The Mighty Mississippi: 15 nights Red Wing, Minneapolis to New Orleans

Type of Vessel

The largest steamboat ever built, the grand American Queen is a gracious and elegant triumph of American ingenuity.
Offering gracious and elegant steamboat river cruises, climb aboard the American Queen for a memorable journey through United States history and nature. Enjoy Victoria opulence with details like scrolling woodwork, fresh flowers and lacy filigree or travel back in time with the words of Mark Twain, from the ship's collection. Enjoy nightly entertainment aboard the river boat in the Grand Saloon or the Captain's Lounge or stroll up and down the decks admiring the views and scenery during your cruise. Combining the best of the old and the new, this beautiful lady of the river epitomizes the grace and grandeur that has made River Cruising a cherished American tradition for more than two centuries.
Join aboard the American Queen, for the ultimate steamboat vacation.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Hotel Stay - Minneapolis, Minnesota: Enjoy your complimentary stay at Radisson Blu Mall of America. The evening is yours to get self-acquainted with the local attractions of Minneapolis.
Day 2 | Red Wing, Minnesota: Explore nearby Minneapolis at your leisure or consider a Pre-Cruise Premium Shore Excursion with afternoon transfer to the American Queen.
Day 3 | River Cruising: Relax on deck with a copy of Huckleberry Finn or another imaginative selection borrowed from the revered Mark Twain Gallery, enjoy some quiet time in the Ladies' Tea Parlor, or recruit your fellow guests for an exciting board game in the Gentlemen's Card Room. 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. There is always plenty to do between dawn and dusk on the river!
Day 4 | Dubuque, Iowa: One of the few large cities in Iowa with hills, Dubuque is an extremely popular tourist destination, featuring unique architecture and desirable river location. From the America's River Project in the Port of Dubuque that transformed the riverfront, to the revitalization of the historic Main Street, the ongoing evolution of the Historic Millwork District downtown, and the impressive and expansive westward growth, Dubuque remains a remarkable city along the Mississippi. Intelligent Community Forum named Dubuque as one of just five United States cities as a "Smart21 Community" and the National Civic League has named Dubuque as a top All-American City three times in just six years! Guests will surely enjoy exploring this beautiful and unique city as they uncover the history and advancements held within.
Day 5 | Bettendorf, Iowa: Bettendorf, Iowa, is the starting point of historic exploration where you will set off to uncover the intriguing evolution of five individual, yet unified, communities known as the Quad Cities. 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 area 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 in the many museums, boutiques, and eateries!
Day 6 | Burlington, Iowa: Explored in 1673 by Pere Jaques Marquette and Louis Joliet, the land that is now Des Moines County changed hands from France to Spain, back to France and finally to the United States as part of the Louisiana Purchase. After Lt. Zebulon Pike's expedition landed at what is now Crapo Park in 1805, it was part of several territories - Louisiana, Indiana, Missouri, and Michigan. 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.
Day 7 | Hannibal, Missouri: 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 River. 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 Clemens 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 | Saint Louis, Missouri: Saint Louis, Missouri, famously referred to as the "Gateway City," is known for its diverse neighborhoods 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 symbolize the westward expansion of the United States.
Day 9 | 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. Consider booking an indulgent, stress-relieving massage in the American Queen's spa. Browse The Emporium gift shop for that perfect keepsake, or take the time to mingle with fellow guests.
Day 10 | Memphis, Tennessee: Memphis is a city built on melody from the jazz dives and blues clubs of Beale Street to the Memphis Rock 'N' Soul Museum, Gibson Guitar factory, Sun Studio and the famous Stax Museum of American Soul Music. In a city of contrasts, the tragic but uplifting stories of the National Civil Rights Museum are balanced by the frivolity of the twice-daily march of the ducks at the Peabody Hotel.
Day 11 | Helena, Arkansas: The Mississippi Delta is more than a geographical region. It is a way of life - a true cultural experience based around agriculture, music and history. These small river towns have been the inspiration for authors, musicians and artists for centuries. Lower Mississippi River voyages include a unique glimpse into a Port of the Mississippi Delta.
Day 12 | Vicksburg, Mississippi: Vicksburg perfectly blends Southern culture and heritage with exciting modern attractions. Described as the key to the South by President Abraham Lincoln, this Southern town carries a history unlike any other Civil War city. Vicksburg was founded in 1811 and grew as a vital river port city. It was a major component to the Civil War and carries much of the history within the town. 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 13 | Natchez, Mississippi: This charming river town 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. Enjoy the unique shops, restaurants, museums and historical homes, all of which contribute to Hugh Bayless' book "The 100 Best Towns in America."
Day 14 | Saint Francisville, Louisiana: Established in 1809, Saint Francisville is the oldest town in the Florida Parishes. Below where Saint 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 Saint 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! With over 140 buildings on the National Register, beautiful plantation homes nestled in the rolling countryside and bustling Main Street shops, this quaint town situated on the bluffs of the Mississippi River has a style all its own.
Day 15 | Nottoway Plantation, Louisiana: Nottoway is the South's largest, most glorious remaining antebellum mansion, with a rich history dating back to 1859. In a fabulous location along the Great River Road, this White Castle of the South transports visitors back to an era of glory and grandeur. Set among a natural backdrop of vibrant gardens and 200-year-old oak trees, the mansion boasts three floors and 64 bedrooms, and flaunts an incredible 22 white square columns. The most popular room among guests is the White Ballroom, which is painted entirely in white with elaborate gold decor throughout. Rooms are trimmed in custom plaster frieze made from Spanish moss, clay, plaster and mud, and are all original to the house. And as if that weren't enough, this immaculate mansion was constructed with 365 openings -one for each day of the year. Nottoway Plantation captivates all with a brilliant blend of true Southern hospitality, history and mystery.
Day 16 | New Orleans, Louisiana: Thank you for cruising! Hope that you had a memorable experience and look forward to welcoming you aboard in the future. Enjoy New Orleans 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 motor coaches for your convenience.

Guest Services

Guests holding reservations for select suite-level accommodations will receive the exclusive Commodore Services, an elite-level of hospitality and amenities reserved for guests of select American Queen suites including pre-boarding privileges, fruit basket and bottle of wine in your suite upon arrival, preferred dining arrangements, reserved balcony seating in the Grand Saloon theater, and private reception with Senior Officers of the American Queen.
In addition to Commodore Services hospitality and amenities, guests of the Owner's Suites and Luxury Suites will also receive the services of a friendly River Butler which includes view 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 Grand Saloon theater.

Food and Dining

Every meal aboard the American Queen is an affair to remember. The celebrated American chefs draw their inspiration from the great heartland to create a movable, delectable feast for you to indulge in. On the river cruises, you'll enjoy everything from piping hot beignets and bananas foster French toast for breakfast to succulent five-course dinners. Each feast is a reason to indulge yourself and will help make your river cruise memorable and delicious.

Onboard Activities/Events

Night after magical night, top entertainers bring down the house in the American Queen's majestic Grand Saloon. Each evening the lights dim, the curtains rise and the talented performers offers 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 beautiful landmarks throughout your journey on many highlighted excursions. Below are just a few of the many that you can experience on your voyage.

St. Luke's United Methodist Church
Dubuque Museum of Art
The Fenelon Place Elevator
Hotel Julien Dubuque
Grand Opera House
Isabel Bloom Studio
Figge Art Museum
River Music Experience
German-American Heritage Center
Quad City Botanicals Center
Des Moines County Heritage Center
Garrett-Phelps House Museum
Burlington Capitol Theatre
Port of Burlington Welcome Center
Big River Train Town
The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum
Trinity Episcopal Church
Cave Hollow West Winery
Karlocks Kars and Pop Culture Museum
Hannibal History Museum
National Civil Rights Museum
Memphis Rock 'N' Soul Museum
Auto Zone Park & Peabody Hotel Memphis Music Hall of Fame
Helena Museum
St. Mary's Catholic Church
Freedom Park
Fort Curtis
Pillow-Thompson House
Delta Cultural Center
Church of the Holy Trinity
Anchuca Mansion
Old Court House Museum
Lower Mississippi River Museum
Yesterday's Children Antique Doll & Toy Museum
Rosalie Mansion
Natchez Visitor's Center
William Johnson House Museum
Magnolia Hall
Stanton Hall
King's Tavern and Charboneau Distillery
Natchez Association for the Preservation of Afro-American Culture Museum
Royal Street
Old Market Hall
West Feliciana Historical Society Museum
Grace Episcopal Church
Nottoway Plantation

Staterooms or Cabins

Inside Staterooms | Surrounded by wonderful period details and with every modern convenience, you will find your cares disappear within moments upon entering these cozy havens. Ample shelving and storage spaces keep your necessities out of the way but easily accessible.
Deluxe Outside Staterooms with Bay Window | An expansive bay window overlooking the ever-changing scenery of America's heartland is the main draw of this spacious category featuring 190 square-feet of space, a queen bed or two single beds, tub/shower combination and a flat-screen television. Curl up in front of the window with a new novel and savor a moment that belongs to only you.
Deluxe Outside Staterooms with Private Veranda | With your own private 40 square-feet veranda, these staterooms are so enjoyable you might decide to extend your journey featuring 190 square-feet of space, tub/shower combination, flat-screen television, French doors opening to the veranda, Texas deck and interior access. Sit in your cozy armchairs and prop your feet up on the ottoman as you read through the River Times, the daily program, and discover the delights that await you.
Suites and Deluxe Suites with Open Veranda | The suites give you the feeling of a fine Southern estate home, complete with authentic Antebellum decor and antiques. Indulge in a soothing soak in your tub and then retire to your cozy armchair, prop your feet up on the ottoman and read through the River Times, the daily program, to discover the delights that await you. Enjoy the finest amenities in these luxurious accommodations featuring a flat-screen television, generous closet space and a full bathroom. As a guest of this fine suite, you will also receive the benefits of exclusive suite-level Commodore Services.
Outside Staterooms and Superior Outside Staterooms with Open Veranda | Settle in your sitting area, open the French doors to the deck, and greet the day as the banks of the river slip majestically by. Some staterooms in this category offer a view of the paddlewheel, while others offer expansive views of America's heartland.
Luxury Suites with Private or Open Veranda | The spacious 353-363 square-feet, elegant suites are furnished with authentic Antebellum decor and fabulous antiques providing the warm ambiance of a fine Southern estate home. Open your French doors and delight in sweeping river views as you sip a beverage and share conversation in your cozy sitting area. With two configurations to choose from, either one large guestroom suite with private veranda or two adjoining guestrooms with open veranda, these intimate suites accommodate a variety of travel needs and are the ideal choice for family and friends vacationing together. As a guest of the luxury suite, you will also be treated to exclusive suite-level Commodore Services, as well as personal river butler service.
It is important to note that the Luxury Suites located on the Texas deck are in close proximity to the paddlewheel. While many guests love the allure of the traditional paddlewheel experience, others may find it to be slightly noisier than they would like at times.
Owners Suites with Exclusive Veranda | Perched atop the American Queen in the best location with sprawling views of the river. Open your French doors and step out onto your veranda to unwind on your amply furnished patio. Adorned with 11-feet vaulted ceilings, overhead lighting, a cozy interior lounging area with sofa-bed and cocktail tables, these expansive suites can accommodate up to three guests and epitomize luxurious river cruising. Boasting every essential amenity while providing the ultimate in relaxation and pampering, you will relish the many exclusive benefits of the Commodore Services while being well attended to by your personal river butler.
Paddlewheel Staterooms | These spacious retreats offer unmatched views, each with a six-foot-square viewing window that overlooks the paddlewheel, for a truly authentic steamboating experience. It is important to note that while some guests are enamored with the allure of the more traditional experience, others may find the turning of the paddlewheel to produce more sound and vibration than they like at times. Enjoy a full bathroom with tub/shower combination, flat-screen television, sitting area with a sofa-bed, vanity, and a desk.
Single Inside and Single Deluxe Staterooms | Unaccompanied travelers should never have to sacrifice the comforts of home. Surrounded by wonderful period details and with every modern convenience, you will find your cares disappear within moments upon entering your cozy home away from home. Enjoy the finest amenities in these luxurious accommodations featuring a flat-screen television and a full bathroom.

Spa

While cruising aboard the American Queen, take some time to pamper yourself during your river cruise with a luxurious spa treatment. Unwind, relieve stress and slow down with a professional massage to make sure you leave feeling your very best. The spa offers an array of treatments, like hot stone, Swedish massage or reflexology, ensuring that you get the service you need to relax.

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 for the adventurer in all of us. The American Queen offers a range of amenities including weight training and state-of-the-art cardiovascular equipment to ensure you maintain your health goals even when you're cruising some of the nation's most famous rivers. You'll find that your active, healthy lifestyle is easily accommodated. Weight and resistance training are simple with the workout bench, dumbbells and versatile Kinesis One apparatus. Guests looking for a more aerobic form of exercise can get their heart rates up using the treadmills or static bike.