Discover the stunning countryside along the Ohio River, and the spirit of the Mississippi which inspired Mark Twain, on this unique cruise through America's heartland aboard paddlewheeler Queen of the Mississippi.
The Ohio River played a key role in the development and exploration of the American West, and this cruise touches on everything from the Civil War to bluegrass music. Learn about America's migration out west at the Campus Martius Museum, and the golden age of the steamboat at the Ohio River Museum during your time in Marietta, named in honour of Marie Antoinette.
Enjoy the native sounds of bluegrass music in the quiet town of Maysville, and visit picturesque Louisville, home of the famed Kentucky Derby. Take the opportunity to sample the finest bourbon at the renowned Jim Beam Distillery.
In Henderson, learn about the sense of wonder that ornithologist John James Audubon instilled in so many Americans, before cruising to Paducah at the confluence of the Tennessee and Ohio Rivers, where you'll feel like you have stepped back in time. Discover the Civil War sites of Cape Giradeau, before cruising the legendary Mississippi River to the beautiful city of St Louis, with its iconic Gateway Arch.
AC835 Operated by American Cruise Lines
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Pittsburgh to St Louis Itinerary
Day 1 - Pittsburgh (Pennsylvania)
Embark Queen of the Mississippi in the 'Steel City' of Pittsburgh. Please note: The upper part of the Ohio River can be particularly sensitive to fluctuating conditions. In the event that the ship can’t dock in Pittsburgh, guests will be transported by bus from the hotel to the ship to begin their cruise.
Day 2 - Marietta (Ohio)
Marietta was named in honour of Marie Antoinette. The city flourished during the 18th and 19th centuries as its location on the Ohio River made it a popular stop for steamboats. Choose from two complimentary excursions. Enjoy a tour of two of Marietta's museums - the Campus Martius Museum which houses exhibits on America's migration out West, and the Ohio River Museum, where you can discover the golden age of the steamboat. The second excursion is a tour of the Castle Historic House Museum.
Day 3 - Maysville (Kentucky)
The quiet town of Maysville has a proud history. An important stop on the Underground Railroad, Maysville played host to Harriet Beecher Stowe in 1883. Enjoy the native sounds of bluegrass country music, and choose from two complimentary excursions. Discover the historic town of Old Washington with a guide, taking in the Simon Kenton Shrine and Albert Sidney Johnston House. Alternatively, experience the small town charm of Maysville on a tour which begins at the Kentucky Gateway Museum Centre and includes a visit to the Russell Theater.
Day 4 - Cincinnati (Ohio)
The lively city of Cincinnati has a zoo, botanical garden, theatres and museums, as well as the famous Findlay Market. A complimentary excursion explores both sides of the river with highlights including the floodwall murals, St Mary's Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, and Eden Park. Alternatively, join the tour of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.
Day 5 - 6 - Louisville (Kentucky)
Louisville was named after King Louis XVI and is best known for the Kentucky Derby, the first leg of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing. Optional excursions include a visit to the Louisville Slugger Museum and factory, where the world's most popular bat is made, and a tour of the famous Jim Beam distillery. They have been making bourbon for over 200 years. There may be a complimentary excursion to Churchill Downs, the site of the famed Kentucky Derby.
Day 7 - Henderson
John James Audubon's 'Birds of America' paintings are recreated as bronze statues throughout Henderson. There is an optional tour which begins with a walk to the famous John James Audubon Museum, and continues with a visit to the Nature Center.
Day 8 - Paducah
Paducah is at the confluence of the Tennesse and Ohio Rivers, and you will feel like you have stepped back in time. One optional tour takes in the downtown area, before continuing along the riverfront past 50 life-sized murals depicting the city's past. The second optional excursion is a visit to the River Discovery Center.
Day 9 - Cape Giradeua (Missouri)
During the late 1800s, Cape Girardeau was a French trading post. Today, there are Civil War sites and a quiet place commemorating the Cherokee Trail of Tears. The complimentary excursion is a tour which includes a stop at the Crisp Museum which houses Native American artefacts and fine art exhibitions. There is an optional tour of the Trail of Tears State Park which features memorabilia depicting the Cherokees' tragic crossing of the Mississippi River.
Day 10 - St Louis
St. Louis is sure to win you over. Admire the scenic riverfront, highlighted by the majestic Gateway Arch, the largest man-made monument in the U.S. Enjoy St. Louis’ many world-class attractions, including the Art Museum, Science Center, and the Missouri History Museum. End your day at the Missouri Botanical Garden, one of the world’s most popular public gardens.
Day 11 - St Louis
Disembark in St Louis
For navigational reasons the Captain of the ship reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary. PLEASE NOTE: Every cruise on the Ohio River is unique due to fluctuating river conditions. Guests may have to be transported between a town on the Ohio River and Pittsburgh by coach for excursions or embarkation.