American Countess June 6th - 13th Brochure

SHORE EXCURSIONS

MISSISSIPPI & TENNESSEE RIVE RS

Call (888)-966-0938 Contact your Travel Agent to book your Mississippi, Ohio & Tennessee adventure today, or visit us at www.reservemyexcursions.com

YOU WILL EXPERIENCE New Madrid, Missouri....................................................................... 6 Paducah, Kentucky............................................................................ 8 Savannah, Tennessee........................................................................10 Decatur, Alabama...............................................................................12 Florence, Alabama............................................................................. 14 Chattanooga, Tennessee.................................................................. 16 Memphis, Tennessee........................................................................ 18

INCLUDED TOURS To introduce you to each port of call, every American Queen Steamboat Company cruise comes with included tours! These 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 preplanned tours will lead you to the port of call’s most sought-after destinations.

PREMIUM EXPERIENCES In addition to our included tours, American Queen Steamboat Company 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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Shore Excursions Department Dear American Queen Steamboat Company 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 Ashore 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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NEW MADRID

INCLUDED TOUR

GUIDED CITY TOUR WITH A STOP AT NEW MADRID HISTORICAL MUSEUM Enjoy a guided tour of New Madrid, named after the city Madrid in Spain.

New Madrid is known as the first American town in Missouri, founded in the 1780s by George Morgan, an American Revolutionary War veteran and merchant from New Jersey. Visit the New Madrid Historical Museum, located in the former Kendall Saloon off of Main Street. The 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!

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Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.

Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.

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PADUCAH

INCLUDED TOUR

GUIDED CITY TOUR WITH STOPS AT THE QUILT MUSEUM & RIVER DISCOVERY CENTER Explore Paducah, a harmonious town located at the confluence of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers, an area that is often called the “Four-Rivers Region.” Discover the rich history of the town as your guide leads you to Paducah’s unique destinations. The National Quilt Museum is the portal to the contemporary quilt experience. It features exhibits and workshops by renowned quilters who implement creative approaches to fiber art. The Museum Shop & Book Store offers Kentucky-crafted items and quilt-related instructional and collector books. The River Discovery Center was born in 1988, when Mayor Gerry Montgomery and her committee pursued the development of a museum to showcase the Four Rivers Region’s maritime heritage. Here, explore artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that share the history of marine life and the history of the river.

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Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.

PADUCAH PREMIUM EXPERIENCE

CHECK-IN ALONG THE CHITLIN’ TRAIL

PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS STEP BACK IN TIME TO THE EARLY 20TH CENTURY The year is 1915, and America is disjointed by segregation and heavily governed by Jim Crow Laws. In the heart of the country sat Paducah, Kentucky, a quaint yet bustling city on the Chitlin’ Trail, which saw hundreds of musicians as they made the journey.

MEET MISS MAGGIE AT THE HISTORIC HOTEL 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. In 1909, Miss Maggie used her undeniable determination and willpower to establish this much needed “colored” hotel, an almost unfathomable task for a black woman at the time.

As Miss Maggie personally welcomes us inside, step through the door and into the 20th century.

TOUR THE HISTORIC HOTEL METROPOLITAN Follow Miss Maggie through the rooms as she shares the rich history that has been stowed in the hotel’s walls. Listen as she gossips about its past boarders, including B.B. King, Billie Holiday, and Ike and Tina Turner. If you listen closely, you can almost hear the laughter and music reverberating through the halls.

SAMPLE SOULFUL TASTINGS After our guided tour of the hotel, Miss Maggie will serve us some Chess pie, as she answers your questions about the hotel’s vibrant history.

HA L F - D A Y

$ 49

Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.

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SAVANNAH

INCLUDED TOUR

SHILOH BATTLEFIELD INCLUDED TOUR Join us as we travel to one of the most informative and interesting Civil War National Parks. Shiloh National Military Park contains a wide array of historic sites. Located within the boundaries of Shiloh Park, there is also a United States National Cemetery, holding around 4,000 soldiers and their family members. A National Historic Landmark in its own right, the Shiloh Indian Mounds are also located within the park boundaries.

10 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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DECATUR

INCLUDED TOUR

HISTORIC HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA INCLUDED TOUR Embark on a historic tour of Huntsville, Alabama. Established in 1805, Huntsville is located near a body of water named “The Big Spring” the town’s unique location had attracted many pioneers to Alabama. Sit back and relax onboard the motorcoach as your local guide leads you through the Twickenham Historic District. Soak in the stories from over 200 years of Huntsville’s history. See the home of Major Robert Anderson — who ordered the first shot of the Civil War, stunning homes visited by President Andrew Jackson during the Creek Indian Wars, the haunted home of General John Hunt Morgan, and more! In downtown Huntsville, you’ll visit the historic Harrison Brothers Hardware Store. The shop has been in business for over 100 years, and today serves as a museum and gift shop. Admire the original fixtures and wide variety of historic items on display.

12 Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.

DECATUR PREMIUM EXPERIENCE

ALABAMA AIR & SPACE: THE ORIGINS OF NASA

PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

Embark on a journey through time, as you leave behind the vintage elegance of our paddlewheeler and set sights on the future of American space travel.

As we sail into the future, our motorcoach will bring us to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. This facility was established in 1970 in a quaint Alabama town, known forever as the place where America’s space program was born. Today, the center is the location where America’s next great ship – the Space Launch System, is being designed.

UNCOVER THE STORIES OF THE GREAT SPACE RACE See the awe-inspiring Saturn V rocket, a National Historic Landmark that stands on display, towering over the museum itself. Experience the story of mankind’s space exploration through the eyes of Huntsville, Alabama. In 1960, Huntsville became the home of NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. It was here that rocket scientist, Wernher von Braun and a team of engineers produced elements of the Saturn V, which would lead NASA’s Apollo program to the moon.

EXPLORE THE EXPANSIVE MUSEUM Enter the most comprehensive U.S. manned space flight hardware museum in the world. Here, you will discover the history behind one of the most ambitious programs ever created by the United States, and possibly, mankind. The USSRC features a multitude of exhibits including Home to Space Camp, the Aviation Challenge, Space Dome Theater, Rocket Park, and the Education Training Center – which houses NASA’s Educator Resource Center. Examine the series of interactive and informative exhibits and view an expansive collection of space artifacts, including Pathfinder - the Mars robotic rover, the Apollo 16 Command Module, an Apollo 12 moon rock and much more!

HALF-DAY

$ 79

Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.

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FLORENCE

INCLUDED TOUR

FLORENCE CITY TOUR WITH A STOP AT FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT ROSENBAUM HOUSE Named after the capital of Tuscany, Florence was first incorporated in 1826.

This historic town is part of a region knows as The Shoals—four close-knit cities including Florence, Sheffield, Tuscumbia, and Muscle Shoals. Enjoy a guided city tour where you will learn about the heritage, history, and deep musical roots of Florence. Along the way, you’ll visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House. Upon entry, you’ll notice the house is not simply a home, but a work of art. Explore the rooms and open floor plan of this Usonian masterpiece, complete with many original furnishings.

14 Check online for the most up-to-date excursion information. All tours are subject to change.

FLORENCE PREMIUM EXPERIENCE

SWEET HOME ALABAMA: A MUSICAL JOURNEY THROUGH TIME INCLUDING MUSCLE SHOALS STUDIO AND THE ALABAMA MUSIC HALL OF FAME

PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS UNCOVER THE HIDDEN MELODIES OF ALABAMA

When thinking about America’s Deep South and its musical influence, images of Memphis’ Beale Street, Nashville’s Honky Tonks and hopping Juke Joints in the Mississippi Delta likely come to mind. What may not come to mind is the profound affect that the state of Alabama has had on Music in America.

Uncover the hidden melodies of Alabama, on today’s experience through musical history in the region.

SOAK IN THE ECCENTRIC ENVIRONMENT Begin your musical journey at the iconic Alabama Music Hall of Fame, an impressive 12,500 square-foot museum dedicated to revealing the story, accomplishments and success of musicians in every genre – ranging from finely orchestrated classical compositions to the uncoordinated, deep and raspy voices of folk music. You’ll pass glamorously sequined costumes, see the deep grooves engraved in some of the most coveted records from years of being replayed, hear the mechanical buzz resonate from authentic juke-boxes as the arm searches for the record and drops the needle on your favorite track, or gaze into the eyes of one of your icons as we pass by life-sized statues of musical legends.

DISCOVER MUSICAL LEGACIES Then, travel back in time as we discover where many of these musical giants began their legacies. As we arrive at the Muscle Shoals Studio, it’s difficult to imagine how this humble building has harbored some of the most wellknown and respected artists of today. But in 1969, a group of four musicians worked together to create their very own recording studio, recording some of the most iconic music legends in history including, The Rolling Stones, Elton John, Willie Nelson, and Bob Dylan.

HALF-DAY

$ 69

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

CHATTANOOGA Chattanooga is not only a historically significant city, but also one of the most scenic in the world. Named one of the “Top 45 Places to go” in the world by the New York Times, there is no questioning the breathtaking views that the city has to offer. Whether you’re exploring the history behind the Battle of Chattanooga, or seeking a scenic look of the Tennessee River and Appalachian Mountains Chattanooga has something great to offer.

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CHATTANOOGA PREMIUM EXPERIENCE

HISTORIC CHATTANOOGA EXPERIENCE

PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS GUIDED TOUR OF HISTORIC CHATTANOOGA From the comfort of our deluxe motorcoach, we will traverse the city streets on a narrated city tour as we make our way to the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo.

WALK THROUGH PAST AND PRESENT Upon arriving at the Chattanooga Choo Choo, feel both the history and hospitality that the complex has to offer. Today, the renovated complex offers on-site dining, retail shops, tranquil rose gardens, and more. The Chattanooga Choo Choo Historic Hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is considered one of the city’s first historic preservation projects.

DISCOVER THE “BATTLE ABOVE THE CLOUDS” Travel up the famous Lookout Mountain, which not only offers terrific views of the city, but is also rich in history. At the Battles for Chattanooga Museum, see Civil War history come to life in digital panoramic displays. Explore the museum, and then walk over to Point Park, the site of the famous “Battle Above the Clouds.” The 10-acre Civil War memorial park offers several monuments, historic tablets, and confederate artillery positions. Depart Lookout Mountain with a greater understanding of Chattanooga’s rich history.

BOAT EMBARKATION OR DIRECT TRANSFER If your voyage begins in Chattanooga, Tennessee, your experience will conclude at the dock of the vessel. If you will be disembarking in Chattanooga, your excursion will conclude at the post-cruise hotel, or airport. 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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PRE- OR POST-CRUISE PORT OF CALL

MEMPHIS Memphis’ first settlers were Native Americans who were drawn to the area’s bluffs overlooking the river. By building their settlements on the Fourth Chickasaw Bluff, it protected them from flooding, and the mighty river allowed them easy transportation access. When the explorer Hernando DeSoto and his army arrived in Memphis in 1541, they set up camp and the city of Memphis exchanged hands with the Spanish, French and English, eventually being sold to the U.S. Government. Today, Memphis is nationally recognized for its contributions to our country’s music influences. Dubbed the “Birthplace of Rock and Roll,” this iconic city offers a vibrant culture and history is intertwined through every street.

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MEMPHIS PREMIUM EXPERIENCE

THE ELVIS EXPERIENCE

PREMIUM EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS LIVE LIKE “THE KING” FOR A DAY AT GRACELAND MANSION Enter through “The King’s” front door, where the presence of Elvis can still be felt within the walls as you walk through the same rooms as he did after a long day’s performance. Custom crafted and state-of-the-art iPads will help guide your way through each room, providing thoughtful narration. Discover how Elvis lived at this musical mecca while exploring the personal rooms within his home, visitor entertainment complex and museums depicting his legacy.

GRACELAND ELVIS EXPERIENCE TOUR & FREE TIME FOR LUNCH (PRE-CRUISE ONLY) Enjoy the rest of your time exploring the recently opened Entertainment Complex. The multitude of exhibits feature everything from Elvis’ wardrobe to his automobiles and airplanes. Then stop for a bite to eat at one of the many Elvis themed eateries, like Vernon’s Steakhouse and Gladys’ Diner.

Peanut butter and banana sandwiches anyone?

CITY TOUR OF MEMPHIS Sit back and relax on a brief city tour where you’ll see important musical and historical locations as you make your way through the bustling Blues City and home of “The King”.

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY AT THE ELVIS STATUE A giant bronze statue of Elvis welcomes us to the most famous street in Memphis. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to snap a photo with the Elvis statue and to see Beale Street, Memphis’s most famous street.

BOAT EMBARKATION OR DIRECT TRANSFER If your voyage begins in Memphis, Tennessee, your journey through the city will conclude at the dock of the vessel. If you will be disembarking in Memphis, your excursion will conclude at the post-cruise hotel, or airport. Please see your Reservation Form for details.

FU L L - D A Y

$ 139

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

Experience

B E AU T Y A N D I N T R I G U E o n

T H E C O LU M B I A A N D S N A K E R I V E R S

WITH AMERICAN EMPRESS®

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 Duchess™ 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 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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IM POR T A NT F O R Y O U R V O Y A G E 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.