Aq 2017 fall southbound weekly brochure

Shore Excursion Experiences MEMPHIS -NEW ORLE ANS VOYAGE

now accepting

pre mium e xc u r sion reservatio ns! w w w. r e s e r v e m y e x c u r s i o n s . c o m o r 1 . 8 8 8 . 9 6 6 . 0 9 3 8 s e c u r e y o u r r e s e r vat i o n s b e f o r e s p o t s r u n o u t !

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SHORE EXCURSIO

T WO EXCUR SION I N C LU D ED E XC U R SI O N S Offered at e very port

C

Includes A dmission to select at tr a ctions Completely at yo ur leisure Unlimited C apa cit y Freed om to cr af t yo ur own E xperience

Why our guests love it : “L O V ED T H AT WE WER EN ’ T J U S T S T U CK O N A BU S F OR A F O UR HO UR TO UR .”

-Donnie P. “I T WA S GR E AT TO E X PL OR E T H E SE LI T T LE TO W NS ! ” -Sharon W. “ T H E HOP - O N HOP - OFF WA S V ER Y E A S Y. WE L O V ED E X PL OR I N G AT O UR O W N PA CE.” -Karen T.

n!

ico s i h t r o f h Watc

emium our Pr d n a e” d ombin clude this “C our In r H fo T t O u s y B ye o rar ie to enjo n itine p an e ossible xcur sio y! Kee e a d m e .

It is p iu n y o h p re m t h at d a ions in ur for n whic Excur s ded to to lear lu l, c o b in r sym ith ou pair w

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Tour s

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A

URSION Essentials

CUR SION OPTIONS

emium mbine” ies

P R E M I U M E XC U R SI O N S Op tional in-dep th e xperiences C ustomized to appe al to different interests c ultur ally enhancing itiner aries C apa cit y contr olled* A dvanced reservations req uired

Why our guests love it : “L O C A L GUI DE S WER E S O K N O WLED GE A BLE. I LE A R NED S O MU CH ! ” -Linda R. “I N CR EDI BLE E X PER I EN CE - O N CE I N A LI FE T I ME! ” -Phillip S. “MY H U SB A ND A ND I C O ULD B O T H FI ND TO UR S TO FI T O UR I N T ER E S T S.” -Morgan S. *Be certain to reserve premium excursions as soon as possible.

They are often filled to capacity BEFORE embarkation.

Online Pre-Booked reservations will be available for guests until 11:00 AM EST, the Wednesday prior to embarkation.

NA TIO NA L P A

RK AT TR AC TIO NS

Tour s

and a t Amer tractions th ica’s N ationa at are ow ned l Park or op Ser vic with o er e, wil ne of l be m ated by these a r ke d icons.

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HOW TO “HOP- ON HOP- OFF” STEP 1 PRINT YOUR TICKET

Kiosk is located between the Shore Excursions and Purser’s desks.

Departure tickets can be printed each night, beginning at 5:00 PM.

#1

WAKE IT UP !

Tap anywhere on the screen to remove the screen saver.

#3

HOW MANY ?

Select number of guests in your party by selecting + or -

#2

WHAT TIME ?

Choose your desired included tour departure time.

#4

PRINT !

Catch passes as they fall from below the screen.

STEP 2 BRING YOUR TICKET & HOP-ON!

HEAD OUTSIDE !

About 15 minutes before your chosen departure time, make your way to the buses near the dock!

BOARD THE MOTORCOACH

Hand your tickets to the Shore Excursion Specialist as you board the motorcoach.

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EXPLORE AT YOUR LEISURE !

“Hop-Off ” wherever you wish - and “Hop-On” again whenever you feel ready! Buses will depart approximately every 15-30 minutes.

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HOP- ON HOP- OFF MAPS

S

DELI V ER ED TO YO UR S TATER O O M !

Every evening, the Hop-On Hop-Off map for the following day will be placed in your stateroom during turndown ser vice.

Use this helpful tool to get the most of your next day’s experience in port!

A CLOSER LOOK

Ame small A busines

BUS ROUTE INCLUDED STOPS

FEATURED RESTAURANTS

These frequen bu When

Thank shoppin

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

D

Front

PREMIUM EXCURSIONS

TOWN HISTORY ATTRACTION INFORMATION

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Back

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SUPPORTING LOC AL BUSINESSES

American Queen Shore Excursions is proud to contribute to the growth of small American towns. Unlike other cruiselines, we do not partner with local businesses for commission or kickbacks; our support and suggestions are purely to benefit the local economies.

These truly American towns do not often feature the ritzy shops and cafĂŠs frequently visited on European river cruises. Instead, local, hard-working business owners present their piece of the American dream in towns whose glory days are long gone, but their spirits remain.

When possible, we include stops near local pharmacies, so our guests can refill prescriptions or purchase any necessary supplies.

Thank you for supporting these local towns by taking advantage of the unique shopping opportunities and remembering that these independently owned businesses create their own hours to fit their schedules.

DAILY SHOPPING OPPORTUNITIES

Keep your eye open for this shopping bag icon throughout the brochure.

It will point out where shopping oppor tunities are highlighted for each por t.

This infor mation can also be found along the bottom of the Hop-On Hop-Off maps delivered onboard.

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S

S

SHORE EXCUR SION GUIDES

The American Queen Shore Excursions staff strives to capture the true essence of each port we visit to give you the most authentic immersion into the region.

We are constantly working to find the best local guides and historians to share the story of their beloved cities.

These independent, local guides will join us on both our Hop-On Hop-Off Tours and Premium Excursions. They will be sharing their knowledge of the port’s history, weaving in their own personal stories and personalities, allowing for an intimate, sometimes unedited, glimpse into the culture and charm of their town.

Because these local guides are hired independently, and not employees of American Queen Shore Excursions, they will not be included in your voyage gratuities. If you believe your guide did a superb job, please feel free to extend a token of your gratitude.

LO C A L GUI DE S & GR AT UI TI E S

AQSC works with many local historians, civic leaders, and tourism professionals to create the most rewarding premium experiences on America’s Rivers.

These local guides take pride in their community and are independent par tners of the AQSC Shore Excursions’ staff and drivers.

Often times, our staff is asked for guidelines in regards to rewarding (tipping) of local Premium Tour guides. These local guides are not included in your daily gratuity charges.

INDUSTRY GRATUITY GUIDELINE: $1.00 / person - Half Day Excursions $2.00 / person - Full Day Excursions Please note that gratuities are never expected, yet are greatly appreciated, and shall never be solicited by our par tners.

Generosity is solely at your own discretion.

Thank you in advance!

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TODAY’S P P R E M I U M E XC U RS I O N :

SOUNDTRACK OF MEMPHIS

MEM

1:0 0 PM - 4:0 0 PM | Pr i ce: $69

Today, we embark on a musical tour of Memphis, Tennessee, the “Birthplace of Rock and Roll.” 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. Our driving tour continues through Overton Square where we’ll pass Galloway House, the Methodist church where Johnny Cash and the Tennessee Two put on their first performance, and “Soulsville, U.S.A,” where legends like Otis Redding, Booker T. & the MGs, Isaac Hayes, and others got their starts at Stax Records. And no visit to Memphis, “Blues City,” would be complete without seeing the Blues Hall of Fame.

Exper throug rooms for Ha and a Presle Buildi throug at the the str

A CL O SER L O OK THINGS WE WILL SEE: Overton Square

Methodist Church where Johnny Cash first performed

Priscilla Presley’s High School Church Park Gibson Guitar Factory Bluff Park

THINGS WE WILL DO: Musical Performance at Overton Park Tennessee Welcome Center Driving tour of Memphis

And more!

Performance at Overton Park

1:00 PM DEPART

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Tennessee Welcome Center

Driving tour of Memphis

4:00 PM Return

Driving Tour Of Memphis

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Saturday

Friday

Baton Rouge

St. Francisville

Thursday

Natchez

Memph

WELCOME TO

Y’S PRE-CRUISE EXCUR

hplace elaxing re our ated to Presley hrough church mance, & the no visit es Hall

P R E M I U M E XC U RS I O N :

MEMPHIS CITY TOUR INCLUDING GRACELAND MANSION

I

1 0:0 0 A M - 3:3 0 PM | Pr i ce: $9 9

Experience the town that “The King” called home on a guided journey through Memphis! At The Graceland Mansion discover distinctly “Elvis” rooms such as the famous “Jungle Room,” an homage to “The King’s” love for Hawaii, featuring green shagged carpets, exotically carved woodwork, and a Polynesian feel. View “Vernon’s Office,” where Elvis’ father, Vernon Presley, managed his career, as well as the Trophy Building and Racquetball Building, where you will find hundreds of awards and accolades, received throughout his career as well as those awarded posthumously. Next, a stop at the iconic Beale Street for some free time to explore the juke joints lining the street.

GRACE

-St

-E

-E

-Elvis: Th

A CL O SER L O OK THINGS WE WILL SEE: Sun Studio Peabody Hotel National Civil Rights Building Beale Street St. Jude Children’s Hospital

THINGS WE WILL DO: Graceland with Self-Guided Ipad Tour -The Jungle Room -Vernon’s Office -Trophy Building -Racquetball Building -Meditation Garden Narrated Memphis City Driving Tour

Arrive at Graceland 10:00 AM DEPART

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Free time on Beale Street

Graceland Mansion Tour

3:30 PM Return

Driving tour of Memphis

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Tuesday

Wednesday

sday

Greenville

Vicksburg

hez

mphis, Tennessee

CURSIONS P R E M I U M E XC U RS I O N :

ION

T H E E LV I S E X P E R I E N C E I N C L U D I N G A C C E S S PA S S T O G R A C E L A N D A N D E X C L U S I V E G U I D E D EXC U RS I O N T H RO U G H M EM P H I S W I T H A LO CA L M U S I C I C O N

8:1 5 A M - 3:3 0 PM | Pr i ce: $139

This upgraded experience through Memphis begins at the gates of Graceland - the home of Elvis Presley. State-of-the art iPads will help guide your way through each room.* Then, a charismatic and spirited local musician, “Memphis Jones,” boards the motorcoach and becomes our personal guide! A stroll along Beale Street is littered with music, history, culture and the sweet smell of smokey barbeque. Our visit concludes at the iconic the Blues City Café for an authentic Memphis-style included lunch!

*UPGRADED GRACELAND INCLUSIONS: -State-of-the-art Ipad Tour -Graceland Mansion -The Jungle Room -Vernon's Office -Trophy Building -Racquetball Building -Meditation Garden -Elvis Presley Car Museum -Elvis' custom Airplanes -Elvis: The Entertainer Career Showcase -Elvis Discover Exhibits

A CL O SER L O OK Arrival to Graceland 8:15 AM DEPART

Elvis Graceland Complex Tour

THINGS WE WILL SEE: Elvis Statue Beale Street W.C. Handy Park Sun Studio Peabody Hotel National Civil Rights Building St. Jude Children’s Hospital

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exclusive Beale St. tour

Memphis Driving Tour

Lunch at Blues City Cafe

3:30 PM Return

THINGS WE WILL DO: Graceland with Self-Guided Ipad Tour ALL Memphis City Tour inclusions AND access to ALL Graceland Complex sites* Walking Beale Street Tour with Local Music Legend Lunch at iconic Blues City Café Narrated Memphis City Driving Tour

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day

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EMBARKATION DAY OVERVIEW Check-In Continues If you didn’t check in Sunday at the hotel, be cer tain to do so with our Amer ican Queen staff. The process is quick and easy, so you can get back to explor ing!

P r e m i u m T o u r s D e pa r t Today’s Pre-Cruise Excursions: The Elvis Experience departs at 8:15 AM, The Memphis City Tour including Graceland departs at 10:00 AM and The Soundtrack of Memphis departs at 1:00 PM. Please wait in the Hotel Lobby 15 minutes pr ior to scheduled depar ture time. All excursions conclude at the Amer ican Queen.

ED

Explore Memphis After you have checked in and received your transfer time, feel free to continue explor ing Memphis at your leisure!

V o ya g e S h u t t l e s B e g i n Included shuttles will begin depar ting the Sheraton Memphis Downtown at 3:00 PM. Please wait in hotel lobby 15 minutes pr ior to the time listed on your transfer ticket.

A m e r i c a n Q u e e n D e pa r t s Welcome aboard! Settle in your home for the next week before the Amer ican Queen pushes off the dock for the first time at 5:00 PM.

O N B O A R D C R U I S E O R I E N TAT I O N Be cer tain to join our exper t Shore Excur sion Specialists in the Grand Saloon this week for an infor mational Or ientation Presentation! They will cover all the included and Premium Excur sion essentials, as well as answer any questions you may still have.

Time and date will be listed in the River Times delivered to your stateroom.

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INCLUDED SHORE EXCUR SIO GREENVILLE HOP- ON HOP- OFF Included At tr ac tions: Greenville History Museum Hebrew Union Temple 1927 Flo od Museum E.E. Bass C ultur al A rts Center (C ar o usel & A rt Gallery ) Washington Co unt y Co urtho use Greenville’s Writer s E xhibit at the Per c y Libr ary St. Joseph’s C atholic Chur ch Tr op C asino Poin t s of In tere st : Old #1 Fireho use Museum Entertainment District Washington Co unt y Visitor’s Bure au Willia m A le x ander Per c y Memorial

Fe at ured Shopping Opp ort unitie s: Fa mily D oll ar Store Lina’s Interior s G o odman’s Shop

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Saturday

Friday

Baton Rouge

St. Francisville

Thursday

Natchez

WELCOME TO

Greenvil

EXCUR SION: A CLOSER LOOK

F

lery )

ry

INCLUDED TOUR

Reminders & Tips WHEN: 12:30 PM - 4:30 PM, EVERY 15 MINUTES HOW: CHOOSE DEPARTURE TIME AT THE KIOSK ROUTE LENGTH: APPROXIMATELY 45 MINUTES WHERE: “HOP- ON” JUST OFF THE AMERICAN QUEEN DOCK TO BEGIN EXPLORING AND “HOP- OFF” AT ANY OF THE INCLUDED STOPS AT YOUR LEISURE! REMEMBER! GUESTS ON TODAY ’S PREMIUM TOUR WILL NOT HAVE TIME FOR BOTH SHORE EXCURSION OFFERINGS

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S

ay

ez

Wednesday

Vicksburg

Tuesda Greenvil

nville, Mississippi

TO D AY’S P REMIUM P R E M I U M E XC U RS

S M A L L T O W N S , B I G L E G E N D S T H E S T O RY O F B . B . K I N G - A M U S

12:0 0 PM - 4:45 PM | Pr

Join us on a journey to Indianola, Mississippi, the hometown of legend King and how the Delta Region shaped his legacy, the B.B. King Museu Delta blues. Enjoy a live gospel performance as you enter, followed by a visit to Club Ebony, an iconic night club built at the end of WWII and Albert King, and of course – B.B. King.

A CL O SER L O THINGS WE WILL SEE: Indianola, Mississippi - The hometown of B.B. King Gravesite of B.B. King

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A r r i v e at B.B. King Museum Interpretive Ce 1 2: 0 0 P M D E PA RT

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IUM E X CURSI ON M I U M E XC U RS I O N :

K I N G - A M U S I CA L J O U R N E Y T H R O U G H T H E M I S S I S S I P P I D E LTA

M - 4:45 PM | Pr i ce: $9 9

town of legendary Blues artist, B.B. King. Built to tell the story of B.B. B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center captures the story of the , followed by a self-guided tour of the museum. Finish the day off with a of WWII and featured entertainers such as Ray Charles, Bobby Bland,

L O SER L O OK THINGS WE WILL DO: B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center Club Ebony - Iconic Blues Nightclub Live blues performance Southern snack

r r i v e at .B . K i n g M u s eu m & D elta n t er p r e t i v e C en t er

A r r i v e at C l u b Eb o n y

S elf -G u i d ed T o u r

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4: 4 5 P M Return

Blues performance & southern snack

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INCLUDED SHORE EXCUR SIO VICK SBURG HOP- ON HOP- OFF Included At tr ac tions: Chur ch of the Holy Trinit y A nchuc a Mansion Old Co urt Ho use Museum Yesterday ’s Children: A ntiq ue D oll & Toy Museum Biedenharn Co c a- Col a ™ Museum L ower Mississippi River Museum Old Depot Museum The Mur als Poin t s of In tere st : D uff Green Mansion The Baer Ho use Fe at ured Shopping Opp ort unitie s: Paper PLus Cinna mon Tree Gif t Shop Peter son’s Shop Washington Street Shopping The At tic Gallery WIllingha m’s Gif t Shop

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Saturday

Baton Rouge

Friday

St. Francisville

Thursday

Natchez

WELCOME TO

Vicksburg,

EXCUR SION: A CLOSER LOOK

F

m

INCLUDED TOUR

Reminders & Tips WHEN: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, EVERY 15-30 MINUTES HOW: CHOOSE DEPARTURE TIME AT THE KIOSK ROUTE LENGTH: APPROXIMATELY 45 MINUTES WHERE: “HOP- ON” JUST OFF THE AMERICAN QUEEN DOCK TO BEGIN EXPLORING AND “HOP- OFF” AT ANY OF THE INCLUDED STOPS AT YOUR LEISURE! REMEMBER! GUESTS PARTICIPATING IN TODAY ’S PREMIUM EXCURSIONS SHOULD TAKE ADVANTAGE OF EARLIER HOPON HOP- OFF DEPARTURE TIMES

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Tuesday

sday

Greenville

hez

Wednesday Vicksburg

urg, Mississippi

TO D AY’S P REMIUM P R E M I U M E XC U RS

ON THE FRONT LINES OF TH

12:0 0 PM - 4:3 0 PM | Pr

Experience the site of the Civil War battle that would become one o described by President Lincoln as “the key to victory,” the Siege and our country and how wars would forever be fought. Join us for an (the Iron Clad River Boat), 27 state monuments, the National Ceme exclusive showing of the film, “Here Brothers Fought!”

A CL O SER L O THINGS WE WILL SEE: 16-mile tour road through the battlefield Front lines of the Confederate and Union Army 1,300 monuments and markers throughout the grounds

A r r i v e at V i c ks b u r g Bat t l e f i e l d Combine with i n c lu d e d T o u r

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1 2: 0 0 P M Meet in Grand Sa l o o n a n d wat c h a video

G u i d e d B att l e f To u r B e g i n s

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IUM E X CURSI ON M I U M E XC U RS I O N :

T L I N E S O F T H E C I V I L WA R

M - 4:3 0 PM | Pr i ce: $69

become one of the most pivotal moments in America’s history. Aptly ” the Siege and Battle at Vicksburg is a landmark in time that shaped Join us for an exclusive tour including the USS Cairo and Museum National Cemetery and the Battlefield’s Visitor’s Center, as well as an ”

CL O SER L O OK

c ks b u r g

THINGS WE WILL DO: USS Cairo and Museum Illinois State Monument The National Cemetery Showing ofVicksburg Battlefield film “Here Brothers Fought” Battlefield Museum and Giftshop P h ot o & M o n u m en t St o p s

G u i d ed B att lefi e ld To u r B eg i n s

Ex p lo r e t h e U.S.S . Ca i r o

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Shopping at G i f t S h o p 4: 3 0 P M Return

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INCLUDED SHORE EXCUR SIO N AT C H E Z H O P - O N H O P - O F F Included At tr ac tions: Natchez visitor s center r os alie mansion willia m johnson ho use magnolia hall stanton hall king’s tavern Charbone au Distillery Museum of afr o a meric an history & c ulture Natchez Tr ails & Ga zebo Poin t s of In tere st : Trintiy Episcopal Chur ch Natchez in historic Photo gr aphs St. Mary Basilic a

Fe at ured Shopping Opp ort unitie s: Old So u th Tr ading Post Wilson-Holder s Dr ug Company A ntiq ue R ow Shopping D owntown Shopping District Fr anklin & Commer ce Shopping

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Saturday

Baton Rouge

Friday

St. Francisville

Thursda Natche

WELCOME TO

Natchez,

EXCUR SION: A CLOSER LOOK INCLUDED TOUR

Reminders & Tips WHEN: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, EVERY 15-30 MINUTES HOW: CHOOSE DEPARTURE TIME AT THE KIOSK ROUTE LENGTH: APPROXIMATELY 45 MINUTES

TH

WHERE: “HOP- ON” JUST OFF THE AMERICAN QUEEN DOCK TO BEGIN EXPLORING AND “HOP- OFF” AT ANY OF THE INCLUDED STOPS AT YOUR LEISURE! REMEMBER!

GUESTS

PARTICIPATING

IN

TODAY ’S

PREMIUM EXCURSIONS SHOULD TAKE ADVANTAGE OF EARLIER HOP- ON HOP- OFF DEPARTURE TIMES

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Combine included

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Tuesday

Wednesday

Greenville

Vicksburg

Thursday Natchez

hez, Mississippi

T O D AY’S P REMIU M P R E M I U M E XC U RS I O N :

T H E S T O RY O F C O T T O N I N T H E A N T E B E L L U M S O U T H

ENT

12:3 0 PM - 4:45 PM | Pr i ce: $79

Take a step back into history when cotton was king and plantations dotted the southern back roads of America. Experience a look back into the 1800s and the daily trials of life on a plantation for a slave as we tour a present-day cotton plantation. Frogmore Plantation remains today as a living monument to this truly American textile.

Here, experience an inspirational musical performance, beautifully illustrating life on a plantation. For a first-hand look at the last burst of southern opulence before the war brought the cotton baron’s dominance to an end, we’ll tour Longwood Mansion before returning back to Natchez.

A CL O SER L O OK THINGS WE WILL SEE: Mississippi countryside Cotton fields Modern cotton gin facility

THINGS WE WILL DO: Plantation Chapel from 1800s Live Musical portrayal of slave life Plantation buildings and slave quarters Pick cotton right from the field!

Historic cotton gin Plantation Gift Shop Longwood Mansion

Tour Frogmore Plantation

Combine with included Tour

12:30 PM DEPART

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Explore Gin Mill

Tour Longwood Mansion

4:45 PM Return

Free Time To Shop & Explore

Combin include

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day

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MIU M E X CURSI ONS H

P R E M I U M E XC U RS I O N :

E N T E RTA I N I N G S O U T H E R N S T Y L E W I T H G I N G E R H Y L A N D 1:3 0 PM - 4:0 0 PM | Pr i ce: $79

Enter the lavish parlors of “The Towers” as owner Ginger Hyland offers her warm southern welcome and shares stories of their starstudded past. Just as impressive as her owner it is adorned with extravagant antique furniture, sophisticated draperies and fabric wall coverings, striking vintage window laces, and extraordinary Victorian-era collections. To understand the art of entertaining with truly “Southern” flare, one must indulge in scrumptious hors d’oeuvres prepared by one of the finest local chefs, delightful snacks are served up with southern elegance.

A CL O SER L O OK THINGS WE WILL SEE: Home of Ginger Hyland Exquisite decorations

THINGS WE WILL DO: Guided tour of The Towers Homemade hors d’oeuvres and refreshments Recipes to take home and share with family

Arrive at the Towers

Combine with included Tour

1:30 PM DEPART

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Tour the Mansion

Local Chef Demonstration

4:00 PM Return

Enjoy Snacks & Drinks

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INCLUDED SHORE EXCUR SIO S T. F R A N C I S V I L L E H O P - O N H O P - O F F Included At tr ac tions: R oyal Street Shopping Old Market Hall Commer ce Street Shopping West Feliciana Historic al So ciet y Museum Gr ace Episcopal Chur ch Poin t s of In tere st : United Methodist Chur ch Harrington Gallery Town Hall Fe at ured Shopping Opp ort unitie s: Gr andmother’s Bu t tons Aud ubon Market L a Vie Bo u tiq ue Mia Sophia Patrick’s Jewelry Hillcrest Gardens & Interior s The Shant y To o A ntiq ues Elliot ts Pharmac y

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Saturday

Baton Rouge

Thursday

Natchez

Friday St. Francisville WELCOME TO

St.Franc

EXCUR SION: A CLOSER LOOK

OFF

INCLUDED TOUR

Reminders & Tips WHEN: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, EVERY 15-30 MINUTES HOW: CHOOSE DEPARTURE TIME AT THE KIOSK ROUTE LENGTH: APPROXIMATELY 30 MINUTES

RE

WHERE: “HOP- ON” JUST OFF THE AMERICAN QUEEN DOCK TO BEGIN EXPLORING AND “HOP- OFF” AT ANY OF THE INCLUDED STOPS AT YOUR LEISURE! REMEMBER!

GUESTS

JOINING

US

ON

OUR

PREMIUM

EXCURSION WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNIT Y TO ENJOY THE HOP- ON HOP- OFF BEFORE OR AFTER THEIR TOUR .

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Combin include

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Tuesday

Wednesday

hursday

Greenville

Vicksburg

Natchez

rancisville, Louisia

T O D AY’S P REMIU M P R E M I U M E XC U RS I O N :

R E D E M P T I O N & R E H A B I L I TAT I O N AT A N G O L A P R I S O N 8:0 0 A M - 12:0 0 PM | Pr i ce: $69

Join us for an exclusive look inside the gates of one of America’s most infamous prisons as we embark on a tour of second chances, rehabilitation and redemption. Experience the struggles of lifeterm inmates inside Angola Prison—Formerly America’s most dangerous penitentiary. Today, Angola is known as a model facility and takes great pride in the faith-based rehabilitation of its inmates, most of whom will never regain their freedom. We’ll take you inside the barbed wire fences for an up-close look that may change what you thought you knew about life inside.

A CL O SER L O OK THINGS WE WILL SEE: Prison Rodeo Arena Working farm land in penitentiary Maximum security buildings Livestock and dog breeding facilities

THINGS WE WILL DO: Red Hat Cell Block Prison chapel Prison Gift Shop Angola Prison Museum Question and Answer with inmate

Arrive at Angola Prison

Combine with included Tour

8:00 AM DEPART

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Drive through prison farm

Tour Red Hat Cell block

12:00 PM Return

Penitentiary Program

9/13/2017 12:47:28 PM

uesday

eenville NDAY MO

ME

isiana

MPHIS

MIU M E X CURSI ON S P R E M I U M E XC U RS I O N :

P L A N TAT I O N S O F T H E B A C K R O A D S

ON

erica’s ances, f lifemost acility mates, e you hange

12:3 0 PM - 4:3 0 PM | Pr i ce: $59

Today’s experience goes beyond the expectations of a “traditional” southern plantation and offers guided tours of two plantations with a more personal touch – Rosedown Plantation and Catalpa Plantation. Experience two southern plantations that are owned and operated by the descendants of the original families – the same family! Pay close attention to each home during the guided tour – see if the family portrait displayed in both plantations can be found! We will begin at Rosedown Plantation, one of the most intact documented examples of a domestic plantation complex in the South. Then, we travel to neaby Catlapa, a charming private home that has remained in the family since the 1800’s.

A CL O SER L O OK THINGS WE WILL SEE: Louisiana’s sugar fields Back roads of Louisiana

THINGS WE WILL DO: Rosedown Plantation Catalpa Plantation Traditional Southern Sherry farewell History and stories of the ancestors

Tour Rosedown Plantation

Combine with included Tour

12:30 PM DEPART

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Arrive Catalpa Plantation

Free time to Shop & Explore

4:30 PM Return

Tour Catalpa Plantation

9/13/2017 12:47:30 PM

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SATURDAY

Sunday

Nottoway

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Saturda Baton Rou

INCLUDED SHORE EXCUR SIO B AT O N R O U G E H O P - O N H O P - O F F Included At tr ac tions: USS KIDD DD -661 USS KIDD Veter ans Memorial Museum L o uisiana A rt and Science Museum C apitol Park Museum L o uisiana’s State C apitol LSU Museum of A rt L o uisiana Old State C apitol Poin t s of In tere st : State Libr ary of L o uisiana L o uisiana G overnor’s Mansion Visitor s Information Center Manship The ater St. Joseph C athedr al

Fe at ured Shopping Opp ort unitie s: CI Gr o up Furniture Str ands C afe & Shop Prescrip tions to Ge aux Matherne’s Market Red Stick Farmer s Market D owntown Gr o cery

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Friday

St. Francisville

Thursday

Natchez

aturday ton Rouge WELCOME TO

Baton R

EXCUR SION: A CLOSER LOOK INCLUDED TOUR

Reminders & Tips WHEN: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, EVERY 15-30 MINUTES HOW: CHOOSE DEPARTURE TIME AT THE KIOSK ROUTE LENGTH: APPROXIMATELY 45 MINUTES WHERE: “HOP- ON” JUST OFF THE AMERICAN QUEEN DOCK TO BEGIN EXPLORING AND “HOP- OFF” AT ANY OF THE INCLUDED STOPS AT YOUR LEISURE! REMEMBER! GUESTS ON TODAY ’S PREMIUM TOUR WILL NOT HAVE TIME FOR BOTH SHORE EXCURSION OFFERINGS

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9/13/2017 12:47:32 PM

Wednesday

ursday

Vicksburg

tchez

Tuesday

Greenville

n Rouge, Louisiana

T O D AY’S P REMIU M P R E M I U M E XC U RS

GRAND SOUTHERN PLANT 9:0 0 A M - 4:3 0 PM | Pr i

Embark on a journey that tells the story of Louisiana sugar cane from begins in Baton Rouge, where we will weave through the streets of t originally owned by indigenous Houmas Indians before being establi enjoy a truly southern-style lunch buffet before continuing to our ne “Grand Dame of the Great River Road,” where 300-year-old oak tre entrance.

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A CL O SER L O THINGS WE WILL SEE: The Great River Road Manicured plantation gardens 300-year-old Oak Trees

D r i v i n g To u r o f Bat o n R o u g e H i g h l i g h ts 9:00 AM D E PA RT

G u i d e d to u r o f H o u m as H o u s e

9/13/2017 12:47:32 PM

esday

enville NDAY MO

ME

siana

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IUM E X CURSI ON M I U M E XC U RS I O N :

T H E R N P L A N TAT I O N T O U R

- 4:3 0 PM | Pr i ce: $129

ugar cane from Baton Rouge to the grand plantations. Our adventure the streets of the state’s capital before a stop at the Houmas House, e being established as a sugar plantation in 1803.After a guided tour, uing to our next stop. Then, we set off for Oak Alley Plantation, the ear-old oak trees line the pathway that welcomes guests to the grand

CL O SER L O OK THINGS WE WILL DO: Guided tour of Houmas House Plantation Free time to explore gardens and grounds Southern-style buffet lunch at Houmas House Plantation Guided tour through Oak Alley Plantation Explore historic slave cabins

of H i g h l i g h ts

S o u t h er n-St y l e B u ffet Lu n c h

G u i d ed to u r o f H o u m as H o u s e

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4: 3 0 P M Return

T o u r Oa k A l l e y P l a n tat i o n

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Sunday Nottoway Plantation

INCLUDED SHORE EXCUR SIO N OT TO WAY PL ANTATION TO U R This massive three-floor, 64-room mansion displays an incredible 22 white square columns, which contribute to its nickname— “The White Castle of Louisiana.”

This stunning mansion is situated right along the levee of the Mississippi River. The most popular room among guests is the White Ballroom, which is painted entirely in white and displays elaborate gold décor throughout. Rooms are trimmed in custom plaster frieze, made from Spanish moss, clay, plaster, and mud and is all original to the house.

Uncover its deep rooted history, as you tour the home and grounds at your leisure!

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9/13/2017 12:47:32 PM

Friday

Saturday

Baton Rouge

St. Francisville

y on WELCOME TO

Thursday

Natchez

Nottoway

EXCUR SION: A CLOSER LOOK INCLUDED TOUR

Reminders & Tips When: Offered bet ween 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM HOW: CHOOSE DEPARTURE TIME AT THE KIOSK

Tour Length: Approximately 45 Minutes Where: just a short walk over the levee at your leisure!

Remember! This included tour has been scheduled into the premium excursions offered this day, to allow guests to enjoy both!

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9/13/2017 12:47:33 PM

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Greenville

Vicksburg

Natchez

way, Louisiana

T O D AY’S P REMIU M P R E M I U M E XC U RS I O N :

L A U R A . . . A C R E O L E P L A N TAT I O N 8:0 0 A M - 12:0 0 PM | Pr i ce: $69

Our day begins at Laura Plantation, where we will enter the fascinating world of true Louisiana Creoles who, at this historic site, lived apart from the American mainstream for over 200 years. Explore this unique, woman-run and owned Creole sugar plantation and uncover the compelling history of the family who occupied the home. Then, we make our way to Nottoway Plantation – another sugar plantation, but different in many ways!

Enjoy a final guided tour of the “White Castle of Louisiana” at your leisure, before making your way back onboard American Queen!

A CL O SER L O OK THINGS WE WILL SEE: Sugarcane fields Beautifully manicured gardens

THINGS WE WILL DO: Guided tour through Laura Plantation True “Southern-Creole” experience Explore Nottoway Plantation

Tour Laura Plantation

Combine with included Tour

8:00 AM DEPART

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12:00 PM Return

Free Time to Shop & Explore

Tour Nottoway atyour leisure

9/13/2017 12:47:35 PM

Tuesday

reenville NDAY MO

ME

MPHIS

MIU M E X CURSI ONS P R E M I U M E XC U RS I O N :

L I F E I N T H E B AYO U . . . CA J U N SWA M P T O U R 8:0 0 A M - 12:3 0 PM | Pr i ce: $69

Today we explore a true Cajun Experience away from the American Queen. As we travel into plantation country, our local guide will enlighten us on the affluent southern Louisiana lifestyle during the era when cotton was king. After our 45-minute narrated tour of the river, we will arrive in La Place, Louisiana; home to the 250acre ecosphere called Manchac Swamp. Enjoy picturesque sights of moss-draped cypress trees and lush, exotic vegetation covered wetlands as our tour boat navigates the swamp. Lastly, enjoy a guided Nottoway Plantation tour upon return to the American Queen, at your leisure.

A CL O SER L O OK THINGS WE WILL SEE: Wildlife native to Louisiana Alligators Scenic Spanish Moss trees

THINGS WE WILL DO: Guided boat tour of the Machnac Swamp Manchac Swamp Gift Shop Explore Nottoway Plantation

Arrive at Cajun Pride

Combine with included Tour

8:00 AM DEPART

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12:00 PM Return

Manchac Swamp Tour

Tour Nottoway at your leisure

9/13/2017 12:47:36 PM

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EW

ORLEA

Sunday

Bato

Nottoway

S

MONDAY

Sa

MONDAY

N

TO

Explore the

French Quarter AQ 2017 Fall Southbound Weekly Brochure.indd 36

9/13/2017 12:47:38 PM

y

Saturday

Baton Rouge

Friday

St. Francisville

Thursday

Natchez

ay

WELCOME TO

New Orl

T O D AY’S P OST-C RUI P R E M I U M E XC U RS

NEW ORLEANS HIGHLIG

8:3 0 A M - 12:3 0 PM | Pr

Embark on an adventure through a city radiating an eccentric and authentic atm the heart of America. On an exclusive New Orleans narrated driving tour, exper in the comfort of our motorcoach as we glide past some of the most iconic attra served Morning Call coffee and beignets before concluding the day in St. Louis

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A CL O SER L O THINGS WE WILL SEE: Garden District Mardi Gras Parade Route Jackson Square St. Louis Cathedral City Tour of Ga r d e n D i s t r i c t & F r e n c h Q u at e r 8:30 AM D E PA RT

E x p l o r e S t. L o u C e m e t e ry # 3

9/13/2017 12:47:39 PM

Wednesday

ursday

Vicksburg

atchez

Tuesday

Greenville

Orleans, Louisiana

D

CRU I S E EXCURSIO N

M I U M E XC U RS I O N :

ANS HIGHLIGHTS TOUR

- 12:3 0 PM | Pr i ce: $69

nd authentic atmosphere and filled to the brim with history and culture close to iving tour, experience the city from an intimate first-person perspective. Relax most iconic attractions in the city! Enjoy a stop to City Park where you will be day in St. Louis Cemetery #3!

L O SER L O OK THINGS WE WILL DO: Explore the French Quarter Visit City Park Morning Call coffee and beignets at the park St. Louis Cemetery #3 M o r n i n g Ca l l C o ffee & B ei g n et s at C i t y Pa r k

Ex p lo r e S t. Lo u i s C em et ery #3

1 2: 4 5 P M A r r i v e at H ot e l

12:30 PM A r r i v e at A i r p o rt

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9/13/2017 12:47:39 PM

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enville NDAY MO

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DISEMBARKATION DAY OVERVIEW A m e r i c a n Q u e e n D o c ks The Amer ican Queen will dock for the very last time this voyage at 5:00 AM in New Orleans, Louisiana. Until next time!

P r e m i u m T o u r D e pa r t s New Orleans Highlights tour will begin at 8:30 AM. Please meet in the Grand Saloon about 15 minutes pr ior to your designated time.

N

A i r p o r t T r a n s f e r D e pa r t s Direct transfers to the New Orleans Inter national Airpor t will depar t the Amer ican Queen at 7:45 AM and ar r ive at approximately 8:25 AM.

H o t e l T r a n s f e r D e pa r t s Direct transfers to the Hilton New Orleans Riverside will depar t the Amer ican Queen at 9:15 AM and ar r ive at approximately 9:55 AM.

Explore New Orleans!

Guests who are continuing their stay in New Orleans, Louisiana can begin explor ing all the sites and attractions at their leisure once at the hotel.

O N B O A R D D I S E M B A R K TA L K Be cer tain to join our exper t Shore Excur sion Specialists onboard for an infor mational presentation on how to disembark the Amer ican Queen. This will ensure you get to your final destination stress free!

Time and date will be listed in the River Times delivered to your stateroom.

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9/13/2017 12:47:40 PM

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

Symbol Legend Riding in a Motorcoach.

Walking Optional

American Queen Exclusive

Walking up to 1/2 Mile on level ground

Luxury Motorcoach Transportation Included

Moderate walking, steps and/or uneven surfaces

Scenic Tour

Uneven surfaces and hills, more than average walking

Light Refreshments Included

Historical Significance

Meal Included

Musical Performance Included

Shopping Opportunity Included

Local Guide

Staff Favorite

Indicates there is enough time to enjoy both the Included and Premium tours

Disclaimer American QueenÂŽ included shore excursions are available to all American Queen 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 36 hours of tour departure are not refundable. Each tour description offers tour length and activity level, please pay special attention to these details when booking. 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 Queen 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 Queen 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.

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9/13/2017 12:47:41 PM