal became a popular stop along the river for many steamboats travelling up the Mississippi. The town offers more parks per citizen than most towns in the Midwest and it boasts a truly remarkable arts scene. However, today the main draw of this quirky Missouri town is from fans of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, AKA Mark Twain. Many of Samuel's characters in his novels where based on people living in Hannibal where he grew up. The town is a delight to explore with many of the influences of this icon weaved into the streets, shops and museums of the town.
Shore excursion included: Hannibal Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
St. Louis, Missouri, famously referred to as the Gateway City, is known for its diverse neighbourhoods and the different cultures and traditions each one brings forth. The iconic city was founded in 1764 by French explorers who settled on the east side of the Mississippi, claiming the land as their fur trading post. In 1803, the city’s name began to spread as the beginning point for the famous Louis and Clark Expedition. The city is typically associated with its 630-foot stainless steel monument, The Gateway Arch, which stands proud on the banks of the Mississippi River to symbolise the westward expansion of the United States.
Shore excursion included: St Louis full day escorted tour
Borrow a book from the onboard library and relax on deck today or pop into the Gentlemen's Card Room for a game of Bridge with your fellow travellers.
For a remarkable one-of-a-kind experience, take a guided tour of the American Queen's Engine Room to explore the inner workings of our classic, steam-powered vessel or take in a guided tour of the Pilot House where you can witness the latest high-tech electronics that helps navigate the innovative paddlewheeler up the changing currents of Old Man River in modern-day America.
Welcome to the birthplace of rock'n'roll. Today on your tour of Memphis you'll discover landmarks such as Sun Studios, National Civil Rights Museum, famous Beale Street, and of course, Graceland. On your VIP tour of the home of The King you'll see the rooms in the mansion such as the Jungle Room, tour the grounds and museums and visit the peaceful Memorial Gardens.
Shore excursion included: Memphis Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
The Mississippi Delta is more than a geographical region. It is a way of life – a true cultural experience based on agriculture, music and history. These small river towns have been the inspiration of authors, musicians and artists for centuries. Catch a unique glimpse into the Port of the Mississippi Delta, and discover a muse of many.
Described as the Key to the South by Abraham Lincoln, this sleepy town perched on the edge of the Mississippi carries a history unlike any other Civil War city. Stroll though the streets and enjoy the views of the sweeping Mississippi as you delve into the local culture, art and history of this city.
Shore excursion included: Vicksburg Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Founded in 1716, charming Natchez is the oldest city on the Mississippi. First inhabited by Natchez Indians and French explorers, the city today is now known for its elegance, hospitality and its impressive preservation of history. In Natchez you'll find more antebellum homes than anywhere else in the USA, so it's no wonder this quintessential southern town has been featured in The 100 Best Towns in America listing.
Shore excursion included: Natchez Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
American Queen Steamboat Company features exclusively the port at Nottoway. While the boat is docked, visit the sugarcane estate – the largest standing antebellum mansion in the South.
Nottoway Mansion is an intricate building with impressive detail. Original furnishings mingle with era-appropriate antiques to create an atmosphere that does justice to the home’s original ambiance. It is fascinating history and luxurious aesthetic packaged in Southern hospitality – an experience that you will not want to pass up.
Arrive in The Big Easy early morning and enjoy a hearty breakfast before disembarking and making your way to your hotel in the historic French Quarter for the next two nights.
New Orleans is like no other city in the USA. Steeped in a history of influences from Europe, the Caribbean, Africa and beyond, it’s a brilliant mosaic of culture, food and music. Here you’ll find the roots of Jazz and a blossoming culture that is like nowhere else on Earth. Bon Voyage will be delighted to plan your time in this vibrant city for you.
Want to extend your time in New Orleans? Or perhaps include visits to historic Savannah or Charleston? All Bon Voyage can be totally tailor-made to your exact requirements. Call our team of experts on (0800) 316 0194 to discuss your plans.
