2019
SHORE EXCURSIONS ROUNDTRIP RED WING (MINNEAPOLIS)
August 12th - August 19th Voyage
American Duchess
NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS! www.reservemyexcursions.com or 1-888-966-0938
Table of
Contents Shore Excursions Information............................................. 4 Hop-On Hop-Off Information.......................................... 6
Pre-Cruise Port of call Red Wing................................................................... 9
Ports of call Dubuque................................................................. 16 Prairie du Chien..................................................... 20 La Crosse................................................................ 24 Winona................................................................... 26 Red Wing................................................................ 30
Post-Cruise Port of call Red Wing.............................................................. 35 Not all Ports of Call and American Select Premium Excursions are offered on every voyage. Be certain to check online for the most up-to-date information for your voyage.
Shore Excursions Department
Dear American Queen Steamboat Company Guest, Mankind has always been drawn to the river, not only for sustenance, but as a landmark. ‘Down by the river’ was not just a necessity, it was a way of life. And for us who decide to experience river travel, it still is. These parts unknown were so malleable that they transformed rapidly into cultures of their own, so different even from the ideals and origins of their settlers. Regional traditions, like those of the Cajuns, were formed and still continue strongly with their own food, history and way of life. The Scandinavian influence is still prevalent on the Upper Mississippi. Steel workers and coal miners still tell stories of loading their goods onto barges on the Ohio and Tennessee rivers. Travel in America is well within our comfort zones, but it is still a frontier with much to be experienced. It’s time not just to vacation, it’s time to experience. As a country, America is still so very new. We will not see medieval castles around every river bend. Instead of centuries old Gothic cathedrals, we will see 20th century white clapboard local parishes that are the center of communities. We may see the efforts of revitalization in a river city’s downtown as they struggle with the remnants of the 1950’s boom and the effect that suburbanization and shopping malls have had on their Main Streets. We will not hear many foreign languages, but rather dialects and accents of which we may not be familiar. We are not showing off a royal spectacle, we are immersed in real life. On board, please allow us to indulge and spoil you in what a vacation is all about. But as you dock onto shore, allow yourself to think differently and take in, even become part of, the communities we visit. We hope you chose to sail with us, not only to escape and vacate your everyday lives, but to appreciate seeing the country (the good, bad and challenged) from the perspective of the river and all there is to learn. Vacation is to escape. American river travel is to engage, educate and appreciate the diversity of this great country.
This is real. This is America.
Thank you,
James J Palmeri Vice President of Product Development American Queen Steamboat Company
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Shore Excursion Promise American Queen Steamboat Company prides itself on the satisfaction of our guests. We constantly strive to surpass your expectations. We promise to always provide you with our best. If there is anything that did not meet your highest expectations, we will make it right! With all of the options and competition in today’s travel industry, it is human nature to search for the best value. We understand you worked very hard in your career and we are appreciative that you spend your time exploring our great country together. We vow to provide you with our best selection for the best value, every time!
Pre-Booking
Premium Shore Excursions If you wish to book your premium excursions, please visit our website. www.r es erv em y exc u rs i o n s.c o m o r Ca ll 1-8 8 8-9 6 6-0 93 8
Pre-Booked reservations for Shore Excursions will be available until 11:00 AM EST, the Wednesday prior to embarkation.
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Shore Excursion Highlights About
I N C L U D E D E XC U RS I O N S . . . Of fered at most por ts Includes admission to select attractions Completely at your leisure Freedom to craft your own experience
About
P R E M I U M E XC U RS I O N S . . . Optional in-depth experiences Customized to appeal to dif ferent interests Culturally enhancing itineraries Capacity controlled Advanced reservations required
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HOW TO"HOP-ON HOP-OFF"
Kiosk is located on the Main Deck on the side by the Purser’s desks. Departure tickets can be printed each night, beginning at 5:00 PM.
#1
WA KE IT U P!
Tap anywhere on the screen to wake it up.
H OW M A NY? #3 Select number of
#2 W HAT TI M E?
Choose your desired departure time.
#4 PR I NT!
guests in your party by selecting + or -
Catch passes as they fall from below the screen.
M EET O UTSI D E!
To ensure your departure, arrive 15 minutes before your chosen departure time. Please gather by the River Coach near the dock! BOARD THE RIVER COACH
Hand your tickets to the Shore Excursion Specialist as you board the River Coach. EXPLO R E AT YO U R LEISU R E!
“Hop-Off” wherever you wish - and “Hop-On” again whenever you feel ready! The River Coach will depart approximately every 15-30 minutes.
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HOP-ON HOP-OFF MAPS Each evening, the Hop-On Hop-Off map for the following day will be placed in your stateroom during turn-down service.
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PREMIUM EXCURSIONS
Back For a live feed of buses and Hop-On Hop-Off Maps download the AQSC Maps app to your mobile device!
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PRE-CRUISE PORT OF CALL
Red Wing, Minnesota (Minneapolis) Pages 9 - 13
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For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
Pre-Cruise Port of Call
Red Wing, Minnesota (Minneapolis, Minnesota) Known as the “Twin Cities,” St. Paul, the state capital of Minnesota, and Minneapolis, the largest city in Minnesota, form one of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States. St. Paul lies along a deep S-shaped bend on the Mississippi River and holds historical significance in the development of the Upper Midwest as a center for trade during the 1800s. Today, the Minneapolis – St. Paul metropolitan area has a bustling urban environment filled with culture and history, as well as dozens of parks, trails and green space– preserving the beautiful natural landscape.
Docking Dates August 12th
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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Pre-Cruise AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
Twin Cities Pre-Cruise Tour
Discover the rich history of Minnesota’s Twin Cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul as we weave our way through the downtown skyscrapers. Our local guide will introduce us to the vibrant culture, architecture, and history for which the cities are known. We will explore the beauty of the region with a stop at the picturesque Minnehaha Falls, as well as experience an impressive view from the observation deck at the Guthrie Theater. This excursion also includes time for guests to enjoy lunch on their own on West 7th Street in St. Paul.
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D epa rts : 1 0: 0 0 A M R et u r n s: 4:0 0 P M $ 7 9 p er g u e st
HIGHLIGHTS C i t y T o u r o f T h e Tw i n C i t i e s
Watch the city unfold through the windows of the River Coach as we pass some of the most historical treasures including Fort Snelling, St. Paul Cathedral, the Minnesota State Capitol building, and the Historic Summit Avenue lined in pristine Victorian architecture.
Lu n c h S t o p at W es t 7 t h St r e e t
Then, a stop on West 7th Street will be the perfect location to find a memorable souvenir or treat yourself to lunch at one of the many cafes and eateries.
Sto p at M i n n eh a h a Fa l ls & G u t h r i e T h e at e r
After a bite to eat we will stop at Minnehaha Falls, where we can breathe in the fresh air as the breeze blows a shimmering mist across your cheeks. Watch the fresh water pour off the slick sheets of rock at the top of the cliffs, powerfully funneling into the small body of water located below. At the observation deck at the Guthrie Theater, known as the “Endless Bridge,� get an amazing view of the Mississippi River below. See the Minneapolis Stone Arch Bridge and admire the beauty of the architectural link that contrasts the metallic structures of the urban city with the natural glimmer of the Mississippi waters.
D e pa rt f o r t h e A m er i ca n D u c h e ss We will make our way to the American Duchess for embarkation.
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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“The Stone Arch Bridge was gorgeous! What a wonderful city.“ - Tracy AD, July 2018
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PORTS OF CALL Dubuque, Iowa Pages 16 - 19
Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin Pages 20 - 23
La Crosse, Wisconsin Pages 24 - 25
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For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
PORTS OF CALL
Winona, Minnesota Pages 26 - 29
Red Wing, Minnesota Pages 30 - 33
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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Port of Call
Dubuque, Iowa Dubuque is an extremely attractive tourist destination, featuring unique architecture and a desirable river locale. From the America’s River Project in the Port of Dubuque that transformed the city’s riverfront, to the revitalization of its historic Main Street, to the ongoing evolution of the Historic Millwork District downtown, Dubuque is truly a vibrant community. For these reasons and more, The U.S. Conference of Mayors has named Dubuque the “Most Livable Small City” in the country and the National Civic League has named Dubuque an All-America City four times since 2007!
Docking Dates August 14th
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For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
Included Dubuque Hop-On Hop-Off S t. Lu k e's U n i t ed M et h o d i st C h u r c h This beautiful Romanesque style church is characterized by thick walls, heavy columns, and round arches for windows and doors. On foundations 32 inches thick, the walls are built of enduring Bedford limestone from Indiana. Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 minutes
D u b u qu e M u s eu m o f A rt The Dubuque Museum of Art is the oldest cultural institution in the State of Iowa and was founded over 140 years ago as the Dubuque Art Association. Inside is a permanent collection of over 2,200 works concentrating on 20thcentury American art with an emphasis on American Regionalism and artists connected to the Tri-State area. Suggested Visit: 1 - 2 hours
Fe n e lo n P la c e El evato r The Fenelon Place Elevator is described as the world’s shortest, steepest scenic railway, 296 feet in length, elevating passengers 189 feet from Fourth Street to Fenelon Place. The railway was constructed in 1882 for the private use by a wealthy local banker and former state senator, J.K. Graves. Take the short ride up for an impressive view of the historic Dubuque business district, the river, and three states. Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 minutes
Ca b le Ca r S q ua r e
Cable Car Square offers guests three blocks of boutiques and specialty shops. From the home and garden stores, to apparel and accessories, to a fair-trade retailer, this district has a bit of everything to satisfy shoppers’ needs. Make sure to enjoy the coffee and sweet treats shops, as well as a store where you can sample homemade peanut butter! Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 minutes
T h e H ot e l J u l i en The original structure, four stories high, was called the Waples House and was named after its owner, Peter Waples, a wealthy Dubuque merchant. It was the first building visible to the travelers entering Dubuque from across the Mississippi. Now, over 100 years later, after a $33 plus million interior renovation and exterior restoration, Hotel Julien Dubuque has redefined elegance through the blending of its rich history with modern luxury and style. Suggested Visit: 30 minutes - 1 hour
Complete round trip Time: 45 Minutes For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
Galena, Illinois Including the Home of General Ulysses S. Grant
Nestled in the rolling hills of northwest Illinois, Galena enchants visitors with incredible historic sites and attractions, wonderful specialty shops, and unlimited dining options. At the home of General Ulysses S. Grant, admire the fully restored home in its authentic 1868 glory as you see original Grant family furnishings and memorabilia. Then explore the U.S. Grant Museum at your leisure and take a short walk to Main Street Galena for shopping when you’re done!
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D epa rts : 1 2:0 0 P M R et u r n s: 4:3 0 P M $ 7 9 p er g u e st
HIGHLIGHTS D epa rt fo r Ga len a, I lli n o i s Unwind as we travel to the beautiful town of Galena, nestled in the rolling hills of Northwest Illinois, enchanting visitors with incredible historic sites and attractions, wonderful specialty shops and unlimited dining options.
D r i v i n g to u r o f Ga len a
As you lounge in the comfort of the River Coach, gaze out on some of Galena’s hidden treasures as they fill the frames of your windows. Admire the pristine architecture of the historical Desoto House Hotel, a functioning hotel constructed in 1855 and named the “Largest Hotel in the West,” as we pass the Old Market House, discover Galena’s community life dating back to 1845, and stare in awe at the pristine 1857 Italianate architecture visible at Galena’s Belvedere Mansion.
G u i d e d t o u r o f U lys s es S . G r a n t H o m e
As our ride comes to a stop, look out the window to see another Italianatestyled brick house – the home of General Ulysses S. Grant! Admire this fully restored historical home in its authentic 1868 glory as you explore original Grant family furnishings and memorabilia!
U.S. G r a n t M u s eu m o r S h o p p i n g
The rest of your day in Galena is spent at your leisure. Take all the time needed exploring the remarkable exhibits that dig further into the stories of historical legend, Ulysses S. Grant at the U.S. Grant Museum. Then feel free to take a short walk to Downtown Galena, a must-stop for shopping lovers.
d epa rt Ga l en a
Reboard the River Coach as we make our way back to the American Duchess.
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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Port of Call
Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin As the oldest community on the Upper Mississippi River, Prairie du Chien has been a traditional gathering place for centuries. The native people of the area met on the prairie in friendship to exchange goods. In the late 17th century, French fur traders used the area as a site for spring and fall rendezvous. It was during these years that the land received its name, which translates as “Prairie of the Dog� in French. Discover the rich history lining the streets of this historical city as you explore the treasures Prairie du Chien has to offer!
Docking Dates August 15th
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For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
Included Prairie du Chien Hop-On Hop-Off C r aw fo r d C o u n t y C o u rt h o u s e & 1 8 0 0 s Ja i l The courthouse as it stands today was built in several stages. The oldest section, facing Beaumont Road, was built in 1867. Crawford County was established in 1818 with Prairie du Chien as the county seat. In 1836, when Wisconsin became a territory, the first courthouse was built on this site. A “Dungeon” was built within the basement of the early courthouse and this structure. The main function of the jail was to hold felons, and the dungeon was used until the present jail was erected in 1896. Suggested Visit: 15 - 45 minutes
Fo rt C r aw f o r d M u s eu m Built under the direction of Col. Zachary Taylor, Fort Crawford was one of a chain of forts constructed on the Mississippi River frontier to secure the territory for the United States. In the Hospital are exhibits on Dr. Beaumont and military surgeons, Fort Crawford and its history, and the Swift United States Army Hospital and the Civil War. Also on the grounds of the Fort Crawford Museum is the Museum of Prairie du Chien. Exhibits present history and visuals of the Arrival of the First Railroad in Wisconsin, Clamming on the Mississippi River, John Muir in Prairie du Chien, The War of 1812, Bicentennial of Crawford County, Steamboats, and National Mole Day. Suggested Visit: 30 minutes - 1 hour
F o rt C r aw fo r d M i li ta ry H o s p i ta l The Fort Crawford Military Hospital remains the only standing structure from the second Fort Crawford. During its operating years beginning in 1831, it offered care for sick and wounded soldiers. Dr. William Beaumont helped found the modem study of medicine when he researched digestion at the fort during the 1830s. The building contains several exhibits, including an 1830s War Room that explains in detail Dr. Beaumont’s experiments, artifacts discovered at the Fort Barracks, The Military History of Fort Crawford, The History of Medical Progress, an antique pharmacy and dentist office, and Swift United States Army General Hospital and the Civil War. Suggested Visit: 30 minutes - 1 hour
C o m p l e t e r o u n d t r i p T i m e: 3 5 M i n u t e s For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
Pearls of the Mississippi
Uncover a lost culture as Captain Bob recounts the narratives of commercial clamming in the region aboard the Maiden Voyage, a fully-covered pontoon boat. He paints a vivid picture, allowing you to envision an era when the Upper Mississippi River was compared to California’s Gold Rush. Locals referred to it as the “Pearl Rush,” and the fever washed throughout the waters as millions frantically searched for the coveted Mississippi freshwater pearl. Discover these river tales and learn how the era began and what unfortunate events lead to its abrupt end.
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D epa rts: 1: 0 0 P M R et u r n s : 2:3 0 P M $ 4 9 p e r g u est
HIGHLIGHTS B oa r d t h e M a i d en Voyag e Step off the American Duchess and embark on the Maiden Voyage, a fullycovered pontoon boat. With a warm welcome from river expert Captain Bob, we will go on a journey that will navigate along the currents of the mighty Mississippi.
S i g h ts eei n g ex p er i en c e
As eagles glide gracefully above head, Captain Bob will narrate the history of “The Pearl Rush” and share stories hidden within the banks of the river. Sit back and relax while learning about the button machine that would make buttons from mussel shells, and ultimately lead to the frenzy for the freshwater pearl. Discover these river tales and learn how the era began and what unfortunate events led to its abrupt end. The unpredictable tides of the Mississippi River harbor some of America’s most historic stories, though, some of these stories are slowly drifting down the currents, only to be forgotten. Make sure you do not miss out on this opportunity to explore a side of the river rarely shared!
d e pa rt T h e M a i d en Voyag e Make your our way back to the American Duchess.
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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Port of Call
La Crosse, Wisconsin Filled with statues, inspiring architecture, and an exquisite view of the river, La Crosse is an artist’s dream. Named by explorer Zebulon Pike who saw a group of people playing a game with sticks that looked like a cross, La Crosse is now a delightful tourist stop. Like much of Wisconsin, La Crosse became heavily involved with the lumber industry in the mid-1800s, until the decline of the forests throughout much of the state took its toll. But in the wake of the vanishing lumber era, La Crosse became a city renowned for its beer making, with around five breweries operating in La Crosse near the turn of the century.
Docking Dates August 16th
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For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
Included La Crosse Hop-On Hop-Off D a h l Au t o M u s eu m
The Dahl Auto Museum celebrates the Dahl family’s involvement as automotive dealers spanning over 100 years and five generations. It also features the history of the automobile through the eyes of the Ford Motor Company, an extensive mascot collection and many beautifully restored classic automobiles from the turn of the century to present. Suggested Visit: 30 minutes - 1 hour
C h a p e l o f S t. R o s e
The shape of this immense and beautiful chapel symbolizes attributes of God. The high ceilings represent a God who transcends the finite world while the shape of the nave, transepts and sanctuary form a cross, acknowledging an immanent God who has been with humankind even through suffering and death. Admire bronzed statues, symbolic paintings and sculptures, stained glass windows and mosaics. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes
H i xo n H o u s e
This beautiful Victorian house is filled with nearly all of the original furnishings, making it stand out from many other historical homes. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes
R i v e rs i d e M u s eu m
Riverside Museum exhibits chronicle the history of La Crosse, concentrating on the Mississippi River and its importance to the area. Exhibits range from prehistoric artifacts and cave drawings to logging, rafting, and the Pearl Button Process. A large collection of artifacts from the steamboat “War Eagle� are on display and a PBS Video about La Crosse is shown. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes
R i v e rs i d e I n t er n at i o n a l f r i e n d s h i p g a r d e n
La Crosse enjoys thriving relationships with sister cities, business partners, students and people from around the world. To celebrate the success of these partnerships, and build a tribute to the culture and traditions, the township decided to create a garden filled with the flowers and decorations closely resembling a garden that could be found in each one of these sister cities. Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 Minutes
C o m p l e t e r o u n d t r i p T i m e: 3 5 M i n u t e s For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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Port of Call
Winona, Minnesota Explore Winona, Minnesota, one of the most beautiful places in the country. The city is referred to as the “Island City” by locals because of the large sand bar it was built upon. Evidence suggests that the land’s history reaches back as early as 9500 B.C., while present-day Winona was founded as the small village of Keoxa in 1851. Nestled between the covered limestone river bluffs of the Mississippi River, this small town is full of culture and small town Americana. Enjoy stunning views of the rolling bluffs as they plummet to the mighty Mississippi below in this beautiful and historic city, filled with incredible museums, galleries, and parks.
Docking Dates August 17th
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For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
Included Winona Hop-On Hop-Off M i n n e s o ta M a r i n e A r t M u s e u m The Minnesota Marine Art Museum engages visitors through education and exhibitions that explore the ongoing and historic human relationship with water. Along with galleries highlighting artwork by contemporary artists, this fine art museum features extensive American and European collections by such masters as Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, Vincent Van Gogh, and Georgia O’Keefe, as well as Emmanuel Leutze’s iconic Washington Crossing the Delaware. Suggested Visit: 45 minutes - 1.5 hours
W i n o n a C o u n t y H i s t o ry C e n t e r
Explore Winona’s storied past and learn about the area’s history and heritage in the building’s three floors of exhibits. The many historical artifacts, displays, and exhibits focus on the lumber industry, local businesses, architecture, geology, the Dakota and early human life, stained glass, wartime, the river, and more! There is also a large museum shop, which features apparel, books, souvenirs, vintage-inspired décor, games, and more. Suggested Visit: 30 minutes - 1.5 hours
P o l i s h C u lt u r a l I n s t i t u t e Founded in 1976, the Polish Cultural Institute reflects the Polish heritage that pervades the Winona area. Artifacts depicting the history and culture of the Kashubian Polish immigrants to Winona are displayed in the old Laird Norton Lumber Company building that employed hundreds of Polish men working in riverfront sawmills. Explore the collections dating from the 1850s, many which depict the lives of these early settlers. The gift shop offers a wide variety of books, souvenirs, attire, and household items – many of which were produced in the Kashubian region of Poland. Suggested Visit: 30 minutes - 1 hour
Wat k i n s M u s e u m & S t o r e
Watkin’s company began in 1894 selling products such as J.R. Watkins Liniment, which was their very first and most popular. The company was noted as the very first business in America to offer the famous, “money back guarantee” in 1869 as Watkins made most of his sales door-to-door. Explore the Watkins’ museum and store and get a glimpse of the history from the company’s perspective spanning more than 140 years. Suggested Visit: 30 minutes
C o m p l e t e r o u n d t r i p T i m e: 3 5 M i n u t e s For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
Onto the Mississippi on the Winona Tour Boat
Discover a new aspect of the region with an intimate river experience aboard the Winona Tour Boat. Experience the Mississippi River and all it has to offer with Captain Aaron. He will talk about the commerce of the river, the navigational channel, lock and dam system, and the Mississippi backwaters, all while being surrounded by incredible views. As the boat glides along, he will also point out all the local wildlife, including turtles, herons, beavers, deer, ducks, and of course, eagles!
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D epa rts: 1: 0 0 P M R et u r n s : 3: 3 0 P M $ 4 9 p er g u e st
HIGHLIGHTS A r r i v e at W i n o n a R i v er B oat To u rs Prepare to discover the upper Mississippi River region from a rare, interactive perspective. Discover a new aspect of the region with an intimate river experience on a narrated sightseeing tour onboard the Winona Tour Boat.
B oat to u r o n t h e M i ss i ss i p p i
Experience the Mississippi River, as the US Coast Guard licensed captain covers river refuge history, aquatic life, and the river’s local environmental impacts, making sure to point out native wildlife, including eagles in their natural habitat! We will also discover the history of Winona, and the importance of the Mississippi River throughout the port’s history.
d e pa rt f o r t h e A m er i ca n D u c h e ss After our captain navigates us back to shore, we will make our way back to the luxurious American Duchess.
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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Port of Call
Red Wing, Minnesota Red Wing, Minnesota was included on National Geographic Traveler’s list of most historic places in the world. Discovered in the early 1850’s, the lands were used mostly for harvesting wheat that would be transported on the river. Later in Red Wing’s history the economy began to flourish with the pottery industry, which became a main source of income between 1877 and 1967. Today, the city offers endless opportunities to travel back in time and learn about settlers and travelers that occupied the land before today, or to admire the craftsmanship and creativity of local artisans of both the present and the past.
Docking Dates August 18th
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For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
Included Red Wing Hop-On Hop-Off A l i v e o M i li ta ry M u s eu m
The Aliveo Military Museum has a significant collection of military artifacts such as edged weapons, flags, badges and much more! They have a vast collection that includes artifacts and relics from all major wars from the Revolutionary War to the modern day Middle-East Wars. They believe in education about military history through preservation and presentation of the military artifacts themselves. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes
R ed W i n g M a r i n e M u s eu m
The Red Wing Marine Museum is in one of the city’s historical venues along the river near boathouse village and depicts one of the oldest manufacturing industries, the boat and motor businesses. It sits very near the site of the original factory where boats and motors were made and launched. The museum exhibits include more than 30 restored Red Wing marine engines, outboard motors and a display of fishing tackles, photographs, documents and other river-related items. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
Po tt e ry M u s eu m o f r ed w i n g Nearly 6000 unique pieces of stoneware, art pottery, and dinnerware await you at the Pottery Museum of Red Wing. Spanning 90 years of production, from 1877-1967, these artifacts tell the dynamic and colorful story of this Mississippi River town. Using nature’s elements of earth, fire, and water, the pottery artisans created a local legacy known throughout the world. Come and view nearly 100 years of history and tradition, beautifully displayed for your enjoyment. Suggested Visit: 30 - 45 Minutes
S t. J a m es H ot el This beautiful and historic hotel opened on Thanksgiving Day in 1875, drawing in many businessmen who wished for first-class lodging in the wheat-trading center of the world. The St. James Hotel became an immediate sensation, cementing its name as the hub of activity in Red Wing nearly overnight. Inside, wealthy travelers and businessmen alike marveled at the stunning four-story Italianate structure filled with elegant furnishings, Brussels carpets, English velvet carpets, steam heat, hot and cold running water, gas on every floor, and a state-of-the-art kitchen! Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 Minutes
Complete round trip Time: 40 Minutes For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
On Eagle’s Wings
Traverse the streets of Red Wing as our local guide explains the history of this iconic river town while viewing some of key sites from the comfort of the luxury River Coach. Then, we will travel to Wabasha, Minnesota, the oldest city on the upper Mississippi River. Here we’ll visit the National Eagle Center for an unforgettable “nose to beak” experience with America’s National Symbol of Freedom – the American bald eagle!
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D epa rts : 1 2:3 0 P M R et u r n s: 4:3 0 P M $ 7 9 p er g u e st
HIGHLIGHTS R ed W i n g D r i v i n g C i ty To u r Set out for the oldest city along the Upper Mississippi River, Wabasha, Minnesota, first winding through the streets of an iconic river town, Red Wing. Admire the rustic brick buildings, daunting bluffs opening up the Mississippi River, and quirky artwork that lines the streets along the way. Notice the buildings along the road aging as we enter Wabasha, overflowing with history and culture.
A r r i v e at t h e N at i o n a l Eag le C en t er
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable “nose to beak” experience as we arrive at the National Eagle Center. Spend the day discovering the US national symbol of freedom – the American bald eagle! Get up close and personal to these regal creatures unlike ever before as trained professionals supervise a room full of golden eagles.
To u r t h e N at i o n a l Ea g l e C e n t e r
Explore the National Eagle Center and follow the majestic creatures outside to learn why this area is known as America’s Eagle Destination, as you search the horizon for eagles in their natural setting atop the observation deck above the Mississippi River. The overlook is the perfect location for bird watching and when you finally catch sight of these incredible and powerful birds soaring over the currents of the Mighty Mississippi River, you will truly understand the meaning and beauty of the Freedom it proudly represents!
d e pa rt T h e N at i o n a l Ea g le C e n t e r
Reboard the River Coach as we make our way back to the American Duchess.
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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POST-CRUISE PORT OF CALL
Red Wing, Minnesota (Minneapolis, Minnesota) Page 35
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For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
Post-Cruise Port of Call
Red Wing, Minnesota (Minneapolis, Minnesota) Known as the “Twin Cities,” St. Paul, the state capital of Minnesota, and Minneapolis, the largest city in Minnesota, form one of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States. St. Paul lies along a deep S-shaped bend on the Mississippi River and holds historical significance in the development of the Upper Midwest as a center for trade during the 1800s. Today, the Minneapolis – St. Paul metropolitan area has a bustling urban environment filled with culture and history, as well as dozens of parks, trails and green space– preserving the beautiful natural landscape.
Docking Dates August 19th
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
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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 DuchessÂŽ 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 River Coaches at a second hotel or airport. By participating in Shore Excursions of any kind (Included or Premium), you grant Shore Excursions of America (SEA) and American Queen Steamboat Company (AQSC), and all its agents and employees 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 Shore Excursions of America and American Queen Steamboat Company and its 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.
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