New Orleans to Memphis

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Cruise Summary

THANKSGIVING FESTIVAL ON THE LOWER MISSISSIPPI - Enjoy a whole new list of things to be thankful for with this special holiday cruise on the American Queen. Experience authentic Southern culture as you journey through living history along the lower Mississippi River. As you travel from New Orleans to Memphis, you will encounter gracious towns, explore stunning plantations and palatial mansions, delve into the rich storied past of the Civil War and soak in the romantic spirit of the Antebellum era. Surrounded by new friends onboard with the river rolling by, indulge in a delectable Thanksgiving dinner, partake in festive enrichment activities, delight in fabulous nightly entertainment and so much more. Choose to make our home your home for a uniquely American Thanksgiving holiday.

Theme:
• Thanksgiving Festival*
 
Included Tours:
• See ports of call below for information on included tours.

Premium Shore Excursions:
• See ports of call below for the options available to you. Click Here to learn more and to place reservations.

*All themed entertainment, events and tours are subject to change without notice.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hotel Stay - New Orleans

Hotel Stay - New Orleans

Welcome to the Big Easy, a vibrant and energetic city sure to keep you entertained and satisfied while you prepare for your voyage up the Mississippi! Today, indulge yourself with the treasures of New Orleans, as you uncover iconic cuisines spiced with the cultural flavors of the city’s past, explore the unique sites and attractions lining the historic streets as seen in the famous French Quarter, or admire the beauty of nature in the stunning Garden District or City Park.

Not sure where to start?  Visit the American Queen Hospitality Desk in the official Pre-Cruise Hotel at any point if you need any suggestions or questions answered, we will be more than happy to help you make the best of your time here! The desk will be available between 1:00 PM and 8:00 PM today, where an American Queen Steamboat Company representative, with the help of local New Orleans representative, can assist with everything from questions regarding the American Queen and reserving shore excursions to general questions regarding the city of New Orleans.

Day 2: New Orleans, LA

Departure 5:00 PM
New Orleans, LA

Today is the big day! Spend your last day here in the city of New Orleans before embarking on the luxurious American Queen to begin an unforgettable journey!

The official American Queen Voyage Check-in will be open between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM located in the Pre-Cruise Hotel. During this fast and easy procedure, our representatives will arrange your transfer to the vessel and answer any questions you might have.  The process is simple and will have you back to exploring in no time and, if you think of any more questions, the Hospitality Desk will be at your service until 3:00 PM, when the complimentary boat transfers will begin!

We would like to invite all guests to join us on a Premium Pre-Cruise Shore Excursion at 10:00 AM as we begin an exclusive adventure through New Orleans before continuing to the American Queen Dock at 3:30 PM. Reservations are required, so stop in at the Hospitality Desk for more information.  

After you are comfortably aboard the American Queen, wave “Au Revoir” to New Orleans as we set off on an incredible adventure up the Mighty Mississippi! 

Pre-Cruise: New Orleans Highlights Tour

Embark on an adventure through a city radiating an eccentric and authentic atmosphere and filled to the brim with history and culture close to the heart of America. Explore the history of New Orleans including the first settlers, religion, culture and Mardi Gras. On an exclusive New Orleans narrated driving tour, you will experience the city from an intimate first-person perspective. Relax in the comfort of our motorcoach as we glide past some of the most iconic attractions in the city including the French Quarter, Jackson Square and the Garden District, where elegant mansions stand as a testament to Greek revival, Italianate and Queen Anne Victorian styles.

A stop in Jackson Square will be the perfect location to treat yourself to authentic New Orleans styled lunch at one of the many cafes and eateries or to pick out the perfect souvenir of your visit to this iconic city. Then, we will travel down St. Charles Avenue, along the famous street car line, where New Orleans’ most prestigious and beautiful colleges, Tulane University and Loyola University are located.

Continue the day in New Orleans’ breathtaking City Park, a 400-acre park located in uptown between St. Charles Avenue and the Mississippi River, built on the site of the 1884 World's Fair. Here, we will take a short break to relax and soak in the awe inspiring scenery of “The Big Easy,” as you are treated to a complimentary coffee and a New Orleans’ signature Morning Call beignet. No trip to New Orleans would be complete without a stop at St. Louis Cemetery # 3, known better as the “The City of the Dead,” which is where we will conclude our complete journey through the city of New Orleans!

Note: Our experience ends at the American Queen’s dock.

All shore excursions, prices, and information are subject to change without notice.

Transportation
Included
Price
$59.00
Duration
5.5 hours
Tour Capacity
50 guests

Day 3: Oak Alley, LA

Oak Alley, LA

Located in the Saint James Parish, Oak Alley is a much-photographed plantation that combines architectural splendor and the natural wonder of its 300-year-old oak trees. Spend time strolling beneath the canopy of these trees, and learn about the rich history and culture of this southern estate.

 

Featured Onboard Entertainment: Barbara Sims

Disembark from the American Queen and walk across the street to enjoy the beauty of Oak Alley’s rich past. Located on the Mississippi River between the historic Louisiana cities of New Orleans and Baton Rouge, Oak Alley Plantation has been called the "Grande Dame of the Great River Road.”  Nowhere else in the South will you find such a spectacular setting!  The quarter-mile canopy of giant live oak trees, believed to be nearly 300 years old, forms an impressive avenue leading to the classic Greek-revival style antebellum home. Oak Alley’s setting will remind you of the movie “Gone with the Wind” and makes you feel like you are on a Hollywood movie set.  During this included tour, enjoy a guided tour of the Big House and explore the magnificent grounds while sipping a Mint Julep, a quintessential Southern staple.

Life in the Bayou Cajun Swamp Tour - Oak Alley

Today we explore a true Cajun Experience away from the American Queen. Begin with a guided visit to the iconic “Big House” at Oak Alley Plantation. This absolutely breathtaking Greek-Revival plantation got its name from its most distinguishing feature – a quarter-mile walkway lined with 300-year-old oak trees leading to the grand front door of this historic southern home. 

Then, travel through plantation country as our local guide enlightens us on the affluent southern Louisiana lifestyle during the era when sugar cane was king. After our 45-minute narrated tour of the river, we will arrive in La Place, Louisiana; home to the 250-acre ecosphere called Manchac Swamp. 

For the next hour and a half we will be guided through this ecological environment by our knowable Cajun Captain. Enjoy the picturesque sights of moss-draped cypress trees and lush, exotic vegetation cover the wetlands as our tour boat navigates the swamp. Because our boats are exclusive to this river, the swamp critters have even learned to recognize them as part of their own habitat. At the beckon of the Captain’s call, they emerge from the draping mossy Cypress trees to greet us. This ecosphere harbors American alligators, nutria, ibis, turtle, herons, raccoons, egrets, and species unique to Southern Louisiana. Get up close and personal with baby alligators as they come aboard the boat.   

*While Louisiana’s Manchac Swamp is uniquely beautiful year-round, it is possible that alligators and other native wildlife may not be as active throughout the colder months. Please take this into consideration while booking this tour on dates October through December, as well as, February through March.

All shore excursions, prices, and information are subject to change without notice.

Transportation
Included
Price
$59.00
Duration
4.5 hours
Tour Capacity
100 guests
Plantations of the Great River Road

Indulge in the history and luxury of southern sugar plantations on a narrated journey through Louisiana sugar fields. A guided visit to the iconic “Big House” at Oak Alley sets the stage. This absolutely breathtaking Greek-Revival plantation got its name from its most distinguishing feature – a quarter-mile walkway lined with 300-year-old oak trees leading to the grand front door of this historic southern home.

Travel the most significant road in the south – The Great River Road. Winding through plantation homes, historic dwellings, working sugar fields and flanked by the Mighty Mississippi River levee system. Travel back in time as River Road transports you to a period when sugar was referred to as white gold and ruled the south. Live the history of the area as our knowledgeable guide leads the way. Have your cameras ready! We will pause in front of Felicity and Laura Plantations where guests can capture spectacular photos before making a stop in front of famous Evergreen Plantation, where guests can stretch their legs as they capture perfect up-close shots!

An exclusive visit to St. Joseph’s Plantation will complete today’s excursion. As one of the last plantations still family owned and operated, it is able to accurately depict the atmosphere of a true southern sugar plantation. Hear the stories as they were told by the Waguespack family and explore photos and portraits of the family through the generations. Stroll through picturesque moss-draped oak trees on your way to the original slave cabins on the property, inhabited through the year 2000. Surrounded by sugar fields still harvested by the original plantation family, get an up-close education about the harvesting process of this vital southern crop. A stop at the plantation shop reveals hand-made jewelry and unique southern treasures to remind guests of their sugary-sweet adventure through the history of Louisiana’s most prominent sugar plantations!

All shore excursions, prices, and information are subject to change without notice.

Transportation
Included
Price
$59.00
Duration
4.5 hours
Tour Capacity
50 guests

Day 4: St. Francisville, LA

St. Francisville, LA

Established in 1809, St. Francisville is the oldest town in the Florida Parishes. Below where St. Francisville is located currently, was a settlement called Bayou Sara in the 1790’s. When this settlement was destroyed by flooding and fires, many of the structures and artifacts were hauled up the bluff into St. Francisville, where they are still standing. The town is referred to as “two miles long and two yards wide,” but that definitely doesn’t mean they have nothing to offer! Stop in at one of the unique shops, historical homes, beautiful churches, or breathtaking parks and you will agree with that! Spanish moss trees grow throughout the town, which creates a beautiful southern comfort to the atmosphere.

Royal Street
Guests can hop off here and walk over to The Republic of West Florida Historical Site. Or choose to stroll into Grandmother’s Buttons, a very unique southern boutique. Take a stroll down Royal Street at any of the shops or just to admire the beautiful trees and homes. Or stop into Grandmother’s Buttons – a unique boutique that offers jewelry made out of 100 year old buttons. Inside the store, you can visit the button museum to learn the history of the business and the inspirations of the art. The store is located inside of a former historic bank lobby with 16-foot ceilings and a bank vault, even if jewelry is not in your plans – the architecture is beautiful!

Old Market Hall
Become steeped in southern charm and local artistry. Stop at Harrington Gallery to experience one-of-a-kind paintings and beautiful pieces by local artists. Visit the Shanty Too, a quaint boutique featuring artisan jewelry and gifts. The structure was built in 1819 and has a beautiful open layout. Now, the building is used as a market center for the town to host their small businesses. Every day is different, you may see anything from jewelry and makeup, scarves and dresses, or snacks and produce! 

West Feliciana Historical Society Museum
Learn about St. Francisville and Louisiana’s history and culture. Also, feel free to stop at the West Feliciana Parish Library and relax with a good book or newspaper. This museum is dedicated to the history, people, and architectures of West Feliciana Parish. Built inside a former hardware store built in 1896, the Historical Society Museum displays many artifacts, photos, costumes, and articles all portraying the history of St. Francisville. Just across the street, you can stop in any of the fine boutiques and shops! 

Grace Episcopal Church
Originally built in 1827, this restored Gothic structure is one of the oldest Protestant churches in Louisiana. Learn about its significance during the Civil War and its’ historical Civil War cemetery. Built in 1860 and rebuilt in 1893 after the Union caused heavy damage in 1863, Grace Episcopal Church stands tall in St. Francisville. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the church and the grounds and make sure to check out the organ located inside – it dates all the way back to 1860! This church is one of the state’s oldest Protestant churches that still stand today.

Redemption & Rehabilitation at Angola Penitentiary

Recognized by the international travel community during the 2014 Seatrade Convention in Barcelona as one of the three most innovative experiences in the world, we embark on a trip full of second chances, rehabilitation, and redemption. Angola Prison—formerly America’s most dangerous penitentiary is known today as a model facility and takes great pride in the faith-based rehabilitation of its inmates, most of whom will never regain their freedom. 

Based on your previous perception of prison, you can’t help but get butterflies as you turn to see the yellow gates and barbed wire of Angola Prison. That perception will be changed today. As we wind through Angola’s vast, rich farmland where over five million pounds of produce are harvested by inmates each year, gaze upon the fields that seem to expand forever. Our ride will wind along the tight roads paved through the grounds as we pass inmates hard at work harvesting crops. We push on, passing inmate housing, cattle herds, the K-9 training facility, and the Rodeo arena. Discover the history of this plantation turned penitentiary, made famous for its troubling history and it’s truly inspirational turn-around, annual Rodeo, and numerous sightings in movies including the blockbuster; “Dead Man Walking.” 

We will stop in front of Angola’s first and most famous cellblock, stepping off the bus for an exclusive tour of the Red Hat Cellblock. Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, the penitentiary’s first cellblock was home to the escape artist Charlie Frazer and was the site of eleven executions by electric chair. Hear the history of the dark roads the prison had been to before its unbelievable transformation.

The journey continues, arriving at the penitentiary’s largest chapel where guests will have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to hear the enlightening stories from current inmates and the journey of their transformation into the inspiration and well-rounded people they are today. Our exclusive excursion ends with a stop at the penitentiary’s on-site museum. While here, learn more about the ongoing effort to change prisons in America, the history of Angola and pick up a unique souvenir as a reminder of the ongoing effort to ensure public safety.

All shore excursions, prices, and information are subject to change without notice.

Transportation
Included
Price
$59.00
Duration
4 hours
Tour Capacity
100 guests

Day 5: Natchez, MS

Natchez, MS

Happy Thanksgiving! This charming river town was first inhabited by Natchez Indians and French explorers who shared the land. It was founded in 1716, making it the oldest city on the Mississippi. The city is known for its elegance, hospitality, and impressive preservation of history – found on every street corner throughout Natchez. Today you may take advantage of an included Hop-on Hop-off tour or enhance your holiday experience with a Premium Shore Excursion before returning to the American Queen for an exceptional Thanksgiving Day meal. 

Thanksgiving Celebration:
Surrounded by elegant décor and new friends with the river rolling by, you’ll have a deep appreciation for all your many blessings as you indulge in a delectable Thanksgiving dinner in the elegant J.M. White Dining Room. Whether you fancy a traditional turkey dinner with all of the trimmings or perhaps something a bit different to change up your holiday on the river, your dining experience will be equally delightful. 

Featured Onboard Activity:
Thanksgiving wouldn't be complete without settling in for a classic all-American tradition, football! Game day is happening onboard for all of our football fans, so grab your favorite after-dinner cocktail and head over to the Grand Saloon to enjoy the Thanksgiving Day football action.

Rosalie Mansion
A Union Headquarters for Natchez during the Civil War built in 1823. This 1716 mansion was built by the French as a fort on the bluffs of Natchez. The Mississippi State Society Daughters of the American Revolution have since gained ownership and have been maintaining the house and grounds since 1938. On this guided tour, hear the history of the house and the artifacts from an expert tour guide dressed in period clothing. Guests can explore the extensive gardens, gift shop, library, or carriage house before they leave.                                                                                    

Natchez Visitor’s Center
Learn about the river in this beautiful southern town, visit exhibits, or shop at the gift shop! Enjoy a short, 20-minute video in the Visitor’s Center Theater and hear about the history of Natchez upon arrival. Then, explore the building at your leisure. At the entrance a scaled display model of the city is showcased. Stop in the office for some general information and questions about the town and its history, including town highlights and points of interest.

William Johnson House
An incredible, historic 3-story brick house constructed after the 1840 Natchez tornado. William Johnson was known as the “Barber of Natchez”; he began as a slave and gained his freedom at age eleven. After his freedom, he began to work his way up in society, eventually becoming almost fully accepted within society. As the town barber, William Johnson was able to hear the stories and gossip of many of the residents, which he documented in his diary for over 16 years. His 3-story brick home was built in 1840 and showcases many

Magnolia Hall
This fully restored mansion was owned by a wealthy cotton broker and merchant and was built in 1858. This Greek Revival Mansion was built in 1858. The house was built before the breakout of the Civil War in town but did suffer some damage – a cannon ball was actually launched into their kitchen! It is now fully restored – the main floor offers a showcase of many antiques and furnishings and the upper floors offer a costume collection located in the Historic Clothing Museum. Tour the house and then stop in the gift shop for some souvenirs.

Stanton Hall
A magnificent, Antebellum Classical Revival Mansion built on an entire city block of Natchez. Irish Immigrant and cotton merchant Frederick Stanton built this Palatial Greek Revival mansion in 1857. It was appraised at $83,000 during that period, even before it was furnished. Take a 30-minute tour of the house – which takes up the entire block and is fully furnished. Afterwards you can stop for lunch in the Carriage House Restaurant, known for their fine southern cuisine.

King’s Tavern and Charboneau Distillery
Step off the American Queen Motorcoach and step through the front gate leading to the second floor porch of this 1769 building – the oldest structure in the city of Natchez. Join us for an American Queen exclusive tour of the King’s Tavern – a newly opened restaurant and bar, owned by Regina Charboneau, a nationally recognized chef, and her husband Doug. Here you will begin a guided tour of the bar with a custom drink on the house, followed by an exclusive tour of the distillery located just next-door. Don’t miss out!

Natchez Association for the Preservation of Afro-American Culture Museum
View photographs and artifacts or hear the history of African-American heritage in Natchez and Adams County. Here, learn the history and culture of the African Americans in Natchez over time. Guests can hear the stories or explore the many exhibits that portray the hardships that African Americans suffered and those that prevailed in a time period which allowed for minimal success to the entire race. Add another dimension of Natchez history by stopping at this museum.

Entertaining Southern Style with Regina Charboneau

Enter the ornate parlors of Twin Oaks; private home of the American Queen’s Culinary Director and Chef de Cuisine; Regina Charboneau. Chef Charboneau opens her home exclusively for guests of the American Queen for an afternoon of southern hospitality and entertainment. Relax within the walls of this historic home as Regina entertains with the history Twin Oaks and shares her secrets to effortless entertaining with a southern flair. Enjoy cocktails and a sampling of gourmet sweet and savory treats prepared by Regina. This unique southern afternoon tea concludes as Regina explains the epicurean delights offered, answers guest’s questions and provides guests a CD full of decadent southern recipes and antique menus to inspire your own cocktail party.

Note: This tour sells out quickly and we suggest booking early.

All shore excursions, prices, and information are subject to change without notice.

Transportation
Included
Price
$79.00
Duration
2.5 hours
Tour Capacity
36 guests
A Jeweled Christmas in Natchez

Join us for lavish Christmas experience in one of America’s most beautiful historic homes. This experience includes a tour of The Towers, a beautifully restored antebellum mansion in Natchez, Mississippi. Situated on almost 5 lush and manicured acres, this Italianate style home was built in 1858 and once served as the headquarters for the Union Army during the Civil War. This tour includes a complete tour of the home, festively decorated in a dazzling display of antique jewelry, exquisite garlands and 100 decorated Christmas Trees. Immerse yourself in a festive wonderland as you continue through the mansion and into the stately dining room where refreshments will be offered. Enjoy wine, hors d’oeuvres and decadent desserts with a southern flair. To complete your Christmas experience, a local pianist will offer merry music for a jolly holiday sing-along.

All shore excursions, prices, and information are subject to change without notice.

Transportation
Included
Price
$79.00
Duration
3 hours
Tour Capacity
48 guests

Day 6: Vicksburg, MS

Vicksburg, MS

Vicksburg perfectly blends Southern culture and heritage with exciting modern-day attractions. Described as the “Key to the South” by Abraham Lincoln, this southern town carries a history unlike any other Civil War city. Vicksburg was founded in 1811 and grew as a vital river port city. It was a major component to the Civil War and carries much of the history within the town. Today, Vicksburg is a popular spot for tourists to learn about the battles of the city, taste the cuisine, visit the many museums, and pick out the perfect souvenir. 

Church of the Holy Trinity
This Episcopal Church is over 125 years old and house 6 Tiffany stained-glass windows. This incredible church spans over 125 feet long, 52 feet wide, and reaches 61 feet high to the apex of the roof. The church was constructed in Norman style, finished in red brick, though it showcases zigzag tracery which was highly unique to the style at the time. The stained glass windows may be the main draw – there are 34. They were given as memorials and six of them were created by Tiffany Studios in New York under the supervision of Louis Comfort Tiffany. 

Anchuca Mansion
Anchuca, meaning “happy home” is one of the most significant antebellum homes in Vicksburg and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was built in 1830 and provided shelter for those suffering during the War. The word Anchuca derives from an Indian word meaning, “happy home”, which is the exact vibe this home gives off. Built in 1830 by politician J.W. Mauldin, Anchuca is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. During the war, the house was used as a shelter for those who had suffered. Tour the home and its beautiful furnishings.

Old Court House Museum
Built in 1858, this building stands as the most historic structure in Vicksburg, hosting speakers and guests like Jefferson Davis, Ulysses S. Grant, Teddy Roosevelt, and more! Construction for this colossal courthouse began in 1858 and was completed miraculously just two years later in 1860 for $100,000. It was restored after the tornado of 1953 swept through Mississippi by Eva Whitaker Davis. Now, the courthouse is filled with countless artifacts including, confederate flags, portraits, the trophy antlers won by steamboat Robert E. Lee in an 1870 race, an original Teddy Bear given by Theodore Roosevelt, and many more! 

Yesterday’s Child & Doll Museum & Biendemham Coca-Cola Museum
Take a self-guided tour as you enjoy and remember life through a child’s eyes. Learn the history of an America’s beloved soda in this 1890’s-furnished museum. Located directly across the street from one another, these two Vicksburg gems are close to the hearts of many residents. Yesterday’s Doll Museum was featured in Delta Magazine and Dolls Magazine. Enjoy a self-guided tour featuring over 1,000 dolls and toys dating back to 1843. At Biedenhard Coca-Cola Museum enjoy the wide variety of Coca-Cola memorabilia in an authentic candy store and soda fountain setting. 

Lower Mississippi River Museum
Listen to the risks and benefits of life surrounding the Mississippi River and learn the Federal Government’s role the Mississippi’s past and present. This museum’s mission is to show the Federal Government’s role in the Mississippi’s past as well as future efforts to maintain a healthy river. Guests can explore showcases of the history of Vicksburg and the region or exhibits about the 1927 flood and how it affected Vicksburg and the Mississippi River. Learn about the fish of the river up close in the museum’s 1,515 gallon aquarium or choose your own adventure on the river with the Mississippi Trail Interactive exhibit! (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)

Old Depot Museum
Featuring the world’s largest collection of ship models and a collection of riverboat models and naval vessels with Mississippi names. Also, the museum offers the only diorama of the Siege of Vicksburg, shown in a birds-eye view of the battlefield with 2,300 miniature soldiers. Formerly a depot for the Grand Trunk & Western Railroad, this museum has over 150,000 historical and genealogical items in its collection. It features a scale-model village of the buildings important to the development of Vicksburg and the South Kalamazoo County Region and outback guests can check out the caboose! Before you leave, make sure to check out the gift shop!

On the Front Lines of the Civil War

Travel the front lines of one the most important battlefields in the country. Cross into enemy territory, hear the stories and hardships suffered by soldiers and discover what makes Vicksburg such an important city in American history.  Aptly described by President Lincoln as “the key to victory,” the Siege and Battle at Vicksburg is a landmark in time that shaped our country and how wars would forever be fought.

Set off for the historic Vicksburg National Military Park. Here, we will travel the 16-mile road that weaves through the 1,300 monuments and markers. As our luxury motorcoach navigates the bluffs and fields that once served as crucial battlegrounds, we’ll cross both Union and Confederate lines and make a few stops to allow for a close-up experience at some of the key points of interest along the way.  Tour the USS Cairo and Museum, an Iron Clad River Boat that was raised from the depths of the Mississippi River and can be boarded and fully explored. Climb the steps at the Illinois State Monument, the largest of the 27 state monuments and walk the National Cemetery, a peaceful location holing the largest amount of Civil War burials in the country, as well as the Vicksburg Battlefield Visitor’s Center where an informative fiber-optic display depicts the progression of the siege. 

All shore excursions, prices, and information are subject to change without notice.

Transportation
Included
Price
$69.00
Duration
4.5 hours
Tour Capacity
150 guests

Day 7: Scenic River Cruising

Scenic River Cruising

Relax on deck with a copy of Huckleberry Finn or another imaginative selection borrowed from our revered Mark Twain Gallery, enjoy some quiet time in the Ladies' Tea Parlor, or recruit your fellow guests for an exciting board game in our Gentlemen's Card Room. For a remarkable one-of-a-kind experience, take a guided tour of the American Queen's Engine Room to explore the inner workings of our classic, steam-powered vessel. There is always plenty to do between dawn and dusk on the river! 

Day 8: Helena, AR

Helena, AR

In the Valley of Crowley’s Ridge, sits the small town of Helena, Arkansas.  Helena dates back to 1833, and was once a bustling, thriving southern city.  Today, Helena would seem to some as a town that time forgot.  While the rest of the country was building shopping centers and interstate systems, Helena struggled to stay afloat amidst all of the progress.  Big changes drew small businesses away from Main Street U.S.A. and into strip malls.  Convenience took over, where simplicity once stood.  Today, Helena is in the throes of a revival. With quirky boutiques, unique stores and a historic musical past, Helena remains proud of the life they continue to successfully sprout from the ruins of the past. For in through the dust and rubble, new life for this determined Southern town is emerging.  Helena welcomes American Queen guests to play a large part in their re-birth.

Delta Cultural Center
Learn the history of the Delta and its Blues as you visit two tour locations: the Depot and the Visitors Center. Experience the history of Helena through two interactive museums – The Depot and the Visitor’s Center. The Depot features the exhibit “A Heritage of Determination” which depicts the history of the Delta from its earliest inhabitants through the settlement and Mississippi River Floods. Upstairs there is an exhibit called “Civil War in the Delta” which explains the Battle of Helena. 

St. Mary’s Catholic Church
This church located in West Helena was designed by Charles Earnes and built in 1935. It features extravagant brick work, interior design, and a breathtaking steeple that stay true to Middle European traditions. Built in 1934 and designed by architect Charles Eames. This was his first large commission – Eames was known instead for his modern furniture designs. In that time, people were used to Renaissance-style churches. This church is medieval-esque, designed to resemble the world—half in light and half in dark.

Freedom Park
This Park was designated as an important part of the National Park Service’s National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. Here you can admire monuments of the African-American Experience in the Civil War era. This Civil War Interpretive site includes 5 major exhibits that explore the African American experience in Helena. The exhibits follow the journey of the African Americans from fugitive slave to freedom, and even enlistment in the Union Army for others. The park is the first site in Arkansas to be designated for inclusion on the National Park Service’s National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program.

Fort Curtis
A replacement to the original Fort Curtis built in 1862, the New Fort Curtis gives visitors the chance to hear the history of the original and its reconstruction as they see an earthen fort firsthand. This reproduction of the Union’s Civil War Fort was named after the Union General in command – Samuel R. Curtis. The fort was one of 5 positions which allowed for Union soldiers to form a Confederate attack on July 4th, 1863 to recapture the city and relieve the siege at Vicksburg.

Moore-Hornor House
Visit this architectural beauty built by Arthur Thompson in 1859. It offers an impressive example of both Greek revival and Italianate architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historical Places. 

Pillow-Thompson House
Jerome B. Pillow built this amazing house in 1896. Today it is fully restored back to its original beauty so that guests have the chance to visit a fine example of Queen Anne Architecture. Built in 1896 by Jerome B. Pillow and designed by architect George Barber. It is a prime example of Queen Anne architecture in the south and is the only home Victorian home in Arkansas with full-wood construction. Many of the original furnishings remain on display.

Helena Museum
Guests will be amazed to hear the history of Helena and its ancestors as they tour this museum. Explore artifacts of Native American Indians, the Civil War, Thomas Edison, and Mark Twain, among many more incredible pieces. This museum started out as the Hook and Ladder in 1874, which was a volunteer fire company that started lending out books and newspapers. The department slowly began acquiring donations of historic artifacts eventually leading to an expansion in the 1920’s to accommodate the new additions. These artifacts are now on display for guests to view at their leisure.

Mississippi Delta Gospel and the Birthplace of the Blues

Experience the Blues, un-filtered and un-refined, as we set off on the Blues Trail to the place where it all began. This experience begins with a visit to the Greater First Baptist Church, where a rousing gospel choir performance is sure to inspire. As we funnel into the warm and cozy church and into the rustic, wooden pews, listen as Reverend Hughes welcomes us to the heart of the Delta, where gospel was born. Renditions of the “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “Amazing Grace,” and “Swing Low Sweet Chariot” will have you swaying back and forth and clapping along before making our way to Clarksdale, Mississippi – known as the “Birthplace of the Blues!”

Soak in this quintessential southern town on a narrated tour – explore all of the highlights landing it on the Blues Trail. Clarksdale is so passionate about its Blues roots that the buildings and sidewalks ooze that gritty feeling evoked by the music of the region. From the weathered store fronts, guarded by well-used furniture and covered in faded paint—this town is proudly displaying its culture. Then, experience the blues in its’ pure and raw excellence at the Delta Blues Museum, where exhibits captivate the history and heritage of the Blues made by legends such as Sam Cooke, Muddy Waters, and Tennessee Williams.

Just a short walk across the street will bring us to Ground Zero Blues Club. This iconic juke joint, owned by Golden Globe winning actor Morgan Freeman, accurately showcases the nuances of the Blues. This dimly lit musical haven truly captures the authenticity in every inch of the building. From the mismatched furniture, to the artwork and artifacts adorning the already too cluttered walls lit only by strings of lights hung from the exposed beams—feel completely cultural immersed. See, hear, and taste the culture that is the Blues. Grab a chair and belly up to the table as a sampling of traditionally Southern snacks are offered for your enjoyment. While delving into fried green tomatoes, fried pickles, fried green beans, and sweet potato fries, enjoy an exclusive live musical performance by a local Blues legend offering a unique cultural experience to complete your cultural experience of the birthplace of the Blues.

All shore excursions, prices, and information are subject to change without notice.

Transportation
Included
Price
$79.00
Duration
4.75 hours
Tour Capacity
100 guests

Day 9: Memphis, TN

Arrival 8:00 AM
Memphis, TN

Disembark in Memphis and begin your journey home or consider extending your stay with our three day, two night American Music City Stay package. Click here for full details

Post-Cruise: The King's Memphis with Graceland

Experience Memphis through the eyes of The King himself on an exclusive experience through this musical southern city. Join us as we embark on a driving tour passed select landmarks such as Sun Studio, iconic Beale Street and Elvis Presley Plaza. Keep a sharp eye out for wondering musicians as this tour may have a couple musical surprises as we make our way to Graceland. Visit this musical mecca with a Platinum Ticket to Graceland Mansion and all of the outlying museums. Enjoy a self-guided tour of Graceland and enjoy free time for lunch on your own at one of the Elvis themed eateries on the grounds.

Put on your blue suede shoes and board the American Queen Luxury motorcoach. During this exclusive narrated driving tour of Memphis, you will see such landmarks as Sun Studio, the Peabody Hotel, the National Civil Rights Museum (The Lorraine Motel) and St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. Experience the most musical town in the world when you cruise down Beale St known as the "Home of the Blues & Birthplace of Rock & Roll." You will see Elvis Presley Plaza, BB King's Blues Club and the Gibson Guitar Factory.

Included is a Graceland Platinum ticket, which is a Self-Guided tour that includes the Graceland Mansion, all of the outlying museums with extra time to treat yourself to a lunch fit for a King at one of Graceland’s Elvis themed eateries. You will not want to miss this unique and authentic city tour, which pays homage to the legendary musical giants who called Memphis home.

This experience begins during the debarkation process on the American Queen and ends at the Memphis International Airport by 12:30PM and includes guest’s luggage transfer.

All shore excursions, prices, and information are subject to change without notice.

Transportation
Included
Price
$89.00
Duration
5 hours
Tour Capacity
100 guests