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Explore beautiful Nashville

Nashville to St. Louis

Example 9 Day Cruise aboard American Countess
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Set sail on a 9-day river cruise along the Cumberland and Mississippi rivers to learn about the region's history, music, and culture. Set out from Nashville, which is widely regarded as the country music capital of the world. The small hamlet of Dover, Tennessee, is a fascinating place to visit and learn about its part in American Civil War history. The National Quilt Museum in Paducah, Kentucky, showcases historic quilts, while Lewis and Clark's expedition made a pit call in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, where you may follow in their footsteps. St. Louis, Missouri, is known as the "Gateway to the West" because of its rich history and active arts community.
Explore beautiful NashvilleExplore the rivers of AmericaVisit historic St. LouisSt. Louis' iconic arch at nightExplore beautiful Nashville
Highlights
  • Explore bustling Nashville, Tennessee, capital of country music.
  • Admire historic handicrafts at the National Quilt Museum in Paducah.
  • Experience small-town charm and Civil War history in Dover, Tennessee.
  • Visit Chester, Illinois, known as the “Home of Popeye."
  • Enjoy the vibrant arts, music, and food scene in St. Louis.
Activities
Places Visited
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Hotel Stay in Nashville, TN

Enjoy your complimentary stay at the pre-cruise hotel. The evening is yours to become acquainted with the city. Our Hospitality Desk will be located in the hotel, and our 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: Clarksville, TN | Embark

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner
Grand steeples puncture the city skyline, and groomed streets disperse into sounds of serenity at the Riverwalk, where American Countess Steamboat guests arrive at Clarksville. Take a stroll down the promenade, soak in serenity at the riverside, then head downtown to experience this empire that sprouted from a dream.

INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS: Clarksville Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Smith-Trahern Mansion  
Overlooking the Cumberland River, this majestic antebellum home was designed by Adolphus Heiman in 1858 for wealthy tobacconist Christopher Smith. The home reflects the transition between Greek Revival and Italianate styles, which were very popular at that time. Although not as large as some, the home boasts grand hallways, an exquisite curved staircase and a widow's walk on the roof. The original main building consisted of four large rooms on each of the two floors, opening onto both the hallways and the balconies. The kitchen was attached to the back of the house, but there was no connecting door. Of the many outbuildings that must have been on the property at this time, only the slave quarters remain. During the winter months, local organizations fill the home with over 20 Christmas trees decorated and sparkling. In 1998, the mansion was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Suggested Visit: 30-45 minutes  

 

Day 3: Clarksville, TN

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Clarksville distills small-batch handcrafted notes into big-city living. Its range of breweries, wineries and distilleries have visitors both shaken and stirred, while the city’s historic sites preserve the ingenuity of the human spirit. Let the Cumberland River guide you to the triumph of commerce as it wriggles through this blooming city. 

INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS: Clarksville Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Smith-Trahern Mansion  
Overlooking the Cumberland River, this majestic antebellum home was designed by Adolphus Heiman in 1858 for wealthy tobacconist Christopher Smith. The home reflects the transition between Greek Revival and Italianate styles, which were very popular at that time. Although not as large as some, the home boasts grand hallways, an exquisite curved staircase and a widow's walk on the roof. The original main building consisted of four large rooms on each of the two floors, opening onto both the hallways and the balconies. The kitchen was attached to the back of the house, but there was no connecting door. Of the many outbuildings that must have been on the property at this time, only the slave quarters remain. During the winter months, local organizations fill the home with over 20 Christmas trees decorated and sparkling. In 1998, the mansion was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Suggested Visit: 30-45 minutes  
 

Day 4: Dover, TN

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
In 1805 a state-appointed commission purchased a 30-acre plot on the Cumberland River from Robert Nelson and established the county seat of Dover. By 1850 the Tennessee frontier town had blossomed into a large river trade center and the second largest steamboat port on the Cumberland. A resting dock meets American Queen Voyages guests in Dover, a town that reveals the value of serenity in river living, where peace and quiet are interrupted only by birdsong and cricket chirps. Adventure through Fort Donelson – Dover’s touchpoint during the Civil War – which has been resurrected into Fort Donelson National Battlefield Park, a nexus of history and natural riches. Fort Donelson was the site of a major Union victory. Here, hilltops harbor somber stories, country roads lose themselves in golden horizons and historic treasures are kept secret behind the tree lines. Union troops, who had occupied the town since the fall of Fort Donelson in 1862, set fire to Dover to prevent the town from falling into the hands of General Nathan Bedford Forrest; only four buildings survived the conflagration.  Capture the romance of this little river town’s past and experience the everyday phenomenon of its future at Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge, an 8,862-acre habitat for waterfowl and aquatic plant life. Or venture to Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, one of the largest blocks of undeveloped forest in the eastern U.S. with over 170,000 acres of forests, wetlands, and open lands on a peninsula between Kentucky and Barkley lakes in Western Kentucky and Tennessee. 

INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS: Dover Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Fort Donelson River Batteries 
Late in 1861 Confederate military leaders selected locations in Stewart County, Tennessee, to construct two earthen forts to hinder anticipated Union naval advancement up the parallel and strategic Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers. The first was Fort Henry, located on the east bank of the Tennessee River. Twelve miles to its east, on the other side of "Land Between the Rivers," Fort Donelson and more than two miles of outer works were erected. Substantial river batteries with large artillery were positioned to fend off newly designed and armored Union gunboats. On February 14, 1862, an intense naval bombardment occurred between the flotilla and the Upper and Lower batteries, ending in a Confederate victory for the day. Brigadier General S.B. Buckner surrendered the southern garrison to Grant on February 16. 

Day 5: Paducah, KY

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Paducah is located at the confluence of the Ohio and the Tennessee Rivers, and is often called the Four-Rivers Area due to its proximity to the Ohio, Cumberland, Tennessee and Mississippi Rivers. This prime location has played a major role in Paducah’s history, because transportation was easily accessible, so the economy was strong and travelers were frequent.

In the hands of artists, modern Paducah was thrown into form. Fingertips muddied with passion and eased by the vision of river water glided along the surface to pull up the community and create the National Quilt Museum. Residents backstitch past into present, then bind appreciation for culture – ensuring that the seams of history will not soon come undone. The people of Paducah have taken great care to orchestrate every crevice of its community into a symphony of craft and color. Life is a work of art, and the town of Paducah certainly is alive and well. Feast in this foodies’ fantasy. Uncover mastership. Catch a glimpse of Paducah.

INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS: Paducah Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
The National Quilt Museum  
Celebrating 30 years in 2021, the National Quilt Museum is the largest of its kind in the world. It is the portal to the contemporary quilt experience and features exhibits and workshops by renowned quilters who implement creative approaches to fiber art. The museum features over 600 pieces of art highlighting a collection of modern quilts and changing thematic exhibitions that celebrate the talent and diversity of the global quilting community. The National Quilt Museum shares the artistic tradition of quilt making and played an integral role in Paducah's designation as a UNESCO Creative City in 2013. Visit the Museum Shop & Book Store for Kentucky-crafted items and quilt-related instructional and collector books.
Suggested Visit: 30 minutes - 1 hour

 

Day 6: Cape Girardeau, MO

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Nestled along the western banks of the mighty Mississippi River, you’ll find Cape Girardeau, Missouri – a community rich in history and heritage. For more than 250 years, people have been drawn to Cape Girardeau and the river on which it lies. As you stroll along the riverfront, pause for a moment... you’ll feel the passion that led Mark Twain to write so eloquently about Cape Girardeau in Life on the Mississippi, the inspiration that Gen. Ulysses S. Grant used to lead with firm conviction as he took command of the Union Army in the historic downtown and the warmth and hospitality that community founder Louis Lorimier extended to Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, while on the journey of a lifetime as they set forth to explore the Louisiana Purchase on their Corps of Discovery. Cape Girardeau, which has shown hospitality to the likes of Twain, Lewis and Clark, and General Grant, greets today’s guests in the same vein. Whether pedaling along the bike lanes that strip along the city streets, hiking through a state park, walking across one of many covered bridges, shopping for antiques, visiting area wineries, viewing murals that stretch the entire length of the downtown area, or stepping back in time at any number of historic sites, the Show Me State does not disappoint. Peeking through the long-standing architecture and handsome panoramas are moments that will mature into golden memories. Take time to embrace legends, discover a simpler time and relive the wonders of the past. 

INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS: Cape Girardeau Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Mississippi River Tales Murals  
The Mississippi River Tales Mural is the largest and most dramatic of Cape Girardeau's murals and is located on a portion of the downtown 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. The Missouri Wall of Fame Mural features 47 individuals who were born in Missouri or achieved fame while living in the state. View this beautiful artwork and be sure to stop at the descriptive markers that provide an explanation of each panel.
Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 minutes  
  
Red House Interpretive Center   
The Interpretive Center commemorates the life of community founder French-Canadian, Louis Lorimier, as well as the visit of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark in November 1803. It also houses an early 1800s exhibit that reflects the lives of the early settlers of the old Cape Girardeau district. In addition, a rendering of Lorimier's Trading Post displays authentic items that would have been sold at the turn of the 19th century. The gardens on the north side of the house show the types of garden you might have seen in 1803 with flowers, vegetables, cooking herbs, and medicinal herbs.
Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 minutes     

Old St. Vincent's Church   
The Renaissance architecture, referred to as English Gothic Revival style, is not only beautiful but also extremely rare, as very few churches of this style exist in America today. Explore the many artifacts preserved in the church as you admire the arches and woodwork lining the interior of the chapel. Discover this fully restored beauty as it transports you back in time.
Suggested Visit: 30 minutes     

Glenn House   
Completed in 1883, the Glenn House is a fully restored historic museum in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. It is a prime example of the Victorian period lifestyle including the architecture, furnishings, clothing, and décor. The Glenn House was built for David A. Glenn, who was an influential figure in the city's history. He and his family occupied the home until 1915. Before they vacated the home, it was renovated in 1900 to the Queen Anne Style. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Many of the furnishings and features of the home have been restored to their original beauty and have been kept authentic to the Victorian time interior.
Suggested Visit: 30 - 45 minutes    

Crisp Museum   
Located inside Southeast Missouri State University's River Campus, the Crisp Museum collects in three thematic areas: archaeology, history, and fine art. The archaeology collection has several collections of prehistoric Native American artifacts, which illustrate aspects of the daily and ceremonial lives of the indigenous peoples who lived in southeastern Missouri from 13,500 B.C. to 1400 A.D. The museum's historical collections cover a wide range of artifacts with strengths in the areas of militaria, firearms and their accessories, clothing, and hand tools.
Suggested Visit: 45 minutes - 1 hour     

Cape River Heritage Museum   
Since its founding in 1981, the Cape River Heritage Museum has focused on the stories of Cape Girardeau while preserving the 1908 building at the corner of Frederick and Independence streets. Located in an old police and fire station, the museum features rotating exhibits depicting the history of the region. Discover the founding of Cape Girardeau, see a gallery of antique typewriters, and a new display of vintage Ford automobiles.
Suggested Visit: 30 -45 minutes

Day 7: Kimmswick, Missouri

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Kimmswick offers a chance to step back into the less hurried days of the 1800s. A look back furnishes us with an appreciation for the historical significance. Theodore Kimm, a successful St. Louis dry goods merchant, moved to Jefferson County, Missouri in 1850 and purchased a large tract of land where the Little Rock Creek empties into the Mississippi. Travel to the area in the early days was by way of the Mississippi River or by inland trails that were first used by the Indians and later by the French and Spanish. The route was called “Rue Royale” by the French and “El Camino Real” by the Spanish. Many goods were hauled over this trail by two-wheeled oxcarts and later by wagons. Early settlements in this area were under French control. But when France lost the French and Indian War, this land west of the Mississippi went to Spain. Spanish control was relatively brief, from 1762 until 1800. Then Napoleon Bonaparte, by a secret treaty, re-acquired the land from Spain. Only three years later he sold the land to the U.S. during the presidency of Thomas Jefferson. The building of St. Louis and Iron Mountain Railroad from St. Louis to Pilot Knob, Missouri, began in 1854. Completing the railroad in 1858 brought a stream of settlers, tradesmen, and farmers. Theodore Kimm, taking advantage of the increased economic possibilities, founded the town of Kimmswick in 1859. A native of Germany, Kimm named the town after himself and his birthplace by combining the words “Kimmswick.”

INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS: Chester Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Cohen Memorial Home  
The Cohen Home is located on a beautiful historical site on Harrison Street overlooking the Mississippi River. Its unusual blue storm windows make it a very visible landmark for boats on the river and travelers approaching the Chester Bridge from Missouri. Built in 1855, it was the home of the William Cohen family who lived there until 1983. The upstairs' bedrooms contain furnishings and collections from several families of Chester including the Cohen family.
Suggested Visit: 30 minutes  
 
The Spinach Can Collectibles and Museum  
 As the only Popeye collectibles store and museum in America, this small shop located in Downtown Chester will surely bring back memories of the past as you explore. Walk around the front to see original and rare collectibles featuring Popeye, Olive Oyl, Wimpy, Bluto, Swee'Pee, Jeep, and much more. Pick out the perfect unique book, toy, video, postcard, poster, or other memorabilia for someone back home or to keep for yourself. Then head into the back to see some rare and highly sought after Popeye collectibles.
Suggested Visit: 15 - 30 minutes     

The Spinach Can Collectibles and Museum   
The museum houses permanent displays as well as some artifacts that are temporarily on loan, and it hosts shows and exhibits that showcase specific treasures from the heritage and the long history of Randolph County. In addition, the newly established archives room will enable the museum to properly preserve and store documents, photographs, and other non-displayed artifacts for generations to come. Explore the history of Randolph County through collections of paintings, articles, photos, and artifacts that depict their past.
Suggested Visit: 30 - 45 minutes     

The Spinach Can Collectibles and Museum   
The Chester Welcome Center is located in Segar Park next to the Chester Bridge. It contains restrooms, an information center with displays, and a large deck overlooking the Mississippi River and Missouri Bottoms. The bronze statue of Popeye the Sailor Man has been overlooking the Mississippi River in Segar Park for more than 30 years. This is just one of the many Popeye character statues placed throughout the town.
Suggested Visit: 15 minutes
 

Day 8: St. Louis, MO

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
No city wants to be known as a “fly-over” city. St. Louis, nestled about 300 miles from its more popular cousin, Chicago, has long had that unfortunate designation. But there’s the case to be made for “St. Louie,” as it’s affectionately called, as America’s most hidden gem. The city is typically associated with the Gateway Arch, which stands on the banks of the Mississippi River. At 630 feet, “The Arch” is an architectural marvel that is more than twice as tall as the Statue of Liberty. The stainless-steel-faced landmark pays homage to Thomas Jefferson and St. Louis’ position as the gateway to the West. The city is a vibrant destination that also boasts a wide array of museums, music and theatre venues, and is known for its diverse neighborhoods and the different cultural traditions each one brings forth. Forest Park – almost 50 percent bigger than Central Park – is the crown jewel of St. Louis. offering nearly 1,293 acres of land for biking, walking, golf, tennis, and other sports activities. The park is home to the St. Louis Art Museum, the St. Louis Zoo, the St. Louis Science Center, the Missouri History Museum, and the Muny amphitheater. Also worth visiting is the Missouri Botanical Garden, a National Historic Landmark and one of the oldest botanical gardens in the United States. “Botan,” as it’s called by locals, features 79 breathtaking acres of horticultural displays from around the world. City Museum, designed by internationally acclaimed sculptor Bob Cassilly, is a 600,000 square-foot interactive museum that appeals to all ages. 

INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS: St. Louis Hop-On Hop-Off
Old Courthouse / Gateway Arch
Embrace this prime example of mid-19th-century federal architecture. The Old Courthouse is known not only for its classic architecture but also for the notable cases presented in the courthouse, such as Dred Scott, who sued for his freedom from slavery. The Gateway Arch is symbolic of St. Louis. This iconic structure was completed in 1965 and has since provided millions of visitors with stunning views of up to 30 miles from east to west.  Please note: Admission inside the Gateway Arch is additional. '
Suggested Visit: 30 min  –  2 hours

Day 9: St. Louis, MO (Alton) | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
As the journey concludes, there are other opportunities for you to take in the town. Enjoy the city at your leisure, or consider an airport transfer.

Ship/Hotel

American Countess

American Countess
American Countess Entertainment
American Countess Relaxation

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
American Countess Inside stateroom
Select a Date
Inside Staterooms (E)
170 sq. ft. (wheelchair-accessible rooms are 220 sq. ft.). 43 cabins located on the Observation and Cabin Deck. Queen bed or two single beds, Full bathroom with shower, Writing desk with chair, Interior access.
American Countess Single outside
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Single Outside Stateroom With Open Veranda (SO)
180 sq. ft. 1 cabin located on the Observation Deck. With open veranda, Single bed, Full bathroom with shower, Furnished lounge area with sofa and desk, Sliding doors open to deck, Interior access.
American Countess Deluxe Outside
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Deluxe Outside Staterooms With Open Veranda (B)
220 sq. ft. with open veranda (wheelchair-accessible rooms are 300 sq. ft.). 44 cabins located on the Observation Deck. Queen bed or two single beds, Full bathroom with shower, Furnished lounge area with sofa and desk, Sliding doors open to deck, Interior access.
American Countess Veranda Suite
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Veranda Suites With Private Balcony (A)
255 sq. ft. with 40-sq.-ft. private veranda (wheelchair-accessible rooms are 325 sq. ft.). 35 cabins located on the Cabin Deck. Queen bed or two single beds, Full bathroom with shower, Furnished lounge area with sofa and desk, Sliding doors open to veranda, Interior access.

Notes

PLEASE NOTE: All fares, itineraries, special interest series, entertainment, shore excursions and other voyage attributes are subject to change without notice, and we reserve the right to not honor any published prices that we determine were erroneous due to printing, electronic or clerical error. 
Included
  • 8 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 8 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Unlimited Wifi
  • Gratuities to Onboard Crew
  • Port Taxes & Fees
  • Open Bars & Lounges throughout the vessel including a juice bar every morning
  • In-Room Dining
  • Bicycles & Hiking Sticks equipment if needed
  • Live, Daily Onboard Entertainment & Enrichment
  • Locally Sourced & regionally Inspired Cuisine from land and sea
  • Gourmet Selections of freshly prepared choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Unlimited Beverages including an extensive wine list, choice spirits, local craft beers and specialty coffees
  • Unlimited Guided Tours designed with your comfort in mind aboard private, deluxe motorcoaches
  • 1-night Pre-cruise Hotel Stay with free ground transfers between hotel and vessel
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Optional Premium Shore Excursions - highly recommend booking these in advance. If interested, ask us for a detailed list of premium excursions for your cruise as these vary depending on your departure date.
  • Transfers to and from the airport

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