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July - August, ask for details.
2017: New Orleans, LA; Nottoway, LA; St. Francisville, LA; Natchez, MS; Vicksburg, MS; Greenville, MS; Memphis, TN; Ashport Landing, TN; New Madrid, MO; Paducah, KY; Cape Girardeau, MO; Chester, IL; St. Louis, MO; Hannibal, MO; Clinton, IA; Dubuque, IA; La Crosse, WI; Red Wing, MN
2018: New Orleans, LA; Nottoway, LA; Baton Rouge, LA; Natchez, MS; Vicksburg, MS; Greenville, MS; Memphis, TN; New Madrid, MO; Henderson, KY; Paducah, KY; Cape Girardeau, MO; Chester, IL; St. Louis, MO; Hannibal, MO; Quad Cities (Bettendorf), IA; Dubuque, IA; La Crosse, WI; Red Wing, MN
Traveling on the Mississippi and its tributaries, you will be transported back in time to an era of leisurely and romantic travel. Storybook American towns and vibrant, bustling cities combine with the sweeping panoramas and deep blue lakes which inspired the works of Mark Twain. Authentic America is out there just waiting to be explored and after three fabulous weeks of historic discovery you will forever be changed.
American Duchess
There's never been a better time to rediscover America and the American Queen Steamboat Company has the perfect way to explore the heartland of our great nation - aboard the grand American Duchess, the largest most opulent riverboat in the world. The American Duchess is the first all-suite paddlewheeler on U.S. rivers, a floating, intimate masterpiece that can carry up to 166 guests through America's heartland. The paddlewheeler, created from a 1995 hull, was completely reconstructed to become one of the most luxurious river cruising vessels in the country, featuring single-seating main dining, entertainment venues, and soaring ceilings.
Day 1 | New Orleans, LA - Boutique Hotel: Enjoy your included, one-night stay at the historic Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans. The evening is yours to get self-acquainted with this culturally diverse city steeped in history and brimming with culinary legacies of flavor. An American Queen Steamboat Company representative, as well as a local representative, will be readily available to provide you with dining, entertainment, and sight-seeing suggestions so that you may maximize your time in New Orleans.
Day 2 | New Orleans, LA: Spend your last day in New Orleans before embarking on an unforgettable journey!
The official Voyage Check-In will be open in the morning. The process is simple and will have you back to exploring in no time.
Day 3 | Nottoway LA: Nottoway is the South's largest, most glorious remaining Antebellum mansion with a rich history dating back to 1859. Located in a fabulous location along the great River Road it overlooks the grand Mississippi River. Set amongst a natural backdrop of vibrant gardens and two hundred-year-old oak trees, Nottoway Plantation captivates all with a brilliant blend of true Southern hospitality, history and mystery.
Day 4 (2017) | St. Francisville, LA: Established in 1809, St. Francisville is the oldest town in the Florida Parishes. Below where St. Francisville is located currently, was a settlement called Bayou Sara in the 1790's. When this settlement was destroyed by flooding and fires, many of the structures and artifacts were hauled up the bluff into St. Francisville, where they are still standing. The town is referred to as "two miles long and two yards wide," but that definitely doesn't mean they have nothing to offer!
Day 4 (2018) | Baton Rouge, LA: Baton Rouge, the Capital of Louisiana, has a deep culture and rich history. The city is home to Louisiana's capitol building which is the largest in the United States, as well as the Old State Capitol, a Gothic architectural monument located on the bluffs overlooking the Mighty Mississippi. Spend the day exploring all that Baton Rouge has to offer, from the museums and the architecture, to the shops and the cuisine!
Day 5 | Natchez, MS: This charming river town was first inhabited by Natchez Indians and French explorers who shared the land. It was founded in 1716, making it the oldest city on the Mississippi. The city is known for its elegance, hospitality, and impressive preservation of history - found on every street corner throughout Natchez. Guests enjoy the unique shops, restaurants, museums, and historical homes located in Natchez, all of which contribute to Hugh Bayless' book, "The 100 Best Towns in America."Â
Day 6 | Vicksburg, MS: Vicksburg perfectly blends Southern culture and heritage with exciting modern-day attractions. Described as the "Key to the South"Â by Abraham Lincoln, this southern town carries a history unlike any other Civil War city. Today, Vicksburg is a popular spot for tourists to learn about the battles of the city, taste the cuisine, visit the many museums, and pick out the perfect souvenir.
Day 7 | Greensville, MS: Greenville, MS Greenville is at the very heart and soul of Mississippi Delta. Located on the banks of Lake Fergusson, Greenville is a short drive to Indianola, the birthplace of B.B. King and many other blues singers, so naturally Greenville has its fair share of Blues integrated into its culture. This beautiful town is sure to win your heart with its southern charm and soul!
Day 8 | Leisurely River Cruising: Today is the perfect day to enjoy the many public spaces and activities that are available to you onboard. The fitness facility, business center, movie theater and grand lobby offer a more stimulating day on the river for those who wish to indulge in more energy-infused activity. However you wish to spend your day, make it your own.
Day 9 | Memphis, TN: Enjoy a complimentary city tour of Memphis, Tennessee. During this exclusive narrated driving tour of Memphis, you will see such landmarks like Sun Studio, The Peabody Hotel, National Civil Rights Museum and a cruise past Beale Street. Included is a Graceland Platinum ticket! After a guided tour of the Graceland Mansion, enjoy self-guided tours of the rest of the outlying museums.
Day 10 (2017) | Ashport Landing, TN: Fort Pillow, now a National Historic Landmark, was the site of a brutal massacre of Union troops by Major General Nathan Bedford Forrest. Here you will learn the important role Fort Pillow played in securing the Mississippi River as a prized passage throughout the Civil War.
Day 10 (2018) | Leisurely River Cruising: Today is the perfect day to enjoy the many public spaces and activities that are available to you onboard. The fitness facility, business center, movie theater and grand lobby offer a more stimulating day on the river for those who wish to indulge in more energy-infused activity. However you wish to spend your day, make it your own.
Day 11 | New Madrid, MO: New Madrid was founded in 1776 by Spanish Governor Esteban RodrÃiguez MirÃ. In 1800, Spain traded the territory to France in the Third Treaty of San Ildefonso, who promptly sold it to the United States in the Louisiana Purchase. The city is remembered as being the nearby location for the Mississippi River military engagement, the Battle of Island Number Ten, during the Civil War.
Day 12 (2017) | Leisurely River Cruising: Today is the perfect day to enjoy the many public spaces and activities that are available to you onboard. The fitness facility, business center, movie theater and grand lobby offer a more stimulating day on the river for those who wish to indulge in more energy-infused activity. However you wish to spend your day, make it your own.
Day 12 (2018) | Henderson, KY: Most of the town was built around the railroad, but a college caused growth, as well. Henderson is a progressive modern, small Southern town, but it also has its heritage and history deeply embedded within its borders and embraced by its citizens.
Day 13 | Paducah, KY: Paducah embraces their harmonious history between the European settlers and the Padoucca Indians native to the area. The city is located at the confluence of the Ohio and the Tennessee Rivers and because of this, it is often called the Four-Rivers Area due to the proximity of the Ohio, Cumberland, Tennessee, and Mississippi Rivers. This prime location has played a major role in Paducah's history, as transportation was easily accessible – the economy was strong and travelers were frequent!
Day 14 | Cape Girardeau, MO: Stroll along the riverfront, where the passion that led Mark Twain to write so eloquently about Cape Girardeau in Life on the Mississippi, and the inspiration that Gen. Ulysses S. Grant used to lead with firm conviction as he took command of the Union Army on the Mississippi in historic downtown.
Day 15 | Chester, IL: Known as the "Home of Popeye"Â, Chester, Illinois is a city rich in history and pop culture. Because creator and writer of Popeye, Elzie Crisler Segar, was born here. Stop at the Popeye Character Trail to view granite statues of the characters overlooking the Mississippi or check out America's only Popeye museum and gift shop!
Day 16 | St. Louis, MO: Enjoy a complimentary city tour of nearby St. Louis, Missouri. Famously referred to as the "Gateway City,"Â St. Louis is known for its diverse neighborhoods and the different cultures and traditions each one brings forth. 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 symbolize the westward expansion of the United States.
Day 17 | Hannibal, MO: Hannibal, Missouri has a rich history, diverse industrial economy, and truly remarkable arts. Today, the most popular draw is Hannibal's very own, Samuel Langhorne Clemens, recognized world-wide as Mark Twain. Many of the characters and influences of this American icon are weaved into the streets, shops, restaurants, and museums of Hannibal waiting to be uncovered.
Day 18 | Leisurely River Cruising: Today is the perfect day to enjoy the many public spaces and activities that are available to you onboard. The fitness facility, business center, movie theater and grand lobby offer a more stimulating day on the river for those who wish to indulge in more energy-infused activity. However you wish to spend your day, make it your own.
Day 19 (2017) | Clinton, IA: The city of Clinton has much to offer, all with the beautiful backdrop of the Mississippi River. At the height of its local economy during the late 19th Century, Clinton was regarded as the lumber capital of the nation. Today, agriculture plays a big part in Clinton's economy, which is visible in the beautiful rolling fields filled with fresh harvest crops. Explore the history of this fascinating river town!
Day 19 (2018) | Quad Cities (Bettendorf), IA: During the Civil War, the nearby river towns of Davenport, Iowa, Rock Island, Illinois and Moline, Illinois thoughtful planning and strong leaders helped them to flourish while other settlements began to fail. It was during this same time period that the three towns began to refer to themselves as the "Tri-Cities." Today, despite the name “Quad Cities,†the city is comprised of five towns in total with the addition of East Moline, Illinois and Bettendorf, Iowa. Enjoy the diverse culture of this "melting-pot" city and uncover the stories of Quad Cities' past.
Day 20 | Dubuque, IA: Dubuque is Iowa's oldest city and is among the oldest settlements west of the Mississippi River. The first permanent settler of the area was French-Canadian fur trader Julien Dubuque who arrived in 1785. Dubuque is filled with historic sites, architectural Historic Districts with well-preserved buildings and homes, history and art museums, the great Mississippi River, and a revitalized main street that invites guests with Dubuque's claim-to-fame as an "All-American City."Â
Day 21 | La Crosse, WI: 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, architecture, and an exquisite view of the river, this river city is an artist's dream. La Crosse became a city renowned for its beer making. 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.
Day 22 | Red Wing, MN: Red Wing, Minnesota was included on National Geographic Traveler's list of most historic places in the world. Today, the city offers endless opportunities to travel back in time and learn about settlers and travelers that occupied the land before today, or to admire the craftsmanship and creativity of local artisans of both the present and the past.
Day 23 | Red Wing, MN: Thank you for cruising! Hope that you had a memorable experience and look forward to welcoming you aboard in the future. Enjoy nearby Minneapolis at your leisure or consider a Post-Cruise Premium Shore Excursion with airport transfer.
All guests receive complimentary wine and beer with dinner, and cappuccino, espresso, bottled water, and soft drinks, and shore excursions in every port of call. Also included is a boutique hotel stay before your voyage which includes breakfast taxes, porterage, and vessel transfer. There is also a dedicated fleet of deluxe motorcoaches for your convenience.
Guests holding reservations for suite-level accommodations will receive the exclusive Commodore Services, an elite level of hospitality and amenities reserved for guests of American Duchess suites including, pre-boarding privileges, fruit basket and bottle of wine in your suite upon arrival, preferred dining arrangements, reserved balcony seating in the Auditorium theater, and private reception with Senior Officers of the American Duchess.
In addition to Commodore Services hospitality and amenities, guests of the Owner's Suites and Loft Suites will also receive the services of a friendly River Butler which includes, tour of suite upon arrival, unpacking suitcases and hanging of clothes, packing of suitcase, laundry and pressing service, shoe shine and conditioning, afternoon tea served in-suite, breakfast and dinner served on veranda (upon request), in-suite pre-dinner canapés, post-dinner sweets, and personal escort to reserved balcony seating in the Show Lounge/Auditorium theater.
Featuring a single-seating schedule in the beautiful Grand Dining Room, dining onboard is an experience. Enjoy 5-star cuisine that blends local flavors and fine culinary traditions. A more casual atmosphere is offered at The Grill, which can host over 80 guests who wish to dine at their own pace. Their celebrated American chefs draw their inspiration from the great Heartland to create a movable, delectable feast for you to indulge in. Every day celebrates the culinary senses.
Night after magical night, top entertainers bring down the house in the American Duchess's majestic Show Lounge/Auditorium. Each evening the lights dim, the curtains rise and the talented performers offer an entertainment worthy of Broadway.
As history plays such a large part of your cruise experience, the Riverlorian is onboard for each voyage to impart the history and lore of the river on which you are cruising. In addition to the ever-present Riverlorian, they often feature a diverse lineup of guest historians who take to the stage and transport you to another era. You'll enjoy hearing from these noted speakers who offer astounding insights on the culture and heritage of America's Heartland and the Deep South. Relive a tale from Mark Twain for an enchanted evening and you will retire to your room convinced that you've just had a conversation with history.
Explore beautiful landmarks throughout your journey between Louisiana and Minnesota on many highlighted excursions. Below are just a few of the many that you can experience on your voyage.
Nottoway Plantation
Royal Street
Old Market Hall
William Johnson House
Stanton Hall
Lower Mississippi River Museum
Anchuca Mansion
Greenville History Museum
New Madrid County Courthouse
National Quilt Museum
Glenn House
Cohen Memorial Home
The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum
Windmill Cultural Center
Grand Opera House
Dahl Auto Museum
Red Wing Marine Museum
Hop-On Hop-Off Shore Excursions include your ticket to experience great river cities with selected admissions, narrated tours with countless available motorcoaches. You will enjoy hassle-free access to some of the most historically and culturally significant attractions in America's heartland.
Private Veranda Suites to Loft and Owner's Suites range from 240 to 550 square feet.
Deluxe Suites with Private Balcony include a queen bed or two win beds, a lounge area with half bath, a queen sofa-bed and small desk area, a private bedroom complete with a full bath, plentiful closet space and sliding doors to your private balcony with two flat-screen TV's.
Interior Suites feature ample closet space, queen bed or two win beds, a flat-screen TV, a full bathroom and a curtain divider to provide optional privacy between your sleeping space and furnished seating area.
Loft Suites with Private Balcony additionally boasts a lower level that features a full bathroom, small dining area, a beautiful lounge section furnished with a queen sofa-bed and desk area, along with sliding doors to access your private balcony where you can unwind and take in the majestic, riverside scenery. Ascend the stairs to the upper level of the loft and you will discover a tranquil retreat with its semi-private bedroom, a full bathroom and plentiful closet space. A large picture window in front of the staircase affords river views from the upper level bedroom.
Owners Suites with Private Balcony allows guests to slide open glass doors that are accessible from both the bedroom and lounge areas, and step out onto your expansive, private balcony to unwind and take in the beauty of riverside America. Adorned with an intimate interior lounging area amply furnished with a queen sofa-bed, cocktail tables and desk, these lavish suites can accommodate up to four guests and epitomize luxurious river cruising.
Veranda Suites With Private Balcony invites guests to settle in at their couch, slide open the doors to their private balcony and peacefully watch the river banks of America's heartland drift by. Enjoy the finest amenities in these luxurious accommodations featuring a flat-screen TV, generous closet space and a full bathroom.
The river is always flowing and while life here may move at a genteel pace, there is always plenty of activity onboard and ashore. The American Duchess offers a range of amenities to help you maintain your fitness routine while cruising. You'll find that your active, healthy lifestyle is easily accommodated. Weight and resistance training are simple with the workout bench, dumbbells and other equipment offered. Guests looking for a more aerobic form of exercise can get their heart rates up using the treadmills or static bike.
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