Embark on a true river adventure during the height of the fall foliage aboard the American Countess, completely refurbished in 2020 and considered by many to be the jewel of the American Queen fleet. This cruise is sold out to the general public, but we have secured wonderful staterooms so our travelers can experience this beautiful region during one of the most sought-after dates of the year! Together we’ll travel the upper Mississippi and Illinois Rivers from St. Louis to Minneapolis enjoying the vibrant country views and famous historic landmarks along the way.
DAY 1—WELCOME TO ST. LOUIS
Check in to the pre-cruise hotel and spend the afternoon becoming acquainted with the city with a trip to the top the famous St. Louis arch! This evening, gather for a welcome dinner to meet your fellow travelers. D
DAY 2—GATEWAY ARCH/CATHEDRAL BASILICA
Today we explore the greater St. Louis metropolitan area and ascend the Gateway Arch, a symbol of St. Louis. This iconic structure was completed in 1965 and has since provided millions of visitors with stunning views. This evening we board the beautiful American Countess, our home for the next seven nights, and gather with fellow travelers for a welcome happy hour before dinner. Each night on this luxurious ship, enjoy daily entertainment at 6:00 p.m. and gourmet dinners at 7:45 p.m. B, D
DAY 3—HANNIBAL/MARK TWAIN CAVE
Located 100-miles north of St. Louis on the Mississippi River, the town of Hannibal’s style and dignity comes to life in the writings of the father of American literature, Mark Twain. You might recognize this town from the famous novel “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”! During your time here, explore the Mark Twain Cave featured in five of Twain’s books or discover unique attractions like Karlocks & Pop Culture Museum. As a group we’ll enjoy the Big River Train Town packed with more toy trains than you’ve ever seen before. Then take a guided tour of the Haunted House & Wax Museum featuring wax figures of Mark Twain and his characters before heading back to the ship. B, L, D
DAY 4—SCENIC RIVER CRUISING
Enjoy the day on the incredible American Countess watching small river towns and lush landscapes become lost in the horizon from the deck. You can spend time on your own exploring the ship and enjoying the impressive daily onboard entertainment and enrichment options. This evening gather for another happy hour with our group before dinner. B, L, D
DAY 5—BETTENDORF/DAVENPORT
Arrive in Bettendorf, Iowa where we’ll visit unique stops in the “Quad Cities”. Travel to Isabel Bloom Studio where Isabel’s legacy lives on in her home city of Davenport. As we explore the area, we’ll stop at the Figge Art Museum which touches on nearly every style of art in the world. Next we’ll visit the Bix Beiderbecke Museum and discover the story of Bix Beiderbecke, one of the most influential artists of the Jazz Era. Explore an award-winning Sun Garden with blooms of exotic flowers at the Quad City Botanical Center before continuing up the river. B, L, D
DAY 6—DUBUQUE/GRAND OPERA HOUSE
Today we explore Dubuque, Iowa. Visit exciting attractions like the Historic Millwork District, a repurposed warehouse now home to stores, cafes, shops, and more. Stop at the Dubuque Museum of Art, home to two of the most important paintings by renowned Iowan artist Grant Wood. Continue on to the Grand Opera House, the oldest and grandest theatre in Dubuque that opened its doors in 1890. B, L, D
DAY 7—LA CROSSE
This morning we dock in LaCrosse, WI for an exclusive day of touring prepared special for our travelers! The day begins at Warrens, known as America’s Cranberry Capital. We will visit a cranberry bog where we’ll learn how cranberries are grown and harvested. Next, continue to the Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center. After learning what makes Wisconsin the nation’s leading cranberry producer, we will enjoy a cranberry inspired lunch. This afternoon we will head back to LaCrosse and take in the magnificent views from the top of Grandad Bluff. Before heading back to our boat, explore the Riverside International Friendship gardens that celebrates LaCrosse’s sister cities in China, Germany, France, Norway, Ireland and Cameroon. B, L, D
DAY 8—RED WING/ALIVEO MILITARY MUSEUM
This morning we’ll arrive in Red Wing, Minnesota to visit the Aliveo Military Museum and see the significant collection of military artifacts from all the major wars. Next, we’ll explore the Red Wing Marine Museum, one of the city’s historical venues along the river. It sits near the site of the original factory where Red Wing boats and motors were made and launched. B, L, D
DAY 9—TRAVEL HOME
Say farewell to the American Countess and head home with fond memories of your time cruising the Mississippi river. B
Quality Accommodations
Night 1: Drury Inn and Suites Airport, St. Louis, MO
Nights 2-8: American Countess
Dates:
Sep 28-Oct 6, 2024
Price Per Person:
Stateroom A Double: $6,697
Stateroom B Double: $5,797
Stateroom E Double: $4,697
Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
Call for pricing
Depart/Return:
Depart: St Louis, MO
Return: Minneapolis, MN
Arrival Time
Please plan to arrive in St. Louis on September 28, 2024 by 3:00 p.m. in the afternoon to join us for a welcome dinner.
Departure Time
Schedule your flight home to depart the Minneapolis airport any time after 12:00 p.m. (noon) on October 6, 2024.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our starting hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to/from the St. Louis airport. If you are driving to the starting location, they also offer complimentary parking for the duration of the tour.
Walking Distance
Moderate walking is required to fully enjoy this tour. Some walking will also be on uneven paths. While walking canes are allowed, we are unable to accommodate travelers using other mobility devices, including walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
September – high of 80°, low of 60° October – high of 75°, low of 55 °
Currency
USD
Time Zone
Central
Hotel Amenities
The hotel room
and the American Countess stateroom has wi-fi, a hair dryer and a coffee maker.
Your American Countess stateroom also features a complimentary water bottle
which you can refill at ubiquitous filling stations on board.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are
sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon
receipt of your reservation.
During our exploration of St. Louis, we will ascend the 630-foot Gateway Arch in an enclosed custom elevator system. If you are uncomfortable in tight spaces or heights, let us know and you are welcome to forego this activity.
Evening attire aboard the
American Countess is smart casual. While there is no strict dress code,
recommended attire includes collared shirts, slacks, blouses, etc.
Travel Protection Available
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
