SHORE EXCURSIONS
COLUMBIA RIVER
Call (888)-966-0938 Contact your Travel Agent to book your Columbia River adventure today, or visit us at www.reservemyexcursions.com
YOU WILL EXPERIENCE Astoria, Oregon.................................................................................. 6 Stevenson, Washington.................................................................... 8 The Dalles, Oregon............................................................................ 10 Portland, Oregon............................................................................... 12 Vancouver, Washington.................................................................... 14
INCLUDED TOURS Each American Queen Voyages cruise comes with an included traditional guided tours or Hop-On Hop-Off guided tours. Traditional tours are carefully curated to optimize your experience in port. Whether it is an exploration of the town, a historic museum, or cultural experience, these 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.
Not all tours are offered on every voyage. Please check your reservation form.
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Dear American Queen Voyages Guest, We are looking forward to reigniting our passion for travel with you in the coming weeks. As we travel America’s great rivers together things may look different, sound different, and frankly, feel different. Please understand that the safety of our guests and local ports remains our top priority. You will certainly notice new processes implemented onboard to promote the health and wellbeing of our guests, but our dedication to keeping our safety as the paramount priority during your journey along America’s rivers doesn’t end there. That’s why we’ve implemented new SafeCruise initiatives. In the past year, we have all witnessed the world endure ever-evolving circumstances and new regulations. Both the big cities, and small towns have had to adjust to the “new normal” introduced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, we have faced an unparalleled level of uncertainty. Today, we would like you to know for certain, that no matter the circumstances, our shore excursions team will work diligently to provide the highest standards of safety during your on-land exploration, and strive to provide the following experiences as advertised. However, the nature of the pandemic and safety regulations continue to vary from state to state, county to county, and day to day. With that in mind, we want you to join us with accurate and realistic expectations. Due to the evolving nature of COVID-19 and the varying intensities of regulations between counties, you may notice slight modifications to prebooked shore excursions. Please know that our team is hard at work to provide the best possible experiences on land, but some restrictions are beyond our control and may result in alterations to onshore programming. If such changes should occur to any of your excursions, you can be sure that our team’s first priority will be to provide an alternative attraction of equal value, both financially and experientially. Any itinerary changes will be communicated with you in advance. We thank you for your patience and understanding during this unprecedented time. Let’s embrace American river cruising like never before. Let’s stay close and go far — together.
Sending well wishes, James J. Palmeri Executive Vice President of Shore Excursions
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HAND-CRAFTED EXCURSIONS We believe in your freedom to participate in experiences along the river that are of interest to you. Each journey along the river is special. That’s why our tight-knit team of tour operators strives to provide unique and exclusive attractions in each port you will visit. Whether you’re looking to step back in time on an in-depth historical tour, feel the thrill of an adventurous ride through the forest, or to soak in the stunning natural scenery, there is a hand-crafted experience for you.
BROCHURE SYMBOLS If you see this symbol, the excursion you are viewing is only offered on select voyage dates throughout the year (check online or call). If you see this symbol, the excursion you are viewing may only be offered on select voyages due to seasonal shifts in temperature (check online or call).
The stopwatch symbol indicates the timing of the excursion.
Activity Level 1: Little to no physical activity involved. Enjoy your excursion from the comfort of our deluxe motorcoach with the possibility of a relaxing stroll. Activity Level 2: A bit more than a driving tour, but not a strenuous effort. These excursions may involve moderate walking of up to 1/2 mile on level ground.
Activity Level 3: Expect some physical activity. These excursions may involve moderate walking, some steps or climbing, and uneven surfaces. Activity Level 4: Turn it up a notch! These excursions are for guests who regularly engage in an active lifestyle. Expect uneven surfaces or hills with more than average walking.
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Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
PRE-BOOKING PREMIUM EXPERIENCES
BOOK NOW TO RESERVE YOUR SHORE EXCURSIONS VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.RESERVEMYEXCURSIONS.COM
OR CALL (888)-966-0938 For your convenience, all of our shore excursion itineraries can be viewed and booked directly on our website. We strongly encourage you visit us online, as this is the best place to view the most up-to-date information on shore excursions. Of course, our knowledgeable reservation agents are available over the phone to help you make reservations as well. We look forward to our exciting experiences together in port!
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ASTORIA
INCLUDED HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR
Remember! Your vacation, your choices. Visit as many or few of the included attractions in Astoria listed below at no cost. View the gorgeous river gorge at the Astoria column or learn of Astoria’s early history at the Heritage Museum.
THE RIVERWALK
The Astoria Riverwalk, also known as the Astoria River Trail, is a six-mile walkway that overlooks the beautiful Columbia River. It stretches the entire length of the city’s waterfront, connecting restaurants, breweries, museums, and dozens of other attractions. Guests can also ride the historic riverfront trolley that runs along the banks for a small additional fee.
THE FLAVEL HOUSE As one of the best preserved examples of Queen Anne architecture in the Pacific Northwest, the Flavel House survives today as a landmark of local and national significance. The house was built as a retirement home in 1885 for Columbia River bar pilot Captain George Flavel and his family. The house has been restored and furnished to portray the elegance of the Victorian period and the history of the Flavel family.
ASTORIA COLUMN This magnificent monument stands 600 feet above sea level and gives the perfect view to Young’s Bay, the Coast Range, the Columbia River, and in the distance, even the Pacific Ocean. Ralph Budd initiated the project to celebrate Astoria’s early settlers. He hired Italian immigrant and artist Attilio Pusterla to model a piece inspired by Trajan’s Column in Rome, featuring hand-painted spiral frieze work, stretching over 500 feet if it were to be unwound.
HERITAGE MUSEUM Astoria’s Old City Hall building, a neoclassical structure designed by prominent Portland architect Emil Schacht in 1904, is home to the Historical Society’s collection and archive. Clatsop County’s rich and exciting history is featured in the museum’s permanent and changing exhibit galleries. Objects on display include a 1,000-year-old hunting implement, finely crafted 19thcentury Chinook and Clatsop Indian baskets, and a sea otter pelt and beaver hat which illuminate the early history of Astoria.
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Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
ASTORIA PREMIUM EXPERIENCE
THE LEWIS & CLARK EXPERIENCE
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS EXPERIENCE MIDDLE VILLAGE - STATION CAMP Trace the footsteps of America’s most-famous frontiersmen as we begin the day traveling through the final leg of the famous duo’s journey. Experience the journey of Lewis and Clark firsthand as you visit sites significant to the survival and success of the Corps of Discovery. From Middle Village - Station Camp, where the Corps of Discovery camped for ten days in November of 1805 to Fort Clatsop and Waikiki Beach.
STAND IN AWE AT CAPE DISAPPOINTMENT Witness the power of the pacific as you watch waves crash into the bluffs of Cape Disappointment. This breathtaking view was observed by Lewis and Clark at the conclusion of their two-year long expedition to the Pacific Ocean.
EXPLORE THE INTERPRETIVE CENTER Explore the Interpretative Center’s extensive and thorough timeline that documents the entire journey of these intrepid frontiersmen. It was at this site where the American pioneers’ two-year expedition, and their dream of discovering a river route to the Pacific Ocean, finally came to fruition.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DUO AT FORT CLATSOP For an in-depth look into the expedition, you’ll visit Fort Clatsop. Clatsop is the famous winter fort used by the Corps of Discovery. Step inside a replica of the for featuring exhibits in the interpretive center, an exhibit hall, bookstore, and gift shop. View films outlining the historic journey as you make your way through the shelter that would have been used during the harsh 19th Century winter.
*Please note: Due to attraction availability, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is not available on the following 2021 voyages: November 27th, December 2nd, and December 7th. Guests joining this excursion on these dates will instead explore Waikiki Beach. Please visit reservemyexcursions.com or call 1-888-966-0938 for more details.
HALF-DAY
$ 79
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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STEVENSON
INCLUDED HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR
Remember! Your vacation, your choices. Visit as many or few of the included attractions in Stevenson listed below at no cost. See how Bonneville Dam harnesses the power of nature or explore downtown Stevenson.
COLUMBIA GORGE INTERPRETIVE CENTER
This highly interactive museum is a favorite for many along the river. Enjoy a day of discovering the unique exhibits and artifacts that fill the museum. The mission of the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum is to share the story of Skamania County and the Columbia River Gorge. Make sure to visit “First People,” an exhibit focusing on the history of native people of this area – the Cascade Chinook. Then stop over at the “Grand Gallery” which is the largest gallery in the museum that showcases how to harvest resources and focuses on the timber industries throughout the gorge.
BONNEVILLE DAM The Bonneville Dam is located 40 miles east of Portland, Oregon. It received its name from Captain Benjamin Bonneville – a soldier, trader, and explorer. It consists of a navigation lock (raises and lowers river traffic 60 feet), Powerhouse 1 (completed in 1938), a spillway (moves excess water and provides for downstream migration of young fish), fish ladders (for upstream migrating adult fish), and Powerhouse 2 (completed in 1983). Bonneville Dam is capable of producing 1,227,000 kilowatts of electricity when needed, and moving over 10 million tons of cargo through its lock annually. Visitors can experience firsthand the operation of two hydroelectric powerhouses and watch migrating fish travel upstream at the underwater viewing rooms next to the fish ladders. These ladders are necessary so adult fish can continue their journey upstream to their spawning grounds past the dam. Depending on the season, Pacific Salmon, Pacific Lamprey, American Shad, and Sturgeon can be seen.
DOWNTOWN STEVENSON Make a stop in Downtown Stevenson, where you can get a slice of what Stevenson is all about. Enjoy the many antique shops, historic buildings with vintage interiors, and beautiful, abundant gardens. Visit the boutiques and shops, restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores to treat yourself to a souvenir or a taste of the fine cuisine before heading to your next stop!
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Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
STEVENSON PREMIUM EXPERIENCE
MULTNOMAH FALLS AND VISTA HOUSE: INCLUDING THE OLD SCENIC HIGHWAY
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS RIDE THE “KING OF ROADS,” THE OLD SCENIC HIGHWAY
Just beyond Portland city limits, a breathtaking roadway stretches along America’s most scenic landscape. The Old Scenic Highway was built in 1913 and is known as one of the greatest engineering feats. We’ll ride this road weaving high into the bluffs towards Crown Point, through towering forest and breathtaking waterfalls.
SOAK IN THE AWE-INSPIRING VIEWS Before Crown Point, we’ll stop at the Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpoint where guests can capture a perfect photo from the most widely photographed vantage point of the Columbia River Gorge below.
EXPLORE THE VISTA HOUSE & SCENIC VIEWS We’ll then reach our destination, Crown Point, which offers a view fit for a king. At the height of the bluff sits Vista House, perched high above the Columbia River. Built in 1916 and known, not only for its magnificent views, but also for its unique octagonal shape, Vista House offers a panoramic view of the breathtaking Columbia River more than 700 feet below.
VIEW THE MAGNIFICENT MULTNOMAH FALLS Here guests can get a breathtaking look at the waterfall and shop in the unique gift shop. This roaring 611-foot natural wonder demonstrates the power and beauty of nature in her rawest form. Watch in awe as this mighty waterfall crashes down on the rocky cliffs below, spraying a peaceful mist on all those who surround it.
HALF-DAY
$ 69
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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THE DALLES
INCLUDED HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR
Remember! Your vacation, your choices. Visit as many or few of the included attractions in The Dalles listed below at no cost. At any of the stops below you can be sure to learn the history of the area’s pioneers, soldiers, gold miners, adventurers, gunslingers, floozies, and scallywags.
COLUMBIA GORGE DISCOVERY CENTER & MUSEUM Enjoy the beautiful paved walking trails, a pond, and scenic overlooks. The Discovery Center is located in a beautiful and unique ecosystem native to the area. The multimedia, interactive museum inspires appreciation and stewardship of the natural and cultural treasures of the gorge and Wasco County.
ORIGINAL WASCO COUNTY COURTHOUSE MUSEUM In 1854, The Dalles was designated by the Territorial Legislature as the county seat of one of the largest counties ever formed in the United States. Wasco County extended from the crest of the Cascade Mountains to the Great Divide in the Rockies and encompassed 130,000 square miles. This small courthouse was used for public meeting places, church services, as well as the seat of law for the county. It is the oldest courthouse west of the Mississippi River.
THE DALLES AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Discover the history of this beautiful city. Learn about the many local attractions and buildings, and get a listing of the best places to grab a bite to eat, get a fine glass of wine, find a pharmacy, or do the most unique shopping. The friendly hosts will assist you in any way possible while informing you about their hometown.
FORT DALLES MUSEUM Located in the former fort’s Surgeon’s Quarters built in 1856, the Fort Dalles Museum opened in 1905, making it one of Oregon’s oldest history museums. Take a tour of the unique collection of pioneer and military artifacts at one of the old west’s most pivotal places in history. Enjoy walking on the grounds of this military fort and viewing the historic collection of wagons and antique vehicles.
NATIONAL NEON SIGN MUSEUM Brand new in The Dalles, the National Neon Sign Museum is a walk through the evolution of light, from the earliest of light bulb signs (1880-1920) to the introduction of neon to the United States in 1923. The museum provides a dynamic and entertaining environment that promotes an understanding and appreciation of the unique role advertising and signage has played in American history.
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THE DALLES PREMIUM EXPERIENCE
VINTAGE AMERICA: CLASSIC PLANES, AUTOMOBILES & MORE!
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS UNCOVER THE STORIES OF YESTERYEAR Explore the Golden Age of Transportation and Aviation at the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum (WAAAM). This extensive collection features over 350 airplanes, automobiles, motorcycles, and military vehicles from the 1910s to the 1970s. As a living history museum, WAAAM’s collection is still fully-operational– from the 1917 Curtiss Jenny to the 1966 Corvette Stingray, and the one-and-only World War II Stearman Model 70.
RIDE IN AN ANTIQUE AUTOMOBILE Experience living history firsthand in a ride around the property in an assortment of the collection’s automobiles with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Will you choose to ride in a Ford Model T? Or perhaps something a bit sportier? There will be a selection of classic vehicles to choose from during your visit.
EXCLUSIVE TOUR OF RESTORATION WORKSHOP American Empress guests also receive an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of WAAAM’s Aircraft Restoration Shop to see just what it takes to keep the fleet up and running.
HALF-DAY
$ 69
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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PORTLAND
INCLUDED TOUR
GUIDED PORTLAND CITY TOUR See many of the varied attractions the “Rose City” has to offer. See the U.S. Bank Tower, Oregon’s tallest building at 43 stories. Locals call the tower “Big Pink” because of the color of its granite surface. See the China Gate (NW Fourth and Burnside) which marks the entrance to Portland’s modern Chinese community. Drive by Powell’s City of Books, the World’s Largest Independent owned bookstore and Mill Ends Park (sometimes mistakenly called Mill’s End Park which is a tiny urban park that has been recognized since 1971 as the smallest park in the world.
12 Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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PRE- OR POST-CRUISE PORT OF CALL
VANCOUVER A suburb of Portland, Oregon, Vancouver, Washington, has taken on a distinctive identity of its own. Located in an ideal spot among Mount St. Helens, the Columbia River Gorge and the Pacific Coast, Vancouver boasts a newly renovated waterfront and an abundance of activities, scenic landscapes and historic attractions for all to enjoy.
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VANCOUVER PRE-CRUISE PREMIUM EXPERIENCE
PORTLAND “THE ROSE CITY” TOUR
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS NARRATED JOURNEY THROUGH THE “CITY OF ROSES” Explore Portland, Oregon on this narrated journey through the “City of Roses”. Enjoy the scenic views of the city, lined with expansive decorative murals and flowers.
INTERNATIONAL ROSE TEST GARDENS Portland is famous for its artistic culture which can be seen around each corner. At the International Rose Test Gardens, see the collection of over 10,000 roses in all shapes, sizes, and colors. In the warmer months, over ten thousand blooms create a colorful frame for a panoramic view of Portland. Please note floral displays are seasonal.
ENJOY A SCRUMPTIOUS TREAT FROM VOODOO DOUGHNUTS After our filled day, enjoy a delicious doughnut from the famous Voodoo Doughnuts located in Portland!
BOAT EMBARKATION If your voyage begins in Vancouver, Washington, your journey through the city will conclude at the dock of the vessel. Please see your Reservation Form for details.
HA L F - D A Y
$ 79
Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.
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SET OUT ON
YOUR NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE
Feel
RHYTHM AND BLUES on THE LOWER MISSISSIPPI RIVER
WITH AMERICAN COUNTESS™, AMERICAN DUCHESS™ AND AMERICAN QUEEN®
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 Empress® included shore excursions are available to all American Empress 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 Empress 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 Empress shore excursions has made every effort to notify guests with mobility issues of handicapped accessibility at the stops and attractions along the Hop-on Hop-off route as well as premium excursions. Because of the historic and general nature of some of the attractions, handicapped accessibility may be limited to the first floor or outside grounds only. In some instances there is no handicapped accessibility to the attractions. Complete or partial refunds will not be issued for portions of tours or attractions with accessibility limitations. Post-Cruise tours may include more than one final destination. In some instances guests will experience up to three stops to allow guests to exit the motorcoaches at a second hotel or airport. By participating in shore excursions of any kind (Included or Premium), you grant SEA Operating Company, LLC (SEA) and American Queen Steamboat Operating Company, LLC (AQSC), and their parent entities and affiliates (Released Parties) the irrevocable and unrestricted right to reproduce photographs and/or video images taken of you, or members of your family, for the purpose of publication, promotion, illustration, or trade, in any manner or in any medium. You therefore release the Released Parties and their legal representatives for all claims and liability relating to said images or video. Furthermore, you grant permission to use your statements that were given during an interview or guest lecture, with or without your name, for the purpose of advertising and publicity without restriction. You waive your right to any compensation. Please review AQSC’s Passenger Ticket Contract for additional terms and conditions which apply.
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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 the Wednesday prior to embarkation at 11:00 AM EST. Remember, all excursions in this brochure are subject to change. Not all excursions listed are offered on every voyage. Be certain to check online or call for the most up to date information on your specific voyage.