begin our journey in New Orleans. We plan on arriving a few days early in New Orleans to enjoy the city Let’s before joining fellow passengers on the American Countess, the newest gem of the American Queen's riverboat fleet, with only 245 guests.
While in New Orleans we plan on visiting the French Quarter, the Crown Jewel of New Orleans. If we time it right, we might see a scene from NCIS: New Orleans. Other adventures might include enjoying a tour of the city via a streetcar, checking out the local cemeteries, enjoying a day at the park with a picnic, visiting historic homes or museums, or going to the aquarium.
Here is the planned itinerary for our adventure (itinerary may vary):
Day 1: Stay in New Orleans, Louisiana – Enjoy your complimentary stay at the pre-cruise hotel. The evening is yours to become acquainted with the city. American Queen’s Hospitality Desk will be located in the hotel, and their friendly staff can assist with everything from general questions about your upcoming voyage to reserving premium experiences. Both American Queen Steamboat Company and local representatives will be readily available to provide you with dining, entertainment, and sightseeing options to maximize your time here.
Day 2: New Orleans, Louisiana (Day of embarkation) – New Orleans’s Creole, Cajun, and other diverse residents blended to develop art, cuisine, music, and general culture unlike any other in the United States. Uncover the treasures of the city as you indulge in iconic cuisine spiced with the cultural flavors of the city’s past, explore the unique sites and attractions lining the historic streets as seen in the famous French Quarter, or admire the beauty in the stunning Garden District or City Park.
Day 3: Nottoway – American Queen Steamboat Company features an exclusive port at Nottoway. While the boat is docked, visit the sugarcane estate – the largest standing antebellum mansion in the South. Nottoway is an intricate building with impressive detail. Original furnishings mingle with era-appropriate antiques to create an atmosphere that does justice to the home’s original ambiance. It is a fascinating history and luxurious aesthetic packaged in Southern hospitality – an experience that you will not want to pass up.
Day 4: St. Francisville, Louisiana – Today, St. Francisville is a testament to the lifestyle of a bygone era, with its plethora of charming antebellum-period homes and striking architecture. With over 140 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, beautiful plantation homes nestled in the rolling countryside, and bustling Main Street shops, this quaint town situated on the bluffs of the Mississippi River has a style all its own.
Day 5: Natchez, Mississippi – It seems as if history fell asleep and awoke unscathed by the changing of times in this magical port. This charming river town was founded in 1716, making it the oldest city on the Mississippi River. It’s known for its elegance, hospitality, and impressive preservation of history – found on every street corner. Enjoy the unique shops, restaurants, museums, and historic homes, all of which inspired Hugh Bayless to include Natchez in his book “The 100 Best Towns in America.”
Day 6: Vicksburg, Mississippi – Vicksburg perfectly blends Southern culture and heritage with exciting modern attractions. As a major battle site during the Civil War, this Southern town carries a history unlike any other. Learn about the historic conflicts of the city, taste its cuisine, visit the many museums and pick out the perfect souvenir.
Day 7: Port of the Mississippi Delta – The Mississippi Delta is more than a geographical region. It is a way of life – a true cultural experience based on agriculture, music, and history. These small river towns have been the inspiration of authors, musicians, and artists for centuries. Catch a unique glimpse into the Port of the Mississippi Delta, and discover a muse of many.
Day 8: River Cruising – Watch small river towns and lush landscapes slowly become lost in the horizon as sunlight plays upon the deck. Take hold of a literary classic, curl up on a plush chair in a cozy corner and relish in the moment of tranquility. Experience the fulfillment that river cruising offers.
Day 9: Memphis, Tennessee (Disembark) – As the journey concludes, there are other opportunities for you to take in the town. Enjoy the city at your leisure, or consider a post-cruise premium experience with airport transfers.
Upon arrival in Memphis, we plan on enjoying the city and its many sights and sounds. Here are just a few sights to see: Memphis Music Hall of Fame, The Peabody Memphis (watching the ducks), Elvis Presley’s Graceland, Beale Street Landing, plus many more.
Do you have any favorite sights to visit when in New Orleans or Memphis? Please let me know and if the schedule allows I would be honored to visit them. I hope you have enjoyed our trip along the mighty Mississippi? This is a great option for traveling now. It is close to home and without having to travel internationally. Please “Come Sail with Me”!!!!
Note: Itinerary courtesy of American Queen Steamboat Cruises.
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