8 NIghts America's Heartland: Chicago to St. Louis/St.Louis to Minneapolis

Type of Vessel

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 this 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.

Itinerary

Chicago to St. Louis

Day 1 | Chicago, IL - Boutique Hotel: Enjoy your included, one-night stay at the iconic Drake Hotel in Chicago. The evening is yours to get self-acquainted with this culturally diverse city, rich in architectural beauty and hidden history. The Hospitality Desk will be located in the hotel for your convenience. It is here that the friendly staff can assist with everything from general questions about your upcoming voyage to reserving Premium Shore Excursions. 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 Chicago.

Day 2 | Ottawa, IL: Enjoy nearby Chicago before boarding the vessel this afternoon to begin your journey.

Day 3 | Ottawa, IL: Located at the confluence of the Illinois and Fox River, Ottawa became a conduit for river barges and connects Lake Michigan and Chicago to the Mississippi River. Home to the site of the first Lincoln-Douglass debate, this Illinois town is steeped in rich American history. A one-time booming canal town, Ottawa is still a major sand and glass center due to their numerous silica sand deposits.

Day 4 | Peoria, IL: The largest city on the Illinois River, Peoria is the oldest European settlement in Illinois. Named after the Peoria Native American Tribe, the city was settled in 1680 by French explorers. With a good blend of government and official buildings as the county seat - Peoria also offers a bustling art and culture scene and offers a robust historical story to entertain guests from around the world.

Day 5 | Havana, IL: Nature lovers and history buffs will relish the day touring this beautiful scenic port.

Day 6 | Leisurely River Cruising:There is always plenty to do between dawn and dusk on the river and today is the perfect day to enjoy the many public spaces and activities that are available to you onboard. Gaze at the beautiful landscapes and small river towns as you mingle with fellow guests and discuss the unique aspects of river life. If you fancy a moment for yourself, retreat to The Lincoln Library adorned with ornate bookcases stocked with an imaginative selection. Take hold of a literary classic, curl up on a plush chair in a cozy corner and relish every moment of serenity. 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 and revel in every moment.

Day 7 | Hannibal, MO: Hannibal, Missouri has a rich history, diverse industrial economy, and truly remarkable arts. The city was founded in 1819 by Moses D. Bates and became a popular stop along the river for many steamboats traveling up the Mississippi. Hannibal offers more parks per citizens than most towns in the Midwest and was included in the famous "50 Miles of Art." Today, the most popular draw of this quirky town is Hannibal's very own, Samuel Langhorne Clemens, recognized world-wide as Mark Twain. Many of the popular characters featured in Twain's novels were based on people Sam had known while growing up in Hannibal. 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 8 | Alton, IL: Alton was founded in 1837 and is located just 25 miles north of St. Louis, Missouri. This mid-western city is full of history, culture, and recreational opportunities. Explore the city that holds the site of the final debate between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas and the home of Robert Wadlow - the world's tallest man, and legendary musician, Miles Davis. Admire the beauty of Alton, noted for its prominent limestone bluffs along the Mississippi River that makes this city a rare and treasured stop.

Day 9 | St. Louis, MO: Thank you for cruising! Hope that you had a memorable experience and look forward to welcoming you aboard in the future. Enjoy Nashville at your leisure or consider a Post-Cruise Premium Shore Excursion with airport transfer.

St. Louis to Minneapolis

Day 1 | St. Louis, MO - Boutique Hotel: Enjoy your included, one-night stay at the iconic Union Station Hotel in St. Louis. The evening is yours to get self-acquainted with this dynamic city and its famous attractions such as the Gateway Arch. The Hospitality Desk will be located in the hotel for your convenience. It is here that the friendly staff can assist with everything from general questions about your upcoming voyage to reserving Premium Shore Excursions. 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 St. Louis.

Day 2 | St. Louis, MO: Explore St. Louis at your leisure or consider a pre-cruise Premium Shore Excursion with afternoon transfer to the vessel.

Day 3 | Hannibal, MO: Hannibal, Missouri has a rich history, diverse industrial economy, and truly remarkable arts. The city was founded in 1819 by Moses D. Bates and became a popular stop along the river for many steamboats traveling up the Mississippi. Hannibal offers more parks per citizens than most towns in the Midwest and was included in the famous "50 Miles of Art." Today, the most popular draw of this quirky town is Hannibal's very own, Samuel Langhorne Clemens, recognized world-wide as Mark Twain. Many of the popular characters featured in Twain's novels were based on people Sam had known while growing up in Hannibal. 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 4 | Leisurely River Cruising: There is always plenty to do between dawn and dusk on the river and today is the perfect day to enjoy the many public spaces and activities that are available to you onboard. Gaze at the beautiful landscapes and small river towns as you mingle with fellow guests and discuss the unique aspects of river life. If you fancy a moment for yourself, retreat to The Lincoln Library adorned with ornate bookcases stocked with an imaginative selection. Take hold of a literary classic, curl up on a plush chair in a cozy corner and relish every moment of serenity. 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 and revel in every moment.

Day 5 | Clinton, IA: The city of Clinton has much to offer, all with the beautiful backdrop of the Mississippi River. Situated at the crossroads of the Lincoln Highway and the Great River Road, Clinton is the Eastern-most point in the State of Iowa. At the height of its local economy during the late 19th Century, Clinton was regarded as the lumber capital of the nation; a history that is reflected as visitors pass many old sawmills. Today, agriculture plays a big part in Clinton's economy, which is visible in the beautiful rolling fields filled with luscious, fresh harvest crops. Explore the history of this fascinating river town and discover a lifestyle that will stand out from today's norm!

Day 6 | Prarie du Chien, WI: As the oldest community on the Upper Mississippi, Prairie Du Chien has been a traditional gathering place for centuries. The native people of the area met on the prairie in friendship to exchange goods. In the late 17th century, French fur traders used the prairie as a site of spring and fall rendezvous. It was during these years that the land received its name, which translates as "Prairie of the Dog" in French. When the British took over the fur trade, Prairie Du Chien became of greater importance for whoever controlled the prairie, controlled the entire Upper Mississippi watershed. After years of fighting for control of this land, the British eventually left the fort, leaving the residents of Prairie Du Chien and the Indians. Discover the rich history lining the streets of this historical city as you explore the treasure Prairie du Chien has to offer!

Day 7 | Winona, MN: Explore Winona, Minnesota, one of the most beautiful places in the country. The city is referred to as the “Island City” by locals because of the large sand bar it was built upon. Evidence suggests that the land's history reaches back as early as 9500 B.C., while present-day Winona was founded as the small village of Keoxa in 1851. Nestled between the covered limestone river bluffs of the Mississippi River, this quaint port is full of culture and small town Americana. Enjoy stunning views of the rolling bluffs as they plummet to the mighty Mississippi below in this beautiful and historic city, filled with incredible museums, galleries, and parks.

Day 8 | Red Wing, MN: Explore Winona, Minnesota, one of the most beautiful places in the country. The city is referred to as the "Island City" by locals because of the large sand bar it was built upon. Evidence suggests that the land's history reaches back as early as 9500 B.C., while present-day Winona was founded as the small village of Keoxa in 1851. Nestled between the covered limestone river bluffs of the Mississippi River, this quaint port is full of culture and small town Americana. Enjoy stunning views of the rolling bluffs as they plummet to the mighty Mississippi below in this beautiful and historic city, filled with incredible museums, galleries, and parks.

Day 9 | 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 Inclusive

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.

Guest Services

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.

Food and Dining

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.

Onboard Activities/Events

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.

Shore Excursions

Explore some of Missouri and Iowa's greatest landmarks throughout your journey on a highlighted excursions including

Big River Train Town
The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum
Trinity Episcopal Church
Hannibal History Museum
Ayers Pottery
Cave Hollow Complex
Clinton County Courthouse
Windmill Cultural Center
Dutch Windmill
Sawmill Museum
George M. Curtis Mansion
Clinton County Historical Museum & Library

Staterooms or Cabins

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.

Fitness

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.