People flock to see her as she glides into the riverbank landing, and the local residents are curious about what the boat looks like on the inside. All are relieved to know that the elegant, 19th century look on the exterior is repeated inside in the public rooms and cabins.
I sailed from St. Louis to Henderson, KY on the American Queen and loved the lazy pace of the river and the historic feel of the riverboat. Although she's less than 20 years old, the American Queen looks much like many of the grand steamboats that graced the rivers of middle America 150-200 years ago. The builders did a good job of replicating the delicate gingerbread look on the outside and paired it with the ornate Victorian decor of the same time period on the inside.
The American Queen sails the Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee Rivers. Booking back-to-back cruises is ideal since the riverboat does not usually repeat itineraries. Guests can sail as far north as St. Paul, as far east as Pittsburgh and Chattanooga, and as far south as New Orleans on the voyages.
The steamboat has many interesting theme cruises focused on music, politics, or history. For example, a "Washington Week: Election 2012" voyage in late September from St. Louis to St. Paul would be perfect for those who just can't get enough of the upcoming election. Moderator, Managing Editor and best-selling author Gwen Ifill, along with a panel of expert political analysts, will lead discussions and provide their insight. I'll bet some of those discussions will be very interesting!
History buffs will certainly enjoy the Civil War theme cruises. (We often refer to it as the "War Between the States" or the "War of Northern Aggression" down here in Georgia.) The "Epic Civil War" voyage next month between Vicksburg and Chattanooga includes actors, impersonators, lecturers, balladeers, field trips, and reenactments that are sure to provide a memorable vacation for those who are drawn to this segment of American history.
Are you a music fan? If so, you should check out the music theme cruises on the American Queen. The riverboat has cruises (and musical groups) that feature polka, folk, or big band music. In addition, stars from the 50's or 60's will be onboard to entertain on theme cruises revolving around the music from those years.
Other theme cruises focus on Southern Culture, Dixie, or steamboatin'. Since the American Queen Steamboat Company is based in Memphis, it's not surprising that there's an Elvis theme cruise!
This American Queen Steamboat Tour and Profile provides a comprehensive look at the following:
- Dining and Cuisine
- Cabins and Suites
- Tour of the Interior and Exterior Decks
- A Day on a Steamboat - Things to Do and See on the River
- Itineraries and Theme Cruises
American Queen Photo Galleries
American Queen (c) Linda Garrison>/small>