In the perfect comfort of our well-appointed American riverboat, enjoy the idyllic countryside of the Ohio River and the wonder of the mighty Mississippi that inspired Mark Twain. The Ohio River was pivotal in the development and exploration of the American West and along the way we highlight much that has defined our American roots from the Civil War to bluegrass music. Or, you can take a milder pace and just kick back with a rocking chair and a glass of sweet tea on the sun deck while American Cruise Lines handles the rest.
Each port of call showcases a new element of Americana. In Henderson, visit the John James Audubon Museum, which features many original works and join our expert guide to learn about the sense of natural wonder that Audubon instilled in so many Americans. While in Louisville, we are treated to a behind the scenes tour of the Churchill Downs, the site of the famed Kentucky Derby, and sample the finest bourbon at the famous Jim Beam Distillery, each destination with a distinct American story to tell.
Every cruise on the Ohio River is unique due to fluctuating river conditions that can have an impact on our itinerary. The river has a mind of its own and, as it has been since the dawn of river travel, our sailing schedules must adapt to it. It is possible that guests will be transported between a town on the Ohio River and Pittsburgh by coach for excursions or embarkation.
Ask about our Current Savings and our Complimentary Pre-cruise Packages which include a premium hotel stay and transportation to the ship. Click the Schedules & Rates tab for details.
Pre-Cruise
On our Ohio Rivers itineraries, we offer a variety of convenient Pre-Cruise options, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area. Choose from our Four Seasons Hotel Pre-Cruise Package, available on cruises departing from St. Louis, MO, or our 1-Night Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay, available for cruises departing from St. Louis, MO, and Pittsburgh, PA.
Pre-Cruise Packages and Hotel Stays must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date.
Day 1 - Pittsburgh, PA
Begin your journey in the "steel city," Pittsburgh, PA. Long known for steel manufacturing, Pittsburgh was an essential stop along the Ohio River for national and international commerce making it a wealthy town in the 18th and 19th centuries. As you cruise the Ohio River delight in picturesque and ever-changing scenery, as early explorers did centuries ago.
Day 2 - Marietta, OH
The second-largest city in the Parkersburg-Marietta-Vienna Metropolitan area, Marietta was named in honor of Marie Antoinette. During the 18th and 19th century, the town experienced economic prosperity, as its location on the Ohio River made it an attractive stop for commercial steamboats, as well as travelers.
Day 3 - Maysville, KY
Maysville is a quaint town with a rich history. An important stop on the Underground Railroad, Maysville was host to Harriet Beecher Stowe in 1883. Your stop will include idyllic country scenery and the native sounds of original bluegrass country music.
Day 4 - Cincinnati, OH
Enjoy a visit to Cincinnati, a vibrant city and cultural center which boasts two major sports franchises, a zoo and botanical garden, and numerous theaters and museums. Stroll along its picturesque streets, abounding in eclectic architecture and shop at the famous Findlay Market, a longtime gathering place for vendors to sell local goods, meats, and fresh produce.
Day 5 - Louisville, KY
As our riverboat makes its way to Louisville, admire the city's architecture which is a blend of old and new. Named after King Louis XVI of France, Louisville is best known for the famed Kentucky Derby, the first leg of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing.
Day 6 - Louisville, KY
Spend another day in Kentucky, known as the "Bluegrass State," due to the bluegrass found in many of its pastures because of the fertile soil. On the Louisville Downtown Shuttle, explore the Old Louisville neighborhood, the largest historic preservation district in the U.S., solely featuring Victorian homes and buildings.
Day 7 - Henderson, KY / Evansville, IN
You won’t miss the presence of the notable resident, John James Audubon, whose “Birds of America” paintings are recreated as bronze statues throughout Henderson. Named after President Washington’s home on the Potomac, this bucolic river town is steeped in fascinating lore. Let our expert guide lead you on a tour of our famous first President's historic home and grounds.
Day 8 - Paducah, KY
Residing at the confluence of the Tennessee River and the Ohio River, Paducah will make you feel as if you stepped back in time. As you walk the streets of this Chickasaw village site, discover Paducah’s rich history. View the Wall-to-Wall Mural Program, a collection of over 50 murals that covers a number of subjects including Native American history, the Civil War, and area landmarks such as the Old Carnegie Library.
Day 9 - Cape Girardeau, MO
Perched on the western bank of the Mississippi River, Cape Girardeau is a town reminiscent of the days of pioneers, steamboats, and trading posts. You will feel as if you have stepped back in time, in this enchanting place which has been visited by the likes of Mark Twain, Lewis and Clark, and Ulysses S. Grant. Explore the impressive murals that decorate the historic downtown and chronical its past and unique relationship with Ole Man River. Peruse the many antique and specialty shops to find the perfect souvenir.
Day 10 - St. Louis, MO
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, MO
End your journey in this unique city with frontier-town roots and Midwest modesty. On your travels home, reflect upon your many wonderful adventures, or choose to explore more in the Gateway to the West.
Each Mississippi itinerary comes complete with a Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay. Arrive the day before your scheduled cruise date and American Cruise Lines will handle the rest. The package includes a premium hotel stay, where you can enjoy the city at your leisure. On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby after breakfast and we will transport you to the ship to begin your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.
Pre-Cruise Hotel Stays must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Call 1-800-460-4518 to reserve your space.
Enjoy a 1-night stay at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis, a resort-style hotel on the bank of the Mississippi River and located in the heart of downtown's entertainment district. This Pre-Cruise Package includes breakfast at the hotel, concierge luggage service, and a Discover St. Louis city excursion which concludes at the ship the morning of your cruise.
Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.
Enjoy your locally guided experience exploring Pittsburgh, PA, ranked one of the most livable cities in America. Located at the confluence of three mighty rivers, this resilient city has reinvented itself through the years from a smoky industrial “Steel City” to a modern city of technology, culture, and world class hospitals and universities. While on this excursion, travel through many of the city’s unique neighborhoods and hear the colorful stories of what makes Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh. Enjoy an exploration of Pittsburgh’s South Side and former Steel mill sites, as well as its Eastern neighborhoods, including Millionaire’s Row, and the Downtown “Golden Triangle.” In the Northside, enjoy the iconic sites in “Pittsburgh’s playground,” home to Heinz Field, PNC Park, and the National Aviary. And of course, no visit to “the city of bridges” would be complete without a stop atop Mt. Washington to view the spectacular Pittsburgh Skyline.
Please Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Pittsburgh.
Named after Republican Politician Senator John Heinz, this interactive museum is full of six floors worth of Western Pennsylvania History, covering the past 250 years. Exhibits include the life of Senator John Heinz, the history of Pittsburgh, professional sports memorabilia, and much more.
Please Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Pittsburgh.
Visit the largest museum in North America dedicated to a single artist. The Andy Warhol Museum holds an extensive permanent collection of art and archives from this Pittsburgh-born pop art icon. Explore the museum’s many galleries, which feature his paintings, photographs, unique prints, and sculptures, as well as Warhol films and videotaped works. A must-see for any art aficionado.
Please Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Pittsburgh.
Explore two of Marietta’s greatest treasures: the Campus Martius Museum and the Ohio River Museum. The Campus Martius Museum features exhibits focusing on America’s migration out West and Marietta’s earliest native inhabitants. At the Ohio River Museum, discover the golden age of the steamboat and learn about the ecology of the Ohio River system.
Get a glimpse into what entertained and educated children in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This museum is truly a hidden treasure, featuring toys, doll collections, and memorabilia of years ago. Explore nine rooms displaying antique and vintage doll collections, including Kewpie dolls, Barbie dolls and GI Joe model dolls, miniature houses, as well as larger models of fairy tale homes such as the Ole’ Woman in the Shoe model and a Hansel and Gretel Gingerbread Doll House.
Explore this beautifully preserved, 1855 Gothic-Revival house which is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Castle was once home to some of Marietta's most prominent citizens and the site of many prestigious functions. Hear fascinating stories about its history and learn about of one of the oldest regions in the Northwest Territory.
Enjoy the small town charm of historic Maysville, during this narrated tour. Begin at the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center, which brings the stories of explorers, artists, and movie stars to life through award-winning dioramas and its collection of historic artifacts. Next, visit the historic Russell Theater, a true piece of the town’s history.
Step back in time while you tour the historic town of Old Washington. Starting at the 1790s Visitor Center, your costumed guide will lead you through this historic Kentucky village, taking you along flagstone sidewalks graced with authentic frontier log cabins and early 19th-century homes.
Explore both sides of the river on this fantastic, all-encompassing excursion. Begin in the heart of the city at Fountain Square. Along your journey, view the Contemporary Arts Center, Procter and Gamble’s International Headquarters, and the Taft Museum in beautiful Lytle Park. Learn about Cincinnati’s most well-known landmarks including: Union Terminal, Music Hall, Washington Park, Smale Riverfront Park, Bicentennial Commons, the new TQL Stadium, and the Paul Brown Stadium and Great American Ball Park – home of the Bengals and Reds.
Enjoy the old-world charm of Mount Adams with its “shot-gun” row homes and charming district of shops and restaurants. View picturesque Eden Park, home to the Cincinnati Art Museum, Playhouse in the Park, and Krohn Conservatory.
Cross the Ohio River to Kentucky’s historic Riverside Drive with its antebellum homes. Explore the entertainment district at Newport on the Levee and the World Peace Bell – the largest free-swinging bell in the world. While in Kentucky, you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the Cincinnati skyline.
The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center celebrates the brave men and women who came together to create a secret network through which the enslaved could escape to freedom. Their examples of courage, cooperation, and perseverance, is relevant to this day, as we continue to deal with contemporary issues of equality and diversity.
Explore the Cincinnati Art Museum, located in scenic Eden Park. Featured is a diverse, comprehensive art collection of more than 67,000 works spanning 6,000 years. In addition to displaying its own encyclopedic collection, the museum also hosts a variety national and international traveling exhibitions each year.
Get a behind-the-scenes tour of the Churchill Downs, the site of the famed Kentucky Derby. Here, you will have exclusive access to every facet of the race, from the Press Box and Jockey’s
Discover Kentucky’s fascinating past, present, and future with exhibits like “The Spirit of Kentucky,” which demonstrates the history, craft, and culture of Kentucky Bourbon.
Explore the “Lewis and Clark Experience,” a one-of-a-kind exhibit that recreates Lewis and Clark’s 1804 mission. Find out “What’s Cool About Kentucky,” in an exhibit that illustrates the quirky, often surprising, and always authentic culture of Kentucky.
Bourbon enthusiasts will revel in a visit to the famous Jim Beam distillery. Celebrate “America’s First Family of Bourbon,” as you learn about their over 200 years of bourbon-making and view historic artifacts. Your private tour will include a visit to the home where three generations of Beam distillers lived. Step inside the Stillhouse Exhibit, which features an authentic 1800s copper, believed to be one of the oldest in America. Your tour will conclude in the rack house, where the bourbon is aged and the sampling begins. Visit the popular gift shop to purchase a variety of bourbons, bar ware, and other Jim Beam merchandise.
Louisville Slugger is the maker of the world’s most popular bat. The company’s storied traditions and high standards for quality have produced some of the finest bats for amateurs and professionals alike. Take a guided tour of the facility and museum, learning first-hand their processes from forest-to-factory and the scientific principles used to fabricate the most important tool in “America’s Game.” Enjoy special seasonal exhibits and receive a free souvenir bat to commemorate your visit.
The Audubon Museum and Nature Center interprets the life of John James Audubon through his art and personal memorabilia framed within a timeline of world events. Join a park naturalist on a guided tour before enjoying some free time to explore the Museum’s three galleries and the Center’s wildlife observation room, theater, and Discovery & Learning Center on your own.
Explore the only operational LST (Landing Ship, Tank) still afloat in U.S. waters. This amphibious vessel, LST-325,was designed to land battle-ready tanks, troops, and supplies directly onto enemy shores during WWII. On this guided excursion, explore the Main Deck, Troop Berthing, Tank Deck, Galley, Stern, Wheel House, Officer's Country, and the Captain's Cabin.
Explore downtown Evansville on your own. Take time for shopping and strolling along the charming streets of this picturesque waterfront town. Stops include:
• Evansville Museum - Explore a permanent collection of over 30,000 objects from fine art to natural history artifacts as well as the "From the Hand of the President" collection of documents signed by Presidents of the United States.
• USS LST-325 - Come aboard the last fully operational WWII Landing Ship Tank (LST) afloat in US Waters.
• Reitz Home Museum - Visit the historic Victorian house built by Evansville "Lumber Baron" and philanthropist, John August Reitz and his wife Gertrude, who emigrated from Prussia to Evansville as young adults. Noted as one of the country's finest examples of Second Empire architecture, the Reitz Home features authentic period furniture, spindled archways, and French gilt chandeliers to name a few of the home's well-preserved features.
• Main St. - Experience some of the sights, shops and restaurants of downtown that are uniquely Evansville.
This unique museum celebrates the service of the Evansville region's armed forces, focusing on the manufacturing contributions made during World War II by the region's hometown heroes. Be treated to an exclusive exploration of the Main Hall and four galleries. The Home Front Gallery displays exhibits on the wartime munitions and personal military memorabilia, including uniforms, weapons, and honors. Also featured is the Evansville Canteen - having served the troops passing through on their way to war, an exhibit honoring the sacrifices made by nurses in the war, as well as period automobiles, and military equipment, such as a landing craft from the LST 325, an Evansville-built P-47 Thunderbolt fighter plane, and a 1943 M4A4 Sherman Tank, to name a few.
Enjoy a self-guided exploration of Indiana’s first zoo, set on 45 scenic acres, with hundreds of animals representing species from around the globe. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you, while navigating the Zoo’s geographically grouped and themed regions, including South America, North America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Along the way, view thousands of exotic and regional botanic species which adorn the hillsides and animal exhibits.
Let our local guide take you through the quaint city of Paducah. This tour has been carefully divided into three distinct sections to make sure you experience all that Paducah has to offer. First, tour the downtown as our local expert guide points out the areas’ many historical sites. Then, ride along the riverfront where you will witness more than 50 life-sized panoramic murals depicting elements of Paducah’s past. End the tour at the National Quilt Museum, the world's largest museum devoted to quilt and fiber art.
Discover downtown Paducah at your own pace. Visit the areas many museums, including the Paducah Railroad Museum, featuring equipment and memorabilia from the romantic past of America’s railroads. Stop at the River Discovery Center, which celebrates Paducah’s maritime legacy, and the National Quilt museum, where you can view exhibits by talented quilters. Explore the Lowertown Arts District & Neighborhood, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as well as the Civil War Museum & Tilghman House, an 1852 Greek-revival home, which tells the story of Paducah’s influence during the Civil War. Take time for shopping and walking along the riverfront to view the many wall murals which chronicle Paducah’s past.
Paducah’s location at the confluence of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers makes it unique. The city is home to some of the nation’s largest barge and towing companies. At the River Discovery Center, learn all about the inland waterways and the impact they have on the daily lives of local residents. You can be a captain and choose your vessel type in the state-of-the-art boat simulator, as well as explore and learn about the history, environments, culture, and economy of these rivers through interactive exhibits.
Join a local guide on a narrated exploration of Cape Girardeau, a city that began as a small trading post over 200 years ago. Visit Old St. Vincent’s Church and admire its Renaissance architecture, and then Southeast Missouri State University’s Crisp Museum which features fine art exhibitions, Native American artifacts and interpretive regional history displays.
The Mississippi River Tales Mural is the largest and most dramatic of Cape Girardeau's murals and is located on a portion of the floodwall. Covering nearly 18,000 square feet, this 1,100-foot-long mural features 24 historically-themed panels that vividly portray Cape Girardeau's rich history and heritage. Along the way, descriptive markers provide an explanation of each panel.
Relive the story of the Native Americans, explorers, pioneers, and rebels who made America possible. Featuring over 200 years of history within six themed exhibit areas, this innovative and interactive museum celebrates America’s pioneering spirit and explains the westward expansion of the U.S., with an emphasis on St. Louis’ role in that era.
Shaped by the inspired design of Finnish-America architect Eero Saarinen, the Gateway Arch monument celebrates the expansion West and the pioneers who made it possible. Since its completion in 1965, millions of visitors have taken a trip to the top to enjoy stunning views. Begin your adventure with our new, interactive pre-boarding exhibits featuring 60s-era animation and Gateway Arch trivia. Then, be transported 630 feet to the top of America’s tallest man-made monument. Or, if you prefer, enjoy the movie Monument to a Dream.
Note: Only available on cruises ending in St. Louis/Alton, as well as on the Complete Mississippi River and Grand Heartland cruises.
Explore the most popular exhibits at the Missouri History Museum including “The 1904 World’s Fair: Looking Back at Looking Forward” and “Many Memories: 100 Years on the Stage.” Time will also be allowed for the Seeking St. Louis galleries on display. Self-guided exploration will allow you to view the exhibits at your leisure and give you time to shop.
Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in St. Louis/Alton as well as the Complete Mississippi and Grand Heartland.
Explore this magnificent museum’s varied collection of original works of art, spanning five millennia and six continents. Admire ancient, Asian, European, and contemporary pieces, and stroll through the impressive outdoor sculpture garden.
Why not spend an extra day in this vibrant metropolis in the heartland of America? Ask your onboard Hotel Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.
Pre-Cruise
On our Ohio Rivers itineraries, we offer a variety of convenient Pre-Cruise options, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area. Choose from our Four Seasons Hotel Pre-Cruise Package, available on cruises departing from St. Louis, MO, or our 1-Night Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay, available for cruises departing from St. Louis, MO, and Pittsburgh, PA.
Pre-Cruise Packages and Hotel Stays must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date.
Day 1 - St. Louis, MO
End your journey in this unique city with frontier-town roots and Midwest modesty. On your travels home, reflect upon your many wonderful adventures, or choose to explore more in the Gateway to the West.
Day 2 - St. Louis, MO
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 3 - Cape Girardeau, MO
Perched on the western bank of the Mississippi River, Cape Girardeau is a town reminiscent of the days of pioneers, steamboats, and trading posts. You will feel as if you have stepped back in time, in this enchanting place which has been visited by the likes of Mark Twain, Lewis and Clark, and Ulysses S. Grant. Explore the impressive murals that decorate the historic downtown and chronical its past and unique relationship with Ole Man River. Peruse the many antique and specialty shops to find the perfect souvenir.
Day 4 - Paducah, KY
Residing at the confluence of the Tennessee River and the Ohio River, Paducah will make you feel as if you stepped back in time. As you walk the streets of this Chickasaw village site, discover Paducah’s rich history. View the Wall-to-Wall Mural Program, a collection of over 50 murals that covers a number of subjects including Native American history, the Civil War, and area landmarks such as the Old Carnegie Library.
Day 5 - Henderson, KY / Evansville, IN
You won’t miss the presence of the notable resident, John James Audubon, whose “Birds of America” paintings are recreated as bronze statues throughout Henderson. Named after President Washington’s home on the Potomac, this bucolic river town is steeped in fascinating lore. Let our expert guide lead you on a tour of our famous first President's historic home and grounds.
Day 6 - Louisville, KY
Spend another day in Kentucky, known as the "Bluegrass State," due to the bluegrass found in many of its pastures because of the fertile soil. On the Louisville Downtown Shuttle, explore the Old Louisville neighborhood, the largest historic preservation district in the U.S., solely featuring Victorian homes and buildings.
Day 7 - Louisville, KY
As our riverboat makes its way to Louisville, admire the city's architecture which is a blend of old and new. Named after King Louis XVI of France, Louisville is best known for the famed Kentucky Derby, the first leg of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing.
Day 8 - Cincinnati, OH
Enjoy a visit to Cincinnati, a vibrant city and cultural center which boasts two major sports franchises, a zoo and botanical garden, and numerous theaters and museums. Stroll along its picturesque streets, abounding in eclectic architecture and shop at the famous Findlay Market, a longtime gathering place for vendors to sell local goods, meats, and fresh produce.
Day 9 - Maysville, KY
Maysville is a quaint town with a rich history. An important stop on the Underground Railroad, Maysville was host to Harriet Beecher Stowe in 1883. Your stop will include idyllic country scenery and the native sounds of original bluegrass country music.
Day 10 - Marietta, OH
The second-largest city in the Parkersburg-Marietta-Vienna Metropolitan area, Marietta was named in honor of Marie Antoinette. During the 18th and 19th century, the town experienced economic prosperity, as its location on the Ohio River made it an attractive stop for commercial steamboats, as well as travelers.
Day 11 - Pittsburgh, PA
Begin your journey in the "steel city," Pittsburgh, PA. Long known for steel manufacturing, Pittsburgh was an essential stop along the Ohio River for national and international commerce making it a wealthy town in the 18th and 19th centuries. As you cruise the Ohio River delight in picturesque and ever-changing scenery, as early explorers did centuries ago.
Select below for stateroom details
Select below for stateroom details
Select below for stateroom details
Select below for stateroom details
Select below for stateroom details
Select below for stateroom details
