SHORE EXCURSIONS
CUMBERLAND & MISSISSIPPI RIVERS
Call (888)-966-0938 Contact your Travel Agent to book your Cumberland & Mississippi adventure today, or visit us at www.reservemyexcursions.com
YOU WILL EXPERIENCE
Ashport Landing, Tennessee.......................................................... 6 Cape Giaradeau, Missouri............................................................... 8 Chester, Illinois.................................................................................. 10 Clarksville, Tennessee...................................................................... 12 Columbus, Kentucky......................................................................... 14 Dover, Tennessee......................................................................................... 16 Memphis, Tennessee................................................................................... 18 Nashville, Tennessee (Clarksville).................................................. 20 New Madrid, Missouri...................................................................... 22 Paducah, Kentucky....................................................................................... 24 St. Louis, Missouri............................................................................ 26
INCLUDED TOURS Each American Queen Voyages™ cruise comes with 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 pre-planned 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 Voyages™ guests as a part of your cruise! So feel free to visit as many, or few, as your heart desires!
PREMIUM EXPERIENCES In addition to our included tours, American Queen Voyages™ 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.
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Not all tours are offered on every voyage. Please check online for the most up-to-date excursion information.
Dear American Queen Voyages Guest, We are looking forward to welcoming you onboard in the coming weeks. As we travel these great waterways together, please rest assured that the safety of our guests and local port communities remain our top priority. You will certainly notice our new SafeCruise™ processes implemented onboard to promote the health and wellbeing of our guests. When exploring ashore, you can feel confident that our shore excursions team will work diligently to provide the highest standards of safety during your on-land exploration and strive to provide the experiences featured in this booklet as advertised. However, you may notice slight modifications to pre-booked shore excursions. Please know some restrictions are beyond our control and may result in alterations to onshore programming. If such changes should occur to any of your excursions, our team’s priority will be to provide an alternative attraction of equal value, both financially and experientially. Any itinerary changes will be communicated to you in advance. Let’s embrace North American cruising like never before. Let’s stay close and go far — together. Bon voyage! American Queen Voyages
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HAND-CRAFTED EXCURSIONS We believe in your freedom to participate in experiences that are of interest to you. Each voyage 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 soak in 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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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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INCLUDED WITH YOUR VOYAGE
Ashport Landing, Tennessee
FORT PILLOW INCLUDED TOUR FORT PILLOW INTERPRETIVE CENTER
The park’s museum offers Civil War artifacts including a canon and interpretive displays relating to the history of Fort Pillow. On our visit to the historic Fort Pillow we will explore the artifacts and displays of the fort’s Interpretive Center. Here, we will have the opportunity to view a video outlining the history of Fort pillow and the role it played during the Civil War.
EXPLORE THE FORT
As you explore, discover the intricate steps required to fire a Civil War cannon, many of which can be found stationed throughout the fort.
EXPERIENCE A SPECIAL DEMONSTRATION
After you make your way through the fort, meet with Civil War soldier reenactors and enjoy a rifle firing demonstration!
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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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INCLUDED WITH YOUR VOYAGE
Cape Girardeau, Missouri
HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR Remember! Your vacation, your choices. Visit as many or few of the included attractions in Cape Girardeau listed below at no cost. Visit the Mississippi River Tales Murals or learn of the area's early settlers!
MISSISSIPPI RIVER TALES MURALS
The Mississippi River Tales Mural is the largest and most dramatic of Cape Girardeau’s murals and is located on a portion of the downtown floodwall. Covering nearly 18,000 square feet, this 1,100-footlong mural features 24 historically themed panels that vividly portray Cape Girardeau’s rich history and heritage.
RED HOUSE INTERPRETIVE CENTER
The Interpretive Center commemorates the life of community founder French-Canadian, Louis Lorimier, as well as the visit of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark in November 1803. It also houses an early 1800s exhibit that reflects the lives of the early settlers of the old Cape Girardeau district. The gardens on the north side of the house show the types of garden you might have seen in 1803 with flowers, vegetables, cooking herbs, and medicinal herbs.
OLD ST. VINCENT'S CHURCH
The Renaissance architecture, referred to as English Gothic Revival style, is not only beautiful but also extremely rare, as very few churches of this style exist in America today. Explore the many artifacts preserved in the church as you admire the arches and woodwork lining the interior of the chapel. Discover this fully restored beauty as it transports you back in time.
GLENN HOUSE
Completed in 1883, the Glenn House is a fully restored historic museum in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. It is a prime example of the Victorian period lifestyle including the architecture, furnishings, clothing, and décor.
CRISP MUSEUM
Located inside Southeast Missouri State University’s River Campus, the Crisp Museum collects in three thematic areas: archaeology, history, and fine art. The museum’s historical collections cover a wide range of artifacts with strengths in the areas of militaria, firearms and their accessories, clothing, and hand tools.
CAPE RIVER HERITAGE MUSEUM
Since its founding in 1981, the Cape River Heritage Museum has focused on local history while preserving a historic building at the corner of Frederick and Independence streets. Located in an old fire house, the museum offers events, tours, as well as exhibits on steamboats, education, commerce, the Missouri mule, the state flag, the Show-Me slogan, Native American culture, and fire and police memorabilia.
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Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
Cape Girardeau Premium Experience
TRACING THE TRAIL OF TEARS
HIGHLIGHTS EMBARK ON AN IN-DEPTH JOURNEY
At one of America’s most historic sites, the Trail of Tears State Park in Jackson, Missouri, you'll see 3,415 acres of pristine scenery where the Trail of Tears State Park blends beautiful countryside and untouched landscapes with one of the saddest chapters in American history.
REFLECT AT TRAIL OF TEARS STATE PARK
At the Trail of Tears State Park visitor center, gain an in-depth understanding of this American tragedy as a powerful documentary traces the events of this cultural banishment.
EXPLORE JACKSON, MISSOURI
Continue your experience to the nearby town of Jackson, Missouri. Discover the history of this city on a narrated tour before visiting the Cape Girardeau County History Center, located along the quaint streets of this mid-western American town and the ideal location to complete our cultural exploration.
DISCOVER THE HISTORY OF THE AREA
Displays with artifacts of historical significance showcase different backgrounds, heritages, and ethnicities that have all combined to create unique communities and America’s melting pot. Next door, the new Research Annex hosts an exhibition of Cherokee materials and displays about the development of Trail of Tears State Park. If shopping is what you prefer to do, feel free to head out into town, where you can take advantage of the boutique shopping opportunities of Jackson before returning to the vessel.
H A L F-DAY
$59
LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE. RESERVE TODAY!
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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INCLUDED WITH YOUR VOYAGE
Chester, Illinois
HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR Remember! Your vacation, your choices. Visit as many or few of the included attractions in Chester listed below at no cost. Spend the day exploring the historic city and be sure to keep an eye out for some familiar faces scattered throughout town!
COHEN MEMORIAL HOME
The Cohen Home is located on a beautiful historical site on Harrison Street overlooking the Mississippi River. Its unusual blue storm windows make it a very visible landmark for boats on the river and travelers approaching the Chester Bridge from Missouri. Built in 1855, it was the home of the William Cohen family who lived there until 1983. The upstairs’ bedrooms contain furnishings and collections from several families of Chester including the Cohen family.
THE SPINACH CAN COLLECTIBLES AND MUSEUM
As the only Popeye collectibles store and museum in America, this small shop located in Downtown Chester will surely bring back memories of the past as you explore. Walk around the front to see original and rare collectibles featuring Popeye, Olive Oyl, Wimpy, Bluto, Swee’Pee, Jeep, and much more. Pick out the perfect unique book, toy, video, postcard, poster, or other memorabilia for someone back home or to keep for yourself. Then head into the back to see some rare and highly sought after Popeye collectibles.
THE COURTHOUSE AND RANDOLPH COUNTY MUSEUM
Explore the history of Randolph County through collections of paintings, articles, photos, and artifacts that depict their past.
WELCOME CENTER
The Chester Welcome Center is located in Segar Park next to the Chester Bridge. It contains restrooms, an information center with displays, and a large deck overlooking the Mississippi River and Missouri Bottoms. The bronze statue of Popeye the Sailor Man has been overlooking the Mississippi River in Segar Park for more than 30 years. This is just one of the many Popeye character statues placed throughout the town.
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Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
Chester Premium Experience
STE. GENEVIEVE...MISSOURI'S OLDEST EUROPEAN SETTLEMENT HIGHLIGHTS MISSOURI'S OLDEST EUROPEAN SETTLEMENT
Explore Missouri’s oldest European Settlement, Ste. Genevieve. Revel in the historic district’s rustic structures, featuring rare architectural styles that date back as far as 1722. Each with a story just waiting to be told. Our guide will enlighten us as we walk along the town’s streets to the Welcome Center. A visit to the Welcome Center will help us fill in the gaps of our Ste. Genevieve history knowledge in a friendly, interactive environment.
A STUNNING SANCTUARY: THE CHURCH OF STE. GENEVIEVE
Witness the beauty of the ornate stained glass windows and historical artifacts at Ste. Genevieve Church, which was constructed in the late 1890’s. Enjoy the sanctuary and a live organ concert performed by a local organist.
CROSS THE THRESHOLD INTO COLONIAL LIFE
The journey continues to the Ste. Genevieve’s historic downtown Landmark District. Here, you’re free to visit any of the shops and art galleries within the French-Creole style buildings that line the streets. But the experience doesn’t stop there. Discover the colonial lifestyle prior to the Louisiana Purchase at the Bolduc House Museum.
H A L F-DAY
$6 9
LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE. RESERVE TODAY!
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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INCLUDED WITH YOUR VOYAGE
Clarksville, Tennessee
HISTORIC COLLINSVILLE INCLUDED TOUR HISTORIC COLLINSVILLE
Enter Historic Collinsville and travel back through centuries. This rural settlement dates back to 1830, and has been authentically restored to accurately depict life in the early days of the community. The historic settlement was opened by the Weakly family, whose ancestors grew up on these very grounds. Collinsville features an array of historic buildings, including a blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, smokehouse, family homes and more. In each building you visit you can be sure to discover its history and purpose in the Collinsville community.
INCLUDED AFTERNOON SHUTTLE DOWNTOWN SHOPPING & FORT DEFIANCE SHUTTLE
Enjoy a shuttle to downtown for some shopping! You may also visit Fort Defiance, where visitors are encouraged to walk the trails and enjoy the history that the location represents. Displays, cannons, and the occasional reenactors are just some of the things you can enjoy on your visit to Fort Defiance.
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Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
Clarksville Premium Experience
SOUTHERN SPIRIT: THE VICES OF CLARKSVILLE HIGHLIGHTS EXPERIENCE AMERICA'S MOST ENDURING VICES
Today’s excursion departs in Clarksville, Tennessee, a city with a deep history of the classic vices of the American South. It was even once the inspection point for tobacco crops being exported up and down the Cumberland River.
TASTE WHAT'S ON TAP
Taste what’s on the authentic Tennessee taps at the Tennessee Valley Brewing Company. Known as Clarksville’s first nano brewery, this local brewery prides itself on community involvement. Here, you will have the opportunity to taste some of their delicious brews with a food pairing. You will also get a look behind the scenes on a tour the brewery.
LEARN ABOUT WINE FROM GRAPE TO GLASS
Not far from the Tennessee-Kentucky border, you will arrive at Beachaven Winery and Vineyards. Here, witness the breathtaking vineyards and experience a comprehensive tour of the winery, where your guide will explain the winemaking process from grape to glass. Perhaps best of all, you will be free to sample as many varieties of their critically acclaimed libations as you like!
TASTE SPIRITS FUELED BY HOMETOWN PRIDE
Just a few minutes down the road from Beachaven is the Old Glory Distilling Company. Learn how these local artisans create their small batches of beloved specialty beverages – or, as Old Glory describes their products, “Damn fine spirits.” Enjoy a tour of their new distillery, as well as samples their handcrafted creations.
HAL F-DAY
$79
LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE. RESERVE TODAY!
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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INCLUDED WITH YOUR VOYAGE
Columbus, Kentucky
INCLUDED TOUR DISCOVERY PARK OF AMERICA
Explore the Discovery Park of America, located in the beautiful Heritage Park in Union City, Tennessee. The expansive museum features ten exhibit galleries that focus on a wide variety of intriguing subjects. The Discovery Park of America’s galleries include science, space, technology, military, natural history, regional history, art, transportation and much more! With a wealth of information and exhibits this encyclopedia-come-to-life offers something of interest for everyone!
COLUMBUS-BELMONT STATE PARK CIVIL WAR MUSEUM
During the Civil War, Columbus, Kentucky was a strategically significant city. Whichever side controlled Columbus, had control of the Mississippi River. In 1861, the confederate army fortified a bluff along the river in Columbus. This marked the northernmost confederate base along the river, which gave protection to key cities like Vicksburg, Mississippi. The Columbus-Belmont State Park was formed to preserve the historic battlefield. At the ColumbusBelmont State Park Civil War Museum, discover the region’s role in the Civil War through the collection of diaries, letters and personal artifacts of troops on display.
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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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INCLUDED WITH YOUR VOYAGE
Dover, Tennessee
HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR Remember! Your vacation, your choices. Visit as many or few of the included attractions in Dover listed below at no cost. Learn about the Civil War from Tennessee's perspective.
FORT DONELSON RIVER BATTERIES
Late in 1861 Confederate military leaders selected locations in Stewart County, Tennessee, to construct two earthen forts to hinder anticipated Union naval advancement up the parallel and strategic Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers. Today, visitors to Fort Donelson can learn about the battle, view the miles of earthworks and artillery, and take a walk along the park’s trails. There is an area for picnics, parking, and strolls along the Cumberland River. A Visitor Center provides opportunities for visitor orientation and exhibits.
STEWART COUNTY VISITOR CENTER
Stop here to discover the stories of Stewart County and Dover. Speak with a local volunteer at the visitor information desk, or admire the gallery that depicts the rich history and culture of the town.
W.D. SYKES HISTORICAL MUSEUM
The 1888 historic W.D. Sykes-Brandon House, built in the style of a river showboat, serves as the museum, with rotating exhibits that depict the county’s early history.
FORT DONELSON NATIONAL CEMETERY
The Fort Donelson National Cemetery was established in 1867 upon the battlefield of Fort Donelson as a burial ground for Union soldiers killed at Donelson, or of soldiers originally buried in other areas within the immediate geographic area of north Tennessee and southern Kentucky. Today, the cemetery contains the graves of veterans representing the Seminole War, Civil War, Spanish-American War, World War I and II, the wars in Korea and Vietnam, and those that served into the 1980s .
"THE SURRENDER HOUSE"/ DOVER HOTEL
During the Battle of Fort Donelson, the Dover Hotel served as the headquarters for Confederate Brigadier General S.B. Buckner and was site of the “unconditional surrender” of Buckner to Union Brigadier General U.S. Grant, on February 16, 1862. The structure was built in the early 1850s and served as a hotel to travelers for many generations. Abandoned by the 1890s, the “Fort Donelson House Historical Association” saved the building in 1928, operating it as a museum.
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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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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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Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
Memphis Premium Experience
THE ELVIS 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”.
WALK DOWN BEALE STREET & ELVIS STATUE
A giant bronze statue of Elvis welcomes us to the most famous street in Memphis. Here, our local guide will lead us down the block as he narrates stories of his favorite attractions as we walk past.
DIRECT TRANSFER
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.
H A L F-DAY
$ 13 9
LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE. RESERVE TODAY!
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
NASHVILLE (CLARKSVILLE) Nashville has long been the musical epicenter of the United States. Featuring numerous music venues and opportunities for musicians, the city has catapulted the careers of some of the biggest names in Country Music. In the early 20th century, Nashville became a nucleus for nightlife and entertainment in Tennessee. It was the launch of the WSM radio station and their program known as the “Grand Ole Opry” coupled with the exciting venues such as Ryman Auditorium that solidified Nashville’s moniker “Music City.”
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Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
Nashville Premium Experience
NASHVILLE MUSIC CITY USA TOUR HIGHLIGHTS NARRATED JOURNEY THROUGH THE “MUSIC CITY”
Discover all that Nashville has to offer on this experience sure to deliver the full “Country Music Experience.” Ride throughout the streets of this unique city known for it’s artistic murals, catchy music, and mouthwatering cuisine. As we explore “Music City” our knowledgeable guide will share local stories and discuss the history of the town as our motorcoach traverses the streets.
SWAY TO THE SOUNDS OF NASHVILLE AT THE COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME® AND MUSEUM
After our driving tour, you will most definitely spot this building – the massive museum showcases piano keys that span the entire exterior. The museum is nicknamed the “Smithsonian of Country Music” because of its absolutely remarkable collection. Here you can experience the sounds of country’s biggest stars! Explore the museum’s core exhibition, and stop by “Sing Me Back Home” and “A Journey Through Country Music” which are the permanent exhibits. The Country Music Hall of Fame frequently updates their showcases – and they will never disappoint!
BOAT EMBARKATION
If your voyage begins in Nashville, Tennessee, your journey through the city will conclude at the dock of the vessel.
H A L F-DAY
$99
LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE. RESERVE TODAY!
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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INCLUDED WITH YOUR VOYAGE
New Madrid, Missouri
HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR Remember! Your vacation, your choices. Visit as many or few of the included attractions in New Madrid listed below at no cost. Visit the historical museum to learn of the area's earthquakes or make a stop at the one-room school house!
NEW MADRID HISTORICAL MUSEUM
Located in the former Kendall Saloon off of Main Street, the New Madrid Historical Museum shares the history of this river town from the Mississippian period through the 20th century. Here, guests can explore the great earthquakes of 1811 and 1812, documented with seismographic recordings, Native American artifacts, Civil War artifacts, early family life in the city of New Madrid during the 19th and 20th centuries, and the gift shop!
NEW MADRID COUNTY COURTHOUSE
The town of New Madrid was founded in 1783, and the county was organized in 1812. First courts met in New Madrid, but county records previous to 1816 are missing. After the devastating earthquake of 1811 and repeated flooding of the Mississippi, the court chose an inland site for the county seat. For the 20th century courthouse, New Madrid County purchased a new site north of the original town in March 1915.
HUNTER-DAWSON STATE HISTORIC SITE
Hunter-Dawson State Historic Site preserves a now-vanished part of Missouri: The stately Bootheel Mansion. Filled with original pieces and furnished in the style similar to its heydays of the 1860s-1880s, this ornate mansion provides a history lesson in every corner. Most of the original furniture, purchased by the house’s first owners, Amanda and William Hunter, are still in the house today.
HIGGERSON SCHOOL
Restored to the one-room school that operated at Higgerson Landing in 1948, the Higgerson School is a window to the educational practices that shaped and served rural America in the early 19th century. Experience the typical school day of children attending all eight grades in one room with one teacher.
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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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INCLUDED WITH YOUR VOYAGE
Paducah, Kentucky
HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR Remember! Your vacation, your choices. Visit as many or few of the included attractions in Paducah listed below at no cost. With the rich history of the Four-Rivers Region at your fingertips, you can't go wrong with any of our stops in Paducah.
THE NATIONAL QUILT MUSEUM
Celebrating 30 years in 2021, the National Quilt Museum is the largest of its kind in the world. The museum features over 600 pieces of art highlighting a collection of modern quilts and changing thematic exhibitions that celebrate the talent and diversity of the global quilting community.
LOWER TOWN ARTS DISTRICT
Lower Town is one of Paducah’s oldest and significantly historic residential neighborhoods.
FLOODWALL MURALS
These incredible works of art span “wall to wall” across 3 linear blocks of historic Paducah. They were started over twenty years ago by Robert Dafford and his team of artists. The murals portray images of Paducah and the river basin’s history, creating a nice backdrop for the city where flooding once was prevalent.
LLOYD TILGHMAN HOUSE
This historic Greek Revival house was built in 1852 for Lloyd Tilghman, a new member of Paducah’s community at the time. Tilghman, his wife, their seven children, and five slaves resided in the home until 1861.
PADUCAH RAILROAD MUSEUM
The original Freight House (across the parking lot from the Museum) was built in 1925 by the Nashville, Chattanooga, and St. Louis Railway. In 1996, the Freight House was sold and the Museum moved to a building one-half block away. Here, learn the history of the railroad and those who used it, explore the authentic train models, and enjoy the memorabilia showcased for guests.
RIVER DISCOVERY CENTER
In 1988, Mayor Gerry Montgomery and her committee pursued the development of a museum to showcase the Four Rivers Region’s maritime heritage. The River Heritage Center was planned in 1992 as the very beginning stages of the mayor’s dream. Here, explore artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that share the history of marine life and the history of the river.
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Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
Paducah Premium Experience
CHECK-IN ALONG THE CHITLIN' TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS
IMAGINE THE YEAR 1915...
The year is 1915 and America is disjointed by segregation and heavily governed by Jim Crow Laws. In the heart of the country sat Paducah, Kentucky, a quaint, yet bustling city on the Chittlin’ Trail. Deemed one of the very few safe and acceptable areas for African American entertainers to perform in the early to mid-1900s, the Chittlin’ Trail saw hundreds of musicians as they made the journey from New Orleans to Chicago leaving traces of jazz, blues and soul in their wake.
STEP ONTO A PART OF THE HISTORIC CHITLIN' TRAIL
Step into the radiating heat of the Kentucky sun and meet Miss Maggie, a ball of southern energy and hospitality. As she opens the door to this historical hotel, time turns back a century. Miss Maggie used her undeniable determination and willpower to establish this much needed “colored” hotel in 1909, an almost unfathomable task for a black woman at the time.
TRAVEL THROUGH THIS RUSTIC COLONIAL SAFE HAVEN
Follow Miss Maggie through the rooms as she shares the rich history this hotel has stowed in its walls. Listen as she gossips about its past boarders, including B.B. King, Billie Holiday, and Ike and Tina Turner, just to name a few in the hotel’s famous guest book. If you listen closely, you can almost hear the laughter and music reverberating through the halls, bellowing out into the streets of Paducah and enveloping the neighborhood.
HA L F-DAY
$49
LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE. RESERVE TODAY!
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
ST. LOUIS “St. Louie,” as it’s affectionately called, is America’s most hidden gem. The city is typically associated with the Gateway Arch, a 630-foot stainless steel monument that pays homage to Thomas Jefferson and St. Louis’ position as the gateway to the West. The city is a vibrant destination that also boasts a wide array of museums, music and theatre venues, and is known for its diverse neighborhoods and the different cultural traditions each one brings forth. Forest Park – almost 50 percent bigger than Central Park – is the crown jewel of St. Louis. The park is home to: the St. Louis Art Museum, the St. Louis Zoo, the St. Louis Science Center, the Missouri History Museum, and the Muny amphitheater. Also worth visiting is the Missouri Botanical Garden, featuring 79 breathtaking acres of horticultural display. And City Museum, designed by internationally acclaimed sculptor Bob Cassilly, a 600,000 square-foot interactive museum that appeals to all ages.
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Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
St. Louis Premium Experience
ST. LOUIS CITY TOUR: THE LEWIS AND CLARK GATEWAY TO THE WEST HIGHLIGHTS EXPLORE THE HISTORIC "GATEWAY TO THE WEST"
Weave through the streets of St. Louis and 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. Uncover the city's deep-rooted history and see iconic sights throughout St. Louis.
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.
SEE 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. Rising 180 feet into the sky, one tower points toward the Mississippi River and the other, the Missouri River, marking the confluence where Lewis and Clark converged to set off on their journey. Take a short elevator ride up to the top to admire the breathtaking view of the Midwestern countryside below.
ADMIRE THE STORIES OF LEWIS AND CLARK
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 selfguided 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 OR DIRECT TRANSFER
If your voyage begins in St. Louis, Missouri, your journey through the city will conclude at the dock of the vessel. If you will be disembarking in St. Louis, your excursion will conclude at the post-cruise hotel, or airport. Please see your Reservation Form for details.
H A L F-DAY
$79
LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE. RESERVE TODAY!
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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Discovery runs deep™ 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 Queen Voyages (“AQV”) included shore excursions are available to all AQV guests and are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Some excursions 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. Cancellations of premium excursions 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, AQV will make reasonable efforts to offer an alternative excursion . Early prebooking is strongly encouraged, however, 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. AQV has made every effort to notify guests with mobility issues of accessibility features at the stops and attractions included in available 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 whatsoever. 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 multiple stops to allow other guests to exit the motorcoaches at a second hotel or airport. Please review AQV’s Passenger Ticket Contract for additional terms and conditions which apply.
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Discovery runs deep™
IMPORTANT FOR YOUR VOYAGE
Go online to www.reservemyexcursions.com or call 1-888-966-0938 to make a reservation. Pre-bookings close five days 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.
