SHORE EXCURSIONS
ST. LOUIS- NEW ORLEANS VOYAGE
Call (888)-966-0938 Contact your Travel Agent to book your Lower Mississippi River adventure today, or visit us at www.reservemyexcursions.com
YOU WILL EXPERIENCE Memphis, Tennessee........................................................................ 6 Terrene Landing, Mississippi........................................................... 8 Vicksburg, Mississippi....................................................................... 10 Natchez, Mississippi.......................................................................... 14 Nottoway Resort............................................................................... 18 Alton, Illinois (St. Louis, Missouri) .................................................. 22 New Orleans, Louisiana................................................................... 24
INCLUDED TOURS Each American Queen Steamboat Company voyage comes with an included traditional guided tours or Hop-On Hop-Off guided tours. Traditional tours are carefully curated to optimize your experience in port. Whether it is an exploration of the town, a historic museum, or cultural experience, these preplanned tours will lead you to the port of call’s most sought-after destinations. The Hop-On Hop-Off model allows you to cater your experience to your specific interests, while local historians offer narration between each of the carefully curated attractions. These tours provide the perfect opportunity to become immersed in every town or city you visit. Best of all, each attraction is included for American Queen Steamboat Company guests as a part of your voyage! So feel free to visit as many, or few, as your heart desires!
PREMIUM EXPERIENCES In addition to our included tours, American Queen Steamboat Company also offers a multitude of “special interest experiences.” These premium experiences are optional, in-depth guided tours that have been customized to appeal to different interests. Premium experiences require advanced reservations and are capacity controlled to provide an intimate and excellent experience. Every. Single. Time. Each excursion has been meticulously curated by a team of expert tour operators, so you can be sure you are in good hands. If you’re looking for something more profound, more personal, you’re looking for premium experiences.
Not all tours are offered on every voyage. Please check your reservation form.
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Shore Excursions Department Dear American Queen Steamboat Company Guest, We are looking forward to reigniting our passion for travel with you in the coming weeks. As we travel America’s great rivers together things may look different, sound different, and frankly, feel different. Please know that the safety of our guests and local ports remains our top priority. You will certainly notice new processes implemented onboard to promote the health and wellbeing of our guests, but our dedication to keeping our safety as the paramount priority during your journey along America’s rivers doesn’t end there. That’s why we’ve implemented new SafeCruise Ashore initiatives. In the past year, we have all witnessed the world endure ever-evolving circumstances and new regulations. Both the big cities, and small towns have had to adjust to the “new normal” introduced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, we have faced an unparalleled level of uncertainty. Today, we would like you to know for certain, that no matter the circumstances, our shore excursions team will work diligently to provide the highest standards of safety during your on-land exploration, and strive to provide the following experiences as advertised. However, the nature of the pandemic and safety regulations continue to vary from state to state, county to county, and day to day. With that in mind, we want you to join us with accurate and realistic expectations. Due to the evolving nature of COVID-19 and the varying intensities of regulations between counties, you may notice slight modifications to prebooked shore excursions. Please know that our team is hard at work to provide the best possible experiences on land, but some restrictions are beyond our control and may result in alterations to onshore programming. If such changes should occur to any of your excursions, you can be sure that our team’s first priority will be to provide an alternative attraction of equal value, both financially and experientially. Any itinerary changes will be communicated with you in advance. We thank you for your patience and understanding during this unprecedented time. Let’s embrace American river cruising like never before. Let’s stay close and go far — together.
Sending well wishes, James J. Palmeri Executive Vice President Of Shore Excursions
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HAND-CRAFTED EXCURSIONS We believe in your freedom to participate in experiences along the river that are of interest to you. Each journey along the river is special. That’s why our tight-knit team of tour operators strives to provide unique and exclusive attractions in each port you will visit. Whether you’re looking to step back in time on an in-depth historical tour, feel the thrill of an adventurous ride through the forest, or to soak in the stunning natural scenery, there is a hand-crafted experience for you.
BROCHURE SYMBOLS If you see this symbol, the excursion you are viewing is only offered on select voyage dates throughout the year (check online or call). If you see this symbol, the excursion you are viewing may only be offered on select voyages due to seasonal shifts in temperature (check online or call).
The stopwatch symbol indicates the timing of the excursion.
Activity Level 1: Little to no physical activity involved. Enjoy your excursion from the comfort of our deluxe motorcoach with the possibility of a relaxing stroll. Activity Level 2: A bit more than a driving tour, but not a strenuous effort. These excursions may involve moderate walking of up to 1/2 mile on level ground.
Activity Level 3: Expect some physical activity. These excursions may involve moderate walking, some steps or climbing, and uneven surfaces. Activity Level 4: Turn it up a notch! These excursions are for guests who regularly engage in an active lifestyle. Expect uneven surfaces or hills with more than average walking.
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Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
PRE-BOOKING PREMIUM EXPERIENCES
BOOK NOW TO RESERVE YOUR SHORE EXCURSIONS VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.RESERVEMYEXCURSIONS.COM
OR CALL (888)-966-0938 For your convenience all of our shore excursion itineraries can be viewed and booked directly on our website. We strongly encourage you visit us online, as this is the best place to view the most up-to-date information on shore excursions. Of course, our knowledgeable reservation agents are available over the phone to help you make reservations as well. We look forward to our exciting experiences together in port!
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MEMPHIS
INCLUDED HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR
Remember! Your vacation, your choices. Visit as many or few of the included attractions in Memphis listed below at no cost. Dubbed the “Birthplace of Rock and Roll,” this iconic city offers a vibrant culture and history is intertwined through every street.
MEMPHIS ROCK ‘N’ SOUL MUSEUM See the complete story of Memphis music history, as researched by the Smithsonian Institution. This museum tells of the musical pioneers and legends of all racial and socio-economical backgrounds who, for the love of music, overcame obstacles to create the musical sound that changed the world.
BEALE STREET Is a significant location in the city’s history as well as in the history of the blues. Step into the center for Southern Folklore, a non-profit organization that show cases and celebrates the culture- the foods, the music, the arts, the traditions, and the stories of the South.
AUTO ZONE PARK & PEABODY HOTEL AutoZone Park is home of the minor league baseball team, the Memphis Redbirds. The Peabody Hotel is a luxury hotel in Downtown Memphis. Well known for the famous “Peabody Ducks” the hotel rooftop, but make a daily trek at 11:00 AM to the hotel’s lobby in a “March of Ducks” celebration.
EDGE MOTOR MUSEUM Explore the history of the American automobile at the Edge Motor Museum, the only auto museum in Memphis. Discover the rise and fall of the American sports car from “post-war ‘til ‘74” in the American Speed exhibit. Conveniently located near Sun Studio, the Edge Motor Museum features stunning vehicles from the same historic eras highlighted by the famous music studio.
SUN STUDIO A recording studio opened by rock pioneer Sam Phillips, Sun Studio is widely known as the birthplace of Rock & Roll. Blues and R&B artists like Howlin’ Wolf, junior Parker, Little Milton, B.B. King, James Cotton, Rufus Thomas, and Rosco Gordon recorded there in the early 1950s. (Admission Additional).
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Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
MEMPHIS PREMIUM EXPERIENCE
THE ELVIS EXPERIENCE
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS LIVE LIKE “THE KING” FOR A DAY AT GRACELAND MANSION Enter through “The King’s” front door, where the presence of Elvis can still be felt within the walls as you walk through the same rooms as he did after a long day’s performance. Custom crafted and state-of-the-art iPads will help guide your way through each room, providing thoughtful narration. Discover how Elvis lived at this musical mecca while exploring the personal rooms within his home, visitor entertainment complex and museums depicting his legacy.
GRACELAND ELVIS EXPERIENCE TOUR Enjoy the rest of your time exploring the recently opened Entertainment Complex. The multitude of exhibits feature everything from Elvis’ wardrobe to his automobiles and airplanes.
CITY TOUR OF MEMPHIS Sit back and relax on a brief city tour where you’ll see important musical and historical locations as you make your way through the bustling Blues City and home of “The King”.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY AT THE ELVIS STATUE A giant bronze statue of Elvis welcomes us to the most famous street in Memphis. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to snap a photo with the Elvis statue and to see Beale Street, Memphis’s most famous street.
HA L F - D A Y
$ 129
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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TERRENE LANDING
INCLUDED HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR
Remember! Your vacation, your choices. Visit as many or few of the included attractions in Terrene Landing listed below at no cost. Discover the area’s critical role in the music industry, or learn about the town’s heritage!
GRAMMY MUSEUM MISSISSIPPI After the Civil War, the delta region remained agricultural, worked mostly by African-American tenant farmers and sharecroppers. It was those tenant farmers and sharecroppers whose work songs and religious songs grew into blues and gospel music. These roots sprouted musical genres such as R&B, rock ‘n roll, soul, modern country music, and of course—the blues. More blues musicians have been birthed from these rich soils than any other region. In fact, Mississippi has more Grammy winners per capita than any other state in the United States, making it the perfect location for the Grammy Museum, a new, innovative museum that spans all genres of music. Journey through the history of music on a self-guided tour through the museum, which showcases more than two dozen cutting-edge exhibits that explore the best music from many genres including Rock, Hip-Hop, Classical, Latin, R&B, and Jazz.
DOWNTOWN SHOPPING Enjoy some of the many shopping opportunities in downtown, Cleveland. Here, you will find an array of restaurants, boutique shops, a pharmacy, and more.
MARTIN & SUE RAILROAD MUSEUM In the 19th and 20th centuries, the railroad was essential to the settlement and growth of the Mississippi Delta. The coveted railroad attracted many great industries to the town of Cleveland, Mississippi including Baxter Laboratories, Delta Steam Electric Station, and more. The trains were vital in the transportation of people, goods, and mail. Walk through history as you explore this museum, that houses thousands of artifacts, photographs, documents and see the 1941 Illinois Central caboose.
MISSISSIPPI DELTA CHINESE HERITAGE MUSEUM In the wake of the Emancipation Proclamation and the Civil War, immigrants from a diverse array of ancestries and cultures began to inhabit the area. In the 1880’s Chinese immigrants began to work in the vast fields and farmlands of the Delta, originally as a source of inexpensive labor. Since then, the Chinese families that settled here have been an integral part of the community. At the Mississippi Delta Chinese Heritage Museum, the rich history of this significant community is displayed and preserved. As you explore the museum, discover the powerful stories of the Chinese families and culture that are tightly woven into the Mississippi Delta. Note: This museum is located on the 3rd floor of the Charles W. Capps Building, there is an elevator available.
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Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
Check Checkonline onlinefor forthe themost mostup-to-date up-to-dateexcursion excursioninformation. information.All Alltours toursare aresubject subjecttotochange. change.
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VICKSBURG
INCLUDED HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR
Remember! Your vacation, your choices. Visit as many or few of the included attractions in Vicksburg listed below at no cost. Discover the town’s critical role in the Civil War, or grab a taste of classic American treat!
CHURCH OF THE HOLY TRINITY This incredible church spans over 125 feet long, 52 feet wide and reaches 61 feet high to the apex of the ceiling, which was built of southern white pine to emulate Noah’s ark. The church was constructed in Romanesque Revival style and finished in red brick. It also showcases zigzag tracery, which was highly unique to the style at the time.
OLD COURT HOUSE MUSEUM The museum is filled with countless artifacts, including confederate flags, portraits, the trophy antlers won by steamboat Robert E. Lee in an 1870 race, an original teddy bear given by Theodore Roosevelt and many more!
ANCHUCA MANSION Built in 1830 by politician J.W. Mauldin, Anchuca is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tour the home and discover its rich history, including how it was used as a hospital during the war. It was from this home’s balcony that Confederate President Jefferson Davis delivered his final public address to the people of Vicksburg.
BIEDENHARN COCA-COLATM MUSEUM This building is where Coca-ColaTM was bottled for the first time anywhere in the world in 1894. At the Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum, enjoy the wide variety of Coca-Cola memorabilia in an authentic candy store and soda fountain setting.
LOWER MISSISSIPPI RIVER MUSEUM This museum provides a unique and interactive way to learn about the history, people, and events that have been a part of the Mighty Mississippi. Explore the many exhibits, learn what the 1927 flood was like for the community, see some of the river’s fish up close in the 1,515-gallon aquarium and much more!
OLD DEPOT MUSEUM The museum features a 250-square foot diorama of the Siege of Vicksburg, giving guests a bird’s-eye view of the layout of the battlefield as it looked in 1863. It also houses 250 scale models of ships and boats, model railroads with railroading artifacts and 150 model cars that show the evolution of motor travel.
10 Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
VICKSBURG PREMIUM EXPERIENCE
A ROUND OF GOLF AT THE VICKSBURG COUNTRY CLUB
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS ARRIVE AT THE VICKSBURG COUNTRY CLUB Not far from Vicksburg National Military Park, the Vicksburg Country Club offers terrific views and challenging play for golfers at every skill level. As we enter the Vicksburg Country Club, we will see the rolling hills that lay before us.
TIME TO GEAR UP! Get ready for a relaxing morning of golf on the beautiful grounds of Vicksburg Country Club.
ROUND OF GOLF Established in 1929, the Vicksburg Country Club features 6,059 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par 70.
IMPORTANT NOTE All carts, clubs and green fees are included.
HALF-DAY
$ 99
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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VICKSBURG PREMIUM EXPERIENCE
ON THE FRONT LINES OF THE CIVIL WAR
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS EXCLUSIVE VIEWING OF “HERE BROTHERS FOUGHT” Join us for a private viewing of the National Park Service movie “Here Brothers Fought,” an inspirational tribute video that will set the stage for your excursion to the battlefield.
VICKSBURG CITY TOUR After the presentation, board the motorcoach and set off on a guided adventure through the city as we make our way to the Vicksburg National Battlefield.
BATTLEFIELD TOUR WITH CERTIFIED NATIONAL PARK SERVICE GUIDE Enjoy a driving tour through the fields, where you will travel the front lines of one the most important battlefields in the country. Cross into enemy territory and hear the stories of hardships suffered by soldiers and discover what makes Vicksburg such an important city in American history.
STOPS AT IMPORTANT MONUMENTS & THE USS CAIRO Stop at some key points throughout Vicksburg, including the Illinois State Monument, which is the largest of the 27 state monuments. Discover this massive ironclad gunboat, which is one of seven in the United States. It was named after the towns along the Upper Mississippi and Ohio Rivers.
THE BATTLEFIELD VISITOR CENTER & GIFT SHOP Explore the Vicksburg Battlefield Visitor Center, where an informative fiberoptic display depicts the progression of the siege. There will also be time to stop in the gift shop.
HALF-DAY 12
$ 79
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
Check Checkonline onlinefor forthe themost mostup-to-date up-to-dateexcursion excursioninformation. information.All Alltours toursare aresubject subjecttotochange. change.
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NATCHEZ
INCLUDED HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR
Remember! Your vacation, your choices. Visit as many or few of the included attractions in Natchez listed below at no cost. With its elegant mansions and storied past, you can’t go wrong with any stop in Natchez!
MAGNOLIA HALL
This Greek Revival Mansion was built in 1858. The house was built before the breakout of the Civil War in town but did suffer some damage – a cannon ball was launched into their kitchen! It is now fully restored – the main floor offers a showcase of many antiques and furnishings and the upper floors offer a costume collection located in the Historic Clothing Museum.
STANTON HALL Irish immigrant and cotton merchant Frederick Stanton built this Palatial Greek Revival mansion in 1857. It was appraised at $83,000 during that period, even before it was furnished. Take a 30-minute tour of the house – which takes up the entire block and is fully furnished.
THE OLD SOUTH TRADING POST Be sure to bring your taste buds to this unique stop! Sample Southern muscadine juice, dips, salsas and more, all while you browse the huge assortment of items for sale. There’s a great treat or souvenir for everyone here!
MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY & CULTURE
This museum delves into 300 years of African American history, spanning four lifetimes from Colonial and Cotton Kingdom Natchez to the Reconstruction and the Civil Rights Movements. As you explore this creative portrayal of the true African American story, history unfolds to reveal Natchez in a light that is shown nowhere else.
NATCHEZ VISITOR’S CENTER
Stop here to learn more about this historic town. This building contains informative displays, knowledgeable staff, a scale model of Natchez and a gift shop.
ROSALIE MANSION
This magnificent mansion, an outstanding example of Federal style architecture, was built by a wealthy cotton planter in 1823. The Mississippi State Society Daughters of the American Revolution have since gained ownership and have been maintaining the house and grounds since 1938.
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NATCHEZ PREMIUM EXPERIENCE
THE STORY OF COTTON IN THE AMERICAN SOUTH
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS EXPERIENCE FROGMORE PLANTATION Cross the river to Louisiana and visit historic Frogmore Plantation, designated a “Must See Site” by Rand McNally. Frogmore is the only historic yet modern, 1800-acre working cotton plantation in the South. Feel the historic nature of the plantation as we explore the grounds. See how Frogmore both pays respect to the hardships of the past and embraces the technology of the future.
MUSIC FILLS THE AIR Take a seat on an original pew in an 1800s African-American plantation church, as the mistress of Frogmore takes the audience back in time. Listen as music fills the air with the “secret songs” performed by local musicians. Then, continue the experience exploring authentically furnished slave cabins and cotton fields.
FROGMORE GIN BUILDING & GIFT SHOP Enjoy some free time exploring the old Gin Building where you can see the process of cotton being de-seeded. Or visit the gift shop to find a perfect souvenir!
EXPLORE NATCHEZ’S #1 ATTRACTION At Longwood Mansion, discover a tale of grand imagination and broken dreams. Step inside this intriguing piece of history, left unfinished after bankruptcy and war struck Longwood’s once wealthy owner. Also known as “Nutt’s Folly,” Longwood remains beautifully unfinished and stands symbolically in representation of the last burst of Southern opulence — a reminder of a time before war brought the cotton baron’s dominance to an end.
HALF-DAY
$ 79
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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NATCHEZ PREMIUM EXPERIENCE
HOME HOSTED VISIT WITH GINGER AND JAMES
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS BE A GUEST AT THE TOWERS Step off the motorcoach and in to the lavish parlors of this historic home as owners James and Ginger Hyland offer a warm southern welcome. As you’re invited inside, Ginger will share the history behind her lovely home and how the pair have helped restore The Towers to its original glory.
EXPERIENCE THE TOWERS Silks, antique lace sheers and magnificent draperies adorn the walls of The Towers, but unlike most historical homes, there are no roped-off rooms here. This is a one-of-a-kind experience where you’ll be free to explore the home as if you were a member of the Hyland family.
SOAK IN THE AMBIANCE ON THE BACK PORCH Soak in the beauty of the perfectly maintained statued garden, while Ginger — the daughter of Lawrence A. Hyland, president of Hughes Aircraft Company and one of the men credited with the invention of radar — will share impressive tales of her past growing up in California, including accompanying her parents to Hollywood parties. While listening to Ginger’s stories, you will enjoy a delightful taste of southern comfort food, such as fried chicken, grits, and biscuits. After a champagne toast, your visit will come to an end, as you bid farewell to your new southern friends.
HA L F - D A Y
$ 99
16 Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
NATCHEZ PREMIUM EXPERIENCE
THE GREAT MISSISSIPPI OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: ATVS & OUTDOOR SPORTS
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS SAFETY TRAINING & ORIENTATION AT DOUBLE C RANCH Our expedition will bring us to Double C Ranch, where our group of adventure-seekers and wildlife-enthusiasts will saddle up to their very own all-terrain-vehicle. Our local guide, who knows this wilderness like the back of his hand, will debrief your group with safety tips, riding instructions, and distribute helmets, gloves and goggles.
BOARD AN ATV OR SIDE-BY-SIDE VEHICLE Prepare for an exclusive opportunity to trek the Mississippi countryside in your all-terrain-vehicle. The two-person ATV is great for couples, but for those adventure seekers wishing for a solo ride, a one-person ATV is also available.
ATV RIDING Once everyone is up to speed, it’s full throttle forward! Rest assured, our guide will only move as fast – or as slow – as you are comfortable, if you can drive a car you can drive an ATV! Conquer the landscape, weave between landmarks and keep a keen eye out for wildlife as we journey through the scenic Mississippi landscapes. Our guide will be certain to point out any notable critters and foliage as we pass by.
PARTICIPATE IN LASSO & TOMAHAWK THROWING After a breathtaking ride through the nature reserve, the group will slow to a halt to begin the next phase of your outdoor adventure. Watch in awe as our talented guide shows off his skills of the trade during live tomahawk throwing, bullwhip popping, and lasso throwing demonstrations. After some pointers on form and technique, allow your inner-lumberjack to shine as you give the art a try! Grab a rope and attempt to loop the target in the distance – or grab a tomahawk and see if you can stick a bullseye!
HALF-DAY
$ 249
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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NOTTOWAY
INCLUDED TOUR
COMPLIMENTARY TOUR OF NOTTOWAY Enjoy an included self-guided tour of Nottoway, the South’s largest remaining mansion from the pre-Civil War era. This stunning historic mansion lies between Baton Rouge and New Orleans and offers a view of a truly grand estate. The mansion flaunts three-floors, 64-bedrooms, and displays an incredible 22 white square columns which contribute to its nickname—“The White Castle of Louisiana.” The most popular room among guests is the White Ballroom, which is painted entirely in white and displays elaborate gold décor 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. Enjoy a self-guided walking tour of an American castle as we explore within the pristine walls of Nottoway followed by a stroll through the lush grounds and gardens.
18 Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
NOTTOWAY PREMIUM EXPERIENCE
LIFE IN THE BAYOU: CAJUN SWAMP TOUR
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS ARRIVE AT MANCHAC SWAMP Travel through plantation country, passing the affluent mansions from another era, when sugarcane reigned the region before entering Manchac Swamp, a 250-acre ecosphere, and unique world all its own. Meet our Cajun captain, who will immerse us in the authentic Cajun culture of the southern swamps as he guides us across the water through the beautiful natural landscape.
CLIMB ABOARD THE LOCAL SWAMP BOAT Board a personal pontoon swamp boat with a Cajun captain to explore the Manchac Swamp and view its wildlife! As your boat drifts through the waterways, you will learn about the Louisiana Wetlands and the inhabitants of the swamp — particularly the life and habits of the American alligator! And the unique history of the Cajun town of Frenier within the Manchac Swamp.
SEE GATORS, BIRDS & OTHER SWAMP INHABITANTS Swamp creatures, seeing our boats daily, recognize them as part of their normal environment. Unafraid and responsive to their boat captain’s call, they peak out from underbrush and between moss-draped trees and shrubs, frequently coming directly to the boat. In the safety and comfort of the boat, you can actually come within a few feet of alligators.
Please note: while Louisiana’s Manchac Swamp is uniquely beautiful yearround, it is possible that alligators and other native wildlife may not be as active throughout the colder months. Please take this into consideration while booking this tour on dates from October through March.
UNIQUELY CAJUN After our swamp tour you will have free time on your own to visit the gift shop and take home something uniquely Cajun!
HALF-DAY
$ 79
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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NOTTOWAY PREMIUM EXPERIENCE
GRAND SOUTHERN PLANTATION TOUR
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS THE GRAND PLANTATIONS OF THE GREAT RIVER ROAD Embark on a journey through the expansive fields of southern Louisiana to two of the South’s most prestigious and picturesque plantations, known as the “Crown Jewel” and “Grand Dame” of the Great River Road. Houmas House and Oak Alley will transport you through time with their charm and rich history. On their own, each location offers the lavish luxuries of Southern wealth, but combined, this exclusive tour offers an abundance of Southern opulence and prestige.
EXPLORE OAK ALLEY PLANTATION
Stand in awe of the 300-year-old oak trees that span from the levees of the Mississippi River to the entrance of the Big House. Learn the history of Jacques and Celina Roman, explore the grounds including the reconstructed slave cabins, gardens and a blacksmith’s shop or soak in the breathtaking scenery.
ADMIRE THE HOUMAS HOUSE Experience the life of a wealthy sugar baron at the “Crown Jewel” of Louisiana’s River Road. Explore the Houmas House on a guided tour and experience the historic roots of the home that radiate from the walls of every room. Admire its many antique furnishings and works of art as you discover the carefully preserved legacy of the home’s owners from over 200 years of American history. Walk through the magnificent gardens and experience the full beauty of this grand plantation.
SOUTHERN-STYLE PLANTATION MEAL
Once our tour of the Houmas House is completed, get ready to experience the culinary traditions of the region in a southern-style buffet lunch. Afterwards, feel free to explore the grounds on your own.
FULL-DAY
$ 149
20 Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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PRE-CRUISE PORT OF CALL
ALTON (ST. LOUIS) St. 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 established 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 tall on the banks of the Mississippi River to symbolize the westward expansion of the United States.
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ALTON (ST. LOUIS) PREMIUM EXPERIENCE
THE LEWIS AND CLARK GATEWAY TO THE WEST
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS WEAVE THROUGH THE STREETS OF ST. LOUIS Begin your day of historic exploration in the city known as “The Gateway to the West.” Follow the footsteps of the intrepid explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark in the days leading up to their momentous departure. A local tour guide leads this city tour and narrates the story of how St. Louis became one of America’s most beloved cities.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY AT THE GATEWAY ARCH Rising over the Mississippi River, the Gateway Arch marks the heroic and intrepid journey of Lewis and Clark. Stand in the shadow of this massive monument for a picture-perfect photo!
STAND WHERE THE FAMOUS JOURNEY BEGAN At the Lewis and Clark Confluence Tower monument, two identical and strategically placed towers mark a significant moment in the formation of the Corps of Discovery.
LEARN ABOUT THE EXPLORERS STORIES Our final stop brings us to the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site, an incredible museum dedicated to sharing the stories of the explorers. The self-guided tour of this 14,000 square-foot facility delves into stories rarely heard, weaving through extraordinary exhibits and galleries, including a replica of the 55-foot keelboat used by the Corps to navigate the waters of the Missouri River.
BOAT EMBARKATION Your journey through the city will conclude at the dock of the vessel. Please see your Reservation Form for details.
HA L F - D A Y
$ 79
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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POST-CRUISE PORT OF CALL
NEW ORLEANS Home to a truly unique melting pot of culture, food and music, New Orleans is one of America’s most culturally and historically rich destinations. Head on over to the French Quarter to experience some street performers and the finest galleries in the city. Looking for some history? Visit Treme, the oldest African-American neighborhood filled with colorful creole cottages and shotgun homes. If you want a break from the hustle and bustle, New Orleans offers tranquility in the Lakeview neighborhood, complete with waterfront views and quaint dining.
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NEW ORLEANS PREMIUM EXPERIENCE
NEW ORLEANS HIGHLIGHTS TOUR
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS NARRATED JOURNEY THROUGH THE “BIG EASY” See key sights throughout the city such as the French Quarter, Jackson Square and the Garden District. Experience the eccentric atmosphere of New Orleans from an intimate, first-person perspective. See the levees and discover the stories present on every street, from tales of the city’s first settlers, to long-standing cultures, religions, Hurricane Katrina and of course, Mardi Gras.
GUIDED TOUR OF ST. LOUIS CEMETERY #3 On a guided walk-through of the “City of the Dead,” discover the historical significance of this peaceful above-ground burial place to New Orleans.
EXPERIENCE CITY PARK & LAKE PONTCHARTRAIN Take some time to relax in the breathtaking City Park. Comprising roughly 1,300 acres, City Park is one of the oldest and largest urban parks in the country and is home to beautiful ancient oaks. Enjoy the views of stunning, historical Lake Pontchartrain which provides the essential habitat for countless species of fish, birds, mammals, reptiles and plants.
DIRECT TRANSFER You will be disembarking in New Orleans, so your excursion will conclude at the post-cruise hotel, or airport. Please see your Reservation Form for details.
HALF-DAY
$ 79
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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Uniquely American River Cruises™ For information or to book your shore excursions, please call 1-888-966-0938 or visit www.ReserveMyExcursions.com (For an instant confirmation) Reservation Agents are available Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM EST
Disclaimer American Countess™ included shore excursions are available to all American Countess guests and are capacity controlled and subject to availability. All included and premium shore excursions are subject to availability and may not be available at time of booking. All tours are subject to maximum and minimum capacities and tours may be canceled in the event that minimum capacities are not met. Total passenger counts for each tour are required for logistical reasons. Cancellations within 48 hours of tour departure are not refundable. Tour departure times, inclusions, prices and activity level are subject to change; please reference your ticket, the departure kiosk and the daily TV presentation for more information on your specific tour. In most cases, tours will operate in all weather conditions and refunds will not be offered for inclement weather. During local and national holidays or weekends some attractions and facilities may be operating under modified hours of operations or may not be open to the public. In such instances, American Countess shore excursions will make every effort to minimize negative impact on guests and will offer an alternative when applicable or if available. Early pre-booking is strongly encouraged. Tours are generally available 6 months prior to cruise departure and not all premium excursions are available for pre-booking online. Check with your Shore Excursion Specialist when onboard for any additional tours or changes to pre-booked tours. American Countess shore excursions has made every effort to notify guests with mobility issues of handicapped accessibility at the stops and attractions along the Hop-on Hop-off route as well as premium excursions. Because of the historic and general nature of some of the attractions, handicapped accessibility may be limited to the first floor or outside grounds only. In some instances there is no handicapped accessibility to the attractions. Complete or partial refunds will not be issued for portions of tours or attractions with accessibility limitations. Post-Cruise tours may include more than one final destination. In some instances guests will experience up to three stops to allow guests to exit the motorcoaches at a second hotel or airport. By participating in shore excursions of any kind (Included or Premium), you grant SEA Operating Company, LLC (SEA) and American Queen Steamboat Operating Company, LLC (AQSC), and their parent entities and affiliates (Released Parties) the irrevocable and unrestricted right to reproduce photographs and/or video images taken of you, or members of your family, for the purpose of publication, promotion, illustration, or trade, in any manner or in any medium. You therefore release the Released Parties and their legal representatives for all claims and liability relating to said images or video. Furthermore, you grant permission to use your statements that were given during an interview or guest lecture, with or without your name, for the purpose of advertising and publicity without restriction. You waive your right to any compensation. Please review AQSC’s Passenger Ticket Contract for additional terms and conditions which apply.
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IM POR T A NT F O R Y O U R V O Y A G E Go online to www.reservemyexcursions.com or call 1-888-966-0938 to make a reservation. Pre-bookings close the Wednesday prior to embarkation at 11:00 AM EST. Remember, all excursions in this brochure are subject to change. Not all excursions listed are offered on every voyage. Be certain to check online or call for the most up to date information on your specific voyage.