SHORE EXCURSIONS
LOWER MISSISSIPPI RIVER
Call (888)-966-0938 Contact your Travel Agent to book your Lower Mississippi adventure today, or visit us at www.reservemyexcursions.com
YOU WILL EXPERIENCE Nottoway, Louisiana.......................................................................... 6 St. Francisville, Louisiana.................................................................. 8 Natchez, Mississippi.......................................................................... 10 Vicksburg, Mississippi....................................................................... 12 Greenville, Mississippi...................................................................... 14 Memphis, Tennessee........................................................................ 16 New Orleans, Louisiana.................................................................... 18
INCLUDED TOURS To introduce you to each port of call, every American Queen Steamboat Company cruise comes with included tours! These 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.
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. But 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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NOTTOWAY
INCLUDED TOUR
COMPLIMENTARY TOUR OF NOTTOWAY Enjoy an included 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.
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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 year-round, 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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ST. FRANCISVILLE
INCLUDED TOUR
CITY TOUR WITH A STOP AT ROSEDOWN: Established in 1809, St. Francisville is the oldest town in the Florida Parishes of Louisiana. 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 doesn’t mean it has nothing to offer! St. Francisville is filled with historic homes, beautiful churches, and breathtaking parks. On this visit, you will see one of St. Francisville’s famous homes, Rosedown. Established in the 1830s by Daniel and Martha Barrow Turnbull, Rosedown remained in the hands of their descendants until the 1950s. Enjoy a guided tour of the great house and gardens. See many original pieces of furnishing in the home, including a handmade tapestry by Martha Washington.
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Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
ST. FRANCISVILLE PREMIUM EXPERIENCE
REDEMPTION AND REHABILITATION AT ANGOLA PRISON
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS THE MOST POWERFUL EXCURSION ON THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER Prepare to explore the Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola, a maximumsecurity prison, focused on spiritual reform. Once one of America’s most violent prisons, the Angola of today will completely transform your previous perceptions of prisons and inmates. This truly eye-opening and enlightening experience is sure to leave an impact!
VISIT A DEATH ROW CELL BLOCK Step off the motorcoach for an exclusive tour of Angola’s first and most famous cell block, the Red Hat Cell Block. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the penitentiary’s first cell block was home to the escape artist Charlie Frazer and was the site of eleven executions by electric chair. Hear stories of the prison’s dark past before its unbelievable transformation.
EXPLORE THE FARM LANDS As we ride through the facility, be sure to observe the crop fields, which are prisoner maintained and are harvested to feed the inmates.
ANGOLA PENITENTIARY MUSEUM Enjoy some free time on your own in the museum! The Angola Penitentiary Museum is home to twenty-one exhibits, including Louisiana’s electric chair. Angola has also been visited by Freddy Fender and has a Hollywood gallery where the prison was visited by film crews. After your trip through the museum make your way to the gift shop!
HALF-DAY
$ 99
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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NATCHEZ
INCLUDED MANSION TOUR
CITY TOUR WITH A STOP AT LONGWOOD MANSION Natchez was founded in 1716, making it the oldest city on the Mississippi River. The city is known for its elegance, hospitality, and impressive preservation of history, which can be found on every street corner throughout town. See the unique shops, restaurants, museums, and magnificent mansions located in Natchez, as our motorcoach explores the beautiful downtown areas. At Longwood Mansion, Natchez’s number one attraction, 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.
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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!
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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VICKSBURG
INCLUDED TOUR
CITY TOUR INCLUDING VICKSBURG BATTLEFIELD Board the motorcoach and set off on an adventure through the city of Vicksburg as we make our way to a special included tour of Vicksburg National Battlefield. Typically a premium experience, this acclaimed tour is included specially for your voyage! Embrace this opportunity to see the quaint town of Vicksburg, home to luxurious mansions, stunning churches, and historic museums. At the battlefield, 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. Aptly described by President Lincoln as the key to victory, the Siege of Vicksburg was the Union Army’s crucial push to capture a vital strategic position during the American Civil War.
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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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GREENVILLE
INCLUDED TOUR
EXPLORE THE B.B. KING MUSEUM & DELTA INTERPRETIVE CENTER Join us for this special included journey to Indianola, Mississippi, the hometown of legendary blues artist, B.B. King. Typically a premium experience, this insightful tour is included specially for your voyage! Built to tell the story of B.B. King and how the delta region shaped his legacy, the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center captures the unfiltered story of the Delta Blues. A self-guided tour of the museum begins as a heartwarming documentary tells the story of B.B.’s childhood and early beginnings. Then, travel back in time as the chronological exhibits throughout the museum twist and turn through the musical journey of the iconic B.B. King. Follow his musical masterpieces from “3 O’clock Blues” to “You Upset Me Baby” to “The Thrill Is Gone.”
14 Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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PRE- OR POST-CRUISE PORT OF CALL
MEMPHIS Memphis’ first settlers were Native Americans who were drawn to the area’s bluffs overlooking the river. By building their settlements on the Fourth Chickasaw Bluff, it protected them from flooding, and the mighty river allowed them easy transportation access. When the explorer Hernando DeSoto and his army arrived in Memphis in 1541, they set up camp and the city of Memphis exchanged hands with the Spanish, French and English, eventually being sold to the U.S. Government. Today, Memphis is nationally recognized for its contributions to our country’s music influences. Dubbed the “Birthplace of Rock and Roll,” this iconic city offers a vibrant culture and history is intertwined through every street.
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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 & FREE TIME FOR LUNCH (PRE-CRUISE ONLY) 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. Then stop for a bite to eat at one of the many Elvis themed eateries, like Vernon’s Steakhouse and Gladys’ Diner. Peanut butter and banana sandwiches anyone?
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.
BOAT EMBARKATION OR DIRECT TRANSFER If your voyage begins in Memphis, Tennessee, your journey through the city will conclude at the dock of the vessel. If you will be disembarking in Memphis, your excursion will conclude at the post-cruise hotel, or airport. Please see your Reservation Form for details.
FU L L - D A Y
$ 139
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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PRE- OR 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.
BOAT EMBARKATION OR DIRECT TRANSFER If your voyage begins in New Orleans, Louisiana, your journey through the city will conclude at the dock of the vessel. If you will be disembarking in New Orleans, your excursion will conclude at the post-cruise hotel, or airport. 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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SET OUT ON
YOUR NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE
Experience B E AU T Y A N D I N T R I G U E o n T H E C O LU M B I A A N D S N A K E R I V E R S
WITH AMERICAN EMPRESS®
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 Duchess® included shore excursions are available to all American Duchess 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 Duchess 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 Duchess 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.