2019
SHORE EXCURSIONS CLARKSVILLE - MEMPHIS December 9th 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
Nashville (Clarksville)................................................ 9
Ports of call
Clarksville................................................................. 16 Dover........................................................................ 20 Paducah.................................................................... 22 Cape Girardeau........................................................ 26 New Madrid............................................................ 28
Post-Cruise Ports of call
Memphis.............................................................. 31 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
3
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 hard in your profession and are appreciative that you spend your time with us. 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.
4
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
5
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!
6
“Hop-Off” wherever you wish - and “Hop-On” again whenever you feel ready! The River Coach will depart approximately every 15-30 minutes.
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. Use this helpful tool to get the most of your next day’s experience in port!
INCLUDED STOPS BUS ROUTE
FEATURED RESTAURANTS Front
TOWN HISTORY ATTRACTION INFORMATION
PREMIUM EXCURSIONS
Back For a live feed of buses and Hop-On Hop-Off Maps download the AQSC Maps app to your mobile device!
7
PRE-CRUISE PORT OF CALL
Nashville (Clarksville), Tennessee Pages 9 - 13
Be certain to check online for the most up-to-date information for your voyage. www.reservemyexcursions.com
8
Pre-Cruise Port of Call
Nashville (Clarksville), Tennessee
The capital of Tennessee and home to legendary country music venues, Nashville has something for everyone. The city originally started as a fort built by a band of pioneers, named Nashbourough in honor of General Francis Nash. It was before Tennessee became a state that the community surrounding the fort became named Nashville. Today, Nashville thrives with an ever-present creative vibe and entrepreneurial spirit. Its roots are deeply felt through the street art, creative culture, and award-winning food.
Docking Dates December 9th
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
9
Pre-Cruise AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
Nashville Music City USA Tour
Begin your voyage on the luxurious American Duchess with an escorted Nashville city tour. Our expert guide will share local stories and lore of “Music City” as the river coach traverses the city streets. As we pull up to the Country Music Hall of Fame ® and Museum, you will most definitely spot the building. The massive museum showcases piano keys that span the entire building. The museum is nicknamed the “Smithsonian of Country Music” because of its absolutely remarkable collection.
10
D epa rts : 1 0: 0 0 A M R et u r n s: 4:3 0 P M $ 7 9 p er g u e st
H I G H LI G H T S Driving Tour
We will begin our day with a guided driving tour of the “Music City” itself, Nashville! Our guide will share local stories and discuss the history as our river coach traverses the streets before stopping on Broadway to grab a bite to eat.
L u n c h o n B r oa dway
Our river coach will then stop on Broadway, where we can enjoy a true Nashville lunch on our own at one of the many restaurants and Honky Tonks in the area.
C o u n t ry M u s i c H a ll o f Fa m e With full bellies, we will pull up to the Country Music Hall of Fame ® and Museum, where you will most definitely spot the building – the massive museum showcases piano keys that span the entire building. 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 star.
Em ba r k t h e A m er i ca n D u c h e ss Reboard the River Coach as we make our way to the American Duchess for embarkation.
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
11
12
“Such a great overview of Nashville! Loved being able to pick where I wanted to eat lunch on Broadway“ - Russell AD, December 2018
13
PORTS OF CALL
Clarksville, Tennessee Pages 16 - 19
Dover, Tennessee Pages 20 - 21
Paducah, Kentucky Pages 22 - 25
14
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
PORTS OF CALL
Cape Girardeau, Missouri Pages 26 - 27
New Madrid, Missouri Pages 28 - 29
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
15
Port of Call
Clarksville, Tennessee Clarksville is a growing city with a well-preserved, small-town charm. The town’s rich history permeates the riverfront and gorgeous downtown architecture. Established in 1784 at the juncture of the Cumberland and Red Rivers, Clarksville was named after Revolutionary War hero General George Rogers Clark. It is one of the state’s oldest cities, and also home to two Olympic athletes—Pat Head Summitt and Wilma Rudolph.
Docking Dates December 10th
16
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
I n c l u d e d C l a r ks v i l l e Hop-On Hop-Off S m i t h- T r a h er n M u s eu m
This beautiful home overlooks the Cumberland River. It was designed by Adolphus Heiman in 1858 for a wealthy tobacconist by the name Christopher Smith. The home reflects the transition between Greek Revival and Italianate styles, which were very popular at that time. The original main building consisted of four large rooms on each of the two floors, opening onto both the hallways and the balconies. Suggested Visit: 30 - 45 Minutes
C u st o m H o u s e M u s eu m a n d C u lt u r a l C e n t e r
As the state’s second largest general history museum, the center features rotating shows, art galleries, and a massive model train exhibit. Built in 1898 as a US Post Office and Customs House, it was originally used to handle the large volume of foreign mail created by the city’s international tobacco business. Explore the expansive museum’s galleries displaying fine art, science, and history. Suggested Visit: 30 - 45 Minutes
M o n t g o m ery C o u n ty C o u rt h o u s e
The first Montgomery County courthouse was built from logs in 1796 by James Adams. After this, numerous courthouses replaced the original, until finally reaching the sixth replacement. Five years later, the downtown area was hit by a tornado, which damaged the roof of the courthouse and then in 1900, the structure was ravaged by fire, with the upper floors gutted and the clock tower destroyed. Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 Minutes
F o rt D e fi a n c e Pa r k & I n t e r p r e t i v e C e n t e r In November 1861, Confederate troops began to build a defensive fort that would control the river approach to Clarksville. On February 19, 1862, Federal gunboats came up the river from Fort Donelson and reported the fort displayed a white flag and was deserted. The Federals took over the fort and enlarged it so that it would control traffic on the Hopkinsville Pike. On August 18, 1862, Clarksville was recaptured by Confederate Calvary. Union soldiers were sent from Fort Donelson to retake Clarksville in September 1862. 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 0 M i n u t e s For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
17
AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
Southern Spirit: The Vices of Clarksville
The spirits of Dixie are alive and well! Experience the history, sights, sounds – and tastes – of some of the classic vices of the American South on today’s visit to Clarksville, Tennessee. We will go behind the scenes for in-depth tours of the Tennessee Valley Brewing Company, Old Glory Distilling Company, and Beachaven Vineyards and Winery. Not only will we learn about the process from the craftsmen who create these vices, but we will also enjoy plenty of tastings!
18
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
H I G H LI G H T S A r r i v e at T en n es s ee Va lle y B r e w i n g C o m pa n y
Known as Clarksville’s first “nano brewery,” this local brewery prides itself on community involvement. Here, we will have the opportunity to taste some of their delicious brews with a food pairing. We will also get a look behind the scenes as we tour inside.
O l d G lo ry D i s t i l l ery Next stop is the Old Glory Distillery, where hometown pride fuels a growing business devoted to honoring the brewing customs of the past. We’ll learn how these local artisans create their small batches of beloved specialty beverages -- or -- as Old Glory describes their products, “Damn fine spirits.” We’ll enjoy a tour of their new distillery, plus, more free samples of their handcrafted creations!
B eac h h av en W i n ery
At Beachaven Winery and Vineyards, not far from the Tennessee -Kentucky border, we’ll experience the breathtaking vineyards and a comprehensive tour of the winery, which explains the wine-making process from grape to glass. But perhaps best of all, we will be free to sample as many varieties of their critically acclaimed libations as we like!
d epa rt B ea c h H av en W i n e ry Reboard the River Coach as we make our way back to the American Duchess.
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
19
Port of Call
Dover, Tennessee The town of Dover was named after the bluffs on the Cumberland River that are said to resemble the white cliffs of Dover in England. In Dover’s early history, the city was burned down by Union troops to prevent its capture by General Nathan B. Forrest. Dover is full of historical treasures and fun recreational opportunities and is located in the northern middle Tennessee. Dover is home to Fort Donelson National Battlefield, Fort Donleson Cemetery, and Surrender House/Dover Hotel which were all key points in the Civil War.
Docking Dates December 11th
20
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
Included Dover Hop-On Hop-Off St ewa rt C o u n ty V i s i to rs C e n t e r Built to help introduce visitors to the Stewart County area, this visitors center was completed in 2010 and serves as a gateway to the many attractions in the area. The varied exhibits will give you a taste of the possible adventures you can have in this beautiful county of America. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
Fo rt D o n e ls o n l ow er r i v e r b at t e ry
Armed with heavy seacoast artillery to defend the water approach of the Union, it was at Fort Donelson’s Lower River Battery where Confederate gunners defeated Officer Andrew Foote’s flotilla of ironclad and timber-clad gunboats. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes
Fo rt D o n e ls o n n at i o n a l c e m e t e ry
The Fort Donelson National Cemetery in Dover was established in 1867 as a burial ground for Union soldiers killed in a significant early Civil War Battle. Today, the cemetery contains the graves of veterans representing the Spanish-American War, World Wars I and II, and the wars in Korea and Vietnam. Fort Donelson National Cemetery is one of 14 national cemeteries managed by the National Park Service. Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 Minutes
W .D. Sy k es H i s to r i ca l M u s e u m
The W.D Sykes Historical Museum is in the heart of Dover. The museum houses an abundant collection of rich information on the county’s history, culture, and customs. While visiting the Historical Society Museum, guests have the opportunity to explore the county’s one-room schoolhouse and the history found inside, the beautiful Stewart County quilt showcased for all to see, and many more displays that demonstrate the local history. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes
T h e S u r r e n d er H ot el / D o v e r H o t e l
Built between 1851 and 1853, the Dover Hotel accommodated riverboat travelers before and after the Civil War. The Dover Hotel was the site of the “unconditional surrender” of General Buckner to General Grant, on February 16, 1862. The structure had served as General Buckner’s headquarters during the battle. The Fort Donelson House Historical Association and the National Park Service restored the house in the 1970s, and today the exterior looks much as it did at the time of the surrender. 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 0 M i n u t e s For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
21
Port of Call
Paducah, Kentucky Paducah embraces their harmonious history between the European settlers and the Chickasaw Indians native to the area. The city is located at the confluence of the Ohio and the Tennessee Rivers and because of this, it is often called the Four- Rivers Region due to the proximity of the Ohio, Cumberland, Tennessee, and Mississippi Rivers. This prime location has played a major role in Paducah’s history, as transportation was easily accessible – the economy was strong and travelers were frequent!
Docking Dates December 12th
22
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
I n c l u d e d Pa d u c a h H o p - O n H o p - O f f T h e N at i o n a l Q u i lt M u s e u m Celebrating 25 years in 2016, The National Quilt Museum is the largest of its kind in the world. The 27,000-square-foot contemporary structure features three galleries highlighting a collection of contemporary quilts and changing thematic exhibitions that celebrate the talent and diversity of the global quilting community. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
T h e M o o n s h i n e C o m pa n y
Explore, taste, and purchase traditional and international award winning Kentucky moonshine and moonshine flavors at The Moonshine Company in historic downtown Paducah. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes
Lloy d T i lg h m a n H o u s e & C i v i l Wa r M u s e u m
This historic Greek Revival house was built in 1852 for Lloyd Tilghman, a new member of Paducah’s community at the time. After the house was completed, Tilghman did not purchase the property. Tilghman, his wife, their seven children, and five slaves resided in the home until 1861. Suggested Visit: 15 - 45 Minutes
Pa d u ca h R a i l r oa d M u s e u m
The original Freight House (across the parking lot from the Museum) was built in 1925 by the Nashville, Chattanooga, and St. Louis Railway. Here, learn the history of the railroad and those who used it, explore the authentic train models, and enjoy the memorabilia showcased for guests. Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 Minutes
R i v e r D i s c ov ery C en t er
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. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes
F l o o d wa l l M u r a ls These incredible works of art span “Wall to Wall” across 3 linear blocks of historic of 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, and create a nice backdrop for the city, where flooding once was prevalent. Suggested Visit: 15 - 20 Minutes
C o m p l e t e r o u n d t r i p T i m e: 3 0 M i n u t e s For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
23
AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
Check-in Along the Chitlin’ Trail
A rustic colonial structure adorned with simple white lettering across the front porch, Hotel Metropolitan became a safe haven for traveling African American musicians in the early 1900s. Today we will meet Miss Maggie, a ball of southern energy and hospitality. As she personally welcomes us inside, time turns back a century. Follow Miss Maggie through the rooms as she shares the rich history that has been stowed in the hotel’s walls.
24
D epa rts : 1 2:0 0 P M R et u r n s: 1: 3 0 P M $ 4 9 p er g u e st
H I G H LI G H T S A r r i v e at t h e H i s to r i c H o t e l M e t r o p o li ta n 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.
To u r H ot e l M et ro po l i ta n
Follow Miss Maggie through the rooms as she shares the rich history that has been stowed in the hotel’s walls. In the early to mid 1900s, the Chitlin’ Trail saw hundreds of musicians as they made the journey from New Orleans to Chicago.
E nj oy C h e s s p i e & Sw eet T e a After our guided tour of the hotel Miss Maggie will serve us some Chess pie and sweet tea as she answers questions about the hotel’s past.
d e pa rt T h e H ot el M et r o p o l i ta n Reboard the River Coach as we make our way back to the American Duchess.
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
25
Port of Call
Cape Girardeau, Missouri Nestled along the western banks of the mighty Mississippi River lays the city of Cape Girardeau, Missouri. It’s a community rich in history and heritage. For more than 250 years, people have been drawn to Cape Girardeau and the river on which it lies. Stroll along the riverfront, where the passion that led Mark Twain to write so eloquently about Cape Girardeau in Life on the Mississippi to the warmth and hospitality that community founder Louis Lorimier extended to Lewis and Clark while on the journey of a lifetime as they set forth on their Corps of Discovery to explore the Louisiana Purchase will be prominent.
Docking Dates December 13th
26
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
I n clu d ed Cape G i rar d eau Hop-On Hop-Off M i ss i s s i p p i R i v er Ta l es M u r a ls 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 flood wall. The Missouri Wall of Fame Mural features 47 individuals who were born in Missouri or achieved fame while living in the state. Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 Minutes
R e d H o u s e i n t er p r et i v e C e n t e r
The 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. 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. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
O ld St . V i n c en t's C h u r c h
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. Suggested Visit: 15 - 45 Minutes
G l en n H o u s e
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 dĂŠcor. Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 Minutes
Crisp Museum
The Crisp Museum collects in three thematic areas: archaeology, history, and fine art. The Archaeology collection has several collections of prehistoric Native American artifacts, which illustrate aspects of the daily and ceremonial lives of the indigenous peoples who lived in southeastern Missouri from 13,500 B.C. to 1400 A.D., highlighting some very rare and exotic artifacts. Suggested Visit: 45 Minutes - 1 Hour
Ca p e R i v e r H er i ta g e M u s e u m 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, and exhibits on steamboats, education, commerce, the Missouri mule, the state flag, the Show-Me slogan, Native American culture, and fire and police memorabilia. 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 0 M i n u t e s For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
27
Port of Call
New Madrid, Missouri New Madrid was founded in 1776 by Spanish Governor Esteban RodrĂguez MirĂł who welcomed Anglo-Saxon settlers but required them to become citizens of Spain and live under the guidance of his appointed impresario, Revolutionary War veteran, Colonel William Morgan of New Jersey. The city is remembered as being the nearby location for the Mississippi River military engagement, the Battle of Island Number Ten, during the Civil War. The city is famous for being the site of a series of more than 1,000 earthquakes in 1811-1812, caused by what is called the New Madrid Seismic Zone.
Docking Dates December 14th
28
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
Included New Madrid Hop-On Hop-Off N e w M a d r i d H i s to r i ca l M u s e u m 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! Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
N e w M a d r i d C o u n ty C o u rt h o u s e 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. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes
H u n t er- D aws o n S tat e H i st o r i ca l S i t e
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. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes
H i g g e rs o n S c h o o l
Restored to the one-room school that operated in 1948, the Higgerson School is a window to the educational practices that shaped and served rural America from the early 19th century. Experience the typical school day of children attending all eight grades in one room with one teacher. Suggested Visit: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
R i v e r wa l k Ga l l ery
The oldest home in New Madrid, the Hart-Stepp House was built by Abraham Augustine in 1840 and moved to its present location in order to escape the encroaching waters of the Mississippi River. It is now home to the River Walk Gallery and the New Madrid Chamber of Commerce. The Gallery features the works of local photographer and artists. 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 0 M i n u t e s For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
29
POST-CRUISE PORT OF CALL
Memphis, Tennessee Pages 31 - 39
30
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
Post-Cruise Port of Call
Memphis, Tennessee Memphis’ first settlers were Native Americans who were drawn to the area’s bluffs overlooking the river. 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, and was 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.
Docking Dates December 16th
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
31
Post-Cruise AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
The Elvis Experience
Continue your journey along the Mississippi River with a king’s treatment as we depart the American Duchess and weave our way through the streets of Memphis towards its heart and soul – Beale Street. Here, you will experience the most famous street in Memphis as your local guide leads you through the vibrant city he calls home. Then, we will head off to the home of the King himself - Graceland Mansion!
32
D epa rts : 7 : 3 0 A M R et u r n s: 1 2: 4 5 P M $ 1 2 9 p e r g u est
H I G H LI G H T S A r r i v e at E lv i s S tat u e o n B e a l e S t r e e t
A giant bronze statue of Elvis welcomes us to the most famous street in Memphis. Here, our spirited, local guide will lead us down the block as he narrates stories of his favorite attractions as we walk past. Filled with music, history, culture, and of course the sweet smell of barbecue, a stroll along Beale is a must for any visitor of the Blues City!
A r r i v e at G r a c e l a n d
Before entering the mansion at Graceland, a short introductory film on the Graceland Complex will be shown.
Tour 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.
E lv i s E x p e r i e n c e T o u r After touring the mansion, enjoy the rest of the exhibits including Elvis’s Airplanes, The Elvis Presley Automobile Museum, and full access to the Visitors Entertainment Complex at your leisure!
D e pa r t f o r t h e A i r p o r t & P o s t - C r u i s e H o t e l
We will make our way to the Memphis International Airport and the American Duchess Post-Cruise Hotel.
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
33
34
“What a great way to learn about Memphis and the King.“ - Patrice AD, May 2018
35
Post-Cruise AMERICAN SELECT PREMIUM EXCURSION
Soundtrack of Memphis: A Musical Journey Through the Blues City
Elvis’s first paying gig, Sun Studio, and the church where Johnny Cash got his start -- all this and more on this musical tour of Memphis, Tennessee! The “Birthplace of Rock and Roll” is a crossroads of modern culture and historical appeal. We’ll explore the “Home of the Blues” on a driving tour of the city while being treated to musical performances by our expert guide who is also a professional Beale Street musician.
36
D epa rts : 8: 3 0 A M R et u r n s: 1 2: 0 0 P M $ 7 9 p er g u e st
H I G H LI G H T S O v ert o n Pa r k S h el l
Activities begin in the early afternoon with a relaxing driving tour of Midtown Memphis’s 342-acre Overton Park, where our first stop is the iconic Levitt Shell amphitheater. Here, we’ll be treated to a musical performance by our tour guide on the stage where Elvis Presley put on his first paid concert in 1954.
D r i v i n g t o u r o f M em p h i s
Our driving tour continues through Overton Square, a cultural hot spot of the 1970s that has since been revitalized into a thriving, modern entertainment district. We’ll pass Galloway House, and the Methodist church where Johnny Cash and the Tennessee Two put on their first performance. Other sites include Priscilla Presley’s high school, Church Park, and the W.C. Handy House Museum, the turn-of-thecentury log shack that was home to the “father of the blues” himself.
T en n e s s ee W el c o m e C en t e r As a brief intermission from our driving tour, we’ll stop off at the Tennessee Welcome Center.
D r i v i n g t o u r C o n t i n u ed We’ll then continue past sites that include Court Square, historic Beale Street, and the National Civil Rights Museum, built around the infamous Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King, Jr. was tragically assassinated in 1968. And no visit to Memphis, “Blues City,” would be complete without seeing the Blues Hall of Fame.
D e pa rt fo r t h e A i r po rt a n d P o st - C r u i s e H o t e l We will make our way to the Memphis International Airport and the American Duchess Post-Cruise Hotel.
For booking and information visit our website www.reservemyexcursions.com
37
38
“Great way to begin our cruise with this wonderful overview of Memphis!“ - Robert AD, October 2018
39
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.
40