7 Nights Cumberland River Cruise | Nashville to Saint Louis, and reverse

Type of Vessel

Built in 2015, Queen of the Mississippi offers an authentic paddle wheeler experience with all the comforts of home. Guests can enjoy large staterooms with private balconies, hotel-style bathrooms, and complimentary room service. Experience breathtaking scenery from the privacy of your stateroom as the Queen of the Mississippi makes its way down the legendary river.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Nashville, Tennessee: From the legendary Grand Ole Opry to the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville is the official headquarters of country music. The lively streets are lined with art galleries and unique shops that welcome you at every turn. Consider visiting The Hermitage, the home of President Andrew Jackson; the gardens of Cheekwood where more than 55,000 tulips bloom in the spring, or Gaylord Opryland's nine acres of indoor gardens and waterfalls.
Enjoy a narrated journey of Historic Downtown Nashville, including the famous Country Music Hall of Fame Museum, Honky Tonk Row, Bicentennial Park, and State Capitol. Traveling west of the city, visit the only full-size replica of the Parthenon, nicknamed "The Athens of the South." This excursion is only offered on cruises ending in Nashville.
Learn the fascinating story of the Ryman Auditorium with a guided backstage viewing! Constructed in 1880, Thomas G. Ryman built this theater, originally named The Union Gospel Tabernacle, for evangelist Reverend Sam Jones so that his inspiring words could be clearly heard by all. After Ryman's passing in 1904, the theater name was changed to Ryman Auditorium to honor the man who created this historic landmark. Today, the Ryman Auditorium is associated with country music legends and inspiring artists striving to make a name for themselves. This excursion is only offered on cruises ending in Nashville.
Enjoy live country music at its best with a visit to the Grand Ole Opry. The evening show will begin at 7:00 pm, featuring up and coming country artists, as well as musical groups that have been Opry Members for years. This complimentary excursion is only offered on cruises ending in Nashville.

Day 2 | Clarksville, Tennessee: Discover Clarksville, named for General George Rogers Clark, a frontier fighter, Revolutionary War hero, and brother of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. As you explore the city led by the local guides, learn how Clarksville rose as a major tobacco port during the 1800s. Explore the Don F. Pratt Memorial Museum which houses military memorabilia, or Dunbar Cave, one of the largest caves in the county.
Beginning in the late 18th century, Fort Defiance was a central hub for trading goods and settlement for both the Native Americans and Europeans. During the Civil War, the Fort became a base for the Confederate Troops. However in 1862, the fort was captured by Union Troops and stayed under their command for the remainder of the war. The grounds have been well preserved since the war ended, so you will truly capture the true essence of its history.
Designed by William Aicken and commissioned by President Grover Cleveland, this building, constructed in 1898, once housed a United States Post Office and Customs House for the flourishing tobacco trade. Now a museum, this architecturally fascinating structure is among the most photographed buildings in Tennessee. Explore its featured exhibits, fine art galleries, and sculpture garden.

Day 3 | Dover, Tennessee: The small town of Dover is a historic treasure as well as a place of scenic beauty. Home to Fort Donelson National Park, the town played a pivot role in the Civil War as the site of a major Union victory. Within Dover is the Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge, an over 8,000-acre habitat of waterfowl and plant life, as well as the Land Between Lakes National Recreation Area.

Day 4 | Cruising Lake Barkley: Located in Western Kentucky, explore Lake Barkley on a relaxing day of cruising. Take in the view of the beautiful shoreline from one of the Queen of the Mississippi's spacious, comfortable lounges, while enjoying the company of fellow guests.

Day 5 | Paducah, Kentucky: Founded by William Clark (of Lewis and Clark), Paducah is known as a National Heritage Destination with many talented culinary artists, painters, potters, and jewelers creating and displaying their works there. Also known as "Quilt City," there is plenty to do in Paducah from shopping to visiting one the many fine museums, to participating in a hands-on creative workshop at a local art gallery.
Let the local guide take you through the quaint city of Paducah. This experience has been carefully divided into three distinct sections to make sure you experience all that Paducah has to offer. First, explore the downtown as your local expert guide points out the areas' many historical sites. Then, take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront where you will witness more than 50 life-sized panoramic murals depicting elements of Paducah's past. End the exploration at the National Quilt Museum, the world's largest museum devoted to quilt and fiber art.
Just a short distance from the ship's docking location is the River Discovery Center, where guests learn about the Four Rivers region. Explore state-of-the-art interactive exhibits such as the working lock and dam model and the pilothouse simulator which allows you test your skills and captain your own riverboat!

Day 6 | Cape Girardeau, Missouri: Just thirty miles from the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, this river town became an important trading post in the 1800s. Visited by Lewis and Clark, Cape Girardeau has a storied history that resonates throughout the town, from the Trail of Tears State Park to the many outdoor murals reflecting the area's rich history.
Join a local guide on a narrated journey of Cape Girardeau and stop at the Crisp Museum. A part of the River Campus of Southeast Missouri State University, the museum features fine art exhibitions, prehistoric Native American artifacts, one of the largest collections of ceramic conch shell effigies in North America, and interpretive regional history displays. Upon arrival, watch a wonderful introductory film, followed by a museum excursion, where you can view a life-sized replica of a Native American dwelling.
The evening before arriving in Cape Girardeau, your onboard historian will paint a vivid picture of the Cherokee peoples' crossing of the Mississippi River to land in present-day Oklahoma. The forced march became known by the Cherokee people as the Trail of Tears due to its devastating effects. Led by the expert guide, explore the interpretive center, which houses a series of panels, paintings, maps, and other memorabilia depicting the Cherokees' tragic crossing of the Mississippi River.

Day 7 | Chester, Illinois: Located on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, Chester is a beautiful region of Illinois with a diverse and storied history. Chester is home to Popeye's creator Elzie C. Segar. You may see the sailor man's likeness in the town's own six-foot-tall bronze metal statue.
Located on the scenic bluffs of the Mississippi River, Chester is best known as "The City of Popeye," as it is the birthplace of his creator, Elzie Segar. Explore this quaint city with your local guide who will share stories of the people and places of this little corner of America. Shop at Spinach Can Collectibles in Gazebo Park for Popeye-inspired gifts and take a picture with the famous Popeye statue. Visit the Cohen Memorial Home whose bright blue windows even caught the attention of Mark Twain as he traveled the Mississippi.

Day 8 | Saint Louis, Missouri: This "Gateway to the West" was the epicenter for exploration following the Louisiana Purchase of 1803. The largest city on your cruise, Saint Louis now has a distinct metropolitan culture. Take the elevator to the top of the Gateway Arch, which stands 630 feet over the Mississippi River.
Enjoy a guided excursion through two of the museum's most popular exhibits; The 1904 World's Fair: Looking Back at Looking Forward, an event that attracted over 200,000 visitors to the opening day, and Seeking Saint Louis, delve into the history of the Gateway City from its founding through the new millennium.
Enjoy a narrated journey of downtown Saint Louis, the riverfront, Citygarden, and the historic neighborhoods of Soulard and Lafayette Square. Delight in a visit to Saint Louis' 1,371-acre Forest Park, known as a natural oasis in an urban environment. Stop at the Cathedral Basilica, where you explore the interior if this stunning church which rivals the cathedrals in Rome, Italy. This excursion is only offered on cruises ending in Saint Louis.

Guest Services

The all-American crew from American Cruise Lines simply provides you with the best possible cruise experience by offering an unsurpassed level of attention. Whether onboard or ashore, each member of the crew will work with you to help accommodate your specific interests, tastes, and needs. Attentive and personalized service is the hallmark of American Cruise Lines.

Food and Dining

Meals are served in the spacious dining salon, which accommodates all passengers at one seating. The day's menu is announced well in advance, and consists of fresh meats and seafood, as well as in-season fruits and vegetables. Special menus are available to passengers on restricted diets. Most special dietary needs can be accommodated, though advance notice. All meals are prepared to order. Coffee, non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks are available 24 hours a day.

Onboard Activities/Events

Let American Cruise Lines guide you through the origins and rich traditions of music on America's legendary rivers and waterways. These shores are home to many celebrated styles of music including Country, Jazz, Blues, and Rock n' Roll. Onboard and ashore, enjoy music inspired by each unique region and learn its impact on the development of American music. Also enjoy daily entertainments from historians, naturalists, and local experts that join every cruise. Daily lectures ranging from history to culture to cuisines.

Shore Excursions

On this eight day cruise along the Mississippi and Cumberland Rivers, visit historic sites, partake in engaging onboard enrichment programs, and witness stunning scenery. With majestic mountaintops and lush forest as a backdrop, the river views are nothing short of breathtaking. Shore Excursions include the Grand Ole Opry Show, Fort Donelson National Military Park, Trail of Tears State Park, Paducah Riverfront and National Quilt Museum.

Staterooms or Cabins

Owner's Suites | At a generous up to 445 square feet, these suites offer the finest accommodations with unsurpassed views of the Mississippi River. With a spacious seating area and full-size bathrooms, each suite is a private sanctuary where you can unwind after a day of exploration in the tasteful comfort of your surroundings. Each of these suites features large sliding glass doors leading out to a private balcony, where you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery. Every modern amenity is at your fingertips, along with a desk, and spacious seating area.
AAM Staterooms | Located on the top deck, these spacious staterooms feature scenic views of the passing landscape. At 328 square feet, you will enjoy all of the modern comforts that are expected of a premium hotel. These staterooms also offer full-size bathrooms and a walk-out private balcony where the grandness of the Mississippi can be appreciated.
AAC Staterooms | Conveniently located on the fourth deck and at 304 square feet offer all of the comforts of a fine hotel. Complete with a private balcony and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, these staterooms provide spectacular panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape.
AAL Staterooms and AAR Staterooms | Enjoy a luxurious 304 square feet of living space that is equipped with plush seating, a full-size bathroom, and a private balcony with large sliding glass doors that offer great views of the Mississippi scenery.
A Staterooms | These 290 square feet staterooms offer exceptional comfort and a relaxing living area. Featuring a large opening picture window, all are equipped with modern amenities, full-size bathrooms, and closet space.
Single (Private Balcony) Staterooms | Perfect for the solo traveler, offering all of the amenities you expect from a fine hotel. At 230 square feet, these staterooms have spacious bathrooms and large sliding glass doors that lead to a private balcony.
Single Staterooms | A comfortable getaway, offering individuals a spacious room with convenient amenities. At 203 square feet, all have interior entrances and large viewing windows where the sights of the Mississippi can be enjoyed.